18:10 attacked targets deep within Russia using a high-tech drone.

18:10 Attacking targets in Russia with a superdrone: Ukraine's strategy

Ukraine reportedly targeted military factories around 1000 kilometers away in Russian Tatarstan today. Drones reached Kazan and Nizhnekamsk, a military intelligence source told the Kyiv Post. These facilities produce items for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A light aircraft was spotted in Nizhnekamsk, believed to be an Aeropract A-22. Ukraine is converting these civil aircraft into unmanned kamikaze missiles to hit distant targets. Russia's Ministry of Defense only acknowledged one unidentified drone being shot down. As a result, several companies in Tatarstan arranged for evacuations due to the risks, and two airports temporarily stopped operations.

17:35 Deepfakes of supposed Russian women are flooding China's internet. These fake videos are made using artificial intelligence, with actresses supposedly saying things they've never said before, such as "China is the safest country in the world." China's government aims to ban this practice through legislation.

17:02 The main power line connecting the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in Ukraine has failed. Russian sources claim that the plant still has a backup power supply, but it is always dependent on external power or diesel generators for cooling. Continuous power outages were reported since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has voiced concerns about nuclear safety risks.

16:31 The International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) announced a 150 million pound military aid package. This includes air defense and maritime capabilities like radars, drone defense systems, and small boats. Ukraine needs more air defense systems to protect its citizens and infrastructure from Russian aggression, according to Kiev officials. IFU is a funding mechanism that uses contributions from international partners to purchase priority military gear for Ukraine. It is managed by the British Ministry of Defense.

16:05 Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia's defense ministers call for increased defense spending before the NATO summit. They suggest increasing spending to at least 2.5% of their respective countries' GDPs. So far, only 18 NATO members are expected to reach the 2% marker this year. All three Baltic states have been strong supporters of Ukraine and have continually urged NATO for stronger action against Russian aggression.

15:28 Estonian border guards claim Russia has removed Estonian navigation buoys in territorial waters of the Narva River, which serves as the border between the two countries. This used to be a yearly agreement until the outbreak of the war. Estonia recently installed 50 new buoys but found that the Russian border guards had removed twenty-four of them later on. The Baltic state will be contacting the Russian side to resolve the issue.

14:50 Syrskyj, the Ukrainian army chief, discussed the current situation along the frontlines. Initially, Russian forces experienced some success on the newly opened third front in the Kharkiv region. However, they are now embroiled in street fighting around Vovchansk, sustaining heavy casualties. The Russians are “deploying reserves from various directions to support the active offensive operations with failing results,” Syrskyj reported. Syrskyj also shared information about the Chassiv Yar area, where the Russians are striving to maintain control. Ukrainian forces are using anti-tank weapons and drones to neutralize their newer, modern T-90M, BMP-3, and BMD-4 main battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles.

6:26 PM Putin Visits Lukashenko in Belarus
The Kremlin announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to Belarus this evening for a 2-day official visit to his close ally, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko. During their talks, they will discuss the development of bilateral relations, along with other important international political matters. This is Putin's second foreign trip since being inaugurated for his fifth term as president, after his visit to China. Putin and Lukashenko frequently meet. Belarus, which is highly dependent on Russia economically, politically, and militarily, had met with Putin in Moscow on May 9th for a military parade.

5:39 PM Russia Threatens Attacks on British Targets
Russia is threatening to strike British targets if Ukraine fires on Russian territory with British weapons. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova from the Foreign Ministry said that in such a situation, British targets "on the territory of Ukraine and beyond its borders" could be targeted. Zakharova reiterated a warning made by Russia recently. This response came after British Foreign Secretary David Cameron stated that Ukraine had the right to use weapons provided by Britain against Russian targets. Moscow strongly objected to this remark, stating it as one of the reasons for conducting military exercises that simulate nuclear missile launches.

5:10 PM Russian Ministry of Defense Claims Capture of Devastated Andriyivka
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that they had captured the village of Andriyivka in the Donetsk region. Ukraine has not issued any statements regarding this matter. In September 2023, Ukraine had claimed that they had recaptured Andriyivka, a village near Bakhmut, from Russian troops. However, by January 2024, fighting had resumed in the area. The village is severely damaged.

4:40 PM Yellen: Financing for Ukraine Will Continue
United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen asserted that financial aid for Ukraine will not cease. After 2025, funds from frozen Russian assets may be used, said Yellen prior to the G7 finance ministers' meeting in Italy. These funds could act as a significant source of monetary support for Ukraine. The USA intends to use these future funds and is pressing the G7 nations to reach an agreement regarding this issue. These funds could function as collateral for the issuance of bonds or loans.

4:10 PM Steinmeier: "We Need to Take Action for Our Own Safety"
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier characterized Russia's war in Ukraine as a pivotal moment in history. "We must understand that we are living in a drastically altered reality," he said. Both military security and societal resilience are crucial, said Steinmeier. He urged a broader debate taking place on various forms of military service and other contributions for the benefit of the community. He emphasized the necessity for augmenting defense: "We must do more for our security. We must invest in our defenses and strengthen our alliance," Steinmeier urged. In the past, Steinmeier, who played a significant role in shaping Germany’s Russia policy, criticized a NATO military exercise in eastern Europe and characterized the situation as "loud sabre-rattling and battle cries."

