10:15 PM Tip-Off: Pistorius Seeks Ammo Deal Worth Up to €15 Billion
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius of the SPD aims to considerably expand the purchasing agreement for artillery ammunition, reaching a maximum of 15 billion Euro. The Finance Ministry has proposed this expansion to the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag, reporting a source to Reuters. This expansion will increase the total order by roughly 2 million rounds, bringing it to approximately 2.35 million rounds of 155-millimeter ammunition for the Panzerhaubitze 2000. According to "Der Spiegel", initial reports suggest a framework contract with companies Diehl Defence and Nammo Raufoss.
21:56 Nepalese Soldier: "I express my sincere regrets"Captured prisoners by Ukraine include fighters from various countries. "Kyiv Independent" published a soldier's statement who, he claims, was driven to join the Russian army due to financial struggles. "The only motive behind me being here is to earn money," he admits during interrogation. In Nepal, he was "subjected to pressure" and owed around 20,000 to 25,000 Dollars. In Moscow, he was promised a three-month training, but it never materialized. During his first mission, he was taken prisoner. "I deeply regret it. I deeply regret it," he now says. "I have a troubled conscience." He is not an exception: He reports seeing around 200 Nepalese in his army unit.
21:34 Russia: EU-Media blocked due to fear of truthful reportingThe announced blocking of access to more than 80 EU-Media by Russia is perceived, according to US assessment, as a sign of Moscow's fear of truthful reporting. The Russian government is cracking down on journalism because it is afraid that its people will learn the truth about Russia's actions, said US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller. Previously, Moscow had announced the blocking of access to the websites of 81 Media from 25 EU countries. Among the affected media are the German news magazine "Spiegel", the Spanish newspapers "El Mundo" and "El Pais", as well as several French and Italian media. The website and customer portal of the news agency AFP are also no longer accessible from Russia.
21:05 Moscow: 90 prisoners exchanged between Russia and UkraineAccording to Russian statements, Russia and Ukraine have exchanged 90 prisoners each, mediated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). According to the Russian Defense Ministry on Telegram, 90 Russian military personnel "in critical condition" were "repatriated" from Kiev-controlled territories. In return, 90 Ukrainian prisoners of war were handed over. According to the ministry, the prisoner exchange was facilitated by the UAE. The UAE also mediates in the return of Ukrainian children from Russia to their homeland.
20:42 Ukrainian General Staff reports 128 battles with Russian troopsAccording to Ukrainian reports, there were nearly 130 battles with Russian troops throughout the day. As the Ukrainian General Staff reports in its situation report, most of the 128 battles took place in the Pokrovsk region.
20:02 President Zelenskyy to attend EU summit in Brussels for security guaranteesUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to attend the EU summit in Brussels on Thursday. According to the Elysee in Paris, Zelenskyy will be present at the beginning of the meeting of the heads of state and government. EU diplomats report that an agreement on security guarantees for Kiev is to be signed, which the EU member states have agreed on in advance.
19:22 Fire at Diehl-Consortium in Berlin: No indications of deliberate sabotageFollowing the large fire at the metal company Diehl in Berlin, speculation about a Russian sabotage attack quickly arose. However, according to German investigative authorities, there are currently no findings that the May fire in the technology conglomerate was intended to be arson committed by Russians. As reported by "Der Spiegel", both the Federal Prosecutor's Office in Karlsruhe and the Berlin Public Prosecutor's Office stated, in response to inquiries from the news magazine, that they have no evidence of deliberate arson in the Diehl plant. Neither of the authorities is currently investigating the case. The Berlin Police are still investigating the incident, which they believe was an accident. The Diehl-Consortium also reportedly denied media reports of a Russian arson attack.
18:47 Four civilians injured in Russian air raid on Charkiw regionFour civilians were injured in a Russian air raid on the Charkiw region. According to the state Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform, citing Governor Oleh Syniehubov, Russian forces attacked the village of Bobrivka in the Charkiw district with air bombs and injured four people.
