Ukrainian MP, officials arrested in defense corruption probe
A Ukrainian MP, local officials, and National Guard members have been arrested over a major bribery scheme involving overpriced contracts for drones and electronic warfare systems, Ukrainian President Zelensky confirmed.
The arrests follow the restoration of independence to Ukraine’s top anti-corruption agencies, after public protests forced a reversal of a controversial bill seen as weakening their powers, according to Reuters.
Zelensky vowed “zero tolerance” for corruption—an issue central to Ukraine’s EU membership hopes.
Russian strike hits Mykolaiv, injures seven
A Russian missile strike on Mykolaiv injured at least seven people and damaged dozens of homes and civilian buildings late Saturday, local governor Vitaliy Kim said. Two of the injured were hospitalized, according to Reuters.
Ukraine’s air force reported 76 drones and seven missiles launched overnight, hitting multiple areas. Most drones were shot down.
In Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, at least three people were killed and over 12 injured in continued Russian attacks. A brief missile strike on Kyiv caused no reported damage.
Russia has not commented, Reuters reported.
Thousands rally in Sydney for Gaza peace and aid
Tens of thousands marched across Sydney’s Harbor Bridge on Sunday, calling for peace and urgent aid to Gaza. Despite heavy rain, crowds carried pots, pans, and Palestinian flags in a protest dubbed the “March for Humanity”, Reuters reported.
Organizers estimate up to 300,000 attended, while police reported 90,000. A court cleared the march after officials tried to block it over safety concerns.
The protest highlighted growing concern over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, with over 60,000 reported dead and widespread hunger.
Australia’s Prime Minister supports a two-state solution but hasn’t recognized Palestine. According to Reuters, protesters urged stronger action, saying basic human rights in Gaza are being denied.
6.8 magnitude aftershock shakes Russia's Kamchatka
A 6.8-magnitude aftershock struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on Sunday, according to the regional emergency ministry. The quake occurred at 5:37 a.m. GMT, about 277 kilometers from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, at a depth of 26 kilometers, Xinhua reported.
Tsunami waves are expected to remain below 19 centimeters, posing no major threat. However, authorities have urged residents to avoid the coastline as a precaution. Vessels in coastal waters have been advised to move to deeper seas beyond the 50-meter isobath.
No casualties or significant damage have been reported, and officials continue to monitor the situation closely, according to Xinhua.
