Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,463
Al Jazeera
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Russia-Ukraine war continues with significant developments on day 1,463. Both sides reported military actions, including a Ukrainian drone attack targeting a Russian fertilizer factory in Smolensk, resulting in seven deaths and injuries to ten others. Meanwhile, Russian forces launched numerous strikes on Ukraine's southern regions, causing casualties and damaging civilian infrastructure like high-rise buildings and gas pipelines.
Peace talks remain a critical focus, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressing hope for trilateral discussions to elevate negotiations to the leaders' level. He also addressed Russia's claims about Ukraine seeking nuclear weapons, emphasizing Ukraine's non-nuclear status. Additionally, South Africa repatriated its citizens coerced into fighting for Russia, while China and Germany discussed the conflict, stressing dialogue as key to resolution.
Energy dynamics are a growing concern, with ongoing damage to pipelines like the Druzhba line disrupting fuel supply to Hungary and Slovakia. Hungary's Prime Minister has taken steps to secure energy infrastructure and opposes EU aid unless oil shipments resume. This reflects broader regional tensions over Ukraine's response to Russian attacks on pipelines and the implications for Europe's energy security.
These developments underscore the complex interplay of military, political, and economic factors shaping the conflict's trajectory. The situation remains fluid, with direct impacts on global stability and diplomatic efforts to resolve the war.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/26/2026