17:31 Moscow contemplating military mobilization? Putin's shift may serve as a demonstration for the West.
Putin indicates a willingness for a truce, military expert Ralph Thiele states, noting that Moscow's intentions could potentially create a divide among Western powers.
17:07 Russian impediment of Ukrainian long-range glide bombRussian jammers are hindering several of Ukraine's recently acquired long-range glide bombs, reported three individuals acquainted with the predicament to Reuters News. Capable of reaching up to 160 kilometers, the glide bombs' navigation system is being hampered, preventing them from hitting their designated targets. Despite Boeing's claims that their system could counter some jamming signals, one insider claimed it would take months to rectify the issue.
16:46 Scholz maintains opposition to Taurus delivery to UkraineGerman Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz reconfirms his resistance to delivering Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine. Experiencing trepidations about escalating the war in Ukraine into a conflict between Russia and the NATO alliance, Scholz is adamant that Germany must possess control over the targets for such a system. With their donations of approximately 28 billion euros worth of weaponry to Ukraine, Germany stands as the second largest contributor worldwide, beside the US. Previously, they provided two Patriot systems to Ukraine and plan on offering an additional one, which according to Scholz, necessitates other nations to assist Ukraine as well. "We've taken things as far as we can," Scholz expressed at the Berlin democracy festival. "As Federal Chancellor, it's my responsibility: we're supporting Ukraine's fight for protection, but we won't allow the conflict to metastasize into a war between Russia and NATO." Regarding the Taurus missile, Scholz deemed it inappropriate to deliver a weapon capable of reaching 500 kilometers with such precision, which would only be justifiable if Germany maintains control over the targets. "Unfortunately, that's not possible if you don't want to involve yourself in the conflict, yet remain the largest European supporter of Ukraine."
16:24 Moscow interrupts Elon Musk's Starlink signal at the frontlineWhen Russia launched an offensive in the Kharkiv region, they disrupted the Starlink satellite service. According to the New York Times, citing the Ukrainian military, Moscow targeted Starlink, an operation managed by Elon Musk's company SpaceX. Crucial for the Ukrainians since the hostilities commenced, Starlink has been employed substantially for communications, surveillance, and drone strikes. Ukrainian forces detected the interference with the Starlink signal just before Russian troops crossed their northern border, resulting in a halt to their communications that necessitated them to switch to text messages.
16:02 Sellering steps down as head of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's climate protection foundationErwin Sellering, former Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (SPD), tendered his resignation as Chairman of the Board at the state's climate foundation, which has been criticized for its participation in Nord Stream II. His statement indicated that the board had successfully repelled all attacks and dissolution attempts, including from the state government under Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig. As no one appeared to be pursuing the matter further, Sellering saw the resignation as opportune. Established by the state at the beginning of 2021, the climate foundation held dual objectives: to aid in the completion of the North Stream 2 pipeline and maintain its continuity while evading US sanctions. The Nord Stream 2 consortium financed the foundation with 20 million euros. Following the outbreak of the Russian invasion against Ukraine, the state government initiated efforts to dissolve the foundation, but the foundation defended itself fiercely.
3:42 PM: Germany welcomes legal measures to release Russian funds for UkraineKey Western nations are still debating how to unlock frozen Russian central bank assets for Ukraine's support. Germany, led by Finance Minister Christian Lindner, is open to increasing the use of frozen funds' interest income for Ukraine. Lindner, a member of the FDP, highlighted this at the G7 finance ministers' meeting in Italy, noting that such steps are "legally secure" and have no "disadvantageous" or "economically risky" consequences. There is growing European receptiveness to the US proposal. However, the negotiations are taking time due to unresolved issues. The EU has previously agreed to use its share of Russian central bank assets' interest income to fund military assistance for Ukraine. The US, on the other hand, has suggested that the G7 provide Ukraine with a massive loan secured by interest income. This could potentially raise more money than the EU's current three billion euro plan. Yet, the details of risk distribution and guarantee providers remain unclear. There's speculation of reaching a deal at the G7 summit in June.
