At 10pm, it appears Putin's military cleanup is far from over.

10:00 PM: Continuation of Putin's military purge as more arrests follow

Recent news reports are claiming that Russian authorities have arrested several high-ranking military officials, including Vladimir Verteletsky, the head of the Russian Ministry of Defense's department for ensuring the state defense order. Verteletsky is alleged to have been involved in large-scale fraud. This comes after the arrest of Vadim Shamarin, the Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces. Shamarin was the fourth high-ranking military official to be arrested since April. This spree started with the replacement of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.

In other news, the Ukrainian government has announced that seven children have been returned from territories occupied by Russia. These children were part of the estimated 20,000 Ukrainians whose families did not or could not provide consent for their abduction to Russia or Russian-occupied areas. The children were reportedly handed over with the help of mediation from Qatar.

The Ukraine military is also making headlines with its self-developed high-tech weapon, known as "Sea Babies," that can now be equipped with a multiple rocket launcher. This weapon has already proven to be a valuable asset in the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Another piece of news includes political scientist Thomas Jäger assessing the potential for Russia to expand the war to other countries, potentially influenced by the US providing Ukraine with more weapons. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has called this stance "irresponsible" and "dangerous."

Ralph Thiele, a military expert, has warned that allowing US soldiers into Ukraine could escalate the war further.

The United States is also preparing to send another military aid package to Ukraine, this time worth $275 million. It is expected to include the HIMARS multiple rocket launcher system and artillery shells. This package is the fourth one sent to Ukraine since April and represents the Biden administration's commitment to providing continuous support to Ukraine.

Ukraine has been reported to have launched an attack on military factories deep inside Russia, allegedly using drones and civilian aircraft converted into kamikaze missiles. Russia has only reported the shooting down of one unspecified drone. Several companies located in Tatarstan have been ordered to evacuate, while two airports in the region have temporarily suspended operations.

China's government is now looking to put an end to the circulation of deepfakes on its social media platforms. These deepfakes involve the creation of fake videos with Russian women tagged with false statements, such as "China is the safest country in the world." The government plans to ban the practice legally.

21:34: Ukrainian children return home after abduction by RussiaThe Ukrainian government confirmed the return of seven children from Russian-occupied territories. Qatar mediated in the return process. Nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children were reportedly abducted to Russia or Russian-occupied areas without the consent of their families.

20:58: The "Sea Baby" gets a rocket launcherUkrainian armed forces have unveiled a new version of the "Sea Baby" – a self-developed combat boat – which can now be equipped with a multiple rocket launcher system.

20:30: Tensions rise after weapons debateThe possibility of US-made weapons being used against Russia has led to warnings from Russia, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov calling the stance "irresponsible" and "dangerous." However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently stated that the US has not been involved in these attacks and that Ukraine has the right to decide how to wage the war.

19:55: Threats from the Kremlin to the USRussian officials are threatening the US, suggesting that anyone supporting Ukraine in their fight against Russia is endangering world peace. These statements come after US Secretary of State Blinken stated that the US would not restrict Ukraine's use of its weapons.

19:19: Risk increases with US soldiers in UkraineThe incorporation of US soldiers in the war raises the stakes, according to military expert Ralph Thiele. He believes this is part of a strategy to push Russia beyond its limits.

18:47: Fourth US aid package to Ukraine on the wayThe US plans to provide Ukraine with another $275 million in military aid, including the HIMARS multiple rocket launcher system and artillery shells. This support is to continue according to a deal made in April.

18:10: Ukraine attacks military factories in RussiaReports claim that Ukraine conducted an air attack on military factories in Tatarstan, Russia. Unverified evidence suggests the use of drones and civilian aircraft converted into kamikaze missiles. Despite this, the Russian Ministry of Defense only reported the shooting down of one unspecified drone. Local authorities ordered evacuations and temporarily halted operations at two airports.

17:35: Chinese government cracks down on deepfakesA recent wave of deepfakes in China features Russian women being tagged with false statements. The Chinese government plans to legislate against this practice.

5:02 PM: Russia: The main power line from the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant is downRussia reported that a primary power line, which connects the Russian-controlled nuclear power plant in Zaporizhia, Ukraine, has experienced an outage. Nonetheless, the Russian officials claimed that the issue doesn't pose any threat, and the plants can still be powered using backup sources. It is notable that despite the shutdown of these six reactors, the plant relies on external power or diesel generators to maintain cooling systems to prevent a potential nuclear meltdown. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the power supply situation has been deteriorating since the Russian assault commenced in 2022, raising concerns about nuclear safety.

