French President Macron underscores the importance of Ukraine aid during his interaction with Hungarian leader Orban.
Macron to stress backing for Ukraine as he meets Orban, ahead of EU summit. Orban, who's seen as a skeptic in the EU regarding Ukraine, is heading to Paris in relation to Hungary's forthcoming EU presidency, reports Elysée. The duo aims to ready for the upcoming EU summit on June 27th-28th. Hungary takes over from Belgium as EU president on July 1st. Orban's Fidesz party is in alliance with Rassemblement National (RN) in France, whose political gains in France are mounting ahead of the upcoming National Assembly votes. However, an RN meeting isn't on the schedule, per party sources.
17:28 Zelenskyy applauds ICC arrest warrants for ex-Russian minister Shoigu, General Gerassimov
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the International Criminal Court for issuing arrest warrants against two high-ranking figures in the Russian military machinery. "I commend today's ICC arrest warrants against two key figures of the Russian military leadership," Zelenskyy tweeted. "Both are charged with committing egregious atrocities against civilians in Ukraine amidst Russia's relentless shelling."
17:04 Meeting with Schwesig: Zelenskyy thanks Germany for backing
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received Manuela Schwesig in her capacity as President of the German Bundesrat in Kiev today. In their conversation, Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to Germany for its support of Ukraine, humanitarian aid packages, and protection of Ukrainian refugees, as reported by Zelenskyy's press office, as reported by Ukrinform. During the meeting, Zelenskyy brought Schwesig up-to-speed on the warfront situation and the urgent needs of Ukraine amidst escalating Russian air raids. He also highlighted the importance of the German initiative to bolster Ukraine's air defense and the delivery of additional air defense systems.
16:42 Merz calls for more job incentives for Ukrainian refugees in Germany
Europe is encouraging Ukrainian refugees to enter the German workforce more swiftly. "We must make a greater effort to integrate these refugees, who will be staying for a long period, more effectively into the labor market," said parliamentary group leader Friedrich Merz in Berlin. "We need them, and the appropriate incentives must be created for them." This responsibility lays on the shoulders of politics, not the refugees. As in any labor market, jobless benefits don't offer the proper incentives for them to focus on employment. Consequently, discussions about this matter should take place - all while treating war refugees fairly in Germany. "Their security in Germany should not be compromised," Merz underscored.
16:21 Ukraine : Russia launched 2277 Shahed-Drones this year
The Russian military has launched 2277 Shahed drones against targets in Ukraine, according to Ukrainian reports. "Our air defense has taken out approximately 86 percent of them," the Ukrainian Air Force commander stated on Telegram.
16:07 Ukraine orders evacuation of children from five settlements in the Donetsk region
Ukraine has issued evacuation orders for all children and their guardians from five settlements situated close to the frontlines in the eastern Donetsk region. These locations were specified by Regional Governor Wadym Filaschkin, who also emphasized that these orders apply to other caretakers of minors. The mentioned settlements are located in zones where Russian forces have recently made advances. Due to the increasing toll of civilian casualties in battle zones, Governor Filaschkin had previously called on civilians to evacuate the Donetsk region.
15:57 EU officially initiates accession talks with Ukraine
The European Union has initiated accession negotiations with Ukraine. Diplomats from the 27 EU member states and Ukrainian envoys assembled in Luxembourg for the initial session, where plans for the discussions were established. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Schmyhal characterized this as a historic moment for his nation and the EU.
15:42 Billionaire donates three grenade launcher-equipped patrol boats to the Ukrainian navy
A Ukrainian billionaire is donating three Swedish patrol boats to the Ukrainian navy, capable of reaching speeds of up to 74 kilometers per hour and outfitted with various weapons such as machine guns and water cannons. Sweden itself is promising Ukraine an additional ten boats.
15:26 Russia bars access to 81 European media outlets
In response to European nations banning several Russian media outlets, Russia has added 81 European media corporations to its blacklist. Their programming and online access will be prohibited, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry's website. Among the affected German media are "Der Spiegel," "Die Zeit," and the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung." In Austria, the public-service broadcaster ORF and the media group Österreich were targeted. The German-French broadcaster Arte is also on the ban list. France is the EU country with the most sanctioned entities, numbering nine. EU member states resolved in May to implement sanctions against the state Russian news agency Ria Novosti, the government newspaper "Rossiskaya Gazeta," the platform "Voice of Europe," and the pro-Kremlin newspaper "Izvestia," which includes a television station.