3:20 PM: Ukraine halts Russian army's advance in Kharkiv regionUkraine has successfully stopped the Russian military's ground attack in the Kharkiv region, as per the Ukrainian Army's official statement. While the situation is "difficult," it's —according to an army spokesperson — stable and under control. As earlier reported, Russian forces' progress in the area in northeastern Ukraine has halted. In street clashes near the border town of Vovchansk, the Russians have "suffered heavy losses among the attack teams" and are unable to make significant advancements. The Russian army is intending to deploy additional reserves, but has not yet achieved its goal of capturing the city. The city is located approximately five kilometers from the border and lies at the heart of Russia's ground offensive in northeastern Ukraine. The Russian troops have made significant territorial gains since the end of 2022.
3:02 PM: Germany provides more Leopard tanks and equipment to UkraineGermany has supplied Ukraine with more Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks, 100 Marder infantry fighting vehicles, ammunition, and spare parts from Bundeswehr and industrial stocks, as well as 18 Leopard 2A6 main battle tanks, ammunition, and spare parts. The delivery also included Dingo transport vehicles, multi-purpose vehicles, and armored transporters. Germany has committed to providing a total of around 28 billion euros in military aid to support Ukraine. This support will be delivered over several years.
2:15 PM: Estonia summons Russian chargé d'affaires over border incidentIncidentally, Estonia requested an explanation from the Russian Embassy's diplomatic representative in Tallinn after Russian border guards removed buoys marking the shipping lane in the border river Narva. Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna described the move as "provocative and unacceptable." Estonia demands that the stolen border markers be returned promptly. The Narva River forms the border between Estonia and Russia as well as demarcates the eastern boundary of the EU and NATO.
2:00 PM: Ukrainian army chief: Russians fail to make progress near VovchanskUkrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrskyj confirmed that Russian forces' expansion in the Kharkiv region, northeastern Ukraine, has stalled. He added that the Russian side has met with serious resistance in street battles around the settlement of Vovchansk, resulting in significant losses among the troops. The enemy has been unable to make further progress despite deploying reserves from different areas. The city of Vovchansk lies five kilometers from the border and serves as the center for Russia's ground offensive in northeastern Ukraine, marking their largest territorial incursion since the end of 2022.
1:49 PM: Baerbock warns Russia against border violenceFederal Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock issues a warning to Russia concerning border-related intimidation: "Russia is setting fire to the European Union's borders," Baerbock wrote on social media. "We stand together with our Estonian, Finnish, and Lithuanian friends and will not tolerate this aggressive behavior. We are united with our Baltic partners and the Baltic Sea region." On the previous day, reports mentioned that buoys marking the Narva River's fairway, located on the border between Estonia and Russia, had gone missing.Last week, Ukraine's government reported that the Russian army had crossed its territorial line near another border town, Chuhuiv, northeast of Kharkiv. This development followed the announcement of increased Russian military activity across the national borders of Belarus, Moldova, and Georgia, which have strong ties with NATO.
1:17 PM: Baerbock cautions Russia against western border aggressionForeign Minister Annalena Baerbock cautions Russia against infringing the western European border, as she expressed her concerns in a social media post. She declared, "Russia is torching the borders of the European Union," indicating unity with allied nations in Estonia, Finland, and Lithuania and warning of "unacceptable" actions. The caution came after Estonia called for an explanation from the Russian diplomat stationed in Tallinn, his dismissal due to the recent removal of border-marking buoys in the Narva River on the boundaries of Estonia and Russia. Military action on the frontier feels particularly threatening as it crosses into EU and NATO space.
12:52 Romanian Man Arrested for Spying for Russia
A Romanian citizen has been taken into custody on suspicion of spying for Russia. The public prosecutor's office in Bucharest made this announcement. The person in question had reportedly been taking photos of military facilities and transporting troops and military equipment belonging to the Romanian army as well as NATO countries near the city of Tulcea since 2022, then sending this data to the Russian embassy in Bucharest. A judge has requested that this individual be detained for a preliminary period of 30 days as part of the investigation. This case is being investigated by DIICOT, a special unit of the Romanian public prosecutor's office responsible for organized crime and terrorism, in collaboration with the domestic intelligence service SRI and the military's intelligence service. Searches at the suspect's home have uncovered several pieces of evidence, DIICOT reports.
