"NATO Chief Stresses Long-Term Support for Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict"

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg warns that the war in Ukraine may be a "long haul" and urges Ukraine's allies to provide support to ensure its sovereignty. Ukrainian air defenses repel Russian drone attacks in several regions, while Ukraine reports damaging two Russian landing boats in an overnight operation. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reaches an agreement with Ukraine for a $900 million disbursement. The Kremlin defends its practice of releasing convicts for military service in Ukraine. Ukraine and Russia agree to the return of a teenager taken from Mariupol. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban opposes opening negotiations for Ukraine to join the EU. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaffirms Germany's commitment to spending 2% of GDP on defense.