Putin's visit to North Korea signifies a display of weakness, according to Jäger.
Putin eyes new ties in Asia, but China's wary of a Russian-North Korean alliance, says Politic Scientist Thomas Jäger. In an ntv interview, he explains China's reasons for setting boundaries on cooperation between Russia and North Korea.
15:54 Denmark unveils new aid package for Ukraine: Denmark is offering Ukraine more aid. The package includes financial backing for the Ukrainian defense industry, F-16 fighter jet spare parts, and military equipment from Danish stocks, as stated by the Danish Defense Ministry in Copenhagen. This marks the 19th Danish aid package for the besieged nation.
15:34 Military spokesperson: Russians planning fresh offensive on Borowa: According to Ukrainian sources, the Russian military is readying for another assault on the Borowa settlement in the Kharkiv region, as reported by Ukrinform, citing an unnamed military spokesperson on national television. Panic and the spread of false information about the enemy's advance should be avoided, he warns.
15:01 China denies supporting Russian war: China denies aiding Russia in its attack on Ukraine and lambasts the US for making corresponding accusations via US Foreign Minister Antony Blinken. "China hasn't fueled the flames or attempted to exploit the situation, and has always advocated for peace talks," says the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian. "We firmly oppose the US disseminating unfounded information and shifting blame onto China," Lin also says.
14:29 Russia moving troops from Finnish border to Ukraine: Russia has transported most of its ground forces, which were stationed along the Finnish border, to Ukraine, according to the Finnish broadcaster Yle, sourced from an unnamed source in the Finnish Military Intelligence Service. Contradicting earlier Russian claims about fortifying their troops near the Finnish border in response to Finland's NATO membership, these troops are now being deployed to Ukraine. "On average, 80% of the equipment and soldiers have been moved to the Ukraine conflict," says the intelligence service source Yle.
14:00 Russians damaging multiple energy facilities in Ukraine: According to Ukrainian accounts, Russian attacks overnight in western Ukraine have damaged energy facilities near the Polish border and in the country's central region. The Energy Ministry in Kiev reports that an energy facility in a central region was attacked, and some facilities were destroyed. Police and emergency services are on site. In the western region of Lviv, which has so far avoided the worst fighting, reports of damaged power lines and electrical facilities due to shelling have emerged. The regional governor reports that two civilians aged 47 and 70 were injured in the nighttime attacks. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that they shot down 19 out of 21 drones launched by Russia in the night, originating from Iran.
13:35 ECB Study: Ukraine War Slows Down Eurozone More Than US: The Corona Pandemic and the Ukraine War are significantly slowing down growth in the Eurozone more than in the US, states a study by the ECB. Eurozone's GDP grew by around three percent from the fourth quarter of 2019 to the fourth quarter of 2023, according to ECB experts. During the same period, the US economy grew by over eight percent. "This gap is primarily due to weaker private consumption in the Eurozone compared to the US," write the authors. The Eurozone has suffered significantly more from the economic repercussions of the Russian military conflict against Ukraine. The energy crisis, inflation surge at food prices, and negative effects on consumer confidence in the Eurozone have had a profound impact. "This is because of the geographical proximity, high degree of dependence on energy and food imports from this region, and the negative impacts on consumer confidence in the Eurozone," write the authors. The Eurozone, which is more open in terms of trade, has also been hit hard by supply chain disruptions and the global economic downturn.
13:17 Moscow to halt membership in OSCE Assembly: Russia will withdraw from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and stop paying dues to the organization, as announced by the head of the Russian Federation Council, Valentina Matviyenko, in Russian state media. The decision will be made in conjunction with the State Duma. The Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE-PA) is biased and heavily influenced by Ukraine, according to Matviyenko. Moscow has tried to avoid this step, but Romania, as host of the OSCE-PA annual session, has recently refused visas for all members of the Russian delegation due to Russia's military action against Ukraine. With this move, a line has been crossed, Russia is no longer willing to tolerate it, Matviyenko added. She also pointed out that the organization will suffer as crucial security issues in Europe cannot be discussed without Russia's participation.
The head of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the Federation Council, Grigori Karasin, had earlier expressed frustration that Romania had denied visas to all members of the Russian delegation due to Russia's military aggression against Ukraine. The 31st OSCE-PA annual session is scheduled for June 29 to July 3 in Bucharest.
12:47 Advanced Artillery Systems Heading to Ukraine:Ukraine's signed a deal with KNDS for the delivery of 54 mobile self-propelled howitzers, known as the RCH 155 artillery system. These advanced guns can fire precision shots while moving, reaching targets up to 54 kilometers away. The system is remotely controllable via remote control. Although it was known in 2022 that Ukraine would receive RCH 155, only 36 examples were mentioned until now. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2025, and KNDS also announced that it would produce 78 CAESAR systems for Ukraine that year.
12:22 Trubetskoy's Words to Putin about Kim Jong Un: "North Korea's rockets are subpar"Ukraine is uneasy about Putin's visit to North Korea, as huge weapons deliveries are on the way, reports Ukrainian journalist Dennis Trubetskoy in an ntv interview. Pictures have shown that North Korea's rockets are not top-notch, but they might improve.