2:31 PM: The International Fund announces a £150 million military package for UkraineEven though it's a small contribution, it's still crucial aid: the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) has publicized a new military package worth £150 million. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense stated that these funds will be utilized to enhance air defense and maritime capacities, including radars, drone defense systems, and small watercraft. Ukraine emphasized the necessity of securing additional air defense mechanisms to guard its populace and infrastructure against Russian assaults. The IFU is a funding mechanism where international allies invest resources to purchase emergency military equipment for Ukraine. The British Ministry of Defense manages the fund, with other member states including Norway, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and Lithuania.

2:05 PM: Baltic defense ministers encourage significant raises in defense budgetsThe defense ministers from Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are urging for escalated defense spending before the NATO summit. They believe the rise should surpass 2.5% of the GDP. Currently, many NATO countries align with a 2% target, which 18 nations are anticipated to achieve in 2023. The Baltic states have consistently stood by Ukraine since the emergence of the war and have frequently demanded NATO to take further steps against Russian aggression.

1:28 PM: Contested buoys in the Narva River raise eyebrowsRussian border guards are suspected of removing Estonian floating buoys that marked sea routes. The Narva River forms a border between the two nations. Estonia and Russia previously collaborated to install these buoys annually, but since 2023, the Russian side disapproved of Estonia's preferred position, says Eerik Purgel, the Head of the Border Guard Bureau. Estonia installed the initial 50 buoys, yet discovered that 24 had been taken away by the border guards at night. The country is now looking to coordinate with the Russian team to resolve the dispute.

1:00 PM: [LIVE] Ukrainian army chief Syrskyj sheds light on the frontline statusIn a recent statement, Ukrainian army chief Syrskyj provided insights into the battlefield activities. Succeeding minor advancements on a new third front in Kharkiv, Russian troops are now intensely engaged in street battles around Vovchansk with substantial losses. Syrskyj revealed that the enemy is consistently allocating reserves from various locations to support their full-on assault attempts, but with no success. Moreover, he disclosed the situation at Chassiv Yar, describing their attempts to hang on to the city at all costs. Despite possessing innovative T-90M, BMP-3, and BMD-4 main battle tanks and infantry combat vehicles, these Russian armaments are frequently ravaged during advances using anti-tank weaponry and drones, Syrsky specified.

12:50 PM: Putin heads to Belarus for another meeting with LukashenkoThe Russian President, Vladimir Putin, is heading to Belarus for a two-day official visit with his ally, Alexander Lukashenko. The discussions will cover bilateral relations and significant international views, as per a Kremlin statement. Following his excursion to China, this is Putin's second overseas journey since his re-inauguration as the president. Putin and Lukashenko frequently meet, and the latter, heavily dependent on the Kremlin for economic, political, and military support, visited Moscow on May 9 for a military parade.

12:26 PM: Russia hints at potential British targets amid threats of attackRussia is threatening to retaliate and target British assets should Ukraine use the provided British weapons to strike Russian territories. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova voiced this warning, reinforcing a previous communiqué issued by Moscow. These threats were triggered by the UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron's declaration that Ukraine has the right to employ the British arms against Russian targets. Moscow disseminated this statement as one of the reasons for conducting military exercises that involved simulating tactical nuclear missile strikes.

3:21 Russia claims victory in Andriyivka villageThe Russian Ministry of Defense claims to have captured the village of Andriyivka located in the Donetsk region. There has been no statement from Ukraine on this matter. In September 2023, Ukraine reported that they had retaken Andriyivka from Russian forces. However, confrontations were reported there in January 2024. The majority of the village is in ruins.

11:56 Yellen stresses: Financial aid for Kiev won't ceaseU.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen emphasizes that financial aid for Ukraine will not cease. After 2025, an increased use of funds from frozen Russian assets could be an option, she states before the G7 finance ministers' meeting in Italy. Proceeds from these assets could become a significant source of funding for Ukraine. The U.S. also plans to use the anticipated future proceeds and is urging the seven leading industrialized nations (G7) to align with this plan. The funds may be used as collateral when issuing bonds or loans.

11:35 Steinmeier: "It's time for more efforts in security"German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier considers Russia's war in Ukraine to be a "seismic shift." "We have to recognize that we are living in a drastically changed reality," Steinmeier says. Military security and social resilience are interlinked, he adds. "Let's not shy away from the debate on forms of military service and other services for our community, but rather engage in it and pull together," Steinmeier insists. He also calls for greater efforts in defense: "We need to do more to secure our own safety. We must invest in our security and strengthen our alliance," he notes, emphasizing his role in shaping Germany's Russia policy in the past as Foreign Minister in 2016, when he criticized the NATO maneuver in eastern Europe and described it as "boisterous sabre-rattling and cries of war."

10:35 Kharkiv: At least six people killed in Russian missile attacksAt least six individuals are reported to have been killed in several missile attacks on Kharkiv, according to Ukrainian reports. Since morning, Russian troops have targeted the city at least 15 times, according to the Kyiv Independent. Injuries extend to 16 people. Transport infrastructure objects and a private business have been struck. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounces this as an "extremely harsh attack." The Russian terrorists are exploiting Ukraine's lack of adequate air defense, he adds via X.

