At 20:52, Selenskyj convenes with Crown Prince Bin Salman in Riyadh.
The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, has visited Saudi Arabia to hold discussions with the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman. During their meeting, they spoke about the preparations for a possible peace summit in Switzerland. Initially, it was expected that Zelensky would meet with the Saudi Crown Prince in early June, but — it was reported through diplomatic channels — that Saudi Arabia would not be participating in the Swiss summit due to Russia's absence. The decision of Saudi Arabia attending the summit at Bürgenstock bei Luzern on June 15 and 16 currently remains unclear.
In the evening of June 20, the Ukrainian military declared success in attacking Russian air defense installations on the Crimean Peninsula. The Ukrainian General Staff stated that they targeted S-300 and S-400 systems at the Belbek military airport near the port city of Sevastopol. As a result, two radar stations were destroyed, and ammunition depots exploded. The General Staff did not provide any proof or evidence to support this claim. However, pro-Russian governor of the port city, Mikhail Razvozhaev, confirmed Ukrainian rocket strikes. Razvozhaev stated that all targets were destroyed in the air and partially over the sea.
Russia is demanding the release of a Russian woman who was detained in Denmark on charges of espionage. The Russian embassy in Denmark has urged the Danish authorities to free the Russian citizen and is ready to provide her with consular assistance. The Danish authorities have not presented any evidence of the alleged illegal activities, and the Russian woman is expected to be interrogated and released.
The US government has made significant progress in negotiations on utilizing frozen Russian state assets for Ukraine's benefit. These negotiations, which are expected to be discussed at the G7 summit in Italy, will not set out all the details but will provide a framework instead.
Defense expert Ralph Thiele believes that Russian President Vladimir Putin is influencing Germany's decision to create more reservists and increase defense capacity by suspending compulsory military service. Thiele thinks that Pistorius's plan is not ambitious enough to achieve its goal.
The United States and Ukraine are planning to sign a bilateral security agreement during the G7 summit in Italy. According to Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor to US President Biden, 15 other countries have already concluded similar deals with Ukraine. The agreement, which will be signed between Biden and Ukrainian President Zelensky, will not commit the US to deploying its forces to defend Ukraine.
At least nine people have died in a Russian missile strike on Kryvyi Rih, southern Ukraine. Another 29 individuals were injured, including five children, according to Ukrainian prosecutors. The search for the missing continues, and Zelensky has urged his allies once again to supply Ukraine with modern air defense systems for maximum protection.
More than 100 agreements were signed at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin, highlighted by Development Minister Svenja Schulze. The agreements include credit opportunities for small businesses, city partnerships, and training initiatives. Impressions from the event are available here!
The reconstruction conference in Berlin for Ukraine has seen over 100 agreements signed. These include contracts, statements of intent, and alliances. The conference focuses on how to revive the country and covers economic, human, local, and EU dimensions. According to SPD politician Schulze, it's not a donor conference where money is raised but rather an event for networking.
Header: Latest Developments In The Ukraine Conflict
List: Rocket Attack On Secure Facility In Russia's Rostov Region; Ukrainian Politicians Concerned Over Power And Gas Situation
Image: Russian Military Official Remarks About New Missile System
Quote: Ukrainian President Zelenskiy On His Trip To Saudi Arabia
Image: Ukrainian Flag
Link: Weblink
5:19 Russian naval fleet advances to Caribbean waters
Two Russian warships have entered the Caribbean as part of a deployment that could involve multiple vessels and support craft. The U.S. military anticipates a few Russian ships and auxiliary vessels to participate in training exercises, with potential stops in Venezuela. American officials suggested the Russian fleet may remain in the region until summer.
16:42 US introduces new sanctions package against Russia
Before the G7 summit in Italy, the U.S. announces additional penalties targeting over 300 individuals and organizations assisting Russia in its war efforts in Ukraine. This includes Chinese companies.
16:39 Rheinmetall strengthens defense ties with Ukraine
Germany's DAX company Rheinmetall and Ukraine's Minister for Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyschin sign an intent statement at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. Rheinmetall's president Armin Papperger reveals plans for a joint venture to produce artillery ammunition in Ukraine and hand over Lynx infantry vehicles this year.
16:10 Ukraine creates the world's first drone military unit
In response to the war, Ukraine has implemented a military unit consisting completely of drones. Thousands of unmanned aerial vehicles have been deployed to monitor enemy positions and conduct aerial attacks.
15:48 Pistorius plans 5,000 new Bundeswehr recruits annually
Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius estimates that his new military service model could yield 5,000 new soldiers annually. His goal is to gradually increase recruitment, with Germany's 400,000 18-year-olds being targeted as potential candidates.
