"Outrageous Breach" - Hungary Condemns EU's Decision on Russian Assets Aid for Ukraine
The Hungarian administration is raging over EU states employing congealed Russian funds for Ukraine. This claim was put forward by Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto on Facebook, branding it the "most shameless violation of common European regulations" he's witnessed. The Orban government, headed by prime minister Viktor Orban, will assume the EU presidency in a week, maintaining friendly ties with the Russian government.
21:38 Ukrainian Navy: 120 Russian Drones obliterated during attack in Krasnodar OblastThe Ukrainian Navy declares 120 drones were annihilated during a raid on the Russian region of Krasnodar. The assault on June 21 was performed by the Ukrainian Navy and Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), as stated on the Navy's Facebook page. According to Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform, the Ukrainian military targeted infrastructure on a training ground of the 726th Training Center of the Russian Air Defense in Yeysk. As reported, drone pilots are trained there.
21:04 Hunter on Terror in Dagestan: "Putin must perpetuate the fiction of the victim role"Experts suspect US influence behind the series of attacks in the republic of Dagestan, which they want to be portrayed as US attacks. Political analyst Thomas Hunter expounds on the implications of these allegations in Russian war propaganda.
20:42 Macron Promises Ukraine France's "unwavering support"French President Emmanuel Macron has guaranteed Ukraine continued support. Following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Paris, Macron reiterated France's "unwavering support" to Ukraine during its conflict with Russia. Macron's commitment to Kiev "remains steadfast," he stated, addressing concerns in Kiev that a victory for right-wing populists in France could impact Ukraine's stance on the situation.
20:16 Finnish Foreign Minister: Development of 15th Sanctions Package Against Russia commences "Immediately"The EU states have initiated the 14th sanctions package against Russia today, and are already working on a 15th sanctions package: The work on it will "start immediately," according to Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, as reported by "Kyiv Independent." The new EU package adds 116 individuals and organizations to the sanctions list and contains additional measures, such as the prohibition of EU institutions from participating in the transporting of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) in third countries.
19:44 Zelensky Dismisses General SodolUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has discharged General Lieutenant Yuri Sodol, the commander of the United Forces, and appointed Brigadier General Andrij Hnatow as his successor. The president made the announcement in his evening video address. No reasons for the dismissal were provided. Previously, the chief of staff of the controversial Azov Brigade, Bohdan Krotovytsch, reportedly filed a complaint against Sodol. He accused the commander of disregarding orders that led to heavy casualties. "He eliminated more Ukrainian soldiers than any Russian general," Krotovytsch wrote on Facebook without naming Sodol.
19:16 EU disburses 1.4 billion euros to Ukraine from frozen Russian assetsFrom July, the European Union will furnish Ukraine with additional military aid amounting to 1.4 billion euros. The EU foreign ministers cleared the pathway for this in Luxembourg, as EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell announced. The EU is distributing to Kiev the first installment of the funds frozen Russian assets. Hungary had previously obstructed the distribution of these funds. The foreign ministers agreed on a way to circumvent the Russian-friendly Hungarian government. Borrell presented the ministers with a legal assessment of the situation, according to his own statements. Hungary no longer needs to explicitly endorse the payment of the first tranche. Previously, there had already been fundamental decisions relating to the utilization of the funds, in which the Orban government had remained cooperative. "The (EU) treaty offers legal paths to move forward," Borrell emphasized.
18:52 Germany delivers over 40 trucks to Ukraine for border defenseGermany is providing more than 40 trucks to Ukraine for border guards on the frontline. "Germany stands with Ukraine. Forty-one Mercedes Arocs trucks will aid the units of the state border service on the frontline," said the German ambassador to Ukraine, Martin Jäger, according to a report by the Ukrainian newspaper "Kyiv Independent." "In this way, Germany is making another contribution to Ukraine's defense against the Russian aggressor," the German diplomat allegedly said.
18:14 Ukraine: Casualties in Pokrovsk after Russian attack increase to fiveThe authorities in the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk now report that the casualties from a Russian rocket attack have risen to five. The number of wounded is now 41, including four children, it is said. Earlier Ukrainian reports stated that Russia fired two rockets at the city. A private residence was destroyed and 16 others were damaged.
18:02 USA: Ukraine executing its own targets, not under US controlThe US government is not controlling the assaults of Ukraine, according to its own statements. "Ukraine is making its own decisions regarding targets and is conducting its own military operations," said a spokesperson for the Defense Ministry. The statement follows Russian allegations over the weekend that a Ukrainian attack using ATACMS missiles on the Crimea was engineered by the US. According to Russian reports, at least four people were killed and 151 were injured. Russia annexed the Crimea in 2014.
