11:55 PM Poland and Greece Urge EU to Establish Air Defense Shield

Poland and Greece urge the EU to establish an air defense shield.

In the shadow of Russia's assault against Ukraine, Poland and Greece have urged the EU to construct an air defense barrier to safeguard European nations. The leaders of both countries wrote a joint letter to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, asserting, "Europe will stay secure as long as the skies above it are secure." They considered this project a necessary answer to "the considerable weakness of our security."

Enigmatic detonations seem to have taken place in the Russian-occupied Crimea. It is speculated that Ukraine struck targets on the island using the ATACMS missiles given to them by the U.S. a few weeks back. Footage from the Crimean coast in the village of Alushta could show at least one explosion. However, no confirmation has been given yet. Russian air defenses also appear to be active from the provided footage. Governor of Crimea, Sergei Aksyonov, an appointee of the Russian occupiers, acknowledges missile strikes on Simferopol and Alushta through a Telegram post, alleging two casualties and an empty commercial building. Russia typically minimizes Kyiv's attacks or claims to have downed all missiles and drones. Ukraine has lately focused on targeting Russian air defense systems and radars. Certain sources hypothesize this is also the case now.

Vladimir Verteletsky, head of the Russian Ministry of Defense's department for ensuring the state defense order, has reportedly been detained. He is charged with massive financial fraud. Not long ago, Vadim Shamarin, the Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, was apprehended. He became the fourth high-ranking military figure to fall into custody since April. The wave of arrests began with the replacement of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Seven children abducted by Russia and taken to territories under Russian control have returned to Ukraine, according to Kiev's government. Ukrainian Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets revealed that these kids were brought back. Aged between six and seventeen, six more children are believed to be returned by Russia, according to the Russian state news agency TASS. The mediation between Ukraine and Russia for returning children was handled by Qatar. Kiev maintains that approximately 20,000 children have been abducted from Ukraine to Russia or Russian-occupied terrains by occupied forces, without the consent of a family or guardian, a war crime. However, Russia claims it has protected vulnerable children from the war zone. In mid-2023, Qatar consented to a Ukrainian request to mediate with Russia on the return of children.

A modernized version of Kiev's "Sea Baby" combat boats, once used by their armed forces, can be mounted with a multiple rocket launcher.

Political scientist Thomas Jäger notes the possibility that Russia may extend the war to other countries if the U.S. allows Ukrainian forces to use arms on Russian territory.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov is warning the U.S. against permitting Ukraine to launch attacks on Russian territory with American weapons. "This stance is recklessly careless..." Peskov remarked to Russian state TV, "the consequences are exceedingly dangerous." While there are individuals in the U.S. encouraging conflict, said Peskov, Moscow has been at war with Ukraine for a decade, pushing for an invasion two years ago.

Ralph Thiele, a military expert, states that the move to send U.S. troops to Ukraine may escalate the conflict. Washington's ongoing mind games about sending military aid could be attributed to "sleeping on the job" when it comes to weapons deliveries, Thiele stated. During his recent visit to Kiev, U.S. Secretary of State Blinken remarked, "We haven't supported or enabled attacks outside Ukraine, but ultimately, Ukraine must determine how it wants to prosecute this war—a war it is fighting in defense of freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity."

This escalation has led to increased fears among supporters of Ukraine, according to the Kremlin.

6:12 HIMARS and Artillery: The Upcoming US Military Aid for Ukraine

The U.S. is set to provide Ukraine with another $275 million worth of military aid. This package comprises HIMARS multiple rocket launcher systems and artillery shells, as shared by two U.S. government sources with the Associated Press. This aid is the fourth package sent to Ukraine since April when the Congress passed a delayed foreign aid bill. Biden's administration has made a commitment to continuously supply weapons to Ukraine and swiftly deliver them to the frontlines.

17:40 Did Ukraine Strike Russian Targets with Super Drones?

Allegedly, Ukraine attacked targets deep inside Russia by reaching cities like Kazan and Nizhnekamsk. According to a military intelligence source, this was facilitated by drones. These drones were reportedly converted light aircrafts, including Aeropract A-22s, that became unmanned kamikaze missiles. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported only the shooting down of one unnamed drone. This event prompted local companies to evacuate and some airports temporarily shut down.

1:15 A Wave of Deepfakes Floods Chinese Social Media

China's social media is experiencing a surge in deepfakes. Unknown individuals are using AI to generate false videos with Russian women, tagged with phrases they never said, such as "China is the safest country in the world." The Chinese government is now considering a law to ban this practice.

15:38 Main Power Line for Russia-Held Ukrainian Nuclear Power Plant Fails

The primary power line providing electricity to the Russian-controlled Ukrainian nuclear power plant in Zaporizhia has failed, as per Russian sources. No immediate danger was reported, as the plant can be powered through a backup supply or diesel generators for cooling systems to prevent a meltdown. The International Atomic Energy Agency has issued warnings since 2022 about power supply issues in the nuclear plant that heighten risks to nuclear safety.

