00:45 Russian team describes 22 villagers as deceased.
Based on the Russian-controlled authorities, 22 individuals perished in an attack presented as Ukrainian shelling in the Kherson region's occupied village of Sadowe. Vladimir Saldo, the region's Russian-appointed administrator, recounted the incident on Telegram, noting that a store filled with individuals was hit and 15 more were injured. However, the photos shared don't offer a clear illustration of the damage's extent. There have been no independently verified reports regarding this event.
23:45 Macron urges EU membership discussions with Ukraine by month's end
French President Emmanuel Macron has advocated for the establishment of EU membership negotiations with Ukraine by the end of the month during a joint press briefing with the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris. "France supports Ukraine in all aspects, including at the European level. We're making an effort to attain a genuine beginning of membership discussions by the end of the month," said Macron. Zelenskyy concurred, adding, "Decisions regarding Ukraine's integration into the EU are nearly finalized." Earlier, the EU Commission declared that the circumstances for initiating these talks with Ukraine and its neighboring country, Moldova, have been fulfilled. However, Hungary, which is set to assume the EU presidency on July 1, has slowed the process.
22:54 Support for Zelenskyy reaches an all-time low in Ukraine
Despite more than two years of conflict, President Zelensky's support in Ukraine has fallen to an all-time low, yet he still has the trust of more than half of the population. A survey conducted by the KIIS Institute disclosed that support for the head of state had never been below 60 percent before. Just weeks after the Russian invasion started in 2022, the level of support was still at 90 percent. Zelensky's approval has been steadily dwindling since the war commenced. His presidential term was scheduled to end in May, but under martial law, he has stayed in office. The Ukrainian authorities have announced that no elections will take place at this time since 20 percent of the country is held by Russia and millions of Ukrainians have fled due to the conflict.
22:04 U.S. Government rejects participation in Macron's initiative
The U.S. government has no plans to collaborate with French President Emmanuel Macron's proposal to send military trainers to Ukraine. John Kirby, a spokesman for the National Security Council, commented on the sidelines of a visit by President Joe Biden to France that Biden respects Macron's position. However, the U.S. president has maintained since the outset of the war in Ukraine that he will not send American soldiers there. "That's been the case thus far, and that will also remain the case in the future," Kirby stressed. Biden leaves it to Macron to decide whether to publish any information on this matter and how much clarity should be provided. Biden himself has made it abundantly clear since the start of the Ukrainian conflict that "we don't want a third world war, and we don't want a war with Russia."
21:36 Immediate commencement of Mirage Jet training
France will initiate training Ukrainian pilots and mechanics for the anticipated Mirage combat planes right away, as announced by French President Macron. Additionally, he revealed plans for further shipments of Scalp cruise missiles and a fund exceeding 200 million euros that would support Ukraine's economy. Specifically, the fund aims to assist companies investing in the country's critical infrastructure.
21:11 German-French tank manufacturer intends to construct a factory in Ukraine
The German-French tank manufacturer KNDS has confirmed its plan to establish a facility in Ukraine for the manufacture of weapons and ammunition. Company CEO Philippe Petitcollin signed an agreement in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The arms manufacturer intends to manufacture grenades and spare components for Caesar artillery in the future.
20:43 Putin denies necessity for nuclear strike
According to Russian President Vladimir Putin, his country has no intentions of engaging in a nuclear strike. He added that Russia would only use nuclear weapons in dire circumstances. "We don't need to think about it right now." Russia could carry out nuclear tests, though it doesn't currently have any such plans. However, Putin stated that the Russian nuclear strategy is a "living instrument" that can evolve depending on the circumstances. Throughout the war in Ukraine, Moscow has frequently highlighted its nuclear potential to dissuade Western states from aiding Ukraine.
20:21 Macron advises on "quick" coalition of military advisors in Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron has called for the swift formation of a coalition to deploy Western military advisors to Ukraine. "We intend to form a coalition, and several partners have already agreed," says Macron, discussing the initiative. "We'll bring this coalition into existence in the next few days," he asserts. Ukraine has expressed a desire for this. "In some cases and under certain conditions, it is more effective to train in Ukraine," explained Macron. This is, thus, a "legitimate request." The deployment of Western military advisors doesn't represent an escalation. "It's not about sending European or allied soldiers to the front; it just entails acknowledging Ukraine's sovereignty over its territory," adds Macron.