15:30 Hogl supports modern military service across genders
Following Pistorius' presentation of his model to the Bundestag's Defense Committee, SPDC politician Eva Hogl, the German parliament's defense ombudsman, supports the new system. Hogl emphasizes the importance of a "modern military service that applies to all genders" in helping to address the Bundeswehr's personnel issues and boosting defense capabilities.
15:17 Germany invests €24 million in Ukrainian research projects
Research Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger announces that Germany will provide €24 million in funding for Ukrainian science and research initiatives within the next four years at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin.
14:51 Kim shows appreciation for Russia ahead of expected Putin meeting
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un expressed gratitude for Putin's support, possibly hinting at a future visit from the Russian president.
14:42 Ukraine receives weapons training from Slovakia
As part of Slovakia's military assistance to Ukraine, defense personnel from both countries practiced at a joint military academy in Slovakia.
14:27 German-Ukrainian partnership further strengthens
The German-Ukrainian partnership was further solidified during the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. President Zelenskyy and Chancellor Scholz reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation.
13:58 Russia's defense minister meets with China's top brass
During a visit to China, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu meets with China's top military officials to discuss bilateral cooperation.
13:37 Ukraine probes damage at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant
Investigators and experts from the IAEA, Russia, and Ukraine examine the damage to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant caused by recent shelling.
13:16 Why the ISS serves as a diplomatic calming influence
Despite political tensions, nations collaborate aboard the International Space Station, demonstrating a commitment to diplomacy and peaceful cooperation.
12:41 The importance of reinforcing Ukraine's military capabilities
The German government has stated that enhancing Ukraine's military capabilities is crucial to maintain security in Europe.
11:59 Proposing a gender-neutral military service in Germany
Pistorius' concept aims to modernize Germany's military service, combining voluntary and mandatory elements. While this proposal raises questions about women's participation, Pistorius calls for support across genders.
11:39 Ukraine's drone military unit: a first for the world
Acknowledging the innovative nature of Ukraine's drone military unit, Pistorius commends it as a step forward in modern warfare.
11:20 Russian warships in the Caribbean: a regular occurrence or a concerning move?
The deployment of Russian warships in the Caribbean raises eyebrows but is not deemed unusual; American officials are still assessing the potential ramifications.
10:50 Debating Germany's approach to voluntary and compulsory military service
The plan to mix voluntary and compulsory military service in Germany prompts discussions about the balance needed between coercion and self-selection.
10:19 The role of age in assessing recruitment for military service
Age has become a vital factor in determining the eligibility of potential conscripts, as younger people are being targeted to join the Bundeswehr.
10:00 Germany maintains a balanced approach to nuclear weapons
Assuring that the deployed Russian warships do not carry nuclear weapons, a U.S. government representative reassures the international community.
09:46 Analyzing Russia's influence on global security
The ongoing military presence of Russian warships in the Caribbean raises concerns about Moscow's impact on world security.
09:03 Russian relief efforts in the war-torn Ukraine
The Russian military provides humanitarian assistance to Ukrainians affected by the conflict.
08:22 Pistorius' vision of a diverse Bundeswehr
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasizes the importance of a diverse German military, including women and men.
The North Korean leader Kim Jong Un celebrates the connection with Russia as a "weapons alliance." In the wake of his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in September, reports from Pyongyang state that the "friendly and cooperative bond has developed into an unbreakable relationship." Following their summit in Russia, both countries improved their military and economic cooperation. Analysts theorize that North Korea provided Russia with artillery, rockets, and other conventional weapons to assist in its war in Ukraine. As compensation, North Korea gained access to advanced military technology and economic support. Furthermore, it's reported, including by the Japanese broadcaster NHK, citing diplomatic sources, that Putin plans to visit North Korea soon since Russia demands more weapons for its invasion war.
14:24 Alliance for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises formations during Berlin Conference
On the second day of the international reconstruction conference in Berlin, Germany and Ukraine, together with twelve other countries and 17 development organizations and banks, establish an alliance for small and medium-sized enterprises. These businesses are "the backbone of the Ukrainian economy," as stated by the German Federal Ministry of Development in Berlin. They generate two-thirds of the country's value creation and create over 80% of its employment. The alliance's goal is to "grasp these companies by the arm during warfare and prepare them for reconstruction." The founding members are projected to offer financial investments, political advice, or capacity-building programs. The total commitments for the alliance surpass seven billion euros for ongoing and new programs.