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz appreciates German businesses for their backing of Ukraine, including its restoration efforts. This was stated by an SPD politician, a correspondent from Ukrinform, during his speech to the attendees of the "Industry Day" conference in Berlin. "German businesspeople are already playing a crucial role in supporting and rebuilding Ukraine and its European continent," the Chancellor reportedly declared.
17:18 Zelenskyy Expects Agreement on Security Cooperation in Brussels
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to conduct political discussions in Brussels during the middle of the week. Several EU officials informed the German Press Agency that a security cooperation agreement between Ukraine and the EU will be signed. Drafting of the text has been underway for months. Zelenskyy might participate as a guest during the summit of the Heads of State and Government of the 27 EU countries on Thursday. However, confirmation regarding this has not been received yet. The security agreements are based on an initiative of the G7 member states to conclude bilateral agreements with Ukraine to ensure its long-term security. The EU has joined in. With the agreements, Ukraine will be ensured weapons deliveries, financial aid, and political cooperation. They are designed to help bridge the time until the desired NATO membership of the country.
16:55 Foreign Ministry Spokesperson on Dobrindt Demand: No Safe Zones in Ukraine
The demand by CSU state group leader Alexander Dobrindt to return jobless refugees from Ukraine to safe zones in their homeland is met with rejection at the Foreign Office. "Russia is attacking targets in both the east and the west of Ukraine," stated a Foreign Ministry spokesperson in Berlin. Moscow is waging an unlawful war of aggression against the entire Ukraine. "I wouldn't know where a safe place in Ukraine would be right now," the spokesperson added. Dobrindt proposed employment as a condition for residency permits for refugees from Ukraine over the weekend. "Either employment in Germany or return to safe zones in western Ukraine," he told "Bild am Sonntag". Representatives of the Ampel coalition parties SPD, Greens, and FDP criticized the proposal and accused Dobrindt of being populist.
16:36 Russia Threatens Retribution for New EU Sanctions
Russia has threatened retaliation for the new EU sanctions. The Foreign Ministry in Moscow announced that it would counter with the "necessary response" to any unfavorable actions by the West. The sanctions are illegal, the ministry declared in a statement. The list of persons who are prohibited from entering Russia has been significantly expanded, it continues. No further details were specified. Beforehand, the EU states had adopted the 14th sanctions package against Russia. Among other things, investments in Russian liquefied natural gas projects are to be blocked.
16:20 Zelenskyy: Ukraine has Struck Over 30 Russian Oil Installations
According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine has attacked more than 30 targets in the Russian oil sector, including refineries, terminals, and storage facilities. He did not provide a timeline for the assaults or further details. No Russian response has been issued as of yet. Ukraine has increased its strikes on Russian oil installations this year. Russia generates substantial revenues from these facilities.
16:01 Retired Colonel advises against optimism: Kiev's negotiating position is "significantly weakened"
Despite the latest Ukrainian victories in the Black Sea, retired Colonel Wolfgang Richter from the Geneva Center for Security Policy advises against overconfidence. Russia could respond with "substantial resources." In addition to military support, it would also need an exit strategy, according to the expert.
15:34 Eight dead, dozens injured in Russian attacks in Ukraine
According to Ukrainian reports, at least eight people have been killed and a multitude of others injured in Russian attacks on targets in eastern Ukraine and the southern port city of Odessa. In the eastern region of Donetsk, Governor Wadym Filaschkin reported that at least four people were killed and 34 others injured, including two children, in rocket attacks on the city of Pokrowsk. Filaschkin stated that the Russian troops shelled the city of Pokrowsk with two Iskander-M missiles and destroyed several houses. This was one of the largest attacks on civilians in recent times, according to his statement. Additionally, a man was reportedly killed by Russian fire in the city of Kurachowe further south. "The Russians attacked the city with a guided missile and damaged an infrastructure facility," the governor said without providing additional details.
15:11 Germany, France, and Poland plan alliance for long-range weapons
Germany, France, and Poland intend to establish a coalition of European states to develop long-range weapons. "Long-range weapons represent a significant capability gap in Europe," explained German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius of the SPD in Paris. Several countries should reach an understanding on this issue before the NATO summit in July, he emphasized. A corresponding declaration could then be signed at the NATO summit in Washington. This would be "a conspicuous sign of our willingness to take responsibility," said Pistorius during a meeting with his French and Polish colleagues, Sébastien Lecornu and Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz. "We will demonstrate in Washington how powerful and dependable the Europeans are," Pistorius emphasized. He referred to the fact that 23 European allies, including Germany, had already reached or surpassed the two percent NATO target for defense spending.