18:16 President Sandu welcomes start of EU accession talks for Moldova and strengthening the European familyMoldovan President Maia Sandu welcomed the beginning of EU accession talks with her country and emphasized that her country is part of the European family. "United, we are stronger", she wrote on Facebook. The European Union opened symbolic accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova today.
17:54 French President Macron to emphasize importance of Ukrainian aid at meeting with OrbanFrench President Emmanuel Macron will emphasize the significance of Ukrainian aid during a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The two leaders are expected to discuss the impact of the Ukraine crisis on Europe and the support that should be provided to Ukraine.
17:28 Macron encourages backing for Ukraine at meeting with Orban, Hungarian PM critical of Ukraine within EU
Emmanuel Macron, the French President, will stress the significance of aiding Ukraine during a rendezvous with Viktor Orban, Hungarian Prime Minister, set for Wednesday. Orban, one of the reluctant EU members regarding Ukraine, is traveling to Paris in anticipation of Hungary's upcoming EU Council presidency. Their objective is to prepare for the approaching EU summit on June 27 and 28. Hungary takes over presidency duties from Belgium on July 1. Orban's Fidesz party maintains an alliance with France's extremist Rassemblement National (RN), with growing likelihood of RN's election victory in France, based on recent polls. No schedule plans for RN meetings, according to the party.
17:04 Zelensky praises ICC arrest warrants against Russian military leaders
Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukrainian President, commended the International Criminal Court (ICC) issuance of arrest warrants against top figures of the Russian military. "I'm pleased with today's ICC arrest warrants against Russian military leaders," Zelensky wrote on Telegram. "Both leaders accused of waging brutal attacks on civilians in Ukraine during Russia's ruthless bombardment."
17:04 Schwan-Zelensky meeting in Kiev: gratitude expressed for German support
Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian President, welcomed Manuela Schwan, German Bundesrat President, in Kiev today. In their discussion, Zelensky acknowledged Germany for its backing for Ukraine, humanitarian relief, and protection of Ukrainian refugees, according to presidential press service, as reported by Ukrinform. Zelensky updated Schwan on Ukraine's frontline and critical needs in response to intensified Russian air attacks. He also underscored the significance of the German initiative to augment Ukraine's air defense and delivery of additional systems.
16:42 Merz advocates employment incentives for Ukrainian refugees in Germany
The EU is urging Ukrainian refugees to obtain jobs more swiftly in Germany. "It's essential to incorporate these refugees, who will remain in Germany for an extended period, into the workforce more efficiently," said Friedrich Merz, faction leader, in Berlin. "We need them, and incentives suitable for engaging in employment should be set." This belongs to politics more than to the refugees themselves. Unemployment benefits do not provide the right incentives to work. Consequently, a dialogue about this should be initiated - and one that respects the refugees who fled the war. "Their welfare in Germany must not be jeopardized," said Merz.
16:21 Ukraine reports 2277 Schahed drones used by Russia against Ukraine this year
Approximately 2277 Schahed drones, according to Ukrainian reports, have been launched by the Russian military against targets in Ukraine this year. "Our air defense has neutralized about 86 percent of them," the Ukrainian Air Force commander reported on Telegram.
16:07 Evacuation ordered for children and parents from five settlements in Donetsk region
Ukraine has enforced an evacuation of all children and their parents from five settlements in the conflict zone of Donetsk, an eastern region. As Governor Wadym Filaschkin explained, this decree applies to all guardians of minors. The named settlements are situated in areas where the Russian military has experienced recent advancements. In recent weeks, civilians have suffered fatalities and injuries during military actions. Governor Filaschkin urged civilians to leave the Donetsk region in prior weeks due to deteriorating conditions.
15:57 Official commencement of Ukraine EU accession negotiations
The European Union launched official accessions talks with Ukraine. Delegates from both parties convened in Luxembourg for the first round, during which a transfer of negotiation guidelines occurred. The Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Schmyhal labeled this moment "historic" for his country and the EU.
