Ukrainian drone strikes kill four in Russia and Crimea; Lavrov warns US

At least four people, including a three-year-old child, were killed in a wave of Ukrainian drone strikes targeting southern Russia and Crimea overnight on July 23, local authorities reported. The strikes hit Voronezh, Belgorod, and Crimea, while Russia intercepted 223 drones, according to its Defense Ministry. Source: Moscow Times, Al Jazeera

Civilian toll

• In Voronezh, a drone crashed into a home, killing a three-year-old boy and injuring his parents; a 19-year-old man was also wounded. Source: Moscow Times
• In Crimea, two people were killed and five injured, according to Moscow-installed officials. Source: Euronews
• In Belgorod region, one man was killed when a drone struck his vehicle. Source: Al Jazeera

Diplomatic fallout

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a meeting in the Philippines that continued US arms sales to Ukraine were "unacceptable." He reaffirmed Moscow's readiness for a political settlement. Source: Euronews Separately, Lavrov accused the US of direct involvement in Ukrainian strikes. Source: Ground News

Wider conflict

The attacks are part of an escalation in long-range strikes. Ukraine also used drones to deploy ground robots in battle, showcasing new tactics. Source: Ars Technica Meanwhile, a Russian strike on a corn ship off Odesa killed 10, including four Indians. Source: CNA, The Hindu The European Union agreed on a new sanctions package targeting Russian banks and shadow fleet vessels. Source: Al Jazeera