Tensions are rising in the Strait of Hormuz: Iran has announced tighter controls on the passage of ships and accused the US of violating transit rules.

Yesterday, 17 April, at around 10.20 pm, three individuals forced their way into the premises of the Yavoriv Regional Territorial Centre for Recruitment and Social Support and attempted to attack members of the security platoon.

Drones struck an oil refinery in the Samara region and fuel infrastructure facilities in other regions of Russia.

The US Treasury Department has granted a licence permitting the purchase of Russian oil and petroleum products by sea for a period of 30 days, despite previous statements.

US President Donald Trump believes that new talks with Iran could take place as early as this weekend, 18–19 April. He expects the negotiators to reach a final agreement to end the war.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy heard a report from Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi, in particular regarding the situation on the frontline and the strengthening of cooperation between Russia and Belarus in the war against Ukraine.

Russian forces are advancing in the Pokrovsk district of Donetsk Oblast.

Iran has opened the Strait of Hormuz for the duration of the ceasefire in Lebanon.

Andrii Yermak, former head of the President’s Office, visited the 157th Mechanised Brigade and promised to meet the brigade’s needs.

Defense forces have repelled dozens of attacks in the east, with the most challenging situation unfolding in the Pokrovsk sector. The enemy is suffering significant losses in personnel and equipment.