15:42 Ukrainian billionaire donates three armed speedboats to Ukrainian navy
A Ukrainian billionaire is granting three Swedish speedboats to the Ukrainian navy. These boats reach up to 74 kilometers per hour and are armed with machine guns and water bombs. Sweden is promising Ukraine an additional ten boats.
15:26 Access to 81 European media outlets obstructed in Russia
Russia has retaliated against the broadcasting ban on several Russian media in Europe by limiting the access to 81 European media companies. The broadcasting of programs and access to their websites will be blocked, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced on its site. European media outlets such as "Der Spiegel," "Die Zeit," and the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung" are on the blacklist, as well as the broadcasters ORF and Austria Media Group in Austria. The German-French broadcaster Arte is also included on the blacklist. Russia is the EU country most targeted by these sanctions. The EU countries decided in May to impose sanctions on the state Russian news agency Ria Novosti, the government newspaper "Rossiskaja Gazeta," the platform "Voice of Europe," as well as the pro-Kremlin newspaper "Iswestija" including a television station.
15:11 Prime Minister Modi to Visit Moscow SoonAfter his recent re-election, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to make a trip to Russia. Yuri Ushakov, advisor to Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin, confirmed the preparations for Modi's visit. The Indian government hasn't issued any official confirmation yet, but according to reports, Modi's visit to Moscow is being considered for early July. Russian news agency Tass has hinted that the dates are already fixed for July 8 and 9.
14:52 Plan Proposed for Trump's Ukraine StrategyFormer U.S. President Donald Trump was presented with a plan to end the Russian war in Ukraine by two influential advisors. The strategy suggests encouraging both parties to agree to a ceasefire and initiate peace talks. If Donald Trump had won the U.S. presidential election, he would have told Ukraine that further weapons would only be provided if they entered peace talks. At the same time, Russia was to be informed that Ukraine would receive more support from the U.S. if they refused peace negotiations. The plan promises to delay Ukraine's NATO membership for a longer period to persuade Moscow. The strategy was outlined by retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg and Fred Fleitz, both of whom served in the National Security Council under Trump's presidency.
14:38 Ukraine Receives First Delivery from Czech Ammunition InitiativeThe Czech ammunition initiative, aimed at providing artillery shells to Ukraine, has started to yield results. Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala indicated on his platform that the first delivery within their initiative had reached Ukraine. Strengthening Ukraine's ammunition stockpiles is one of the country's primary concerns in its defense against Russia. So far, 18 partner countries have pledged financial support totaling approximately 1.6 billion Euros for the project. Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Lithuania, and several other countries, are among the contributors. The Czech Republic has been a strong advocate for Ukraine in defending against the Russian invasion.
14:20 Ukrainian Ambassador Criticizes CSU ProposalUkrainian ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, has expressed criticism towards the CSU proposal to expel unemployed Ukrainians. Makeiev views the proposal as "depersonalized" and "very populist." Makeiev is currently discussing ways to integrate more Ukrainian asylum seekers into the German labor market with German Labor Minister Heil, Interior Minister Faeser, and federal states, as well as job centers. Makeiev emphasizes that "Ukrainians integrate three times better into the labor market than representatives of other nations, they want to work." The ambassador believes that higher employment rates among Ukrainian asylum seekers are not solely their responsibility but also the German government's. He demands recognition of vocational qualifications and lowering language requirements.
14:01 Serbia Slammed as Putin Propagandist InsultsSerbia has maintained close ties to Russia, but the relationship is strained due to Serbia's sale of ammunition to Ukraine via intermediaries. Russian TV moderator and Kremlin propagandist Sergey Mardan has lambasted Serbia, calling them the "last whore." The Serbs are no longer brothers to Russians, but enemies in his eyes.
13:40 Alleged Ukrainian Drone Attacks on Gas Pipeline in BelgorodRussian authorities reported instances of Ukrainian drone attacks in Belgorod. The incidents caused damage to several buildings, including a gas pipeline for supply, and resulted in injuries of several people with at least one reported death. Ukraine hasn't commented on the alleged strikes yet.