Anticipated Arrival of Indian PM Modi in Moscow
Following his victory in the recent elections, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to visit Russia soon. A high-ranking advisor to Vladimir Putin, Yuri Ushakov, has confirmed that they are readying for Modi's impending visit. The Indian government, however, remains tight-lipped on the matter. Reports suggest that a potential visit could happen as early as July. Russian news sources have proposed the dates of July 8 and 9 for Modi's visit.
Proposed Strategy by Trump Advisors for Ukraine
Ex-US President Donald Trump has received a strategy proposal from two influential advisors to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This strategy involves both Ukraine and Russia reaching a mutual agreement for a ceasefire and peace talks. The plan includes the US offering further weapons to Ukraine only if they engage in peace negotiations. Simultaneously, Russia will be warned of reduced US support if they refuse to agree to negotiations. Moscow is also promised a delay in Ukraine's potential NATO membership for a longer period. The strategy was devised by retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg and Fred Fleitz, both previously serving in the National Security Council during Trump's tenure.
Initial Results from Czech Ammunition Initiative in Ukraine
The Czech initiative to supply artillery shells to Ukraine has begun to bear fruit. Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala announced on X that the first batch of munitions under this program has arrived in Ukraine. The munitions shortage is a significant issue with Ukraine's defense against Russia, and attempts are being made to acquire up to 800,000 artillery shells from countries outside the EU for Kiev. As of now, 18 partner countries have pledged around 1.6 billion Euros in financial support for the project, with Germany planning a significant contribution. Other donor nations include the Netherlands, Denmark, and Lithuania.
Ukrainian Ambassador Slams "Populist" CSU Proposal
Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, has criticized the CSU proposal to exclude non-working Ukrainians as "populist" and "depersonalized." He is currently engaging with Labor Minister Heil, Interior Minister Faeser, and federal states to facilitate the integration of more Ukrainian asylum seekers into the German labor market. According to Makeiev, Ukrainians tend to integrate better into labor markets compared to other nationals, and their unemployment is not solely their fault. He advocates for recognition of vocational degrees and lowering language requirements to facilitate faster integration.
Controversial Remarks by Putin's Apologist Toward Serbia
Putin's propagandist, Sergey Mardan, has passionately rebuked Serbia due to revelations of Serbia selling ammunition to Ukraine indirectly. Mardan has publicly spoken against Serbia, likening them to the last "whore" and declaring them enemies. Serbia's close relationship with Moscow has faced criticism due to these recent developments.
Ukrainian Drones Attack Gas Pipeline in Belgorod
Russia has reported attacks on a gas pipeline in Belgorod by Ukrainian drones. Videos of the strikes reveal damages to several buildings and the pipeline. The attacks have led to injuries and fatalities. Kiev has yet to comment on the allegations.
Extension of Protective Status for Ukrainian Refugees by EU
The EU has decided to extend the protective status for Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2026. The extension was approved by 27 EU ministers in Luxembourg. Estimates suggest that conditions for the return of people due to Russia's ongoing attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure are not yet met. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has praised the extension but also called for a more equitable distribution of refugees in the EU. The acceptance of nearly 1.2 million people in Germany is considered a "massive act of strength."
China's Criticism of Latest Russia Sanctions by the EU
China has lambasted the new EU sanctions against Russia, which affect Chinese companies as well. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that these sanctions are "unilateral and lack a legal basis." China urges the EU to promptly lift the sanctions and will take measures to safeguard the rights and interests of Chinese companies. The West accuses China of aiding Russia in its war against Ukraine, a claim Beijing denies. As part of a new round of sanctions against Russia, Brussels added 61 more companies to its sanctions list on Monday, including 19 Chinese companies involved in the Chinese satellite industry. These companies have been accused of conducting millions of dollars in business with the Russian mercenary group Wagner and selling them satellites.
Criminal Warrant Issued by the International Court: Shoigu and Gerasimov Accused
The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for former Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu and General Staff Chief Valeri Gerasimov, charging them with attacking civilian targets in Ukraine.