12:22 Russian President Putin Allegedly Ready for a Ceasefire
Sources close to Putin claim the Russian President is prepared for a ceasefire that acknowledges the current frontline. "Putin can keep fighting for as long as necessary," one such source told Reuters. "But he's also open to a ceasefire - to halt the war." According to three other insiders, Putin told a small group of advisors that he was frustrated by efforts allegedly supported by the West to hinder negotiations. On numerous occasions, Putin has expressed his willingness to negotiate, only to clarify this statement shortly before his re-election: "We're not interested in talks based on some kind of 'daydream' rooted in mind-altering drug use, but we are open to negotiations based on the realities on the ground."
11:51 Rheinmetall Given €290 Million Order for NATO State's Artillery Ammunition
Rheinmetall has received a significant order for artillery ammunition valued at around €290 million from a NATO member state. The contract consists of tens of thousands of artillery shells and several hundred thousand propellant charge modules, the company disclosed. The ammunition is scheduled to be delivered between 2024 and 2028. The significant orders follow the need for the military to replenish its ammunition stockpiles due to the conflict in Ukraine.
11:20 ISW: Corruption Allegations in Russian Ministry of Defense Mere Pretext
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) believes the numerous purges occurring within the Russian Ministry of Defense are likely just a pretense to conceal the true reasons behind the dismissal of certain high-ranking officials. Since the arrest of former Russian Minister of Defense Sergei Shoigu, ISW suspects the Kremlin will not stop with these dismissals. The think tank cites a Russian insider as affirming that six other ministry officials expressed a desire to resign. Numerous military bloggers also agreed, viewing the arrests as a beginning of efforts to bring dishonest officials to trial under Defense Minister Andrei Belousov. ISW posits the Kremlin allows this criticism because it targets those targeted by the Ministry of Defense, bolstering Belousov's image as a problem-solver within the ministry.
10:45 Orban Denies Russian Attack on NATO State Possibility
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban doesn't believe that Russia, or any other country, would initiate an attack on a NATO member state. "The Russian military is waging a difficult and protracted war against the Ukrainians," Orban, who's traditionally pro-Kremlin and national-conservative, stated in a televised interview. "If the Russians could decisively defeat the Ukrainians overnight, they would have done so already." According to Orban, NATO's military strength overshadows Ukraine's. Therefore, it's improbable that Russia would aggressively attack any NATO member state. "I find it illogical that Russia, given its inability to swiftly conquer Ukraine, would suddenly seek to devour the entire Western world. The likelihood of that is minuscule."
9:40 Moscow's first blame of IS: Terror attack at concert hall investigation discovers the jihadist militia coordinating preparation and retreat of terrorists via internet
For the first time ever, the Russian government has connected the Islamic State (IS) to the deadly attack on a concert hall near Moscow. Alexander Bortnikov, the director of the Russian domestic intelligence service, FSB, tells the state news agency, RIA Novosti, that investigators found "that the preparations, financing, and both the attacks and retreats of the terrorists were all coordinated through the Internet by members of the Khorasan Province group," which is known as the Afghan branch of IS. Although IS has repeatedly claimed responsibility for the event that happened on March 22 and killed more than 140 people and left 360 injured, Moscow has persistently connected the incident to Ukraine. Nonetheless, Bortnikov goes on to mention, "The investigation is ongoing but we can already say with absolute certainty that the Ukrainian military intelligence is directly involved in the attack." While he fails to clarify the connection with IS.
08:53 No movement in Vovchansk: NTV Correspondent's report as Kharkiv continues to be heavily attacked
Freezing city of Kharkiv has endured rounds of fierce attacks by the Russians. Russian missiles have also been sounding sirens in the city. Currently, there is "no forward and no backward" in Vovchansk, as described in a report by Stephan Richter from NTV. The city is struggling desperately.
