At least four Russian soldiers have reportedly died in agony after drinking poisoned water in what is suspected to be a Ukrainian sabotage operation. The incident occurred in the Panteleimonivka area of Donetsk, where troops consumed bottled water labelled “Our Water,” supposedly delivered as humanitarian aid. Several others are said to be critically ill.
Disturbing footage, shared across pro-Kremlin military channels, shows affected soldiers convulsing and slipping into unconsciousness. The water allegedly originated from Simferopol in Russian-occupied Crimea and is feared to have been tampered with before reaching the front line. The poison panic has prompted warnings across Russian channels, urging troops to avoid consuming unverified liquids.
While Russian outlets blame Ukrainian saboteurs, Ukrainian sources suggest alternative explanations, including possible drug overdoses among soldiers. An investigation into the supply chain is underway.
Meanwhile, Russia intensified its aerial campaign in Ukraine. A Russian glide bomb hit a shopping centre in Dobropillia, killing two people and injuring at least 25. President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strike as part of Russia’s “dumb terror,” highlighting the ongoing civilian toll. Multiple towns—including Dnipro, Kharkiv, Sumy, and Nikopol—have been hit in recent days, with some areas experiencing double strikes that targeted both civilians and first responders.
Ukraine has responded with drone attacks deep into Russian territory, reportedly hitting a chemical plant in Tula, an aircraft repair facility in Smolensk, and multiple residential zones in Belgorod and Voronezh.
As the conflict escalates, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a 50-day ultimatum to Vladimir Putin, threatening 100% tariffs unless a ceasefire is agreed. He also pledged full military support to Ukraine, including advanced cruise missiles. The Kremlin dismissed the ultimatum, signalling no immediate intention to de-escalate.