The authorities in Kiev brand the victims as "civil settlers" following the catastrophic explosion of a Ukrainian rocket over a coastline on the annexed Crimean Peninsula. "There cannot and will not be 'beaches,' 'tourist zones,' or other signs of peaceful living on the Crimea," pens Mychajlo Podoljak, an advisor in the Presidential Office, on Telegram. The Crimea is a region under Russian occupation, containing numerous military targets, where conflict is ongoing. The Kremlin seeks to hide these targets with its own civilians, who in turn would become civil settlers. Two days prior, a Ukrainian rocket exploded over a public beach near the naval base Sevastopol. Local authorities report that at least four people were killed and over 150 were injured.
14:18 Zelenskyy orders investigation into the Presidential Guard
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has ordered an investigation of the Presidential Guard following the discovery of suspicious assassination plots within the security services. During the unveiling of the new head of the Presidential Guard, Olexij Morosow, Zelenskyy stated that his primary responsibility would be to ensure that only those who see their future with Ukraine join the Guard. And of course, anyone in the Guard who chooses a different path than Ukraine or brings the Guard into disgrace must be dismissed. The Ukrainian Security Service SBU announced in May that they had apprehended two high-ranking officers of the Guard, who were charged with planning the assassination of Zelenskyy and other state officials of Ukraine.
13:52 Ukraine reports fatalities and injuries in attack on Pokrovsk
In the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, according to local authorities, at least four people have been killed in a Russian rocket attack. Thirty-four more individuals were injured, including two children.
13:32 EU forces unwilling Hungarian military aid for Ukraine
The EU is imposing unwilling Hungarian military aid for Ukraine worth roughly 1.4 billion Euros. This mandated operation was approved at a Foreign Ministers meeting in Luxembourg, according to several diplomats from the German Press Agency.
13:16 Ukraine reports two fatalities from Russian mine
In Lypzi, in the region of Kharkiv, two people have been killed by the explosion of a Russian mine. This was reported by the head of the regional military administration on Telegram, as reported by the state Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform. An automobile with two occupants apparently drove over a mine in the morning. One man perished on the spot, a woman passed away on the way to the hospital.
12:52 German government rejects expulsion of unwilling UkrainiansThe German government will not expel unwilling Ukrainian men and women. A spokesperson for the Foreign Office in Berlin affirms that it is apparent daily how Russia is launching attacks across Ukraine and is also attempting to annihilate infrastructure in the western part of the country. "Thus, I wouldn't know now where a safe place in Ukraine should be," he explains in response to a corresponding demand from CSU regional group leader Alexander Dobrindt. Dobrindt mentioned "safe zones in western Ukraine."
12:21 Russia warns USA after missile attack on CrimeaRussia is threatening repercussions for a Ukrainian missile attack on the annexed Crimean Peninsula, in which at least 4 people were reportedly killed and over 150 others injured. Presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov stated this. "What exactly - time will tell." Russia will respond to any US involvement in this attack. Peskov refers to the Russian threat to station rockets in striking distance to the USA and their European allies. According to Russian reports, Ukraine attacked Crimea with five US-provided ATACMS missiles on Sunday, which were alleged to be equipped with cluster munitions. Four missiles were shot down by air defense, the warhead of a fifth missile detonated in mid-air. Missile debris fell near a beach. Among the dead were also two children.
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11:58 Russia specialist: Missile on Crimea "not targeted at tourists"In a Ukrainian missile attack on the annexed Crimean Peninsula, several people were reportedly killed, including at a beach. "The debris fell randomly on the tourists," says Russia expert Niko Karasek:
11:35 Sewastopol declares state of emergencyOne day after a devastating Ukrainian missile attack, the officials in the port city of Sewastopol on the annexed Crimean Peninsula have declared a state of emergency. According to official information, 4 people were killed and 151 were injured in the attack, 79 of whom are still in the hospital. Most of the victims had been sunbathing on a city beach in Sewastopol when missile debris fell and detonated. Initially, the Russian military claimed ownership for the missile launch, but later retracted the statement and declared that Ukrainian flying objects had been aimed at civilians. In Russian military blogs, this claim is being challenged in some places. Nearby, there are several military installations.