08:28 New casualty figures from Ukraine: 500k Russian losses, including 1.2k in 24 hours
As per the figures by the Ukrainian General Staff, Russian losses in Ukraine will exceed 500k by the end of the year. Since its full-scale invasion in February, Russia has lost a staggering 498,940 soldiers in Ukraine in 2022, as stated by this report. The losses the Russian armed forces incurred in 24 hours alone are also 1,240. These figures also include other significant numbers of tanks, armored vehicles, artillery systems, anti-aircraft systems, airplane and helicopters, drones, and vessels.
07:49 Kharkiv experiences another glide bomb attack, leaving no reported casualties this time
The city of Kharkiv has encountered another glide bomb bombardment, this time happening during the night. Kharkiv has been enduring a massive number of Russian air strikes, causing countless casualties and damages. This time, as reported by Mayor Ihor Terekhov on Telegram, there were no casualties. Several residential buildings and an uninhabitable structure received mild damage. A day before, the death toll due to Russian fire increased to seven. Also yesterday, seven converted S-300 or S-400 anti-aircraft missiles hit the city and the surrounding areas. One of the country's biggest printing plants for literature was one of the sites hit. "The Ukrainian book is the Ukrainian solidarity. That's why the enemy wants to destroy it," remarked the well-known Ukrainian writer Serhij Zhadan on Facebook.
07:14 FSB chief accuses Ukrainian military intelligence of orchestrating Moscow terrorist attack
During an investigation by the Russian security service analysts, FSB chief, Alexander Bortnikov unveiled a stunning accusation. He accused the Ukrainian military intelligence group of being directly involved in the terrible attack on a concert hall near Moscow in March. The investigation continues, but Bortnikov added, "We can already state with confidence that Ukrainian military intelligence is behind the attack." Russia has frequently made these claims. However, Bortnikov presented no evidence for his statement. Moreover, he indicted NATO for facilitating the transfer of "mercenaries and militant members of international terrorist organizations from the Middle East, North Africa, and Afghanistan" to Ukraine. They were sent to fight against Russian troops.
06:51 Heavy damage in Crimea: Report of a missile strike on a Russian communications center, multiple casualties
A Russian communications center was hit aggressively, leading to "considerable damage to the equipment" and numerous casualties, as per Ukraine's reports. These claims were shared by The Kyiv Independent, attributing them to the pro-Ukrainian partisan group Atesh and the Crimean Wind Telegram channel, which suggested that at least 6 ATACMS missiles, exported by the United States, were used to strike the antenna and several buildings containing "senior military personnel."
07:03 Scholz: 'No EU nuclear weapons'
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz endorses French President Emmanuel Macron's proposals for bolstering European defense capabilities, which include nuclear capabilities. Scholz pens an article for The Economist, stating that it's crucial to determine the right combination of capabilities to protect Europe and repel potential aggressors. He emphasizes on nuclear deterrence, substantial armed forces, air and missile defense, cyberspace, space, and precision strike capabilities. The objective is to fortify the European defense industry through investments. Concurrently, Scholz clarifies, "There will be no 'EU nuclear weapons,'" stating it's impractical.
06:38 Controversial agent law triggers US response
In light of the adoption of a contentious law regarding "foreign influence operations" in Georgia, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announces visa restrictions and a review of bilateral ties with the country. Blinken shares that these new visa guidelines will target individuals "responsible for or involved in undermining democracy in Georgia, along with their family members." Additionally, he reveals a "comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation between the United States and Georgia."
06:29 Estonia aids children in war-affected regions
The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs plans to allocate over €650,000 in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, focusing on improving the education system in war-torn areas and aiding children impacted by the conflict. The funds will be distributed through the Estonian non-profit organization Eesti Pagulasabi, which will concentrate on enhancing living conditions in vulnerable locations and supporting Ukrainian refugees in Georgia. Additionally, Mondo will use a portion of the funds to organize summer camps and conduct psychological support for children in Zaporizhzhya.
05:57 Russian lawmaker reveals new military goals
Russian forces are aiming to seize over half of the territory of Vovchansk in the Ukrainian region of Kharkiv, as per Russian MP Viktor Vodolatsky. Once this goal is achieved, Vovchansk's neighboring cities of Slavyansk, Kramatorsk, and Pokrovsk will be Russia's primary targets, according to Vodolatsky.
