Washington Lifts Ban on Contractors in Ukraine
The United States has announced a significant policy shift, allowing private military contractors to be deployed to Ukraine for the maintenance and repair of American weapons systems. This decision comes as part of ongoing support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. A Pentagon representative confirmed that these contractors would operate in limited numbers and would not engage in combat, focusing instead on technical support for complex systems like F-16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems.
Recovery of Ukrainian Soldiers' Bodies
In a separate but related development, Ukrainian authorities reported the recovery of the remains of 563 soldiers from Russia. This includes 360 soldiers who lost their lives in Donetsk and 89 in Bakhmut. The recovery operation is part of ongoing efforts to honor and return the fallen to their families. In contrast, reports indicate that Russia received the remains of 37 soldiers in return. The situation on the ground remains tense, with continued fighting reported in eastern Ukraine.
Rising Drone Attacks in Eastern Ukraine
As the conflict persists, the intensity of Russian drone attacks has surged, with the British Ministry of Defence noting a sharp increase in the number of drones used against Ukrainian targets. In October alone, approximately 2,000 drones were deployed, compared to 700 in September. This escalation underscores the ongoing volatility in the region, particularly in areas such as Pokrovsk and Kurakhov, where attacks have been concentrated.
