6:20 PM: Pipeline fire reported in Russia
In the Saratov region of Russia, a fiery mishap occurred at a gas pipeline. Roman Busargin, the regional governor, reported that the incident happened near Saratov city, approximately 470 km from the Ukrainian frontier. The pipeline has been halted, according to Busargin, due to an accident caused by unusual heat leading to a pressure loss. Fortunately, no one was hurt in this occurrence. Reports suggest that locals witnessed several blasts and a massive blaze.
Sweden's tranquility was shattered as a Russian military jet ventured into its airspace. The Su-24 fighter jet was intercepted by a Swedish Jas-39 Gripen south of the Gotland Island in the Baltic Sea. The Swedish Defense Ministry confirmed the incident, which lasted only a few minutes, on a Friday. Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom condemned the Russian actions and requested a meeting with the Russian ambassador. This marked the first such airspace violation by Russian military jets since 2022, following Sweden's recent incorporation into NATO and announcement of participating in airspace surveillance under NATO command.
Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni dismissed the conditions proposed by Russian President Vladimir Putin for negotiations with Ukraine as 'propaganda'. Meloni remarked that the demands, made in the context of a Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland, were not a constructive proposition for Ukraine to withdraw from its own territories. Putin had insisted on the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from occupied Russian territories and a renunciation of NATO membership as a precondition for a ceasefire and peace talks.
Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer applauded the Ukraine conference in Switzerland as a potential means to resolve the deadlock, but expressed doubts about the impact of the West alone on Russia's perspectives. Nehammer emphasized the need to rally more allies to increase pressure on Moscow in the Ukraine war. He asserted that the participation of partners from Asia, Africa, and South America would be essential in altering Moscow's stand.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed optimism about the Swiss summit, which was expected to mark the first steps towards peace in Ukraine. The conference, however, was criticized for being of little significance due to Russia's absence. The organizers had scheduled three thematic focuses: nuclear security, food security, and humanitarian matters. Despite this abbreviated list, Zelenskyy had earlier presented a Ten-Point Plan demanding the withdrawal of Russian forces from occupied territories and the cessation of hostilities.
NTV journalist Weichert suggested that the absence of Russia at the Ukraine peace conference could prompt Moscow to reconsider its stance. The summit brought together various countries and international organizations, hoping to halt Russia's ongoing offensive against Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy observed an increasing pressure on Moscow due to the Switzerland summit. The two-day conference, attended by 92 countries and eight international organizations, aimed to advance the notion that collective efforts could cease conflict and foster trust and peace. Despite Zelenskyy's assertion, Swiss Federal President Viola Amherd downplayed the summit's expectations, focusing on inspiring a long-term, just peace process that upheld international law. Amherd noted that Russia's actions severely infringed upon international law as the foundation of international order.
US Vice President Kamala Harris traveled to Switzerland for the Ukraine peace conference in the afternoon. She represented US President Joe Biden, who was busy at a campaign rally in California. The possibility of a joint final declaration remained uncertain, as several contentious issues persisted among the delegations. It was also plausible that the closing declaration would be issued without consensus. In Cuba, Russia deployed four Navy ships, including an atomic-powered submarine and the warship "Admiral Gorshkov," giving onlookers the chance to explore the vessel.
23:06 Germany Addresses Russia Sanctions Speculation: "We're Talking Implementation, Not a Block"
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismisses claims that Germany is impeding new Russia sanctions within the EU. In an interview with Welt TV and several media networks under the Axel-Springer-Conglomerate, Scholz clarified, "It's not about blocking; it's about figuring out practical implementation." The German economy's ability to maintain operations is a top priority, Scholz added, while emphasizing the need to prevent goods bound for South America, Asia, or Africa from indirectly ending up in Russia.
15:38 USA Unveils Additional Aid for Ukraine's Energy Sector
US Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled a $1.5 billion assistance package to aid Ukraine's energy sector. Funds will be used to repair and rebuild war-damaged infrastructure, as mentioned in a statement from the Vice President's office. Harris is attending the Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland, and an additional $379 million in humanitarian aid for Ukraine is anticipated.