The French prosecutor's office is looking into a possible Russian-Ukrainian individual for potential attack plans. This person, aged 26, allegedly arrived in France a few days ago and severely wounded himself while making explosives at a hotel in Roissy near Paris Charles de Gaulle airport on Monday night. He hails from the Donbass region in Ukraine and reportedly gained Russian citizenship a few years ago while participating in pro-Russian activities. It's speculated he also served in the Russian army for two years. Three newspapers - Le Parisien, Le Monde, and JDD - claim he might be a spy interested in French military equipment destined for Ukraine.
At 20:12, the U.S. government intends to adopt a more "competitive" nuclear weapons strategy due to insufficient cooperation from countries including Russia and North Korea. According to Pranay Vaddi of the National Security Council at the White House, America must maintain its deterrence and goals despite adversaries' unchanging behavior.
Sweden, one of NATO's newest members, announced it would join the alliance's air surveillance efforts. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson revealed the news following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a military base near Stockholm. This decision was made shortly after Sweden's NATO membership, and Kristersson expressed his intent for Sweden to be an active NATO nation.
On 19:54, a French political expert held in Moscow underwent provisional detention a day after his arrest. A Moscow court ordered his detention until early August. Laurent Vinatier, working for the Swiss non-profit organization Center for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), is accused of failing to register as a "foreign agent" and collecting military information. Facing up to five years in prison if convicted, Vinatier is the latest victim of Russia's controversial "foreign agents" law.
Ukraine experiences a significant power supply crisis after months of Russian attacks on the energy infrastructure. Ukrenergo, the country's state power supplier, revealed power consumption limitations in all regions to maintain operations at essential facilities. Kiev reported a 75% power demand coverage.
18:57: Russian-Ukrainian man held in Moscow on "foreign agent" charge
A French political expert has been placed in pre-trial detention by a Moscow court a day after his arrest. Laurent Vinatier, employed by the Swiss non-profit Center for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), is accused of failing to register as a "foreign agent" and collecting military information. The controversial "foreign agents" law, used to target critics and monitor them, will result in up to five years in prison if he is found guilty.
17:20: Tour de France racers dodge massive helicopter blades
The Tour de France faces air hazards as racers narrowly escape helicopter blades. Gorik Gardeyn, a TV reporter, heavily criticized the aerial coverage of the race despite safety hazards posed to both spectators and cyclists. The incident is under investigation by the race organization.
16:45: France's Macron faces backlash for pledging fighter jets to Ukraine
Russia denounces French President Emmanuel Macron's commitment to provide F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine as "provocative," accusing him of supporting the Kiev regime and declaring France's readiness for direct involvement in the conflict. Its spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, expresses concerns over Macron's decision, stating it could escalate the situation.
16:10: Zelenskyy expresses gratitude for the "excellent fighter jets"
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took to social media to extol the benefits of "excellent fighter jets" promised by France's Emmanuel Macron. Veterans of Ukraine's military, both past and present, cited the importance of such equipment in their efforts against Russia.
15:33: Putin indicates readiness to arm adversaries of the West
As part of his speech at the International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at arming opponents of the West if Ukraine uses Western weapons against Russia. Details on the intended recipients and a timeline remain undisclosed.
15:01: Progress anticipated on frozen Russian assets use for Ukraine at G7 summit
A German government representative expects modest progress at the G7 summit regarding the use of frozen Russian assets for supporting Ukraine. However, a final decision may not be reached. The finance ministers of the European Union nations in G7 have reached a consensus on converting single-digit billion assets' interest into double-digit funds for Ukraine. Nonetheless, all member states in the EU must agree on this approach.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to France for the plan to deliver Mirage combat aircraft to help fend off the Russian aggression. "Your combat planes, your incredible fighter jets, will be flown by Ukrainian pilots, demonstrating that Europe is stronger than the Evil that dared to threaten it," Zelenskyy remarked during a speech in the French parliament in Paris. The day before, French President Macron announced the donation of Mirage 2000-5 combat jets to Ukraine. These jets can additionally be utilized for launching French-British cruise missiles such as Scalp/Storm Shadow.