3:12 International Fund Provides Military Aid Package to Ukraine

While worth only a fraction, this aid is still significant: the International Fund for Ukraine announced a $150 million military package. The funds will be used to enhance Ukraine's air defense and maritime capacities, including radars, drone defense systems, and small boats, as stated by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense. The IFU, managed by the UK Ministry of Defense, is funded by international partners, including the UK, Norway, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and Lithuania.

14:43 Baltic Defence Ministers Call for Significant Increase in Defense Spending

The defense ministers of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are advocating for a considerable increase in defense spending ahead of the NATO summit. They seek a minimum of 2.5% of their respective Gross Domestic Products, while currently, the standard is 2%. The organization expects 18 of its members to reach this mark in 2023. The Baltic states have been major supporters of Ukraine and consistently urged NATO for more resolute action against Russian aggression.

13:00 Removal of Estonian Buoys Offers Suspicious Hint for Russia's Possible Provocation?

Estonia claims the Russian border guard removed buoys in Estonian territorial waters of the Narva River to mark shipping routes. This river forms part of the border between the two countries. According to Eerik Purgel, the head of the Border Guard Bureau, prewar efforts saw both sides mutually place buoys annually. However, since 2023, Russia has refused to cooperate with Estonia. Estonia consequently reinstalled the first 50 buoys, only to come across the Russian border guard removing 24 of them. Estonia plans to reach out to the Russian authorities to address this issue.

2:30 PM - Ukrainian army commander discusses battleground developmentsUkrainian army commander Syrskyj has issued a statement on the current state of affairs in the war zones. After initially successful advances on the third front in the Kharkiv region, Russian forces are said to be intensively engaged in urban combat around Vovchansk, causing massive casualties. According to Syrskyj, the enemy is deploying reinforcements, but with no success. The situation around Chassiv Yar, a particularly contested city, is also being closely monitored. He noted that the Russians are attempting to maintain control over the area but are facing significant losses from anti-tank weapons and drones as their more advanced T-90M, BMP-3, and BMD-4 tanks and infantry fighting vehicles are destroyed during their push.

1:56 PM - Putin plans to visit Lukashenko in Belarus for two daysVladimir Putin, Russian President, is set to travel to Belarus for a two-day official visit to meet his close ally, Belarusian ruler Alexander Lukashenko. The agenda for their meeting includes discussions on the development of bilateral relations and major international political issues, the Kremlin announced. This is Putin's second overseas trip since his inauguration for his fifth term. Previously, he visited China, and Lukashenko last visited Moscow for a military parade on May 9, 2023.

1:22 PM - Russia continues to threaten counterstrikes against British targetsMoscow continues to issue warnings that it will target British resources if Ukraine were to fire on Russian territory with British-provided weapons. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has previously stated this and reiterated the threat following British Foreign Secretary David Cameron's claim that Ukraine has the right to use London-supplied weapons against targets in Russia. These warnings possibly stem from Cameron's comments, which resulted in Russia staging a rehearsal of tactical nuclear missile launches.

12:51 PM - Andriyivka, a devastated village captured by Russian forces, reportedThe Russian Ministry of Defense has announced the capture of the village of Andriyivka in the Donetsk region, with no official statement being made by Ukraine. In the past, Ukraine had regained control over Andriyivka, which sits near Bakhmut, but more fighting erupted there in January 2024. The village has been almost completely destroyed.

12:23 PM - Yellen emphasizes financial support for Ukraine will not ceaseUS Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen emphasized that funding for Ukraine will not be terminated, indicating that frozen Russian assets could be utilized beyond 2025 to become a substantial source of financing for Ukraine. The G7's finance ministers are expected to address this during their meeting in Italy. The intention is to use the future benefits from these funds to issue bonds or secure loans.

11:58 AM - Steinmeier calls for stronger defense measures and mutual supportGerman President Frank-Walter Steinmeier views the Russian invasion of Ukraine as a significant turning point in history. In a speech, he argues that military and societal resilience are connected, expressing his belief that Germany should engage in discussions related to military service and other forms of support to the community. Complementing this, Steinmeier stresses the necessity of bolstering their defenses and strengthening their alliances. As a former Foreign Minister, he was vocal about NATO's military exercises in Eastern Europe and deemed them as "loud sabre-rattling and howling of war."

11:31 AM - Six casualties reported from Russian missile attacks on KharkivUkrainian sources report at least six fatalities owing to Russian missile strikes on Kharkiv. Throughout the morning, the city was struck more than 15 times, according to reports. Injuries were also sustained by 16 inhabitants, and a private company and transport infrastructure objects were damaged. Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the "brutal attacks" and appealed to the world to pressure Russia into ceasing such violence.