15:18 Harris Addresses Post-Summit Meeting Questions with Putin
Following the G7 summit, countries supporters of Ukraine will gather for a peace conference in Switzerland. Thomas Jäger, a political scientist, discussed what can be anticipated from this conference and the ongoing Ukraine peace plan with ntv.
14:43 Swedish Jet Fighters Intercept Russian Military Aircraft
A Russian military aircraft briefly breached Swedish airspace on Friday, as reported by the Swedish military. The aircraft was found east of the Baltic Sea island of Gotland and ignored initial warnings before being intercepted by two Swedish fighter jets. Previously, the Finnish border guard had expressed concerns about four Russian military aircraft entering Finnish airspace on a previous Monday. Sweden has repeatedly expressed apprehensions regarding a potential Russian attack, specifically concerning the essential island of Gotland.
14:07 Ukrainian Brigade Outlines Challenges with Foreign Equipment
The 47th Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces frequently encounters intense combat and maintains that foreign military equipment, including US Bradley combat tanks, requires regular maintenance and improvement. As the unit points out on social media: "Foreign equipment needs to be repaired and improved because no peace-time country understands the realities of modern warfare." The Bradley's key advantages are precision, stability, and maneuverability despite its heavy weight, according to a commander.
13:35 Russia Reports Casualties Following Ukrainian Attacks
According to Russian reports, five individuals were killed, and several more were injured in Ukrainian attacks on the Russian border city of Schebekino. The governor of the region Belgorod, Vyacheslav Gladkov, reported that four bodies were recovered from the debris of a house, while a woman died in the hospital. Six civilians also sustained injuries during late Friday's attack on the 40,000-inhabitant city of Schebekino, which lies in the southern part of the Russian region of Belgorod, which borders the Ukrainian region of Kharkiv. Russian forces initiated a ground offensive in the region on May 10.
10:56 Ukrainian Military Intelligence Confirms Drone Swarm Attack on Russian Airfield
According to Kirillo Budanov, the head of the Ukrainian military intelligence, a drone swarm attack on the Morosovsk airfield in Russia took place. Approximately 70 drones were used in the assault, and Su-34 fighter jets were allegedly housed at the base. The evaluation of Russian losses is still underway. Satellite images provided by the War Zone medium reveal possible signs of the attack.
10:15 Ukraine Readying for a New Phase in War with Intensive Preparation
The Ukrainian armed forces have been targeting Russia's air defense systems recently, as military expert Nico Lange explains. This is part of the preparation for the extensive use of Ukrainian Su-24 fighter jets, British and French cruise missiles, and F-16 fighters. According to Lange, "Ukraine is meticulously and systematically preparing for the deployment of its Su-24, British and French cruise missiles, and F-16 fighters." Ukraine previously stated that one of its goals is to achieve air supremacy to counter Russian forces. The first F-16s are expected to carry out flights this summer, signifying the start of a new phase. However, Kiev is anticipated to initially be able to deploy only a few combat jets due to a shortage of pilots. The F-16s are expected to be able to shoot down planes launching bombs from Russian territory onto Ukraine.
09:33 Scholz Addresses Putin's Peace Proposal
Olaf Scholz, the German Chancellor, stated that Putin's peace proposals for initiating peace talks had not been part of the discussions at the G7 summit. Scholz informed ZDF that these proposals were not genuine but were instead associated with the conference in Switzerland. Putin outlined conditions for peace negotiations with Ukraine's government on Friday, including Russia halting hostilities if Ukraine renounces its aspirations to join NATO. Furthermore, Putin demanded the withdrawal of the Ukrainian army from regions that Russia had previously declared annexed. More information can be found here.