16:32: Governor of Luhansk Region Contradicts Moscow - Bombardment Targets Military Sites
Claims of a large-scale assault by the Ukrainian military on the Russian-controlled city of Luhansk emerged. Luhansk's Ukrainian governor, Artem Lyssohor, explained that artillery shelling targeted barracks and ammunition depots at a former military airfield in the area east of the city, as well as a fuel storage facility. Thus far, it has not been possible to confirm Russian statements that at least three civilians perished and over 30 were injured. According to the Ukrainian governor, civilian casualties are due solely to the use of Russian anti-aircraft defenses above the city. The Russians claim to have intercepted four of the five missiles. This cannot be confirmed either. The Russian Defense Ministry maintains that the Ukrainian army purposefully attacked residential areas in Luhansk.
16:05: Putin - Halved the Share of Payments in 'Toxic' Currencies
Russian President Putin seeks to make his country more independent from the West. The nation needs to lessen its imports, utilize non-Western currencies further in trade, and broaden domestic financial markets considerably, Putin said during the International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg. Over 40% of Russian foreign trade is currently settled in rubles. Alternatively, the share of trade arrangements in US dollars, euros, and other Western currencies is declining. Russia intends to increase the proportion of transactions in the currencies of the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to counteract Western sanctions. "Last year, the share of income from Russian exports in the so-called 'toxic' currencies of hostile countries was halved," Putin said.
15:45: Russians Capture Additional Village in Donetsk
The Russian army reports capturing yet another village in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk. According to Moscow's statements, units of the southern military group fortified their positions along the frontline and seized the village of Paraskoviyivka. The settlement is about 25 kilometers southwest of the city of Donetsk, which Russia had previously seized in 2022. After months of stalemate, reports of the Russian forces seizing numerous settlements this year have emerged.
15:34: Stoltenberg - Ukraine May Attack Military Targets in Russia
NATO's Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg states that, according to international law, Ukraine possesses the right to strike military targets in Russia for the sake of self-defense. "Ukraine has the right to self-defense." This entails attacks on legitimate military targets on the aggressor nation's territory.
15:13: Biden Meets Zelenskyy in Paris - $225 Million in Military Aid Promised
United States President Joe Biden revealed plans for a new military aid package for Ukraine worth $225 million (€207 million). Biden communicated this information to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj personally during their meeting in Paris. They're both currently on multi-day visits to France. The United States Department of Defense disclosed this new package involves rockets for Hawk anti-aircraft systems, ammunition for HIMARS multiple rocket launchers, Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, and artillery ammunition of 155 and 105-millimeter calibers.
14:58: Moscow Faults Kyiv - Aerial Assault Targeted Residential Quarter - Civilians Killed, Injured
Moscow blames Kyiv for attacking the Russian-controlled eastern Ukrainian city of Luhansk. The Russian Emergency Situations Ministry disclosed that four people lost their lives, while more than 40 suffered injuries, including four children, in a supposed Ukrainian air attack. The Russian-installed leader of the region, Leonid Pasetschnik, alleged "Ukrainian nationalists" inflicted a "massive rocket strike" on the region's civilian infrastructure. He further alleged the Ukrainian army launched "at least six ATACMS rockets from American production at the city." The Russian Defense Ministry later stated that the Ukrainians launched "five ATACMS rockets from American production at residential areas of the city." Four rockets were subsequently intercepted by Russian air defense systems, while the fifth landed on two residential structures. Read more about this here.
14:36: USA Announces Over $300 Million in Additional Military Aid for Ukraine
The United States declared extra military aid for Ukraine worth more than $300 million. The USS Cowpens guided missile cruiser, HIMARS, anti-aircraft systems, and small arms were listed among the additional aid. The Pentagon claimed that the USS Cowpens, which boasts surface-to-air missile defense capabilities and can fire other missiles in support of land forces, would enable Ukraine to "deter and defend against Russian cruise missile strikes." This declaration comes after the United States provided $60 million in arms to Ukraine earlier in September.
2:34 PM Report: Germany Needs Thousands More Soldiers for NATO
German media "Spiegel" discloses confidential papers on the Defense Ministry, claiming Germany needs at least 75,000 more soldiers and troops based on the revised NATO plans. At the summit in Vilnius, NATO had agreed on these plans, explaining their response strategy in case of a possible Russian invasion. According to this strategy, the exact requirements for soldiers, equipment, and weaponry were calculated by NATO and its countries. Germany currently employs 180,000 soldiers and civilians in the military.
