Suspected explosions occur in Crimea during a potentially severe assault. (22:26)

22:26 Possible serious attack in Crimea as footage shows suspected blasts.

It seems there are explosions happening in Crimea, a region occupied by Russia. There's speculation that Ukraine is targeting islands with ATACMS missiles they received recently from the US. A video shot at the Crimean coast in the village of Alushta could show at least one explosion. However, official confirmation is still pending. Meanwhile, Russian air defense appears to be active, as can be seen in a recording.

22:00: Another Arrest? Russia's Military Purge Likely Continues

Pro-Russian broadcasts report that VladimirVerteletsky, the head of the Russian Ministry of Defense's Department for Ensuring the State Defense Order, has been arrested. This is due to suspected fraud on a massive scale. Shortly before this incident, Vadim Shamarin, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, was apprehended as well. He is the fourth high-ranking military officer to be arrested since April. The wave of arrests began with the replacement of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.

21:34: Abducted Children Return to Ukraine

The Ukrainian government claims another victory in its attempts to retrieve Ukrainian children who were taken by Russia. Ukrainian human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets revealed that seven children had been returned from the regions under Russian control. TASS, a Russian state news agency, corroborated the report, stating that Russia also returned six children between the ages of 6 and 17. Both parties collaborated with Qatar as a mediator in these instances. Kiev has maintained that around 20,000 children from Ukraine have been abducted to Russia or Russian-occupied territories, without the family's or guardian's consent. These instances are considered war crimes. For the past year, Qatar has been assisting Ukraine in its efforts to return these children.

20:58: Surface Drone Unveiled: Kiev's New "Sea Baby" Comes with Multiple Missile Launcher

In the naval conflict, Kiev's armed forces have been relying on self-made combat boats, known as "Sea Babies," for some time now. A current version of this high-tech weapon has now been revealed and can be equipped with a multiple rocket launcher:

20:30: Hunter on US Weapons Deployment: Kremlin Wants to "Keep Supporters of Ukraine in Fear"

Thus far, the US has not allowed Ukraine to deploy its weapons on Russian territory. But that might change soon. Political scientist Thomas Jäger considers whether Russia could expand the war to other nations as a consequence:

19:55: Kremlin Spokesman Peskov Attempts to Intimidate the US

Moscow is warning the US against allowing Ukraine to strike Russian territory with American weapons. Dmitry Peskov, a Kremlin spokesman, described the stance as "absolutely irresponsible" and "absolutely dangerous." Peskov noted that there are "hotheads in the US who think it's their job to keep adding fuel to the fire." During a visit to Kiev last week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken remarked, "We have not supported or enabled attacks outside Ukraine, but ultimately Ukraine must decide how it wants to wage this war - a war it is fighting in defense of its freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity."

19:19: US Soldiers in Ukraine? Thiele: "We're Setting the Risk Level High"

Ralph Thiele believes that the possibility of the US sending its soldiers to join the conflict in Ukraine could potentially escalate the conflict further. According to the military expert, the White House is engaged in a "game of bluff" with arms deliveries:

18:47: HIMARS and Artillery: The Next US Military Aid Package for Ukraine is on the Way

The United States is planning to give Ukraine another $275 million in military assistance. The help includes the HIMARS multiple rocket launcher system and artillery shells, according to two US government sources who spoke with AP News. This is the fourth package of military aid since the US Congress passed a much-delayed foreign aid bill in April. The Biden administration has promised to provide weapons to Ukraine regularly and swiftly.

18:10: With Super Drone? Ukraine Attacks Targets Deep Inside Russia

Ukraine reportedly struck military factories around a thousand kilometers away in Russian Tatarstan today. A military intelligence source claimed that drones had reached Kazan and Nizhnekamsk. Various companies in Tatarstan produce products for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A light aircraft was spotted in Nizhnekamsk, which is thought to be an Aeropract A-22. These civilian aircraft have been converted by Ukraine into unmanned kamikaze missiles to target remote targets. The Defense Ministry of Moscow only recorded the destruction of one drone. Local media reported that several Tatarstan companies ordered evacuations due to the danger, while two airports briefly suspended operations.

17:35 Fake Videos of Alleged Russian Women Spread in China

Social media in China is faced with an influx of deepfakes as unidentified individuals use AI to create fabricated videos presenting Russian women as saying things they've never uttered, such as "China is the safest country in the world." In response, China's government plans to punish this practice through legislation.

