Ukraine Deploys New Palianytsia Drone Striking Russia

Ukraine has deployed a new class of domestically-produced drone, named Palianytsia, to strike targets in Russia for the first time, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed the drone's deployment during a speech on Ukraine's Independence Day, emphasizing its high maneuverability and powerful warhead. The Palianytsia drone, which has been in development all year, reportedly struck an ammunition depot in the Voronezh region of Russia. Zelensky proclaimed the new weapon as a method of retaliation aimed at compelling Russia to withdraw its troops from Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia's President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of attempting to strike a nuclear power plant in Kursk, labeling it an act of 'nuclear terrorism,' though no immediate evidence was provided. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed drone fragments were found near the plant but did not report any damage to the facility.