11:01 Germany is under attack for new Russia sanctions packageFollowing the formal decision on new sanctions against Russia, criticism is coming from the Baltic States towards Germany. Lithuania's Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis finds the sanctions "regrettably weaker" than intended. His Estonian colleague Margus Tsahkna states it's "getting increasingly difficult in the European Union to reach a consensus on new sanctions". Until now, the main obstacle has been Hungary, but now the German government is hindering stricter guidelines against bypassing sanctions through third countries. The EU Commission had imagined EU companies to be held liable if prohibited goods reached Russia via their subsidiaries, such as in Kazakhstan. Berlin objected, arguing that the measures would harm Germany as the largest EU export nation more than Russia. Now, the companies are only expected to make "best possible efforts" against sanctions violations.
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09:44 More than 110 new individuals and organizations added to EU sanctions list
The EU countries have imposed the 14th round of sanctions against Russia. As per a statement, 116 individuals and institutions will face sanctions, and stricter measures will be implemented against attempts to bypass existing sanctions. Moreover, investments in Russian liquefied natural gas projects will be blocked.
09:25 EU aims to bypass member state blockade of frozen Russian funds for Ukraine
EU foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, plans to prevent a EU member state from obstructing the utilization of funds from frozen Russian financial assets intended to support Ukraine. Borrell intends to present a proposal before the EU foreign ministers' meeting in Luxembourg. "We have a legal procedure to prevent any sort of blockade."
08:58 Russia alleges Ukraine's involvement in Dagestan terror attack
From the Russian parliament comes, without proof, accusations that Ukraine is responsible for the terrorist attack in Dagestan, as reported by NTV correspondent Rainer Munz. The Kremlin is trying to "divert attention from the seriousness of Islamic terror within Russia."
08:23 Ingress of reports about attack in Odessa
Media outlets report that a fire broke out in Odessa in the morning. Belarusian opposition medium Nexta reports of a powerful explosion, while "Kyiv Post" reports an attack on civilian infrastructure.
07:51 Governor Schwesig arrives in Kiev - "Ukraine should win this war"
As the first Bundesrat president, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's Governor Manuela Schwesig visits Ukraine. The SPD politician arrived in Kiev by train and plans to hold political talks during the day. "This is a show of solidarity from all 16 federal states with Ukraine," she stated on her way. "Ukraine must win this war, and it should not be possible for Russia to succeed with this aggression." This statement is not well-received by all politicians. Chancellor Olaf Scholz instead always mentions that Russia should not win the war and Ukraine should not lose it.
07:36 Ongoing intense fighting over Nowooleksandriwka
Reports indicate that the Ukrainian army is engaged in intense combat for the control of the village Nowooleksandriwka in the Donezk region. According to Ukrainian sources, Russian troops have not completely occupied the town.
06:52 Russian unit allegedly holding its wounded prisoners under harsh conditions
A Russian military blogger reports that commanders of various units of the so-called Donetsk People's Republic are mistreating their wounded subordinates. A brigade is said to be keeping its wounded without medical treatment in the city of Donetsk instead of giving them necessary care, as cited by the US think tank Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
06:21 Third Estonian volunteer dies in combat in Luhansk region
An Estonian volunteer who served in the Ukrainian army has lost his life in a fight in the Luhansk region. This is reported by Kyiv Independent, citing Estonian newspaper "Postimees". Martin Jaager, a 42-year-old professional soldier, was reportedly killed on Saturday and becomes the third Estonian to perish in Ukraine's defense. After serving in an elite unit in Estonia, he joined the Ukrainian army over a year ago.
05:44 EU foreign ministers meeting: Tensions mount between EU and Hungary
The EU foreign ministers and ministers are meeting in Luxembourg today to discuss the Russian aggression against Ukraine. Planned is a debate with the Ukrainian chief diplomat Dmytro Kuleba, who will be connected via video. The tension between the EU and Hungary is increasing to abandon its opposition to military aid worth approximately 6.5 billion Euros. At the foreign ministers' meeting at the end of May, there was a contentious debate about this.
04:45 Moscow accuses the US of responsibility for the rocket attack on Crimea
After a rocket attack on the annexed Crimean Peninsula, Moscow implicates the US. "The main responsibility for the provocative rocket attack on the civilian population of Sevastopol lies with Washington, which has supplied these weapons to Ukraine, and with the Kiev regime, from whose territory this attack was launched," the ministry stated. US special agents are claimed to have determined the launch coordinates of the rockets using information from US spy satellite intelligence, which means that the US government is directly involved. Four people, including two children, were killed and 151 others were injured, according to the Defense Ministry.
