Reports indicate that Ukrainian drone strikes have targeted Russia's Taman port, located on the Black Sea, leading to significant damage and a fire at this strategic location. Local officials confirmed the incident, which heightens the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia amid the ongoing conflict in the region. This attack underscores the increasing use of drones in warfare and reflects Ukraine's capability to strike deep into Russian territory.

Concurrently, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is starting a diplomatic mission in Eastern Europe, first arriving in Slovakia and then moving on to Hungary. This visit is part of an effort to strengthen ties with conservative leaders in these nations who are generally supportive of the Trump administration's policies. Discussions are expected to focus on topics such as energy cooperation and NATO commitments, particularly in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from Russia's actions in Ukraine.

As Slovakia and Hungary face pressure from the EU to reduce their dependence on Russian oil, their leaders have resisted such pressures, making the diplomatic relationship with the US increasingly significant. Rubio's visit highlights the complexities of European energy policies and the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict, as these Eastern European nations navigate their relationships with both the US and Russia while trying to maintain energy security and stability in the region.