American soldiers in Ukraine? Thiele warns: "We're raising the risk factor."

American military personnel in Ukraine: Thiele warns of high risks

According to military expert, Ralph Thiele, the possibility of the U.S. deploying their own soldiers in the conflict in Ukraine escalates the risk of the war expanding. The recent development has been linked to the United States' "slowing down" in providing weapons to Ukraine due to potential oversight.

The U.S. is reportedly sending a new military aid package to Ukraine, worth $275 million in total.
This package includes the HIMARS multiple rocket launcher system and artillery shells, and marks the fourth support package for Ukraine since their foreign aid bill was passed in April.
The Biden administration plans to consistently supply arms and expedite their delivery to the front lines.
Ukrainian forces are believed to have launched attacks deep inside Russia, targeting industrial areas around 1000 kilometers away in Tatarstan, using drones that reached Kazan and Nizhnekamsk.
These locations house companies that manufacture products for the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
One drone was shot down by the Russian government, and televised footage showed a light aircraft, thought to be an Aeropract A-22, in Nizhnekamsk.
These civilian aircraft are being converted by Ukraine into long-range kamikaze missiles.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported only one drone being downed, but locals sheltered in different cities and suspended airport operations.
Hundreds of deepfakes have been flooding China's social media with fake videos, implying that Russian women are tagged with menacing slogans.
The main power line that supplies the Ukrainian nuclear power plant in Zaporizhia failed, but there's no immediate threat as a backup power supply is being used.
The plant's six reactors are supposed to be shut down, and it relies on an external power supply or generators for cooling to prevent a meltdown.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been relaying concerns about the power supply situation since the fighting began in 2022.
The International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) is providing a $150 million military package to aid Ukraine's air defense and maritime endeavors.
Radars, drone defense systems, and small boats are among the products slated for this funding, which is handled by the British Ministry of Defense.
The IFU consists of the UK, Norway, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and Lithuania.
The Baltic States' defense ministers are asking for increased defense spending from NATO member countries.
They seek a minimum of 2.5% of GDP spent on defense in response to the growing threat of Russian aggression.
Of the 18 NATO members, 19 are estimated to reach their 2% GDP defense spending goal this year.
The Russian border guard may be up to no good in Estonia, as they're said to have removed 24 buoys in Estonian waters of the Narva River, marking shipping routes.
In response, Estonia is seeking to clarify the situation with the Russian side.
The incident is one of many border tensions between Estonia and Russia.
Meanwhile, NATO countries are preparing to increase their defense budgets based on the appeals from the Lithuanian, Latvian, and Estonian defense ministers.
The goal is to meet at least 2.5% of their GDP in defense spending, and 19 of the 18 NATO members are anticipated to fulfill the 2% GDP target this year.

14:50 Ukrainian army chief Syrskyj speaks on the current frontline situation

In a statement, Ukrainian army chief Syrskyj discusses the ongoing conflict. Although Russian forces initially made some headway in the new third front in Kharkiv, they are now involved in intense street fighting near Vovchansk and are experiencing significant losses. Syrskyj reports that the enemy is trying to reinforce their offensive with troops from other regions but with limited success. Regarding the vital territory of Chassiv Yar, Syrskyj states that Russia is making every effort to maintain a foothold there. However, their more contemporary T-90M, BMP-3, and BMD-4 main battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles are often destroyed by Ukrainian anti-tank weapons and drones during the initial advance.

14:26 President Putin departs for a two-day meeting with Lukashenko in Belarus

Information from the Kremlin indicates that Russian President Putin is traveling to Belarus tonight for a two-day official visit. Besides strengthening bilateral ties, the discussions will address critical global issues, as mentioned in the Kremlin's statement. Putin's journey to Belarus is his second trip abroad since commencing his fifth presidential term. Putin and Lukashenko regularly engage in face-to-face meetings. Lukashenko, who relies heavily on the Kremlin economically, politically, and militarily, last visited Moscow on May 9 for a military parade.

