Ukrainian Teenager Joins Russian Army

In the night of Sunday, August 9, 2026, Russia launched a powerful attack with ballistic missiles and drones on the Ukrainian coastal region of Odesa, causing major power supply disruptions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his evening video address, announced retaliation, stating that Ukraine is ready for "appropriate responses" to every Russian attack.

"This morning, more than 300,000 households in Odesa and the region were without electricity; in the meantime, a third have had their supply restored," Zelensky said. At least six people were injured in the attack, and efforts to repair the damage and fully restore supply are underway.

Zelensky Announces Retaliatory Strikes

President Zelensky emphasized that the war will become increasingly tangible "for all Russians at home." He confirmed the continuation of Ukrainian strikes on Russia's oil industry and other key infrastructure. "The only reason this is still going on is Russia's unwillingness to end this war," Zelensky said. He also stressed the urgent need for the delivery of anti-aircraft missile systems, particularly Patriots, from allies.

The Story of Aleksandr Mustyace

While fighting continues, the British newspaper The Times reports an unusual story that illustrates the complex human fates in war. Aleksandr Mustyace, a teenager from the village of Krynky in the Kherson region, who was listed as missing by Ukrainian authorities, joined the Russian army after coming of age.

Russian forces occupied Krynky just before his 15th birthday. After that, his fate was unknown until photographs emerged showing the 19-year-old Mustyace posing in a Russian military uniform with "Z" symbolism. In a statement to The Times, the young man said he does not consider himself a traitor to Ukraine, explaining that, in his words, Russia has always held an important place in his life.