17:02 Russian-Controlled Nuclear Power Plant Loses Main Power Line

The primary power line giving energy to the Russian-controlled Ukrainian nuclear power plant in Zaporizhia has reportedly malfunctioned, according to Russian sources. While there's no immediate threat, the plant relies on a backup power source or diesel generators for cooling to prevent a meltdown. This incident follows recurring power supply issues since the beginning of the Russian attack in 2022, as pointed out by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), who frequently warns of potential nuclear safety hazards.

16:31 International Organization Offers £150 Million Military Package to Ukraine

Though it's a small aid, it's still an important move: the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) declares a new £150 million military package. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense asserts that these funds are earmarked for air defense and maritime equipment like radars, drone defense systems, and small boats. "Ukraine needs more air defense systems to secure its people and infrastructure from Russian brutality," advocated Kiev. The IFU is a funding mechanism that utilizes resources from foreign allies to acquire high-priority military equipment for Ukraine. The fund's management is entrusted to the British Ministry of Defense. Participating members include the UK, Norway, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and Lithuania.

16:05 Baltic Defense Ministers Urge Increased Military Spending

The defense ministers of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are urging significant military spending enhancements ahead of the NATO summit. This should involve at least 2.5% of their respective countries' GDP. Currently, 18 NATO members are projected to accomplish this target in 2022. The Baltic states have been steadfast supporters of Ukraine since the onset of the war and often push for stronger responses against Russian aggression.

15:28 Possible Russian Provocation? Removal of Estonian Buoys in the Border Region?

Did Russia pull off their next agitation in the Baltic region? Sources indicate that the Russian border guard removed buoys in Estonian territorial waters of the Narva River, which mark shipping routes. The Narva River constitutes part of the boundary between the two nations. Per Eerik Purgel, the head of the Border Guard Bureau, Estonia and Russia used to install buoys every spring before the war. However, since 2023, Russia has failed to agree on the buoy placement with Estonia. Currently, Estonia has resurrected the first 50 buoys, only to discover at night that Russian border guards had removed 24 of them. Estonia now wishes to communicate with the Russian side to resolve the issue.

14:50 On-the-Ground Updates from Ukrainian Army Chief

The Ukrainian army chief, Syrskyj, issued a statement on the frontline situation. Reports of minor Russian troop successes in the Kharkiv region have been countered with intense urban fighting around Vovchansk, resulting in severe casualties for the Russians. Syrskyj also mentioned that the Russians are attempting to maintain their position at the contested Chassiv Yar, despite their modern equipment's susceptibility to anti-tank weapons and drones during their advance.

14:26 Putin Visits Lukashenko in Belarus for Second Time in Two Months

As per reports from Russia's Kremlin, President Putin plans to travel to Belarus tonight for a two-day official visit to his closest ally, Lukashenko. The topics on the agenda encompass developing bilateral relations and addressing significant concerns in international politics, according to the Kremlin statement. Following his trip to China, this is President Putin's second foreign visit since his inauguration for his fifth term in office. Putin and Lukashenko catch up frequently. Lukashenko, an authoritarian ruler heavily dependent on Russia economically, politically, and militarily, previously paid a visit to Moscow for a military parade on May 9.

13:50 Russia issues warnings over British attacks in Ukraine Russia has threatened to retaliate against British targets if Ukraine uses weapons supplied by the UK to strike at Russian territory. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that in such an event, "British targets on the territory of Ukraine and beyond its borders" could be targeted. This follows a statement by UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron, indicating that Ukraine had the right to use London-supplied weapons against targets in Russia. Moscow responded angrily to this assertion, which led to planned military exercises involving the simulation of tactical nuclear missile launches.

13:18 Russian forces seize control of Andriyivka The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that it had taken over the village of Andriyivka in the Donetsk region. Ukraine has yet to comment on the situation. In September 2023, Ukraine declared that it had recaptured Andriyivka, a village situated near Bakhmut. However, fighting continued in the area in January 2024, and the village is reported to be largely destroyed.

12:53 US financial support for Ukraine is not going anywhere US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stated that financial support for Ukraine is not going to end. This could also involve the use of frozen Russian assets after 2025, she added, ahead of the G7 finance ministers' meeting in Italy. This would be a significant source of funding for Ukraine, with the money potentially being used as collateral when issuing bonds or loans. The US is pushing for the G7 to agree to this course of action.