03:42 IAEA condemns attacks near Saporischschja NPP
The International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA calls for an immediate halt to attacks on the Ukrainian city of Enerhodar near the Saporischschja Nuclear Power Plant. "Whoever is responsible for these attacks must cease immediately. Drone attacks on the power plant and its surroundings are increasingly frequent," IAEA chief Rafael Grossi stated. "These attacks are unacceptable and violate the universally agreed upon security principles and guidelines." In the past week, drone attacks have hit two transformer stations. The power supply to the citizens was disrupted momentarily. According to Grossi, the previous incidents had no impact on the operation of the Saporischschja Nuclear Power Plant.
02:45 Stoltenberg to confer with Macron in Paris about additional Ukraine aid
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is traveling to Paris for talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday. The expected topic of discussion is further support for Ukraine in its war against Russia. Macron announced earlier this month his plan to form a coalition for the deployment of Western military trainers in Ukraine.
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01:43 Orban calls for an end to fighting in Ukraine ASAP
In preparation for Hungary's EU presidency, Prime Minister Viktor Orban has presented an initiative to end the Ukraine conflict ASAP. "It's obvious that Russia's attack on Ukraine is absolutely unacceptable and against the fundamental principles of international relations," Orban told Funke Media Group newspapers. "The priority now is to stop the bloodshed at the front." Orban believes that the end of the war in Ukraine is a crucial aspect of Hungary's EU presidency, which commences on July 1.
00:53 Ukraine strikes again on Crimean peninsula
Under the cover of darkness, Ukraine fired rockets at targets in the Crimean peninsula, annexed by Russia. Explosions were reported in the port city of Evpatoria, and the city's authorities alerted people during the nighttime attacks. The severity of the damage is still uncertain. Several media outlets shared images and videos of fires arising from the attacks, but neither the Ukrainian nor Russian authorities have confirmed reports of military targets being struck.
23:49 Zelenskyy demands greater weapons and permission to attack deep within Russia
Due to persistent artillery attacks on the city of Kharkiv, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is pushing for better weapons and permission to launch strikes deep within Russian territory. "The Russian air force must be destroyed wherever it resides, and all available means should be employed to that end," Zelenskyy said in his daily video update. The Ukrainian government is discussing possible solutions with its Western partners.
22:49 Prien criticizes the federal government for failing to aid refugees
In response to CSU regional leader Alexander Dobrindt's suggestion for social aid for Ukrainian refugees, CDU deputy chairwoman Karin Prien spoke about the reasons for their migration. "Ukrainians are fleeing Putin's terror and Putin's war. Indeed, they receive our protection and hospitality," wrote Schleswig-Holstein's Education Minister on the X platform. "The majority of refugees who have left Ukraine are eager to establish themselves here, work, and prepare for the reconstruction of their homeland. Our responsibility is to facilitate their involvement in the job market," emphasized Prien. She also criticized the federal government for falling short in this area.
European Commission anticipates Russian interference in the 2025 Bundestag election
In anticipation of the Bundestag election next year, EU Commission Vice-President Vera Jourova raised concerns about potential intervention efforts by Russia. "We are now living in a time of hostile influence," the EU Commissioner for Transparency and Values, as well as the Protector of Democracy, told the "Süddeutsche Zeitung." "I fear that Voice of Europe may serve as a blueprint for more operations - also in preparation for the Bundestag election in 2025. This supposed media outlet is likely only the tip of the iceberg." In May, the EU forbade broadcasting for Voice of Europe and three other Russian media companies within the European Union, arguing that they were controlled by the Russian government and targeted political parties in Europe, mainly during election periods. Voice of Europe, based in Prague, is suspected of spreading pro-Russian propaganda in the EU and funding European politicians.
21:45 Ukrainian energy company announces power outages across the country
With escalating Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, the state energy provider has announced more power outages in the near future. Ukrenergo announced the news on Telegram. The energy usage at the start of the week is expected to rise, and the power grid reportedly weakened due to "massive Russian attacks." Ukraine had already implemented rolling power cuts since May due to the damaged energy infrastructure. For Monday, Ukrenergo announced the greatest limitations between 19 and 23 hours.
Read also:
- Following the EU's decision to use frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government, which is set to take over the EU presidency soon, maintains friendly ties with Russia.
- The Ukrainian Navy and SBU (Security Service of Ukraine) claim to have annihilated 120 Russian drones during a raid on the Russian region of Krasnodar, targeting infrastructure on a training ground of the Russian Air Defense.
- Emmanuel Macron, the French President, has reiterated France's "unwavering support" to Ukraine, addressing concerns in Kiev that right-wing populists in France could impact Ukraine's stance on the conflict.
- In response to new EU sanctions, Russia has threatened retaliation while also announcing an expansion of its list of banned individuals with no further details provided.