Summarizing: Ukrainian army commander Syrskyj discusses Russian casualties in Vovchansk and the ongoing assault on Chassiv Yar, Russian President Vladimir Putin plans a two-day visit to Belarus to meet with President Alexander Lukashenko, EU High Rep Josep Borrell suggests financial aid for Ukraine could come from frozen Russian assets, and Germany's Frank-Walter Steinmeier stresses the need for stronger defense measures. Additionally, reports of Russian attacks on Kharkiv have surfaced, with at least six casualties.

Norway Intends to Restrict Entry for Russian Citizens

The Norwegian government has announced plans to tighten entry regulations for Russian citizens. Starting May 29th, Russians traveling for non-essential purposes, including tourism, will be deported upon arrival at the country's external border, regardless of whether their visa was issued by Norway or another Schengen country. This decision aligns with Norway's policy of standing united with allies and partners in response to Russia's unlawful invasion of Ukraine, according to Minister of Justice and Public Security Emilie Enger Mehl.

Potential Use of US Weapons in Ukraine: Disastrous Consequences for Russia

As Russian attacks on Ukraine escalate, there is growing speculation about the United States' potential involvement. The US is considering the possibility of allowing Kiev to use American weapons against Russian territory. This would cause severe consequences for Moscow, according to ntv Moscow correspondent Rainer Munz.

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

Sweden's Defense Against an Uncertain Timeline

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Sweden has been preparing for war. Boasting extensive networks of power lines running through forests, Sweden is highly vulnerable to sabotage. Civil Defense Minister Carl-Oskar Bohlin emphasizes the importance of being prepared, as attacks on critical infrastructure are a common occurrence during wartime. The aim is to minimize the impact of power outages that could occur during conflict. "No one knows how much time we have," he says.

Arrests of Senior Russian Military Officers

Russia's purge continues with the arrest of the army's deputy chief of staff, Vadim Shamarin, on corruption charges. He is detained pending further investigation. The Minister of Defense, responsible for communications, has also been accused of bribery, a crime that carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison in Russia. Shamarin is the fourth senior officer arrested since April, when Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov was arrested for similar accusations.

Recruiting for the Ukrainian Army

Ukraine is in dire need of weapons and soldiers. The country is employing innovative methods to gather personnel reinforcements. In addition to purchasing new weapons, Ukraine is turning to new resources - prisoners and a mobile app - to join its army. This initiative is designed to attract people who can contribute to the fight against Russian aggression.

Possible Use of US Weapons to Target Russian Territory?

US President Joe Biden has previously insisted that weapons supplied to Ukraine should not be used against Russian territory. However, Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent visit to Kiev has reportedly prompted a shift in the White House's stance. The New York Times reports that Washington is contemplating allowing the Ukrainians to fire US weapons at missile and artillery positions in Russia. This proposal, which is still in its infancy, is facing opposition from within the administration.

“Compatriots Abroad”: The Kremlin's New Strategy

The Kremlin is increasingly relying on "compatriots abroad" as a source of support. Moscow's minister in charge of this group, Yevgeny Primakov, has announced the imminent completion of an "electronic map of compatriots," through which citizens living overseas can access various state services. This service is expected to provide more opportunities for these individuals to visit Russia, work there, and potentially gain Russian citizenship in the future. Primakov estimates that there are between 20 and 40 million people who could fall under this category. However, the Institute for the Study of War suggests that this recruitment drive may be an attempt to justify further aggression and hybrid operations abroad to "protect" Russian compatriots.

Russian Missiles and Drones Attack on Belgorod Region

Russian forces launched 38 missiles and three drones at the Belgorod region from Ukraine overnight, according to the Ministry of Defense. The region's government reports no casualties.

Hundreds of alleged criminals: Russia has systematically kidnapped, tortured, and murdered Ukrainians

The Ukrainian prosecutors have identified 357 Russian soldiers and occupation officials who allegedly committed war crimes, according to the Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin. He states that the actual number of such crimes is higher, encompassing those committed in temporarily occupied territories and in detention centers on Russian territory. These crimes include deliberate killings, torture, and mistreatment of civilians and prisoners of war. 83 individuals have already been convicted. Since the onset of its criminal invasion in 2014, Russia has been systematically kidnapping, torturing, and murdering Ukrainians, and with the initiation of full-scale war, this policy of terrorizing and destroying all those who identify as Ukrainian has become even more ruthless.

Videos display extensive Russian bombardments

Ukraine has reported success in defending Kharkiv in the region's northeast, but troops had to be withdrawn from other parts of the front, resulting in setbacks. The army can no longer shield the entire front. In the meantime, Russia continues its attacks on several areas.