12:25 Steinmeier: "We must address the question of our security" German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier characterized the Russian war in Ukraine as a "truly significant shift in the political order". He called for recognition of the current reality and advocated for joint discussions and action on military and social resilience. Steinmeier also emphasized the need for increased defense investments and strengthened alliances. He had previously voiced concerns about NATO exercises in Eastern Europe and criticized perceived military posturing.

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

12:00 Six residents of Kharkiv killed in Russian strikes Ukrainian sources report that at least six people have been killed in multiple Russian missile attacks on Kharkiv. The city experienced over 15 strikes in the morning, resulting in at least 16 injuries as well. Infrastructure targets and a private company were hit, according to the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the "extremely cruel attack" and criticized Ukraine's lack of proper air defense capabilities.

11:31 Norway heightens restrictions for Russian visitors Starting May 29, Norwegian authorities will deny entry to Russian citizens traveling for non-essential purposes. This applies to anyone with Norwegian or other Schengen country-issued visas, and the measure aligns with Norway's commitment to supporting its allies against Russia's illegal actions in Ukraine.

11:07 US contingency plans for Ukraine defense revealed Given the ongoing Russian attacks in Ukraine, the US is considering allowing Kiev to use American-made weapons against Russian targets. According to ntv Moscow correspondent Rainer Munz, this option would present serious challenges for Russia.

10:40 Sweden steps up defense preparations In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the potential vulnerabilities in its energy supply, Sweden has been preparing for war under the "total defense" concept. With its extensive network of power lines easily targeted by saboteurs, critical infrastructure is a primary target. Swedish Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin said in an interview with Bloomberg that his country is focusing on being ready for possible power outages and harsh winters without heating.

10:14 More high-ranking Russian military officials nabbed for corruption

The purge of high-ranking military personnel in Moscow continues. The army's deputy chief of staff, Vadim Shamarin, has been arrested on charges of corruption. According to state news agencies, Shamarin will remain in custody for the time being. The Deputy Chief of the General Staff, who is responsible for communications, is also accused of accepting bribes. In Russia, such offenses can lead to a sentence of up to 15 years in prison. So far, Shamarin is the fourth senior military officer to be arrested since April. Earlier, Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov, Lieutenant General Yuri Kuznetskov, and Major General Ivan Popov were taken into custody for bribery. This month, President Vladimir Putin replaced long-time Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu with former Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov.

09:54 Arrestees join Ukrainian army via app, get recruited from prisons

The escalating situation in Ukraine requires more troops, which is why Kiev is now considering new recruitment measures - via app and from prison. This information is shared by ntv correspondent Stephan Richter. As part of these measures, the Ukrainian army is recruiting men with war experience, including those serving time in prison.

09:26 Rethink in the White House over supplying weapons to Ukraine?

Until now, President Joe Biden has insisted that the weapons supplied to Ukraine must not be fired at Russian territory. Yet, the growing conflict and the visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Kiev have reportedly prompted a rethink in the White House. According to the New York Times, the Biden administration is considering giving the Ukrainians the option to fire US weapons at missile and artillery positions located directly across the border in Russia. Secretary of State Blinken is believed to be the driving force behind this proposal. However, the plan is still in the early stages and it's unclear how many members of Biden's inner circle support it.

09:01 Kremlin relies more on foreign Russians

The Kremlin is reportedly relying more on so-called "compatriots abroad" - Russian citizens living outside the country. The official responsible for this group, Yevgeny Primakov, told the TASS agency that an "electronic map of compatriots" developed by his office is almost ready. This map would help citizens living abroad access various state services, visit Russia, work there, and even apply for Russian citizenship in the future. Primakov believes that the first cards could be issued by the end of 2024 and estimates that the number of said compatriots is between 20 and 40 million. However, the definition of the term "compatriots abroad" remains unclear. The Institute for the Study of War suggests that this increased recruitment of the group is likely aimed at "justifying further aggression and hybrid operations abroad to 'protect' Russian compatriots."

08:34 Missiles and drones attack Belgorod

According to Russia's Ministry of Defense, its air defenses fired 35 missiles and three drones targeting the Belgorod border region from Ukraine overnight. There are no reports of casualties, says the regional government.