13:18 EU Extends Protective Status for Refugees from UkraineThe EU is extending the unbureaucratic protection for war refugees from Ukraine for another year. The protective status will last until March 4, 2026, following a decision by 27 European ministers in Luxembourg. The EU believes that the ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure make it impossible for people to return yet. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser welcomed the extension but also called for a "fairer distribution" of refugees in the EU, as Germany has absorbed nearly 1.2 million refugees.
13:02 China Demands Lifting of Latest Russia SanctionsChina criticized the EU for placing new sanctions on Russia, which affect Chinese companies as well. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the sanctions lack a legal basis and called upon the EU to lift them immediately. In response, China plans to take "necessary measures" to defend the rights and interests of Chinese companies affected by the sanctions. The EU has accused China of supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine, a claim China denies. In the latest round of measures against Russia, the EU added 61 more companies to their sanctions list, including 19 Chinese companies. Trade restrictions affect important players in the Chinese satellite industry. The companies are accused of working with the Russian mercenary group Wagner and selling them satellites.
12:58 Arrest Warrant Dished Out: Shoigu and Gerasimov NabbedThe International Criminal Court lays hands on ex-Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valeri Gerasimov, charging them with striking civilian targets in Ukraine. The court made the announcement regarding the warrant.
12:50 Zelenskyy Meets Schwesig in KievMecklenburg-Vorpommern's Minister President, Manuela Schwesig, was welcomed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during her trip to Ukraine. Their meeting in Kiev lasted about an hour. Schwesig was in Ukraine to affirm solidarity with Kiev, in her capacity as Federal President of the Bundesrat. During her train ride to the Ukrainian capital, she stated, "Ukraine must win this war," which contrasted Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz's focus on ensuring that Russia doesn't win the war, while Ukraine doesn't lose it. Critics in Ukraine argue about Schwesig's involvement in the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, with former Ukrainian ambassador Andrij Melnyk once stating that he would never shake her hand. Following the Russian attack about two years ago, Schwesig distanced herself from her part in the project and considered it a mistake.
12:28 European Court of Human Rights Slams Russia for Rights Violations in CrimeaThe European Court of Human Rights finds Russia responsible for human rights violations in Crimea after the annexation of the Crimean Peninsula. The ruling was made in Strasbourg, granting a complaint from Ukraine. Russia disregards the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights.
11:52 Ukrainian Troops Beat "Granade Hunger" - Even with Stream AmmunitionUkrainian soldiers fought against the Russian army for a lengthy period without enough ammunition. The improvement in supply has been made possible by the $61 billion aid package. Vasil, a Ukrainian commander, reports that the "granade hunger" has been alleviated.
11:25 Hundreds of Ukrainians Arrested Trying to Flee the CountryUkrainian security forces thwarted the illegal departure of 100 males in the Odessa region, southern Ukraine. A group of 47 males were stopped in four minivans en route to the border last Friday. Another 53 males were intercepted at a "gathering point." They intended to evade checkpoints and cross the border on foot. The Odessa region adjoins Moldova, with the Danube River constituting the border with Romania. All males aged 25 or older, who can be drafted for war, have been relocated to the local military conscription office. The human traffickers are believed to have demanded between 4600 and over 17,000 Euro from each male.
11:07 Ukraine Edging Closer: Lührmann Sees "Pivotal Day" for the EUFormal EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova commence. European State Secretary Anna Lührmann refers to this day as a "pivotal day" for the EU. "This is a significant day because we acknowledge the tremendous efforts made by both countries to reform despite the difficult circumstances," says Lührmann at an EU ministers' meeting prior to the official initiation of the accession negotiations in Luxembourg. "Both countries have made substantial progress in areas such as the rule of law, corruption, and freedom of the press." However, it will take many years until Ukraine and Moldova fulfill all the criteria for EU membership. Ukraine must achieve peace with Russia as a prerequisite, and there is no guarantee of admission.
10:38 Counter-Sanctions Against the EU: Russia's Actions "May Affect Us Too"Frozen Russian funds in the EU are intended to be used for Ukraine's armament. The Kremlin considers these sanctions to be "against international law" and "illegitimate," according to NTV correspondent Rainer Munz. Russia now plans to impose sanctions on the EU and enhance relationships with other nations even more.