10:09 Norway to impose stricter entry regulations for RussiansNorway intends to impose stricter entry regulations for Russian citizens. From May 29, Russians entering the country via the external border for non-essential reasons will be deported, as per a statement from the Norwegian government. The tightened rules apply to both visas issued by Norway and by other Schengen countries. "The decision to tighten entry requirements is consistent with Norway's policy of working in solidarity with our allies and partners to react to Russia's unlawful war against Ukraine," says Minister of Justice and Public Security Emilie Enger Mehl.

10:00 Could Ukraine employ U.S. weapons against Russia?Following recent Russian attacks in Ukraine, the U.S. is now contemplating the prospect of allowing Kiev to attack Russian territory using U.S. weapons. Ntv Moscow correspondent Rainer Munz explains the possible implications for Russia.

10:00 Sweden steps up defense: "We can't predict how much time we have"With the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Sweden has been relying on the concept of "total defense" and is preparing its energy infrastructure for war. Few countries are as vulnerable as Sweden in this area since 16,000 kilometers of power lines run through dense forests and are easily accessible targets for saboteurs. Critical infrastructure is a prime target in conflict, as evidenced by the current situation in Ukraine. The outcome is power outages that last for an extended period and harsher winters without proper heating. Sweden aims to be ready for this: "No one can predict how much time we have," says Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin in an interview with business magazine "Bloomberg."

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10:00 Russia's purge continues: Another high-ranking military official arrestedThe purges in Moscow continue to gain momentum. The deputy army chief of staff, Vadim Shamarin, has been arrested on bribery charges. Authorities report that Shamarin will remain in custody. The Deputy Chief of General Staff, responsible for communications, is currently facing accusations of accepting bribes on a massive scale. Bribery can attract a prison sentence of up to 15 years in Russia. Shamarin is the fourth high-ranking military officer arrested since April. Last month, Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov was also arrested for bribery. He was preempted by Lieutenant General Yuri Kuznetskov and Major General Ivan Popov. In April, President Vladimir Putin transferred long-serving Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu with former Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov.

9:54 "Inmates released to enlist in the Ukrainian army"

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has not only consumed a massive amount of ammunition, but also many soldiers' lives. As the need for additional troops intensifies, Ukraine is now enacting new measures to recruit them - both through an app and from prisons, as NTV journalist Stephan Richter explains.

9:26 Potential shifts in the White House's stance on military aid to Ukraine?

Ukraine has already had US HIMARS multiple rocket launchers in use since 2022.

Until now, US President Joe Biden had maintained that any weapons sent to Ukraine must never be used to attack Russian territory. However, with the escalating violence on the front and the recent visit to Kiev by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the White House may be experiencing a change of heart. The New York Times reports that Washington is considering allowing Ukraine to fire US-provided weapons at missile and artillery positions located within Russia. According to the newspaper, Secretary Blinken is the chief advocate for this potential strategy. Although the proposal is still in its infancy, it's unclear what percentage of Biden's inner circle supports this idea.

9:01 The Kremlin leans more heavily on "compatriots abroad"

The Kremlin appears to be leaning increasingly on the concept of Russian "compatriots abroad." Politician Yevgeny Primakov revealed to the TASS agency that a nearly completed "electronic map of compatriots" developed by his office will allow citizens living abroad to access unspecified state services, travel to Russia, work there, and potentially even apply for Russian citizenship in the future. The first cards could be issued by the end of 2024. Primakov believes there are between 20 and 40 million people considered compatriots, although the exact definition remains unclear. The Institute for the Study of War postulates that this heightened focus on this group is likely intended to "justify further aggression and hybrid operations overseas to 'protect' Russian compatriots."

8:34 Russian air defenses intercepted 38 Projectiles and three drones

Russian air defenses successfully intercepted a total of 35 missiles and three drones that were deployed from Ukraine to attack the Belgorod border region overnight. No casualties have been reported thus far.

8:05 More than 350 Russian soldiers and officials accused of war crimes

So far, Ukrainian prosecutors have identified over 350 Russian soldiers and occupation officials who are suspected of committing war crimes. This is according to Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin, as shared on X. "However, the actual number of war crimes committed, including those perpetrated in the temporarily occupied territories and in detention centers on Russian soil, is much higher," Kostin notes. The Russians are accused of intentional killings, torture, and mistreatment of civilians, as well as prisoners of war. 83 individuals have already been convicted of these crimes. "Since the beginning of its criminal invasion in 2014, Russia has systematically kidnapped, tortured, and killed Ukrainians," Kostin states. "With the onset of the full-scale war, this policy of intimidation and destruction of anyone who identifies as Ukrainian has become more harsh."