13:51 Schulze seeks Ukraine-city partnership enhancements
Germany urges Ukraine's partner nations to help reconstruct its war-torn country through the increase in city partnerships. "Let us collaborate so that each Ukrainian community possesses at least one international partner," said Development Minister Svenja Schulze during a forum featuring numerous German and Ukrainian mayors at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. The SPD politician indicates that a balance should be struck at the following reconstruction conference in a year in Rome. According to Schulze, a German-Ukrainian municipal partnership network with over 200 partnerships exists.
13:20 Medvedev indicates Ukraine as part of Russia on map
Former Kremlin leader Dmitry Medvedev claims a map on Russian National Day that the entire Ukraine belongs to Russia. At his Telegram blog, he published an animated image: A Russian anthem plays, and the white-blue-red flag waves above a map of Russia. The entire Ukraine, up to the Polish, Slovak, and Hungarian borders, is marked as Russian territory. The Belarusian-Russian alliance, which is closely collaborating with Russia, was excluded. In the two years of war, Moscow has provided conflicting messages, both officially and through propaganda, concerning its desired extent of Ukrainian subjugation. More information is available here.
12:42 Rheinmetall purportedly constructing a new Lynx infantry fighting vehicle in Ukraine
The German defense contractor Rheinmetall is allegedly creating a new Lynx infantry fighting vehicle in Ukraine, according to a "Handelsblatt" report. During the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin, representatives from both nations agreed on the infantry fighting vehicle's entry into production. Ukrainian Minister for Strategic Industries, Olexander Kamyshin, informed the newspaper that "this year, we will produce the first Lynx." The scope of further production, however, remains uncertain.
12:20 Russians fortify motorcycles and buggies with cages
In the Ukraine war, more drones are employed - for reconnaissance and to target combat vehicles. To protect their troops, the Russians have started armoring other vehicles with cages to safeguard against drone attacks. Military expert Ralph Thiele doubts the efficacy of this strategy.
11:49 Hungary declines participation in NATO-Ukraine initiative, but won't hinder it
Hungary will not contribute to the planned expansion of NATO support for Ukraine, either monetarily or personally. This revelation was made by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg after a meeting with Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Orban confirmed that Hungary would not interfere with NATO decisions made by other member states. "Hungary will not block decisions of NATO that other member states have consented to," clarified Orban.
11:19 Trubetskoy rejects AfD's explanation for Zelensky boycott
While addressing the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the German Bundestag, numerous Left Party members and a significant portion of the AfD were absent. Ukrainian journalist Dennis Trubetskoy refuses to accept the AfD's justification for this.
The German energy company Uniper, recently nationalized amid the gas crisis, is set to receive billions in compensation from Gazprom. Per a ruling from an arbitration court, Uniper will receive 13 billion euros in damages due to the reduction and subsequent halt of gas deliveries in June and August 2022 from Gazprom. In response, Uniper intends to formally end the ongoing contracts with Gazprom, citing the court's ruling from Friday. However, it's unlikely that Gazprom will indeed pay these damages.
10:39 Contemplate Conscription's Reintroduction
The conscription debate is heating up. What do you think? Should conscription be reinstated?
10:10 Moscow Hush Up Anger Over Berlin's Public Transport
Russia announces a significant military drill in the Atlantic. Our Russia correspondent, Rainer Munz, provides context and examines the Russian reactions to reports of Zelenskyy's Berlin visit.
09:44 Marcus Faber, Successor to Strack-Zimmermann in the Defense Committee
Chancellor Olaf Scholz is facing additional obstacles: The new chair of the Bundestag Defense Committee is the FDP politician Marcus Faber. Elected by the 38 committee members in a Berlin meeting, Faber is set to succeed Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, who is leaving the Bundestag to join the European Parliament for the FDP and must therefore depart the Bundestag. A Saxony-Anhalt native, Faber has been a part of the German Bundestag since 2017, serving as a regular committee member since 2018. A military expert, Faber has frequently advocated for Ukraine's military support and delivery of the German Taurus missile, which Scholz staunchly opposes.
09:24 BSW Chief: Bundeswehr Can't Protect Germany
Die Linke co-chair, Amira Mohamed Ali, voices her opposition to reinstating conscription in an interview with ntv. Ali finds the idea of reintroducing conscription wrong, dismissing it as "war rhetoric aimed at preparing Germany for a major war." She believes Germany must evade any involvement in "conscription or militarism." Mohamed Ali does acknowledge that the Bundeswehr is struggling to fulfill its constitutional duty to defend the country, necessitating investment in appropriate equipment and reforming the procurement system. "For years, billions have been invested into the military budget. The money has been disappearing into channels for consultancies or ineffective equipment," she explains.