10:09 Money from "Putin's Briefcase": Swiss Court Convicts BankersFour bankers have been convicted by a Swiss appellate court in relation to the management of funds originating from Russian President Vladimir Putin's circle. The Zurich Appellate Court deems it proven that the employees of the disbanded Swiss subsidiary of the Russian Gazprombank failed to adequately verify whether the money in the accounts of Russian musician Sergey Roldugin genuinely belonged to him. The court sentences the four bankers to fines. In 2014, two accounts were opened at the Gazprombank in Zurich, with Roldugin listed as the beneficial owner. According to media reports, the Russian cellist and conductor is the godfather of one of Putin's daughters. He was added to the Swiss sanctions list shortly after Russia's attack on Ukraine. In Moscow, Roldugin is commonly known as "Putin's briefcase."
09:44 A Somalian Soldier Speaks Up: "Everywhere there were drones, artillery, rockets. I just ran"To compensate for their massive troop losses in war, the Kremlin is forcing migrants and foreign students to the front. The young Somalian Adil shares his experience in a conversation with ntv. For nearly $1900 a month, he enlists in the military, with the possibility of Russian citizenship and the promise that he won't have to fight at the front. However, Adil is immediately dispatched to the Ukraine front. Instead of fighting, he has already fled and is now imprisoned in Ukraine. "I didn't come to kill. I lost my weapon. I didn't know how to handle it. Everywhere there were drones, artillery, rockets. I just ran", Adil shares in an interview with ntv. "I thought $1900 was the typical wage for regular work. I thought I was about to fulfill my dreams."
21:37 Trump Advisor Sets Forth Strategy to End Ukraine Conflict:Two key advisors of previous U.S. President Donald Trump propose a strategy to conclude the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As reported by Reuters, this strategy, if Trump wins, would condition additional US weaponry on Ukraine's participation in peace talks. Simultaneously, the U.S. would allegedly warn Russia that failure to negotiate would result in escalating American support for Ukraine, as per General Lieutenant a.D. Keith Kellogg, one of Trump's national security advisors. This comprehensive strategy is the most detailed plan put forward by Trump's associates, who claim that he can bring a swift end to the Ukraine conflict. If accepted, the proposal could significantly change Washington's stance on this conflict and face opposition from European allies and even Trump's own Republican Party.
05:23 Russia: Multiple Drones Downed and Destroyed in Border Regions:Russia claims to have shot down 30 Ukrainian drones in the shared border area between the two countries, as stated by Russian authorities. The Russian air defense is reported to have intercepted and destroyed 29 drones in the Belgorod border region and one in the neighboring Voronezh region, as announced via Telegram by the Russian Defense Ministry. In the Belgorod region, an elderly woman is said to have died due to border guard reports.
04:58 Ukrainian Security Service Arrests Suspected Russian Spy:Ukrainian security forces have detained a border guard solider suspected of spying for the Russian FSB. According to the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU), the man gathered information about weapons and ammunition depots, as well as Ukrainian troops in the Belarus border region. The suspect was allegedly recruited remotely by an FSB agent based in the occupied Luhansk region and communicated with him anonymously through online messengers. If found guilty of high treason, the man risks a life sentence from the SBU.
04:26 ISW: Russia Striving for "Tactical and Operational Significant Gains" before US Aid Reaches Ukrainian Frontlines:According to the US think tank Institute for the Study of War, the US weapon deliveries are not expected to have an immediate impact on the frontlines. The ISW continues to believe that Russian forces are aiming for tactical and operational significant gains before US military aid reaches Ukrainian forces in large quantities, and that it will take some time for the weapons provided by the West to become tactically and operationally effective. This perspective is also reflected in an interview given by military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanow to the Philadelphia Inquirer. He mentioned that weapons deliveries from the US and Europe, including artillery ammunition, are expected to reach Ukraine sooner than before. However, the Ukrainian forces need a substantial amount of weapons, and the question remains whether it's a matter of scale, as per Budanow. He anticipates that the situation at the front will remain challenging at least until mid-July.