1:25 PM Ukraine Meets PR Requirements for EU Membership Talks
Ukraine and Moldova are said to have met all the necessary conditions to discuss joining the European Union, according to an EU Commission assessment, revealed by diplomatic sources. Both countries closed all open points in March. Requirements like protecting national minorities and limiting the political influence of oligarchs have been addressed for Ukraine. The German government has been vocal about meeting these conditions for EU accession talks with Ukraine. More information about this can be found here.
1:00 PM Biden Apologizes to Zelensky for Weapons Delay
US President Joe Biden has issued an apology to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for the several-month long delay in deploying US military aid to Ukraine. He asked for forgiveness for the uncertainty around future support, as he spoke to Zelensky in Paris. While on their multi-day visits to France, both leaders met. Speaking on the long-term blockade of US financial aid for Ukraine, Biden said that conservative US parliament members were responsible. He assured Zelensky that the US would not abandon Ukraine.
12:30 PM Russia Accuses US for Executing Women and Children
Russia is blaming the United States for killing women and children in Russia because of the weapons—mostly from the US—that have been supplied to Ukraine. Maria Zakharova, a Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, alleged that Ukrainian forces have attacked Russian border areas with these weapons, citing "fragments of HIMARS rockets" as evidence of US guilt. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously warned that Ukrainian use of Western-provided weapons on Russian territory could lead to a global conflict.
11:55 AM Western Weapons Provide Instant Gains Against Russian Troops
Security analyst Christian Mölling deems the lifting of restrictions on attacking Russian military targets a success, as Ukrainian forces can now focus on recapturing the Kharkiv region. He told "The Situation" podcast that this authorization has made Ukrainian troops more effective in fighting against Russian troops and reduced the amount of infrastructure damaged. Mölling suggested there was also a need to determine who was obstructing support to Ukraine to prevent further damage and casualties.
11:00 AM Zelensky Compares Putin to Hitler, Warns of Russian Expansion
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sounded the alarm about potential Russian aggression against Europe in his speech to the French National Assembly. He compared Russian President Vladimir Putin to Adolf Hitler, pointing out Putin has been crossing borders reminiscent of the 1930s. Zelensky said the Russian president was "blackmailing the whole world", threatening European stability and re-educating children he had abducted.
10:16 AM Over 75,000 Additional Soldiers Needed for NATO, Report Suggests
"Spiegel" magazine has obtained confidential documents from the German Defense Ministry that indicate the need for 75,000 additional soldiers in response to updated NATO plans. These plans were agreed upon at the 2021 NATO summit in Vilnius. Troop, weaponry, and equipment requirements were computed based on these plans, while the German Defense Ministry had not yet commented on this. Germany currently employs 180,000 soldiers and 80,000 civilians in the military.
10:00 AM Ukraine and Moldova Complete Requirements for EU Membership Discussions
According to EU Commission assessments and diplomatic sources, Ukraine and Moldova have satisfied all preconditions for initiating talks on EU membership. They both reportedly resolved issues like protecting national minorities and curbing the involvement of oligarchs within March. The German government has maintained that all necessary criteria for starting EU accession talks have been fulfilled for Ukraine.
In Moscow, a trial is starting for a US soldier named Gordon Black. The Russian news outlet RIA Novosti reports he will testify in the proceedings occurring in Vladivostok and respond to charges against him. Black had visited this city to see his partner; he was arrested when she accused him of theft. If found guilty, he could face five years in prison. This case adds another layer of complication to the already strained relationship between the US and Russia. Presently, Russia is holding a handful of American citizens, including Paul Whelan, who faces accused of espionage charges, and "Wall Street Journal" journalist Evan Gershkovich. The US maintains these individuals are being held illegally.
9:48 Russia intends to consolidate the occupied regions in Ukraine into a new federal district according to ntv's correspondent Rainer Munz. Furthermore, Moscow claims further warships are being sent to Cuba.
9:30 Moscow blames Ukraine for launching US rockets onto Russian territory, thus responsible for fatalities of women and children in the Belgorod region according to Maria Zakharova, foreign ministry spokesperson. Debris from the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) serves as proof of their actions.
9:00 Ukraine is suing retired General Major Oleg Makarevich, former commander of the Dnieper Group, for premeditated murder and breaching laws of war. He stands accused of commanding the demolition of the Kakhovka Dam on June 6, 2023. This disastrous flooding in Kherson caused significant humanitarian and ecological catastrophe. Sentence for conviction would be a life sentence. The SBU, Ukraine's security service, expresses its dedication to identifying and bringing justice to all individuals involved in Ukraine-related crimes.