08:05 List of suspects: Russia's alleged war crimes against Ukrainians reaches 357

The prosecution authorities in Ukraine have so far identified 357 Russian soldiers and occupation officials who are accused of committing war crimes. Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin said in a statement on X, but noted that the actual number of such offenses is much higher. The Russians are being charged with deliberate killings, torture, and ill-treatment of civilians and prisoners of war. Of these, 83 have already been convicted. Ukranian officials accuse Russia of "systematically abducting, torturing, and killing Ukrainians" since its "criminal aggression" started in 2014. The situation has become more brutal with the current full-scale war.

The frontline near Kharkiv is seeing intense battles, with Ukrainian forces defending valiantly. The General Staff has reported 25 skirmishes in the coal and steel district of Donbass, particularly in Avdiivka. Enemy troops are attempting to infiltrate Ukrainian defenses with assault groups and equipment. It's become a major battleground, with President Volodymyr Zelensky declaring it a focal point for the conflict. Meanwhile, in the area opened in May at the Ukrainian-Russian border, the military reports "our defenders are putting up a worthy resistance." Hostilities are focused on the villages of Lipzy and Starytsya and the small town of Vovchansk.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has responded to Georgia's controversial 'foreign influence' law by announcing the US' response. The law, reminiscent of Russia's own legislation, aims to limit foreign influence on non-governmental organizations. Blinken expressed concern, stating they were still considering what action to take and that "It clearly contradicts the desire of the overwhelming majority of Georgians to move towards the EU." The new law intends to restrict foreign agents' activities.

DIW's economic research institute claims a ban on Russian natural gas imports wouldn't jeopardize gas supplies in Europe. According to their research, EU energy demand could be met by other countries' pipeline imports and LNG, even without expanding infrastructure. This could secure gas supply, allowing further EU sanctions against Russia.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis is cautious about providing a Patriot air defense system to Ukraine. His decision would require approval from the Supreme Council for National Defense, ensuring it doesn't disrupt Romania's air defenses. The Patriot system could involve complex negotiations and reciprocity.

Poland is exploring the option of engaging in shootdowns of Russian missiles over Ukrainian territory. Such an approach might require an organized response from the Polish government, coordinating logistics and legality. This follows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's suggestion that allies could attack Russian missiles.

Ukrainian forces claim to have shot down a Russian SU-25 fighter jet near Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region, using their military capabilities to protect the area. This Soviet-designed ground attack aircraft is a crucial component of Russian military strategies, supporting attacks on multiple fronts.

Sweden is offering Ukraine 6.5 billion euros in military aid over three years, according to Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. This large-scale support is being welcomed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selensky, who sees it as strengthening not just Ukraine, but the entire European region. Swedish solidarity with Ukraine is manifesting as tangible support, further reinforcing their commitment to protecting their partnership.

At the Kremlin, Chechen ruler Ramzan Kadyrov offered to provide additional troops for the war in Ukraine. Kadyrov's offer involves tens of thousands of well-trained and equipped reserves, prepared to contribute to Russia's efforts in Ukraine if the command is given. Over 43,500 soldiers have already served in the conflict, with 18,000 volunteers.

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Zelensky Gathers Support for Upcoming Peace Summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is still gathering commitments for the scheduled peace summit in Switzerland at the end of June. In a recent video statement, he shared that he'd conversed with the heads of state and government from Chile, Albania, Austria, and Mozambique. He expressed his gratitude to those four countries for joining the summit. It has already been made public that Germany's Federal Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, will attend the conference on behalf of Germany. The Austrian Chancellor, Karl Nehammer from ÖVP, has also confirmed his attendance at the meeting, which will take place on June 15-16 near Lucerne. This meeting is seen as an essential step towards restoring peace.

Zelensky Seeks Assistance to Counter Russian Glide Bombs

President Zelensky pleads with the West for aid in combating Russian glide bombs, which are considered the deadliest weapon used during their air strikes. "Ukraine requires systems and tactics that would allow us to shield our locations, cities, and communities from these bombs," he stated in his nightly address. Russia is reportedly incorporating bombs with a control system, making them easier for their pilots to drop while being harder to combat.

Ukraine Freeds Prisoners to Join the Front Line

For the first time, Ukraine has freed inmates so they can contribute to the war effort against Russia. A court in Khmelnytsky has decided to release two prisoners convicted of theft, enabling them to join the National Guard. These convicts' applications for early parole were approved per a new rule that allows prisoners who are willing to fight in the conflict to be granted parole. The court order mentions that over 3,000 inmates have requested parole under this law.

Keep up with all the latest developments here.