13:49 Russia threatens to retaliate if Britain supports Ukraine

Russia has warned that it would retaliate against British targets if Ukraine were to fire weapons supplied by London on Russian territory. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that in such a situation, British targets "on the territory of Ukraine and beyond its borders" could be targeted. Zakharova's warning echoes an earlier statement by Moscow, following British Foreign Secretary David Cameron's assertion that Ukraine had the right to use weapons furnished by the UK against targets in Russia.

13:21 Russians claim capture of damaged Andriyivka

The Russian Ministry of Defense reports capturing Andriyivka, a village in the Donetsk region. Ukraine has yet to issue a statement. In the fall of 2023, Ukraine claimed it had regained control of Andriyivka, a village near Bakhmut. The settlement has recently experienced renewed combat. The village is significantly damaged.

12:56 Financial aid for Ukraine will continue, says Yellen

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen emphasizes that Russia should comprehend the continuous financial backing for Ukraine will persist. After 2025, emphasizes Yellen prior to the G7 finance ministers' gathering in Italy, these funds may be utilized more intensively with the funds from frozen Russian assets. Yellen also indicates that the US aims to persuade the G7 to agree to this approach. The money could serve as collateral for issuing bonds or loans.

12:35 Steinmeier: "We must improve our security"

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier characterizes Russia's invasion of Ukraine as "a watershed moment." He emphasizes, "We need to recognize that we are living in a fundamentally changed landscape." He proposes that military security and societal resilience should be linked. "We must not shy away from debating various military services and contributions to our society but should actively participate in the discussions," Steinmeier contends. Additionally, he urges more domestic defense efforts: "We must fortify our own security and reinforce our alliance," stated Steinmeier, who has shaped Germany's Russia policy in the past as Foreign Minister in 2016 and earlier criticized a NATO exercise in Eastern Europe.

12:07 At least six people killed in Kharkiv due to Russian missile strikes

Ukrainian sources report that at least six people have perished and 16 have sustained injuries due to Russian missile attacks on Kharkiv. The Ukrainian city faced over 15 assaults in the morning, according to reports. Amidst this chaos, transport infrastructure was targeted, as well as a private corporation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounces the "extremely brutal assault." The Russian invaders are taking advantage of Ukraine's insufficient air defense, according to Zelensky, who expressed these observations on his platform.

Norway to Stricter Entry Regulations for Russians

Norway will enforce tighter entry laws for Russian citizens. From May 29th, Russians entering the nation for tourism or non-critical reasons will be removed at its external border, according to the Norwegian government. This change affects individuals with Norway-issued visas and visas from other Schengen countries as well. "This action is in line with Norway's policy of standing together with allies and partners to counteract Russia's unlawful aggression against Ukraine," states Minister of Justice and Public Security Emilie Enger Mehl.

Political Ramifications of Russian Assaults in Ukraine

As a result of Russian attacks in Ukraine, the United States is contemplating permitting Kiev to assault Russian land with American weapons. ntv Moscow correspondent Rainer Munz examines the repercussions this brings to Russia.

Sweden Bulking Up for War

Ever since the Russian takeover in Ukraine, Sweden has depended on the idea of "total defense" - and prepares their energy sources for a potential conflict. Sweden, which has the longest unguarded electric network in Europe, is a nation vulnerable in this region as nearly 16,000 kilometers of power lines run through thick forests and may be simple targets for saboteurs. Furthermore, critical infrastructure is a primary target during war as shown by the current situation in Ukraine. The outcome is extended power cuts and frigid winters with malfunctioning heating. Sweden is looking to prepare for this scenario: "Nobody knows how much time we have," comments Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin in an interview with business journal "Bloomberg".

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Superior Russian Military Leader Detained

Purges within the Russian army continue. The army's deputy chief of staff, Vadim Shamarin, has been arrested for alleged corruption. According to Russian news outlets, Shamarin must remain in custody. The Deputy Chief of Staff, responsible for communications, is accused of accepting vast bribes. In Russia, such actions can lead to up to fifteen years behind bars. Shamarin is the fourth senior military official to be arrested since April. Previously in April, Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov was taken into custody for graft. Following Ivanov, Lieutenant General Yuri Kuznetskov and Major General Ivan Popov were apprehended. This month, President Vladimir Putin dismissed long-time Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and replaced him with former Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov.