03:52 Kyiv: Intelligence to Impose "Drone Sanctions" against Russian Oil Refinery Complex:Ukrainian special forces have identified over 30 Russian oil refineries, terminals, and depots as potential targets, as reported by President Volodymyr Zelensky during a military briefing. He particularly praised the Special Operations Center "A" of the Ukrainian Security Service. The drones used by the Ukrainians have extended-range capabilities, allowing them to cover distances of up to 1,500 kilometers, as Zelensky stated. The most recent drone attacks targeted facilities in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, and there seem to be no signs of the attacks stopping: "The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) will continue to impose 'drone sanctions' on the Russian oil refinery complex and undermine the economic potential of the adversary that is supplying the means for waging war against Ukraine," according to Kyiv Independent, quoting a source.
03:20 Denmark Halts Training of Ukrainian F-16 Pilots:Denmark will discontinue the training program for Ukrainian F-16 pilots due to its transition to F-35 fighter jets by the end of the year. Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen announced the decision at a press conference. "As we transition to the F-35, we need to concentrate our efforts on that and cannot continue training Ukrainian pilots after 2024," said Poulsen. The Western F-16 coalition must find alternative locations to continue its activities, as per Poulsen. Alternative training programs exist in Romania and the US.
03:00 Russian Governor Criticizes "Massive" Drone Attack on Belgorod:In drone attacks on the Russian city of Belgorod and settlements in the Belgorod region, several buildings, vehicles, and a gas supply line were damaged, and four people were injured. This was reported by Kyiv independent, quoting the governor of the region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, who described the attacks as "massive." According to Gladkov, an administrative building in the city of Shebekino was completely destroyed by fire. Kiev has not made a statement about the attacks.
02:30 EU Adds Dozens of Companies to Sanctions List:In the framework of a fresh package of measures against Russia, the European Union adds 61 companies to the sanctions list. This batch includes 19 Chinese companies. The 14th sanctions package, formally approved by EU member states, includes trade restrictions for two major players in the Chinese satellite industry. These companies are accused of conducting multi-million-dollar business with the Russian mercenary group Wagner and selling satellites to them.
05:43 Crimea Annexation Case Decision: European Court of Human Rights Judges on Ukraine's Lawsuit Against RussiaThe European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg is deliberating today on Ukraine's lawsuit against Russia over the Crimean Peninsula annexation. Kiev alleges Moscow of multiple breaches of the European Convention on Human Rights from February 2014 to August 2015 on the Crimean Peninsula. Among the alleged breaches, according to the lawsuit, are "illegal detentions," "suppression of non-Russian media," and "compensation-less seizures."
04:38 Orban on Kiev's EU Membership: "Hungary Disagrees"Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban expresses dissent towards the EU membership talks with Ukraine, scheduled for today in Luxembourg. In an interview with Funke Mediengruppe newspapers, Orban comments: "Hungary disagrees with this membership process, but we do not obstruct it and support the start of talks." The talks are a "purely politically motivated process." It's not about a yes or no to EU membership. "But we need to first examine the potential consequences if we were to take on a country in conflict whose borders are not clearly defined in practice," Orban states, as Hungary assumes the EU Council Presidency on July 1.
03:36 EU Kicks Off Membership Talks with UkraineThe EU begins membership talks with Ukraine today. "The path to full membership, which Ukraine deserves, is unalterable," says Ihor Zhovka, foreign policy advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview in Kiev. The focus at the ceremony in Luxembourg is initially more symbolic than the finer details of the negotiations. These will start once the EU has assessed the numerous reforms Ukraine must implement to meet EU standards.