3:40 PM Kharkiv: At Least Six Killed in Russian Missile Strikes
Ukrainian reports state that at least six individuals have been killed due to multiple Russian missile strikes in Kharkiv. Russian troops targeted the city at least 15 times, according to these reports. The Kyiv Independent reported that at least 16 people were injured and that infrastructure transport objects were hit, as well as a private business. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the "brutally extreme" attack. Zelensky accused Russian terrorists of exploiting Ukraine's inadequate air defense.

3:07 PM Norway Tightens Entry Regulations for Russians
Norway is considering imposing stricter rules on Russian citizens entering the country. Starting May 29th, Russians travelling for tourism or other non-essential purposes will be removed from Norway when crossing the exterior border, as per a declaration from the Norwegian administration. This policy will also apply to Russians with visas from Norway and other Schengen nations. "This decision to tighten entry requirements aligns with Norway's policy of working alongside allies and partners in retaliation against Russia's unprovoked war in Ukraine," stated Norwegian Minister of Justice and Public Security Emilie Enger Mehl.

2:40 PM What Happens if Ukraine Uses US Weapons Against Russia
Moscow reacted with concern as the United States seemed to be toying with the idea of permitting Kiev to target Russian territory using US weapons. ntv Moscow correspondent Rainer Munz detailed the likely outcomes of this course of action. [end]

10:42 Sweden fortifies itself: "We're not sure how much time we've got left"

Ever since Russia invaded Ukraine, Sweden has been adopting a strategy of "total defense". The country is now focusing on safeguarding its energy supply in case of war, as it has the longest high-power grid network in Europe – over 16,000 kilometers of lines that run through dense forests-putting it at high risk of sabotage. Critical infrastructure is a prime target in conflicts, as seen in Ukraine's current situation. This has led to long power cuts and winters without central heating. Swedish Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin warns in an interview with "Bloomberg": "We're not sure how much time we've got left."

For more details, read on

10:14 More high-ranking Russians arrested

Moscow's purge seemingly remains in full swing. Russia's Deputy Chief of Staff, Vadim Shamarin, has been apprehended on graft charges. Per state news agencies, Shamarin will stay in custody for the time being. The Deputy Chief of the General Staff, who handles communications, is accused of receiving widespread bribes. In Russia, this is punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Shamarin is the fourth high-ranking military officer to be detained since April. In that month, Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov was arrested for bribery. Then came Lieutenant General Yuri Kuznetskov and Major General Ivan Popov. The transformation of the Russian Ministry of Defense recently saw President Vladimir Putin replace long-standing Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu with former Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov.

9:54 Prisoners join Ukrainian army

The ongoing war in Ukraine isn't just taking an immense toll on ammunition supplies and soldiers' lives but also necessitates significant personnel reinforcement. Ukraine's government is now set to recruit more manpower through new measures, including an app and people in prison, as explained by ntv's Stephan Richter.

9:26 Possible US weapon rethink

Up until now, US President Joe Biden has maintained that the weapons supplied to Ukraine should never be fired at Russian territory. However, the intensifying war situation at the front and Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent visit to Kiev have sparked a rethink in the White House, according to the New York Times. The United States is considering allowing the Ukrainians to target missile and artillery positions in Russia close to the border with their US-supplied weapons. Blinken is believed to be spearheading this proposal. Nonetheless, it is uncertain if the president's inner circle supports the idea.

9:01 The Kremlin is relying on "compatriots abroad" more than ever

The Kremlin appears to be increasingly dependent on so-called Russian "compatriots abroad". Yevgeny Primakov, the official responsible for these compatriots, said in an interview with TASS that an "electronic map of compatriots" developed by his office is almost ready. This should help citizens living abroad to access unspecified state services, visit Russia, work there and potentially apply for Russian citizenship in the future. Primakov estimates that the inauguration of these first cards could happen by the end of 2024. Yet, the actual definition of "compatriots abroad" is unclear, and some of them don't have Russian citizenship and are "skeptical" of Moscow's political stance. He argues that the program will help them and their children preserve their connection to Russia. Primakov says there are around 20 to 40 million individuals that might be counted as compatriots. The Institute for the Study of War predicts that this increased engagement with this group is likely to justify future aggression and hybrid operations abroad.

8:34 Belgorod attacked with missiles and drones

The Russian Ministry of Defense alleges that Russian air defense systems shot down 35 missiles and three drones, used to attack the Belgorod border region from Ukraine during the night. According to the regional government, no casualties have been reported.