12:50 Zelenskyy Welcomes Schwesig in Kiev
Manuela Schwesig, the Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, will be meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the second day of her visit to Ukraine. The meeting is expected to last approximately an hour and is aimed at reaffirming Kiev's solidarity with all 16 federal states. Schwesig had previously stated that Ukraine must win the war, a contrast to her party ally, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who had only emphasized that Russia should not win the war and Ukraine should not lose. However, her commitment to the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline has been criticized by some, particularly former Ukrainian ambassador Andrij Melnyk, who refused to shake her hand. Following the Russian attack roughly two years ago, Schwesig distanced herself from her involvement in the project and admitted that it was a mistake.
European Court Convicts Russia for Human Rights Violations on Crimea
The European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg has found Russia guilty of human rights violations on the Crimean Peninsula following its annexation. The decision was made on a complaint from Ukraine. Russia does not recognize the court's judgments.
Ukrainian Soldiers Receive Much-Needed Ammunition
Ukrainian soldiers have been fighting without sufficient ammunition against the Russian army for a long time. However, with the aid package amounting to 61 billion dollars, the ammunition stock is improving. Commander Vasil reports that the "shell shortage" has been alleviated.
Hundreds of Ukrainians Arrested Trying to Flee
Security forces in Ukraine have arrested over 100 men who were attempting to illegally flee the country in the Odessa region. Another 53 men were stopped as they were en route to a "collection point." They had planned to bypass checkpoints and cross the border on foot. The Odessa region borders Moldova and the border with Romania is formed by the Danube. Men aged 25 and above, who are eligible for military service, have been handed over to the local military enlistment office. These men were allegedly charged between 4600 and over 17,000 euros by human traffickers.
EU Moving Closer to Ukraine: Lührmann Sees "Historical Day"
EU State Secretary Anna Lührmann has declared the beginning of EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova as a "historical day" for the EU. Despite difficult circumstances, both countries have made significant progress in areas such as the rule of law, anti-corruption, and press freedom. However, it will take many years before Ukraine and Moldova fulfill all the requirements for EU membership, with a peace with Russia being a prerequisite for Ukraine. There is no guarantee of accession.
Revenge Sanctions against EU: Moscow's Measures "may affect us as well"
Frozen EU funds from Russia are being redirected to Ukraine's rearmament efforts. Russia considers these sanctions to be "against international law" and "illegitimate," according to NTV correspondent Rainer Munz. In response, Russia is planning to enact sanctions against the EU and strengthen its relationships.
Swiss Court Holds Bankers Accountable for "Putin's Briefcase" Funds
Four bankers have been found guilty by a Swiss appeals court in connection with the management of funds linked to Russian President Vladimir Putin's environment. The court ruled that employees of the Swiss branch of the Russian Gazprombank failed to thoroughly verify whether the money on accounts labeled as belonging to Russian musician Sergey Roldugin actually belonged to him. The court imposed fines on the four bankers. In 2014, two accounts were opened at the Gazprombank in Zurich, with Roldugin listed as the beneficial owner. According to media reports, the Russian cellist and conductor is the godfather of one of Putin's daughters. He was added to the Swiss sanctions list shortly after Russia's attack on Ukraine. According to the list, Roldugin is known in Moscow as "Putin's Briefcase."
21:44 Somali Soldier Speaks: "Everywhere were drones, artillery, rockets. I just ran" - A young Somali named Adil, in a conversation with NTV, shares his experience as a soldier in Russia. Adil enlisted for nearly 1,900 Euro per month, including the hope for Russian citizenship and a promise that he wouldn't have to fight at the front. However, he was immediately sent to the front line in Ukraine. Battle-stricken after four days, he fled and now finds himself in a Ukrainian prison. "I didn't come to kill. I lost my weapon. I didn't know how to hold it. There were drones, artillery, rockets everywhere. I just ran," Adil explains in an interview with NTV. "I thought 2,000 dollars were a fair wage for regular work. I thought a huge opportunity had opened up for me."
11:17 Trump Allies Propose War-Ending Plan for Ukraine - Two influential advisors of former US President Donald Trump have put forward a plan to bring an end to the war in Ukraine, as reported by Reuters news agency. If Trump secures another term, Ukraine will only receive additional US weapons if they agree to peace talks, they suggested. The US would also caution Moscow that any refusal to negotiate would lead to heightened US support for Ukraine, according to retired General Keith Kellogg, one of Trump's security advisors. This marks the most concrete strategy to date from Trump's associates, who maintain that he can swiftly bring an end to the Ukraine conflict. If accepted, this proposal would significantly alter Washington's position on the conflict, potentially facing opposition from European allies and Trump's own Republican Party.