7:34 Videos showcase Russian artillery bombardments

Ukraine is celebrating success on the Kharkiv front in the northeast, though troops had to retreat from other parts of the battlefield. The army no longer has the capacity to defend the whole frontline. Meanwhile, Russia is launching multiple new assaults across various regions.

7:06 Fighting surrounding Kharkiv: "Our defenders are holding their own"

On Ukraine's front line, the General Staff reports the most intense battles in the coal and steel district of Donbass. In the area northwest of Avdiivka alone, 25 clashes have erupted. The military warns that the enemy is attempting to infiltrate their formations with shock troops and equipment. President Volodymyr Zelensky also highlights this area as a major focus of fighting. Regarding the front that began in mid-May near Kharkiv, the Ukrainian military claims the defense is in control, expressing confidence in their troops' capability to hold their ground. The intense battle areas include the villages of Lipzy, Starytsya, and the small town of Vovchansk.

6:37 US response to Georgia's "Russian law"

After the controversial "foreign influence" law passed in Georgia, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledges a US "retaliation." Addressing the US Congress, Blinken expresses worry over the law, stating, "We are very worried about the foreign agents bill that was passed." He goes on, "We are carefully considering how we might respond, and I anticipate that we will take action." Blinken asserts that the law "certainly contradicts the majority of Georgians' desire to move closer to the EU." This controversial legislation, similar to Russia's, is aimed at limiting the influence of non-governmental organizations.

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Study Finds: Securing EU's Natural Gas Supply Even Without Russian Imports

A new report suggests that banning Russian natural gas imports into the European Union wouldn't endanger the region's gas supply, even if demand remains high until 2030. The DIW economic research institute conducted the study, stating that alternative pipeline imports and liquefied natural gas (LNG) could suffice in most scenarios without expanding the existing infrastructure. This finding implies that the EU could impose more sanctions on Russia despite concerns about potential supply disruptions.

Romanian Caution Over Potential Patriot Delivery to Ukraine

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis displays skepticism toward the delivery of a Patriot system to Ukraine. Such deliveries require approval from the Supreme Council for National Defense, and consideration must be given to not impede Romania's air defense, Iohannis explains. The leader clarifies that this matter will not be publicly discussed, but rather privately among military experts and the Supreme Council. The delivery of a Patriot system raises potential logistical and legal hurdles.

Poland Debating Launching Russian Missiles Near Ukraine's Border

Poland is discussing the possibility of involving its air defenses in shooting down Russian missiles over Ukrainian territory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested Western allies could intervene more directly in Ukraine's defense by shooting down Russian missiles, and Polish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pawel Wronski notes that his country is examining the technical and legal aspects of this approach.

Ukraine Allegedly Shoots Down Russian SU-25 Fighter Jet

Ukrainian troops claim they shot down a Russian SU-25 fighter jet near Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. According to the General Staff's announcement, the Soviet-designed aircraft, also called "Frog's Foot" by NATO, is a heavily armored ground-attack aircraft supporting Russia's attacks on various frontlines, including the Donetsk region.

Sweden Provides Ukraine with €6.5 Billion in Military Aid

Sweden plans to provide Ukraine with €6.5 billion in military support over three years, announced Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selensky expressed gratitude for the assistance, stating that it would fortify not only Ukraine but the entire European region from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea.

Chechen Ruler Offers Putin Additional Troops

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov offers Russian President Vladimir Putin extra troops for the ongoing war in Ukraine. Kadyrov states in a Kremlin meeting that 43,500 soldiers have served in the conflict, with tens of thousands more volunteers available if needed.

Zelensky Continues Soliciting Pledges for Peace Summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky persists in inviting world leaders to a peace summit in mid-June in Switzerland. He reveals talks with the heads of state from Chile, Albania, Austria, and Mozambique, emphasizing that four more countries have committed to the conference. Germany's Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Austria's Chancellor Karl Nehammer have confirmed their attendance. Nehammer considers the summit a crucial step toward achieving peace again.

Zelensky Asks for Western Assistance Against Russian Glide Bombs

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asks the West for support in combating Russian glide bomb attacks, which are a primary weapon for Russian air strikes. Zelensky asserts that Ukraine requires systems and tactics to safeguard its locations, cities, and communities from these bombs, as Russia is increasingly adopting glide bombs with added control systems. These bombs can be safely dropped by Russian pilots and are difficult to counter.

Ukraine Lets Out Inmates for Frontline Duty: Court

At 22:06, the eastern European nation Ukraine made its first move to release prisoners and send them to the front lines, where they could join the ongoing battle against Russia. A court in the city of Khmelnytsky decided that two individuals convicted of theft would be allowed to go free after their parole applications were granted. This action follows a recent law that allows those who are prepared to serve in the military during the war to seek parole. Interestingly, over 3,000 prisoners have submitted their applications to be released for this purpose, as mentioned by Kiev's authorities.