G7 Summit Wrap-Up: Here's the Lowdown
The G7 meet-up in Italy has concluded, and now attention shifts to the Switzerland peace conference. Unfortunately, not every G7 participant will be attending the latter event. Ntv-Reporter Holger Schmidt-Denker has a clear understanding of the summit's outcome and the support being organized for Ukraine:
08:35 Heusgen anticipates no political advancements from the Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland
Christoph Heusgen, the head of the Munich Security Conference, predicts no significant political progress at the upcoming Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland this weekend. According to him, it's about displaying solidarity and perhaps a powerful closing declaration. The essential component is that representatives from Asian, Latin American, and African countries will attend. This participation will be noticed and appreciated in various parts of the world. Russia has called into question the international rule-based order, which no global south countries can afford to ignore. According to the former foreign policy advisor to ex-Chancellor Angela Merkel, this two-day summit offers an insight into the current level of restraint exercised by Russia and China in the international community.
07:47 Military expert seconds the notion that the peace conference could start a process that might involve Russia later
Nico Lange, a military expert, believes that the peace conference in Swizzerland could spark a process that may include Russia in the future. Starting discussions is valuable. No blocking of food supplies, no nuclear weapons, and exchange of prisoners of war are generally accepted principles. Odds are, Russia will engage in serious weapons peace negotiations only once it is militarily pressured in Ukraine, as Putin still holds onto the hope that the Americans and Europeans will weaken.
07:03 Defense contractor: Augsburg can still defend, but not Berlin
The CEO of defense manufacturer KNDS acknowledges that the current German government is not bolstering Germany's defense capabilities. Looking at the contracts, he does not perceive any significant change. "Our contract intake in 2023 primarily came from other NATO countries", says Frank Haun, whose company also produces the Leopard 2 battle tank. At the same time, he highlights the fact that Germany has just 300 combat-ready battle tanks in its possession. As a result, he often says: "We can still defend Augsburg, but Munich and Berlin cannot anymore."
06:30 EU Commissioner anticipates 2.5 million 155mm artillery shells for the European Union by the year's end
According to French EU Commissioner Thierry Breton, the European Union has plans to produce 1.7 million critical 155mm artillery shells by year's end. The subsequent year will see an output of over 2 million. "Our goal is to reach 2.5 million. I believe we will reach that by the end of 2025," Breton explained in an interview with "La Tribune". The EU has allocated 500 million Euros to finance a series of munitions factories. Ukraine has long been facing a deficit of 155mm artillery shells compared to the Russian side.
05:54 The EU is set to initiate accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova soon
The EU nations have essentially agreed upon commencing accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova. As announced by the Belgian EU presidency, the initial government conferences will be convened on June 25th. The decision requires final confirmation at an EU Council meeting on June 21, and the approval of the Dutch parliament is also necessary. The president of the European Council of State and Government Heads, Charles Michel, asserts in the X online service that the EU will keep its promises and support Ukraine and Moldova "on the path to membership". In June, the European Commission had already verified that Ukraine and Moldova had fulfilled all the conditions for the start of accession talks.
04:54 Deaths and injuries reported in attacks in Russia and Ukraine
In the Russian region of Belgorod, as reported by Russian authorities, six lives were claimed yesterday. Four of the deceased were discovered within the rubble of a multistory building in the city of Schebekino. A man was killed by a Ukrainian drone while driving his car, and a woman was tragically killed in Oktjabrski, located further west, in her home by rocket fire. Wjatscheslaw Gladkow, the region's governor, is reporting these details. Meanwhile, Ukraine recorded a casualty from a rocket attack in Schostka, Sumy region, as per Ukrainian military reports. The civilians of Sumy region have been under constant Russian attacks.
02:26 Russia purportedly preparing for the "evacuation" of cultural heritage from Crimea
Reports indicate that Russia is making preparations for relocating cultural heritage and historical artifacts from the annexed Crimea. To support this claim, the Ukrainian news portal Ukrajinska Prawda refers to a letter sent by the Russian-led "Culture Ministry" of Crimea to museum directors, addressing possible evacuation scenarios. The Russians are reportedly on a mission to classify and evaluate the exhibits using electronic registers. Concerns have been raised about the potential removal of the most valuable artifacts from Crimea to internationally recognized Russian territory.