09:09 Increased Pressure on Foreign Organizations in Russia
The Kremlin is tightening its grip on foreign organizations in Russia. On Tuesday, the Duma initiated the first reading of a bill allowing the Russian government to categorize any foreign or international organization as "undesirable." Additionally, a second bill was initiated, outlining criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for involvement in "any" organization deemed "undesirable." The Institute for the Study of War considers this step significant, as it expands the Kremlin's scope to combat and censor a wide array of foreign organizations operating in Russia: "With the new draft law, the designation as 'undesirable' is extended to all foreign and international organizations, giving the Kremlin broader leeway in this regard."
08:40 Kiev Anticipates Russian Participation at Second Ukraine Peace Conference
Kiev hopes to see Russian participation in a second Ukraine peace summit, according to their own statements. Just prior to the commencement of the initial summit in Switzerland, the head of the Ukrainian presidential administration, Andrij Jermak, expressed this desire via video conference from Berlin. Jermak emphasized their commitment to collaborating with "all colleagues" to establish peace on a wide scale. He noted the involvement of "100 and more countries" and their eagerness to "invite a representative of Russia to the second summit and present this common plan together."
08:11 Sabotage in Moscow: Partisans Target Russian Air Defense
Pro-Ukrainian partisans claim responsibility for the destruction of a Russian satellite communications facility in the Moscow region. A video was released featuring a "Partisan" from Atesh pouring a flammable liquid onto an R-441 Liven communications satellite, while another photo depicts the communications station in flames. The attack purportedly occurred in the Klin district, about 85 kilometers northwest of Moscow. These partisans maintain that the Moscow air defense systems have been significantly weakened due to the sabotage act.
07:40 Pistorius Marvels at Rheinmetall Advertisement: "Arrival at the Turning Point"
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is okay with Borussia Dortmund promoting the arms company Rheinmetall for the upcoming season. Pistorius stated during an interview with Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, "I don't have a problem with Rheinmetall advertising at Borussia Dortmund." In his view, "arms manufacturers produce weapons that a country needs to deter attackers or defend itself in an emergency. These companies also pay taxes, create jobs, and maintain knowledge." The minister emphasized that "arms manufacturers play a role in ensuring a country's safety."
7:34 Pistorius wants to re-introduce conscript registration and questionnaires
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius wants to bring back the registration of conscripts, which was stopped 13 years ago. In addition, he wishes for young men to fill out a questionnaire about their readiness and ability to serve in the military. Pistorius wants them to be reachable for conscription duty.
7:11 Intense attacks on Kiev
Kiev experienced approximately two dozen explosions during the morning hours, most likely from the city's anti-aircraft defense. Reports claim that Russian drones, cruise missiles, and at least one hypersonic missile (Kinzhal or Dagger) targeted various locations in the capital city with a population of three million. The military administration of Kiev has confirmed the activation of the air defense system but has not verified the reports of hit targets. Unconfirmed reports suggest that an industrial facility, a warehouse, a gas station, and an oil depot were struck.
6:46 Bolivia seeks fuels from Russia
In response to a fuel shortage in Bolivia, the South American country is looking for support from Russia. President Luis Arce announced an agreement for the purchase of fuel after meeting with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. No specific details regarding the deal were shared.
6:17 Gabriel calls for a stricter stance against Russia
As the situation in Ukraine worsens, former Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel endorses a harsher approach against Russia. "I never thought I'd have to say this: We'll need to bring Russia down again like we did during the Cold War with the Soviet Union. Putin needs to understand how serious we are," Gabriel shared with Stern. If necessary, German soldiers and missile defense systems would be deployed to establish no-fly zones in Ukraine, protecting civilians from Russian attacks.
5:54 Putin keeps influential ally, Patrushev, in Security Council
Regardless of his power restructuring, Russian President Vladimir Putin keeps close ally Nikolai Patrushev in the highest-ranking Security Council position. Patrushev, formerly the Russian security chief, has been demoted to an advisory role on shipbuilding. He is among several upgrades and adjustments in the government changes.
4:32 Stoltenberg proposes long-term military aid for Ukraine
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg encourages defense ministers from NATO member states to provide long-term military assistance to Ukraine. Stoltenberg recommends 40 billion euros in fresh funds per year for support. "This is a significant amount, but it is also necessary," he affirmed. He explained that each organization's contribution could be based on their gross domestic product, adding, "it's absolutely fundable." The United States is proposed to provide half of the annual contribution while the remaining funds will be divided among European allies and Canada.