8:30 Reports of Russian attempts to breach defenses in numerous parts of Ukraine - sirens blare in Odessa and Kiev, with Donetsk area particularly tense. However, training of pilots for promised combat aircraft is experiencing setbacks.
8:00 Ukraine boasts of intercepted 5 rockets, destruction of 48 out of 53 launched drones, and no damage done to energy infrastructure, though some areas were affected. Although no casualties occurred, the rockets targeted Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, South Odessa, and Kherson.
7:15 Historian Heinrich August Winkler voices concern over Germany's adherence to debt brake amidst Ukrainian conflict. "If there was a worsening of the situation in Ukraine, it would be problematic if we said: We maintained the debt brake but lost Ukraine. This could threaten European peace and democracy freedom," warns Winkler to "Sueddeutsche Zeitung." Again emphasizing importance of NATO cooperation, Winkler states, "The debt brake should not be an obstacle."
6:49 Swiss Federal President Viola Amherd reveals mid-June peace conference being held in Switzerland as the initial but likely not final step in peace negotiations. "We're certain this conference won't result in signing a peace accord," remarks Amherd. "Peace needs both parties to be present at the table. In a possible follow-up conference, Russia could participate." Over 80 countries, including Germany with Chancellor Olaf Scholz, have agreed to participate, while Russia indicated they wouldn't send delegates if invited.
6:26 Over 4 in 10 German firms operating in Ukraine plan to continue investing in the war-torn country. The German-Ukrainian Industry and Trade Chamber (AHK Ukraine) reports 43% plan to forge ahead, while 8% want to leave. Around 142 firms were evaluated by KPMG. Stability, both political and economic, among other factors, are requisite for business expansion. Around 42% anticipate an improvement in Ukraine's economic environment over the following 12 months.
6:00
Human rights organizations file a complaint at the International Criminal Court, accusing Russian media figures of promoting violence against Ukrainians. Five influential Russians, including Vladimir Solovyov, Margarita Simonyan, Dmitry Kiselyov, Sergey Mardan, Dmitry Medvedev, and Alexei Gromov (first deputy chief of staff in the Russian presidential administration), are suspected of fomenting hate crimes. In the past, arrest warrants had been issued for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova for forcibly removing Ukrainian children to Russia.
6:31 Putin proclaims a war-centered economy for Russia
Vladimir Putin, the leader of Russia, has promised his country a growth in their military-industrial sector after two and a half years of war in Ukraine. He has inaugurated a series of directives aimed at expanding weapons and ammunition production. This was reported by Denis Manturov, the first deputy prime minister, at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). During a conference on defense-related topics, attendees highlighted how Russia has quickly increased production of weapons and ammunition at a significantly lower cost than in the West. The nation is gearing towards a centennial war economy, they shared. Denis Manturov, an economist, noted that the defense industry is the driving force behind the economy with numerous new companies (currently over 850).
5:59 Germany's stripped-down role in NATO
The German government stirs uneasiness among NATO allies due to its reluctance to label a new aid project for Ukraine as a "mission". German officials argue that "NATO Mission Ukraine" (NMU) could be misinterpreted as deployment of soldiers to Ukraine. The concern is that Russia might accuse the alliance of aggression and use it for propaganda purposes. Critics argue that this sentiment is disconcerting and point out that Germany is backing the project otherwise.
5:10 Intrigue surrounds the Ukraine conference with Russia expert perplexed by Biden's absence
Gerhard Mangott, a Russia expert at the University of Innsbruck, finds the anticipated absence of key nations at an upcoming Ukraine conference in Switzerland disconcerting. Laments the lack of attendance from China, Brazil, and South Africa, calling it a blemish. He notes that overwhelming criticism has led to discussions of a continuation of the conference before the event has begun. He is bewildered by US President Joe Biden's decision not to attend: "It's really incomprehensible why Biden has decided not to participate."
3:02 Attacks on Ukraine with drones and cruise missiles
Russia has been launching drone and cruise missile attacks at several regions in Ukraine apart from those in western areas. Fearing a major onslaught on Kharkiv, the Ukrainian Air Force has reported these attacks.