8:05 Russian soldiers and occupation officials accused of war crimes

The Ukrainian prosecution authorities have thus far identified 357 Russian soldiers and occupation officials who are implicated in war crimes. Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin stated on X: "But the actual number of such crimes, including those committed in territories under temporary Russian occupation and in Russian detention centers, is much higher." The Russians are charged with deliberate killings, torture, and mistreatment of civilians and prisoners of war. 83 of these culprits have already faced conviction. "Since the start of Russia's illegal aggression in 2014," Kostin writes, "it has systematically kidnapped, tortured, and killed Ukrainians". "With the start of full-scale war, this policy of intimidation and destruction of all those who identify as Ukrainians has become even more vicious."

07:34 Russian bombardments indicated in videos
Ukraine has shared news of its successes in defending the region around Kharkiv in the north-east. Despite withdrawal from some areas, they've acknowledged setbacks and acknowledged that their troops can no longer secure the entire front. Meanwhile, Russia has been launching more attacks on various regions.

07:06 Defending Kharkiv front: "Our soldiers are courageously resisting"
On the front lines in the Donbass coal and steel district, the Ukrainian General Staff is monitoring numerous battles, with 25 reported in the area north-west of Avdiivka. There are attempts by Russia to infiltrate their formations with groups and machinery. President Zelensky has marked this region as a significant part of the conflict. Ukrainian forces are maintaining control and expressing resilience when defending Kharkiv, stating it's focused on areas like Lipzy, Starytsya, and the small town of Vovchansk.

06:37 US responds to Georgia's "foreign influence" law
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed concern over a new law in Georgia dealing with "foreign influence". This law, similar to Russia's, looks to limit the impact of non-governmental organizations on politics. Blinken has said the US is considering a response to these measures and may take action. He added that these laws contrast with politicians' desire to advance closer ties with the European Union.

06:13 DIW study: Securing EU's natural gas supply without Russian imports
The DIW researchers have found that the EU can still maintain gas supply even if it bans imports from Russia. In a report, they suggest that other pipeline imports, LNG resources, and infrastructure expansion could cover high gas demand until 2030. Even heavily dependent Central and Eastern European countries could enjoy continued security. The study concludes that EU's supply won't hinder future sanctions against Russia.

05:50 Romanian concerns over Patriot delivery
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis is being cautious about sending Patriot defense systems to Ukraine. He stated the need for Supreme Council approval and consideration for Romania's air defence. The President expressed a desire to find a solution and ensured that no decision would be made publicly.

05:22 Poland mulling shooting down Russian missiles
The Polish Foreign Ministry spokesman, Pawel Wronski, revealed that Poland is considering engaging their air defense system to intercept Russian missiles over Ukrainian airspace. Zelensky had previously suggested direct involvement by Western allies in Ukraine's defense, shooting down Russian missiles. Wronski confirmed the government is working on the technical and legal aspects of this possibility, but offered no timeline.

04:40 Ukrainian troops claim downing Russian jet
Ukrainian troops claimed responsibility for shooting down a Russian SU-25 fighter jet over Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. This single-engine ground attack aircraft is a heavy, well-armored machine that supports Russian ground forces. Its intensified presence in the Donetsk region underlines the severity of the Eastern Front conflict.

03:02 Sweden grants significant military aid to Ukraine
Sweden has committed 6.5 billion euros in military assistance to Ukraine, affected by the Russian invasion. The Prime Minister, Ulf Kristersson, announced the support. President Zelensky praised this assistance, stating "This is a strong and vital help not only for Ukraine, but for the entire European region, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea." Kristersson added, "The cause of Ukraine is Sweden's cause."

01:54: Kadyrov requests more troops for Putin

At a meeting in the Kremlin, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov suggests to Russian President Vladimir Putin that they provide additional troops for the ongoing war in Ukraine. Kadyrov claims tens of thousands of "trained and equipped fighters from the reserves" are prepared to combat for Russia in Ukraine, given the right command. The total number of soldiers who've already served in the conflict, including 18,000 volunteers, amounts to 43,500.

00:43: Zelensky seeks support for a peace summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is still gathering support for a planned peace summit in Switzerland in mid-June. "I had conversations with the leaders of Chile, Albania, Austria, and Mozambique today," he reports in his video statement. "Four more nations are set to attend the conference - thank you." It's already public knowledge that Germany's Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz will be present to represent his country. Austria's Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) is also confirmed to attend the meeting on June 15/16 near Lucerne, the Austrian Chancellery confirmed. Nehammer brands the conference an essential step towards making peace viable once again.

23:34: Zelensky requests aid against Russian glide bombs

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appeals for assistance against glide bomb attacks. These are considered the most significant weapon employed by Russia in their airstrikes. "Ukraine urgently requires systems and tactics that can shield our locations, cities, and communities from such bombs," he says in his nightly address. Russia is reportedly intensifying their utilization of bombs that include a control system. These bombs can be dropped safely by Russian pilots and are difficult to counter.

22:06: Ukraine deploys their first prisoners on the frontline

The Ukraine government is the first to put prisoners on the frontline in the war against Russia. A court in Khmelnytsky has given permission for two inmates, both convicted of theft, to be released on parole to join the country's National Guard. The court's decision coincides with a new regulation allowing prisoners ready to engage in war to be freed on parole. The Ukrainian government shares that around 3,000 inmates have requested to be released ever since the law was announced.

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