"Former Prisoners to Ukraine's Army"

The battle in Ukraine has burned through a significant amount of ammunition and expended numerous soldiers' lives. Together with weapons, Kyiv also seeks personnel reinforcements, which will be procured with recent measures - recruiting through a mobile application and from prisoners, as explained by ntv reporter Stephan Richter.

Will US Weapons Be Used Against Targets in Russia?

US President Joe Biden has persistently relinquished the idea of weapons given to Ukraine ever firing at Russian territory. However, the developing situation on the front line and Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent visit to Kiev were believed to have prompted an alteration in Biden's stance, as shared by The New York Times. The US is apparently considering allowing the Ukrainians to fire American weapons at missile and artillery positions behind Russia's borders. Blinken supposedly promotes this proposal. The idea is still in the early phase, and it is unclear how much of Biden's inner circle supports it.

Russia's Dependence on "Abroad Compatriots"

The Kremlin is allegedly relying more on so-called Russian "compatriots abroad." Politician Yevgeny Primakov informed TASS agency that a nearly finished "electronic map of compatriots" produced by his office would enable citizens residing outside of Russia to access certain state services, visit the country, work there, and potentially apply for Russian citizenship in the future. The first of these cards might be issued by the end of 2024. Primakov surmised that among this group are some individuals without Russian citizenship who are "uncomfortable" with Moscow's approach. Nonetheless, they hold a connection to Russia. Primakov presumably believes this program aids maintaining a connection between these individuals and Russia. He extrapolates that there are between 20 and 40 million people, though the meaning of "compatriots abroad" is vague. The Institute for the Study of War hypothesizes that this increased recruitment may be intended to "justify further aggression and hybrid operations overseas to 'protect' Russian compatriots."

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

Russian Defense Lays Out Missiles and Drones over Belgorod

The Russian Ministry of Defense reports that Russian defense systems exhibited 35 missiles and three drones which targeted the Belgorod border region from Ukraine throughout the night. According to the region's administration, no casualties have been reported.

08:05 Hundreds of alleged Russian perpetrators: "Russia systematically abducted, tortured, and killed Ukrainians"

Authorities in Ukraine have identified 357 Russian soldiers and occupation officials believed to have committed war crimes. Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin details this in a report, stating that the actual number of such crimes is likely much higher, including incidents in occupied territories and detention centers in Russia. The perpetrators are accused of intentionally killing civilians and prisoners of war, with 83 of them having already been convicted. He writes, "Since Russia launched its criminal aggression in 2014, it has systematically kidnapped, tortured, and murdered Ukrainians." As full-scale war intensifies, these abhorrent actions have become even more vicious.

07:34 Video evidence shows Russian area bombing

Ukraine celebrates successes in defending Kharkiv's northeastern regions. However, troops have to pull back from other parts of the front line, causing setbacks. The army can no longer protect the entire front. On the other hand, Russia unleashes a fresh wave of attacks on various areas.

07:06 Fighting near Kharkiv: "Our defenders are putting up a valiant fight"

The Ukrainian General Staff is currently experiencing intense fighting in the coal and steel district of Donbass. In the region northwest of Avdiivka, 25 battles have been recorded. The enemy is attempting to infiltrate Ukrainian battle formations with assault groups and equipment. President Volodymyr Zelensky highlights this area as the main focus of the conflict. Regarding the front opened in mid-May along the border near Kharkiv, the Ukrainian military declares, "Our defenders are putting up a valiant fight. The situation is under control." The fighting is concentrated in the villages of Lipzy and Starytsya and the town of Vovchansk.

06:37 US to respond to Georgia's "Russian law"

Following the adoption of a questionable "foreign influence" law in Georgia, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken addresses the US Congress, expressing concern. He mentions that the United States is considering potential responses and anticipates taking action. Blinken adds that the law contradicts the desires of most Georgians to align with the European Union. This controversial legislation seeks to limit foreign influence on non-governmental organizations in a manner similar to Russia's strategy.