President Biden is planning to furnish Ukraine with an additional Patriot air defense system to bolster its defense against Russian aerial attacks, allegedly after series of consultations with senior officials. Per "The New York Times," the decision has not been affirmed by the White House. The current US Patriot air defense system is currently located in Poland, the article adds. The unit could be dispatched to the Ukrainian front within the next few days. This would mark the second Patriot air defense system the U.S. has provided to Ukraine.
UI: Reports indicate that attacks on Kharkiv have decreased since permission to utilize US weapons. Ukrainian officials state that the deployment of restricted American and allied weapon supplies on Russian territory has made a positive influence, leading to relative tranquility in Kharkiv in recent weeks.
Kharkiv's Mayor Ihor Terekhov stated in an interview with Reuters, "That helped. Maybe that's the reason why Kharkiv has been relatively calm in the last few weeks [...] the attacks were less intense than, for example, in May." Ever since almost two weeks ago, Ukraine has been authorized to use U.S. weapons in defense, which has effectively curbed the assaults on Kharkiv.
RU: Critics of the Kremlin urge EU nations to absorb Russian opposition figures. The strategy is said to be beneficial for Europe given that such a migration would adversely affect the Russian economy and diminish Russian military forces.
A research study conducted by a collective of Russian dissenters was introduced in Paris. The paper suggests that if EU countries indiscriminately welcomed more Russian opposition figures, the Kremlin could be undermined more effectively than through the existing sanctions in place. About 90% of the 3,200 respondents had fled since 2014, post-the annexation of Crimea, and the majority had left after the commencement of the Ukrainian conflict in February 2022. The study concluded that these immigration waves are predominantly occupied by highly educated professionals who align with Western principles. Consequently, a thorough "economic immigration" movement from Russia would be a sound choice. This plan would potentially weaken the Kremlin more pervasively than existing penalties.
RU: The Russian army is reported to have seized control of two more settlements in eastern Ukraine. The Russian Defense Ministry disclosed that its troops have captured the following settlements: Timkovka, situated near Kupyansk in the northeastern region of Kharkiv, and Miasoschariwka, located in the northern part of Luhansk's eastern zone.
LT: Latvia is encouraging Nvidia-eastern flank nations to unify in resolutely supporting Ukraine. "It is most essential that we have a unified approach for the NATO summit in Washington," says President Edgars Rinkevics prior to a gathering of "Bucharest Nine" representatives. Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok has discontinued his participation in the Riga convention of nine Eastern European NATO nations, as has Slovakian President Zuzana Caputova, who abruptly discontinued her trip "at the last minute." Hungary has opted against aiding Ukraine militarily, while Slovakia has halted its support after the appointment of Prime Minister Robert Fico last year.
DE: German Chancellor Scholz denounces the absence of the AfD and BSW (Left Party) during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's parliamentary address. A government spokesperson addressed ARD, remarking that this conduct is an indication of "a lack of respect." According to the aforementioned source, Scholz is "very shocked, but not surprised" by the boycotting behavior. A majority of the AfD members and the BSW group completely disregarded the address.
ES: Estonia has pledged to provide further military assistance to Ukraine in its standoff with Russia. Estonia's Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur revealed that the Baltic EU and NATO member will furnish Kiev with air defense rockets and launch systems of the short-range units, specifying the cementation of the Mistral air defense systems. "Ukraine requires cardinal air defense to counter Russia's recurrent cruel assault, and it is also in the immediate security interest of Estonia to work with its allies on this front." Pevkur did not provide any additional information about the extent of the armaments provision. "We have designed our aid plan in a way that Ukraine stands to profit the most possible without jeopardizing Estonian armed forces' combat preparedness," the minister added.
USA: The U.S. has abolished its weapons embargo on the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. The military unit made this revelation on Telegram, expressing thrill over this new development. The U.S. State Department affirmed that there was no substantive evidence of human rights infractions following a stringent review. The Azov/Brigade emerged in the early stages of the Donbass conflict in 2014, with its cadets showcasing neo-Nazi emblems like the Wolfsangel. Initially formed by right-wing extremist Andriy Biletsky, the United States now believes that the contemporary brigade, having been incorporated into the Ukrainian National Guard for some time, diverges from the militia of its inception.
Check out the details of earlier events right here.
Read also:
- The ongoing Ukraine conflict has led to concerns about potential cyberwar attacks from Russia, with NATO and military leaders maintaining a heightened alert status.
- During a meeting with the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Volodymyr Selenskyj discussed the potential threat of Russian cyberwarfare and the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures.
- The conflict in Ukraine has seen an increased use of military operations, including cyberwarfare, as Russia attempts to exert influence over the region.
- As the Ukraine conflict continues, tensions between Russia and NATO remain high, with both sides acknowledging the potential for cyberspace to be used as a battlefield in a future conflict.
