Ukrainian forces claimed responsibility for a significant attack on the strategic Crimean Bridge, which connects Russia to the annexed Crimean Peninsula. The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) reported detonating underwater explosives that severely damaged the bridge's support pillars, although Russian authorities stated that no structural damage occurred and the bridge remains operational. This attack marks the third time Ukraine has targeted the bridge since the conflict began, following months of planting underwater explosives. The incident caused temporary closures but the bridge was reopened later in the day. The attack on the Crimean Bridge, a crucial supply route for Russian military operations in southern Ukraine, symbolizes ongoing escalation. The bridge, inaugurated in 2018 by Vladimir Putin, has previously been targeted in October 2022 with a truck bomb explosion that caused extensive damage. Russian defenses have since been reinforced, including underwater barriers and advanced missile systems. Simultaneously, Ukraine launched a daring operation involving drones targeting Russian airbases housing nuclear-capable bombers across Siberia and northern Russia. Ukrainian attacks damaged or destroyed over 40 Russian bombers, representing a significant blow to Russia’s strategic military assets, although Moscow claimed only minor damages. The escalation extends beyond infrastructure, with Russia retaliating with missile strikes on Ukrainian cities, including Sumi, where at least three civilians were killed and dozens injured in recent missile attacks. Russian advances in eastern Ukraine have resulted in territorial gains, with reports of Russian forces moving approximately 6 km into Ukrainian territory in the Sumi region. International reactions highlight concerns over the increasing risk of broader conflict, with U.S. officials warning of a rising threat of escalation. The U.S. and European nations continue diplomatic efforts, but negotiations remain stalled, with Russia maintaining maximalist demands. The conflict's intensity has also affected global markets, with oil prices falling due to increased supply from OPEC+ and geopolitical tensions impacting economic stability worldwide. Meanwhile, Western countries are seeking to mitigate the impact of U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, and Ukraine is investing in drone technology to counter Russian military advances. Overall, the recent attacks exemplify the ongoing escalation in the Russia-Ukraine war, with Ukraine demonstrating its capability to strike deep into Russian territory and Russian forces responding with increased military activity, raising fears of further escalation and broader regional instability.