06:13 DIW study: EU gas supply would remain secure without Russian imports

A study by the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW) reveals that EU gas supplies would not be jeopardized if Russian natural gas were banned. If demand for gas in the EU remains high until 2030, it's possible to do without Russian natural gas completely. The authors conclude, "The gas demand could be met by pipeline imports from other countries and LNG without expanding the infrastructure in almost all scenarios." Furthermore, central and eastern European EU countries highly dependent on Russian natural gas, such as Austria and Hungary, could still maintain secure supplies.

05:50 Romania voices skepticism on Patriot delivery

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis expresses caution over potentially delivering a Patriot system to Ukraine. Any such delivery would require approval from the Supreme Council for National Defense and must not detract from Romania's air defenses, Iohannis stresses. He clarifies that these matters will be discussed privately with military experts and the Supreme Council, rather than publicly. Delivering a Patriot system presents multiple logistical and legal challenges, and concessions from Ukraine may need to be made to facilitate this.

05:22 Poland considers intercepting Russian missiles

Poland is pondering engaging in its air defenses to shoot down Russian missiles over Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously proposed this idea in an interview, suggesting that Western allies, including Poland, could further intervene in Ukraine's defense by countering Russian missiles. Polish Foreign Ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski confirms that the government is weighing the legal and technical implications of such an approach. "This is being analyzed from a legal and technical standpoint," says Wronski.

04:40 Ukraine is claimed to have shot down a Russian fighter jet

According to Ukrainian troops, they have shot down a Russian SU-25 fighter jet near Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. The General Staff announces, "Ukrainian troops have destroyed a Russian SU-25 attack aircraft." The Soviet-designed SU-25, nicknamed the "Frog's Foot" by NATO, is a heavily armored ground attack aircraft and a vital component in Russia's assault on eastern Ukraine. The SU-25 is being used to support Russia's campaign along several sections of the front line, targeting parts of the Donetsk region.

Sweden Gives Ukraine 6.5 Billion Euros in Military Aid over 3 Years

The Swedish government has pledged to avail an additional 6.5 billion euros in military aid to Ukraine, as the country is currently under attack from Russia. This was announced by the Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selensky thanked Sweden for the assistance, noting that it will boost not only Ukraine but the entire European region between the Baltic Sea and the Black Sea. "Ukraine's cause is Sweden's cause," says Kristersson in a statement on social media.

Chechen Leader Offers Putin More Troops for Ukraine War

During a meeting at the Kremlin, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov put forth an offer to Russian President Vladimir Putin for more troops in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Kadyrov revealed that there are tens of thousands of "well-trained and equipped fighters from the reserve" willing to fight for Russia in Ukraine if given the green light. A total of 43,500 soldiers have already served in Ukraine, including 18,000 volunteers.

Ukrainian President Continues Collecting Pledges for Peace Summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is still gathering commitments for a planned peace summit in Switzerland, scheduled for mid-June. He reported speaking with the heads of state and government of Chile, Albania, Austria, and Mozambique, adding them to the growing list of countries attending the conference. It's already confirmed that German Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz will attend the summit on behalf of Germany. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) also confirmed his attendance on June 15/16 near Lucerne, with his office stating it's a crucial step towards restoring peace.

Zelensky Appeals to the West for Help against Russian Glide Bombs

With glide bombs proving to be Russia's primary weapon for air strikes, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is asking the West for aid in countering them. "Ukraine requires systems and tactics to protect our positions, cities, and communities from these bombs," said Zelensky in his nightly address. The Russian military is increasingly utilizing bombs outfitted with a control system, allowing pilots to drop them safely and posing a challenge to combat.

Ukraine Frees First Prisoners to Join Military

In an effort to bolster its military, Ukraine released its first prisoners, allowing them to join the country's National Guard to fight against Russia. A court in the western city of Khmelnytsky ordered two individuals convicted of theft to be temporarily released to serve in the Ukrainian National Guard. The release comes under a new regulation whereby prisoners eager to fight in the war can be freed on parole. Over 3,000 prisoners have applied for release since the law's enactment.

Check out the previous developments here.