02:35 USA: Russian Missile Launch Kills Civilians on Crimean PeninsulaAs per US reports, Ukraine did not aim at civilians during the weekend's attack on the Crimean Peninsula. Russia appears to have intercepted an Atacms missile meant to incapacitate a launchpad, says a US official. Debris from the missile allegedly fell on a beach. According to Russian reports, at least four people were killed by Ukrainian Atacms missile attacks over the weekend, including two children. 151 people were reportedly injured. Russia implicates the US for the attacks. The US government responds by declaring that Ukraine makes its own decisions regarding target selection and military deployments.
01:35 USA to Send Additional Ammunition to Kiev Valued at $150 MillionAccording to sources in the USA, they will be supplying additional ammunition to Ukraine, worth $150 Million. The announcement is expected today, Tuesday. The upcoming delivery is projected to also encompass ammunition for the Himars multiple rocket launchers provided by the USA, which can launch Atacms missiles. Moscow declares after Ukrainian Atacms strikes on Crimea that the USA are now an active party in the conflict.
00:36 Moscow Dismisses EU Sanctions as IneffectiveMoscow considers the latest sanctions in the 14th EU sanctions package against Russia as ineffective. The Foreign Ministry in Moscow states this. The West allegedly fails to consider the consequences for its own economy or the well-being of the people in the EU, says Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Gruschko in Moscow. Russia expects an economic growth of over three percent this year, more than ten times that of Germany. "The purpose of the sanctions was to strangle the Russian economy, to disrupt the unity of society. The EU has achieved the opposite," says Gruschko.
23:28 Unemployed Ukrainians Expelled: Schwesig objects to DobrindtMecklenburg-Vorpommern Minister President Manuela Schwesig criticizes the proposal by CSU regional group leader Alexander Dobrindt to repatriate displaced persons from certain areas of Ukraine to their homes if they don't find work in Germany. "There are no safe areas, because Russia is attacking the entire Ukraine," states the SPD politician in the ZDF "heute journal update." The statement is "very populist" in the face of many refugees, among them many women with children. Schwesig accuses Dobrindt of catering to dissenting voices in the population.
22:29 Ukrainian General Staff: Almost 130 skirmishes with Russian troopsAccording to Ukrainian reports, there have been 128 skirmishes with Russian troops since dawn. The Ukrainian General Staff reports this in their Facebook update. The Russian troops are currently concentrating on the area around Pokrowsk. According to the statement, this area accounted for a third of the Russian attacks today. The Ukrainian defense forces have managed to repel the attacks and maintain the front lines.
21:57 "Brazen Infringement" - Hungary Criticizes EU Decision on Russian Assets for UkraineThe Hungarian government reacts with anger to the decision of the other EU states to use the profits from frozen Russian assets for Ukraine. This is the "most brazen violation of common European rules" ever, declares Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó on Facebook. It is being examined how Hungary can assert its rights legally. The government of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán takes over the EU presidency in a week. Orbán maintains good relations with the Russian government.
21:38 Ukrainian Navy: 120 drones destroyed in Krasnodar region attack
According to the Ukrainian Navy's statement on their Facebook page, as reported by Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform, an attack on the Russian region of Krasnodar led to the destruction of approximately 120 drones. The operation, which took place on June 21, was carried out by the Ukrainian Navy and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).
- Previous developments can be read here. [links removed as they were not relevant to the paraphrased text]
Russian defense facilities in Yeysk, specifically the 726th Training Center of Air Defense, were hit by Ukrainian forces. According to the report, this center is where they teach pilot skills for drones.
Read also:
- In response to the escalating Ukraine conflict, NATO is reportedly considering increasing its military presence and providing additional aid to Ukraine, as stated by Volodymyr Selensky, President of Ukraine.
- Amidst the ongoing Cyberwar between Ukraine and Russia, concerns have been raised about the possible use of cyberattacks to target critical infrastructure in Europe, including Germany, according to German intelligence sources.
- In a bid to strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities, Germany is considering expanding its purchasing agreement for artillery ammunition, reaching a maximum of 15 billion Euros, according to reports by German news outlets.
- The European Union has lobbied for the expansion of sanctions against Russia, including restrictions on cyberwarfare activities and the supply of strategic technologies, in response to Russia's alleged involvement in cyberattacks against Ukrainian infrastructure.