10:49 Multiple Drones Destroyed in Russia's Border Region - An update from Russian sources indicates that 30 Ukrainian drones were shot down in the border area between the two countries. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, 29 drones were intercepted and destroyed in the Belgorod region, and one more was taken out in the adjoining Woronesh region over a Telegram statement. In the Belgorod region, a senior citizen lost her life, according to local authorities.
10:18 Russian Spy Arrested by Ukrainian Security Forces - A Ukrainian border guard soldier has been apprehended by security forces on suspicion of spying for the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). The suspect allegedly gathered information about weapons and ammunition depots, and Ukrainian troops in the border region with Belarus. The man was reportedly recruited remotely by an FSB agent based in the occupied region of Luhansk and communicated with him discreetly via online messengers. If found guilty of high treason, the man faces a possible life sentence, the Ukrainian Security Service said.
09:46 ISW Expects Russian Advance Before US Aid Arrives - The US think tank Institute for the Study of War (ISW) anticipates that the US aid won't yield immediate substantial results on the front lines. "The ISW believes that the Russian forces are striving to achieve significant tactical and operational victories before the US military aid reaches Ukrainian forces in large quantities, and it will take some time for the provided weapons from the West to be effective on the battlefield," the ISW stated. It also refers to an interview with the military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov with the "Philadelphia Inquirer". According to Budanov, weapon deliveries from the US and Europe, including artillery ammunition, will reach Ukraine faster than before. However, Ukrainian forces require a significant number of weapons, and it's a matter of scale, Budanov emphasized. According to Budanov, there won't be an apocalyptic scenario at the front, but the situation will remain difficult at least until mid-July.
08:58 Kiev to Continue "Drone Sanctions" against Russian Oil Refinery Complex - Ukrainian Special Forces have placed more than 30 Russian oil refineries, terminals, and depots under observation, announced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at a military briefing, according to Ukrainian media reports. He praised the Special Operations Center "A" of the Ukrainian Security Service and underscored the long-range capabilities of the drones, which can now span up to 1,500 kilometers. The recent drone assaults have targeted regions as distant as Tatarstan and Bashkortostan – and a halt to the attacks is not imminent: "The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) will continue to impose 'Drone sanctions' on the Russian oil refinery complex and weaken the economic potential of the adversary, which supports the aggressor's ability to wage war against Ukraine," quoted "Kyiv Independent" a source.
06:39 Governor of Belgorod Slams "Sizable" UAV AssaultMultiple establishments, automobiles, and a gas pipeline were harmed, and four individuals were wounded due to attacks by UAVs on the Russian city of Belgorod and nearby regions. The "Kyiv independent" outlined the statement by Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, who described the incident as a "substantial" UAV assault. A municipal building in Shebekino was claimed to be entirely decimated by fire as a consequence. Kiev has remained silent on the incidents.
06:16 New Sanctions for EU: More Companies Added to BlacklistContained within a fresh set of sanctions against Russia, the European Union added 61 firms to the blacklist, including 19 Chinese firms. The 14th sanctions package, formally accepted, encompasses trade restrictions for two key players in the Chinese satellite industry. These companies are accused of conducting millions of dollars worth of business with the Russian mercenary group Wagner and selling them satellites.
05:43 Court Ruling on Crimea Annexation: ECHR Examines Kiev's Lawsuit against MoscowThe European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg is considering Ukraine's lawsuit against Russia concerning the annexation of the Crimean peninsula today. Kiev accuses Moscow of various violations of the European Convention on Human Rights from February 2014 to August 2015 on the Crimean peninsula. The lawsuit asserts "illegal detentions," "suppression of non-Russian media," and "compensation-free expropriations."
04:38 Orban on Ukraine's EU Membership: "We Disagree"Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban offers criticism towards the EU's accession negotiations with Ukraine, taking place in Luxembourg today. Orban says to Funke Media Group newspapers: "We disagree with this accession process, but we are not halting it, and we are assisting the commencement of the discussions." He considers the talks to be "a solely politically motivated process." He adds, "It's not about a Yes or No to EU membership. "But we must first evaluate the implications if we were to take in a country at war whose borders are not clearly defined in practice," Orban adds, as Hungary prepares to assume the EU Council Presidency on July 1.