05:29 Putin meets Lukashenko in Belarus for discussions
According to Russian news sources, Russian President Vladimir Putin has traveled to Belarus, with both leaders having informal preliminary talks. Putin claims there's a lot to discuss, adding that "everything is stable and going well for us." Today, the two will discuss security and military exercises involving the use of tactical nuclear weapons, with Minsk participating in the exercises.
04:33 South Korea imposes penalties on North Korean individuals, Russian vessels
South Korea imposes sanctions on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian ships in connection to the arms trade between Pyongyang and Moscow. This was disclosed by the South Korean Foreign Ministry.
03:39 US readies $275 million aid package for Ukraine
The United States is preparing to offer $275 million in military aid to Ukraine. Several U.S. government officials report that artillery shells, precision-guided bombs, and vehicles are among the anticipated acquisitions. The support will be furnished through the Presidential Drawdown Authority, authorizing President Joe Biden to act in emergencies without the approval of Congress.
02:34 Brazil and China distance themselves from proposed Ukraine peace conference
Brazil and China have essentially disassociated themselves from the proposed international peace conference on Ukraine, where Russia is not invited. In a document signed by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's special advisor Celso Amorim and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, both nations urge Russia and Ukraine to engage in direct peace talks. They advocate for an international conference with equal representation from all sides, a concept both countries deem acceptable to Russia and Ukraine.
01:15 Russian court jails Kremlin foe to 25 years for sabotage
A Russian military court has sentenced a 36-year-old man to 25 years in prison for sabotage and affiliation with a Ukrainian loyalist army unit. A spokesperson from the public prosecutor's office shares that the unusually lengthy term was imposed on Vladimir Malina for terrorism, high treason, and sabotage. The prosecution alleges that Malina, a Moscow bartender, was a member of the "Legion for the Freedom of Russia," a group of Russians fighting for Ukraine. He reportedly set fire to a railway control box and had plans for sabotage actions. Malina was detained in June.
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11:55 Poland and Greece seek an EU air defense shield against Russian attacks
As conflict escalates in Eastern Europe, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis have written a joint letter to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, urging the establishment of an aerial defense shield to safeguard European nations. "The safety of Europe depends on the security of its skies," the two leaders declare. They emphasize the importance of a project that caters to the "great vulnerability of our security."
21:31 Explosions in Crimea? Possible Ukrainian missile strikes
Observations suggest that Russia-controlled Crimea has undergone explosions. It is alleged that Ukraine retaliated with ATACMS missiles given by the U.S. a few weeks earlier. A video obtained on the Crimean coast in Alushta village may contain evidence of at least one explosion. However, the authenticity of the incident remains uncertain. Russian defense systems are also seen to be active based on the recording. Officials from Crimea, appointed by the Russian occupiers, have reported missile attacks on Simferopol and Alushta. This resulted in casualties, including two fatalities, and the demolition of an unoccupied commercial building. Russia typically downplays or denies Ukrainian attacks, claiming to have successfully eliminated all missiles and drones. Recent events indicate that Kiev is now targeting Russian air defense systems and radars. There are suspicions that this might have been the case this time.
21:00 Are more high-ranking military officials facing arrests?
Unconfirmed reports indicate that Vladimir Verteletsky, head of the Russian Defense Ministry's department handling state defense order enforcement, has been detained. He is suspected of committing large-scale fraud. Just before this, Vadim Shamarin, Deputy Chief of the Russian Army's General Staff, was arrested. This marks the fourth instance of a senior military official being detained since April.
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- The Ukrainian conflict continues to escalate, with Russia contemplating military mobilization and Putin's shift potentially serving as a demonstration for the West.
- Military operations in Ukraine have seen Russia jamming Ukrainian long-range glide bombs, hindering their navigation system and preventing them from hitting their targets.
- The situation in Ukraine is critical, with reports of a cyberwar unfolding, as NATO members debate on providing Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles to counter Russian advancements.
- The attack on Ukraine has not gone unnoticed, with Germany and other NATO countries providing military aid, including Leopard tanks, while Russia is accused of spying on NATO countries in Eastern Europe.
Source: www.ntv.de