Defense near Kharkiv: "Our defenders are putting up a strong fight"

The Ukrainian General Staff is currently observing the most fights within the coal and steel district of Donbass, where 25 battles have been recorded in the area northwest of Avdiivka. "The enemy is attempting to infiltrate our battalion formations with assault groups and equipment," the military announced. President Volodymyr Zelensky also mentioned this area as a focal point of the conflict. Regarding the mid-May front established near Kharkiv, the Ukrainian military asserts that "the defense forces have the situation under control." The clashes are occurring in the villages of Lipzy and Starytsya and the small town of Vovchansk.

USA considered response to Georgia's "Russian law"

Following the enactment of a controversial "foreign influence" law in Georgia, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announces a U.S. "response." "We are seriously concerned about the foreign agents bill that was passed," Blinken shares with the U.S. Congress. "We are carefully examining a potential response, and I anticipate that we will act," the Secretary emphasized. This law clearly defies the desire of the majority of Georgians to progress toward the EU. As in Russia, the contentious law is aimed at limiting foreign influence on non-governmental organizations.

Study: Secure natural gas supply even without Russian imports

A ban on Russian natural gas imports into the EU would not compromise gas supplies in the EU, according to a study by the DIW economic research institute. If the demand for gas in the EU persists until 2030, it would be possible to replace Russian natural gas completely, as per the study. "The gas demand could be satisfied by pipeline imports from other countries and LNG without expanding the infrastructure in almost all situations," the authors state. Furthermore, Central and Eastern European EU countries, such as Austria and Hungary, which are heavily reliant on Russian natural gas, could also secure their supplies. "Security of supply should not preclude additional EU sanctions against Russia," the study concludes.

Romania hesitant about Patriot delivery to Ukraine

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis is skeptical regarding a possible transfer of a Patriot system to Ukraine. Such a delivery will require the approval of the Supreme Council for National Defense and cannot endanger Romania's air defense, he says. Iohannis adds that this issue will not be publicly discussed, but rather via private consultations with military experts and the Supreme Council. The delivery of a Patriot system entails several logistic and legal challenges. "Even if Romania ultimately agrees to some concessions, it must receive something in return. Otherwise, there won't be any progress."

Poland ponders shooting down Russian missiles over Ukrainian territory

Poland is considering engaging its air defenses to neutralize Russian missiles over Ukrainian territory, according to Polish Foreign Ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski. Zelensky had previously stated in an interview that Western allies, including Poland, could directly aid Ukraine's defense by targeting Russian missiles. In response to Zelensky's statement, Vronsky stated, "This issue is being analyzed from a legal and technical standpoint."

Ukraine seemingly downs Russian fighter jet

The Ukrainian troops claim they have destroyed a Russian SU-25 fighter jet near Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region. "We have destroyed a Russian SU-25 attack aircraft based on the information available," the General Staff announced. The Soviet-designed SU-25, known as the "Frog's Foot" by NATO, is a ferociously armed ground attack aircraft that reinforces Russian ground forces. The aircraft is instrumental in facilitating Russia's massive strikes on several sections of the eastern frontline, primarily in the Donetsk area. [Note: The paraphrased text may vary slightly in terms of sentence structure and vocabulary choices, but all critical information remains intact.]

At 3:02 AM, Sweden will provide 6.5 billion euros worth of military aid to Ukraine over the course of three years. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson made this announcement, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selensky thanked him profusely. Selensky expressed how this aid would not only benefit Ukraine, but also the European region stretching from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. He also stated, "Ukraine's cause is Sweden's cause."

Kadyrov, the ruler of Chechnya, offered more troops to Russian President Vladimir Putin during a meeting at the Kremlin. According to Kadyrov's statement, there are tens of thousands of "well-trained and equipped fighters from the reserve" available to fight for Russia in Ukraine if given the order. So far, 43,500 soldiers have already served in Ukraine, with 18,000 being volunteers.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is still gathering support for a peace summit scheduled to take place in Switzerland in mid-June. Zelensky has spoken with the Chilean, Albanian, Austrian, and Mozambican heads of state and government and thanked them for their commitment to the conference. It has already been confirmed that Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz will represent Germany, and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer will attend the conference on June 15/16 near Lucerne. Nehammer sees this conference as an essential step towards making peace possible again.

president Volodymyr Zelensky urges the West for assistance against glide bomb attacks by Russia. Zelensky stressed the importance of these weapons for Russian air strikes. He hopes for systems and tactics that will help Ukraine defend itself against these bombs. These glide bombs are becoming more popular with Russian pilots because they can be dropped relatively safely and are challenging to counter.

At 11:43 PM, Ukraine released its first prisoners to serve in the military during the ongoing war with Russia. In the western city of Khmelnytsky, a court granted parole releases to two inmates who committed theft. These prisoners are now allowed to join Ukraine's National Guard as part of a new regulation permitting prisoners willing to serve in the military to be released on parole. Since the law's implementation, more than 3,000 inmates have applied for early release.