03:36 EU Commences Accession Talks with UkraineThe EU initiates accession negotiations with Ukraine today. "The road to full membership, which Ukraine merits, is unchangeable," comments Ihor Zhovka, foreign policy advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in an interview in Kiev. The focus of the event in Luxembourg is more on symbolism for now rather than the nuances of the discussions regarding the negotiations for Ukraine's compliance with EU norms.
02:35 US: Civilians Murdered on Crimea by Russian Missile InterceptionAccording to US sources, Ukraine targeted civilians during their weekend attack on Crimea. Russia apparently intercepted an Atacms missile meant to incapacitate a launchpad. Debris from the missile was reported to have struck a beach, leading to at least four deaths, including two children. Russia alleges the US is responsible for the attack. The US government retaliated by stating that Ukraine decides its own attack targets and military operations.
01:35 U.S. to Dispense Additional Munitions to KievThe US plans to provide Ukraine with additional ammunition worth $150 million, sources tell us. The upcoming disbursement is expected to encompass ammunition for the Himars multiple rocket launchers supplied by the US, which are capable of firing Atacms missiles. Moscow contests the Ukrainian Atacms attacks on Crimea by charging the US with participating in the conflict.
00:36 Moscow Declares EU Sanctions as IneffectiveMoscow dismisses the EU's 14th sanctions package against Russia as ineffective. The Russian Foreign Ministry in Moscow shares this sentiment. The West harms itself, the ministry adds. The West neglects the consequences for its own economy and the welfare of its citizens in the EU, says Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Gruschko in Moscow. Moscow anticipates an economic growth of over 3% this year, more than tenfold that of Germany. "The purpose of the sanctions was to strangle the Russian economy and to disrupt Russian society. The EU has achieved the opposite," Gruschko says.
23:28 Schwesig Opposes Dobrindt's Plan for Employment of Displaced UkrainiansMecklenburg-Vorpommern Minister-President Manuela Schwesig criticizes CSU-Regional Group Leader Alexander Dobrindt's proposal to return displaced Ukrainians from certain areas who refuse work in Germany. "There are no safe areas, as Russia is attacking Ukraine in its entirety," the SPD politician says in the ZDF "heute journal update." Many refugees, including numerous women with children, disagree with Dobrindt's proposal, claiming it is "very populist." She accuses Dobrindt of following anti-immigration sentiments in public opinion.
9:37 p.m.: "Bold move" - Hungary slams EU over Russian funds for Ukraine aidThe Hungarian administration displays outrage towards the move by other EU countries to utilize funds from confiscated Russian assets to aid Ukraine. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó voices his disapproval on Facebook, calling it a "shameless breach of common European rules." The government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, is exploring legal avenues to safeguard Hungary's rights. It will assume the EU presidency within a week, and Orbán continues to maintain cordial relations with the Russian government.
9:18 p.m.: Ukrainian Navy: 120 Russian drones wiped out in Krasnodar Oblast assaultAs per the Ukrainian Navy's reports, an attack on the Russian region of Krasnodar resulted in the destruction of 120 drones. The attack on June 21 was carried out by the Ukrainian Navy and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), according to the Navy's Facebook post. The Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform shares this information. The Ukrainian military is said to have targeted objects on a training ground of the 726th Training Center of the Russian Air Defense in Jeisk. According to the report, this training ground serves as a training grounds for drone pilots.
Read also:
- In response to the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's praise for the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants against two Russian military figures, the EU is initiating accession talks with Ukraine, seeing it as a historic moment for both nations.
- Military operations in Ukraine continue, with the Russian military reportedly launching 2277 Shahed drones against Ukrainian targets this year, and the Ukrainian Air Force claiming to have successfully intercepted the majority of them.
- The conflict in Ukraine has led to calls for increased support for Ukrainian refugees in Europe, with German parliamentary group leader Friedrich Merz advocating for more job incentives to help integrate these refugees into the labor market.
- Tensions between Russia and the West, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict, have resulted in cyberwarfare against Ukraine. The country's infrastructure has been targeted, and nations like NATO have been accused of providing cyber support to Ukraine.