00:39 A dozen underage Ukrainians, under Russian control, have moved back to Ukrainian-held territories, as stated by Ukrainian officials. These kids, comprising of three lads and nine ladies aged between 2 to 17 years, traveled from the southern region of Kherson to regions under Ukrainian control, according to the announcement made by the region's governor, Oleksandr Prokudin, on Telegram. Ukrainian authorities claim that Russia has kidnapped nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children from eastern and southern regions of Ukraine since the conflict started in February 2022. More kids still live under Russian rule. The return of the children is a key diplomatic goal for the Ukrainian government.
23:07 Russia alleges an attack on a gas transshipment terminal in Kursk, which Ukraine is suspected of. Per Russian reports, the Ukraine shelled a terminal for Russian gas exports in Russia, according to the governor of the region, Alexey Smirnov, on Telegram. He stated that the Ukraine attacked several settlements, including the city of Sudja. There, the last working distribution center for Russian gas exports to Europe via Ukraine is located. Smirnov reports no damages to the gas infrastructure but claims that two individuals were injured and a house was destroyed during the shelling. The responsible Ukrainian operator company denies that the Russian gas transit was impacted by the attacks.
22:13 Lloyd Austin, US Defense Secretary, asserts that Putin cannot dictate peace terms to Ukraine. "Putin has illegally annexed sovereign Ukrainian territory," Austin said after a NATO defense ministers meeting in Brussels. "We don't want a leader deciding unilaterally to alter the borders of a neighbor and annex its territory. Such actions are unacceptable." Putin can't force Ukraine to comply with his conditions for peace. Putin has the power to put an end to this conflict right now. Putin previously demanded the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from territories Russia had officially annexed as a prerequisite for potential peace negotiations, territories that Russia had not yet controlled. Simultaneously, he restated all demands he had made at the start of the conflict he ordered in February 2022. These demands include a neutral, non-allied, and nuclear-weapon-free Ukraine. Ukraine must also "de-Nazify" - a term Russia sees as favorable leadership in Kiev.
21:45 Germany vetoes a new sanction package against Russia, hindering the EU countries' plans to impose the 14th sanctions package on Russia at their regular meeting. The start of accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova is crucial, particularly for Kiev. The Ukraine peace conference begins on Saturday in Switzerland.
21:34 EU-States have tentatively agreed on starting entry negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. This was declared by the Belgian EU Presidency in Brussels.
21:07 Finland believes that four Russian military jets violated its airspace on the previous Monday. Initially, the Defense Ministry only suspected one aircraft. However, as the investigation into the incident unfolded, more evidence emerged to suggest that three more aircraft had also breached the border. It is believed that this involved two bombers and two fighter jets.
20:36 Putin desires to construct a global security system - and NATO can join, according to Putin. Russian President Vladimir Putin views the "Western model" for global security as ineffective, as stated by him. The world is currently witnessing the dissolution of the European-transatlantic system, Putin said at a meeting with representatives of the Russian Foreign Ministry. The world has reached a point where there is no turning back. He accused the USA of compromising global security by withdrawing from arms control agreements. Putin called for the establishment of a new global security system. This would be open to everybody, including NATO.
20:09 According to Putin, 700,000 Russian soldiers are actively engaged in Ukraine. In December, according to his statements, there were 617,000 soldiers. In May, the British intelligence service estimated that approximately 500,000 Russian soldiers had been killed or injured since the beginning of the invasion. Based on publicly accessible sources, the death of around 50,000 Russian soldiers has been confirmed. The Kremlin has so far only officially acknowledged the death of around 6,000 fighters in September 2022.
Read also:
- The Ukraine conflict has escalated to include cyberwar, with reports of Russian cyberattacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.
- The military operations in Ukraine continue to impact neighboring countries, as seen in the recent reported pipeline fire in Russia that is suspected to be caused by Ukraine.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selensky is pushing for international intervention, requesting support from NATO in the conflict against Russia.
- In response to the conflict, Russia has increased its military presence, with reports of Russian military jets violating the airspace of NATO countries such as Sweden and Finland.