1:55: USA prepares for $225 million in new military aid for Ukraine
The United States is expected to provide Ukraine with an estimated $225 million in fresh military aid. This package consists of ammunition suitable for targets outside Ukraine's border to safeguard Kharkiv from a devastating Russian offensive. It is also anticipated to contain ammunition for the HIMARS system, mortar systems, and a collection of artillery shells. US President Joe Biden is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Paris the same day.
0:54: Widespread power outages in several regions
The Ukrainian power company Ukrenergo alerts its customers of power failures in twelve regions: Lviv and Zakarpattia in the west, Kiev and its surroundings, Odessa in the south, and Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia further east. The power shortage is attributed to overconsumption. Vital infrastructure could also be affected, as Russian strikes on the country's electricity generation infrastructure have caused a severe reduction in capacity.
11:30 PM: The US has banned entry for select Georgians due to Russia's "foreign influence" law
Following the passing of the "foreign influence" law in Georgia, the US has decided to impose visa restrictions on certain individuals involved in the process. These people include members of the ruling Georgian Dream party, parliamentarians, and personnel from the security services as well as their respective family members. The State Department made this announcement. Prior to this, the US had alluded to the possibility of such a measure. Protests in Georgia had been persistent for weeks, attempting to prevent the passage of the law. It bears resemblance to the 2012 Russian law against "foreign agents," which permits authorities to target critical media and organizations with heavy consequences.
10:13 PM: Russian governor suggests occupied Ukrainian territories may become federal district
There are reports that the occupied Ukrainian territories could soon be unified into a new federal district. Evgeny Balitsky, a Russian governor who is actively involved in the occupied region of Zaporizhzhia, shared this information with RIA Novosti, a Russian state media outlet. In 2014, Russia illegally annexed Crimea and occupied areas of Ukrainian Donbass. Subsequent to the commencement of the full-scale conflict in February 2022, Russia captured additional Ukrainian zones, namely Kherson, Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia.
10:10 PM: Ukrenergo implements power cuts in Kyiv and 12 other regions of Ukraine
Ukrenergo, the power grid operator, has announced that there would be electricity restrictions in Kyiv and 12 other regions of Ukraine at night. This includes private households and industrial establishments in Volhynia, Donetsk, Zhytomyr, Transcarpathia, Saporizhzhia, Lviv, Mykolaiv, Kirovohrad, Odessa, Rivne, Kharkiv, and the Kiev region. The reason for these cuts is not known.
8:47 PM: Zelenskyy set to address the German parliament on Tuesday
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is planning a trip to Berlin, as per reports from FAZ. He is set to address the German parliament during a reconstruction conference for Ukraine, taking place in the capital on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. Speculation had been circulating about his potential presence at the event. This will not be Zelenksyy's first visit to Berlin since the start of the war, but it will be his first time addressing the parliament in person. An extraordinary session of the parliament would be required for this.
8:36 PM: Macron reveals France is supplying Mirage-2000 fighter jets and training 4,500 Ukrainian soldiers
France has decided to transfer Mirage-2000 fighter jets to Ukraine, stated President Emmanuel Macron in an interview with French television channels. He also mentioned that they were preparing to train 4,500 Ukrainian soldiers.
8:01 PM: Zelenskyy reflects on the first anniversary of the dam collapse in southern Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has marked the one-year anniversary of the dam collapse in southern Ukraine. The Russian invaders destroyed the dam in addition to the buildings of Kakhovka hydroelectric power station, Zelenskyy said on social media. The president characterized it as one of the most severe environmental crimes committed by the Russian invaders since their invasion. An immense number of individuals experienced the adverse aftermath, with water supplies for several hundred thousand people being affected. He emphasized that the consequences of this act could be felt beyond the borders of neighboring countries in the Black Sea region.
Read also:
- The attack on Ukraine by Russian forces has escalated into a cyberwar, with reports of Russian cyberattacks targeting Ukraine's critical infrastructure.
- In response to the ongoing conflict, Nato has decided to increase its military operations in Ukraine, with several member countries providing military aid and training to Ukrainian forces.
- Volodymyr Selensky, the President of Ukraine, has called on Nato to provide more support in light of the military operations and the escalating cyberwar against Ukraine.
- Russia's aggression against Ukraine has led to a strengthening of ties between Ukraine and other Western nations, with France and Germany both announcing their commitment to providing military and economic aid to Ukraine.