12:02 Partnership Agreement between Putin and Kim: "Aid" in "Aggression"According to Russian President Vladimir Putin's statements to Russian news agencies during his state visit to North Korea, the partnership treaty signed between the two countries includes mutual "aid" in the event of an "aggression" against one of the parties. "The comprehensive partnership treaty signed today includes mutual aid in the event of an aggression against one of the contracting parties," Putin is reported to have said. Russia will not rule out "military-technical cooperation" with North Korea, Putin added. The treaty is a "breakthrough" that raises the relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang to a "new level," Putin said. "Both Russia and North Korea pursue an independent foreign policy and do not accept the language of coercion and dictates," Putin stated. Both states will continue to resist the practice of strangulation through sanctions, an instrument that the West is accustomed to using to maintain its dominance in politics, economics, and other areas, Putin added. North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un described the agreement as "peaceful and defensive in nature." The "powerful" treaty is "constructive" and "future-oriented," Kim said. Kim referred to Putin as "the best friend of the Korean people" (also see entries at 09:00 and 07:27 hours).
11:21 Execution of an Ukrainian Soldier: Identified Russian Commanders ImplicatedUkrainian prosecutors have identified Russian commanders who may be responsible for the execution of an Ukrainian soldier. The General Prosecutor of Ukraine, Andriy Kostin, made the announcement, according to X. The deceased soldier has also been identified, the information indicates, which is currently being verified. This is further evidence that Russia "flagrantly disregards international law and universal morality," the General Prosecutor stated. "Every world leader who shakes hands with Putin must be aware that they are shaking hands with someone who tolerates barbaric murder," so Kostin. Previously, it was reported that Russians in the Donetsk region had beheaded an Ukrainian soldier. The head was discovered on a military vehicle during an aerial reconnaissance mission. The photo was published on the internet.
10:54 Russian Deputy Minister: Waiting for US Response on Prisoner Exchange ProposalsFew days before the trial commencement against the US reporter Evan Gershkovich in Russia, who is charged with espionage, Moscow speaks about a possible prisoner exchange. "The ball is in the field of the United States" says the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov in an interview with the state Russian news agency TASS. "We are waiting for them to react to the proposals we have made", he adds. The Russian proposals are "well known" to the relevant US government bodies, says Ryabkov further. "I understand that perhaps something in these proposals does not suit the Americans. That's their problem", he adds. In his view, Moscow's approach is "completely justified, reasonable and balanced". He provided no details about this. Gershkovich was arrested in March 2023 during a reporting trip to Russia and has been in the Lefortovo Prison in Moscow since then. The prosecutor accuses the Wall Street Journal reporter of working for the CIA and collecting secret information about the tank manufacturer Uralvagonzavod in the Sverdlovsk region. The trial against him begins on June 26 in the eastern Siberian city of Yekaterinburg behind closed doors. If convicted, the 32-year-old faces up to 20 years in prison.
10:20 Russian Nuclear-powered Submarines Practice Shooting in the Barents SeaRussia is using nuclear-powered submarines for military exercises in the Barents Sea, according to its own reports. Ships of the Northern Fleet, which are nuclear-powered, fired rockets at targets at sea, as Russian news agencies report. The exercise was successful. The Barents Sea lies off the northern coasts of Norway and Russia.
10:01 US Senator Warns of Russian Interference in British ElectionsRussian interference in the upcoming elections in Britain is likely to increase significantly before the election day on July 4, according to US Senator Mark Warner, as reported by "Kyiv Independent". Warner, who chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee, says that Russia and its representatives are sowing dissatisfaction or trying to pit groups against each other to fuel social division in Britain. "The US is closely monitoring the situation in Britain," Warner says and adds, "We have seen evidence of Russia's massive efforts to interfere in elections around the world."
09:31 Munz: Announcement "very vague" - that's why Russia wants to revise its Atom doctrine
Russia Plans to Modify Its Nuclear Strategy; Putin's Visit to North Korea Explained
At 09:00, Putin expresses gratitude to Kim for backing Russia's actions in Ukraine
During his trip to North Korea, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Kim Jong Un's support for Moscow's stance on Ukraine. In return, Kim promised unwavering assistance and unity. The meeting commenced with Putin announcing the agreement of a document designed to fortify ties between Moscow and Pyongyang. According to Russian agencies TASS and Ria Novosti, Putin declared this new "cornerstone agreement" would serve as the foundation for future relations between the two nations. Putin praised the strong bond between the two nations, attributing it to mutual respect and shared interests.
At 08:31, Reisner suggests progress in the war zone as Ukraine uses heavy western artillery
Colonel Reisner of the Austrian Army suggested that the initiative in certain war zones had shifted since Ukraine was armed with western weaponry. This new arsenal had placed pressure on Russian logistics and could potentially enable Ukrainian forces to take the offensive.
At 08:08, Kiev discloses estimated Russian losses of over 529,000 soldiers
Since the conflict began on February 24, Ukraine claims that Russia has lost over 529,750 soldiers. In addition, Russia has allegedly lost 7984 tanks, 15,319 armored combat vehicles, 19,078 vehicles and fuel tanks, 14,007 artillery systems, 1104 multiple rocket launchers, 857 air defense systems, 359 aircraft, 326 helicopters, 11,221 drones, 28 ships and boats, and a submarine.
At 07:27, Putin announces new "cornerstone agreement" between Russia and North Korea
During his meeting with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, Putin unveiled a new "cornerstone agreement" between the two countries. "Today, a new cornerstone agreement is ready that will serve as the foundation for our long-term relations," Putin reportedly said, according to Russian news agencies present. Putin also expressed excitement about inviting Kim to visit Moscow, as reported by Russian agencies.
Concerns have been raised by the US government regarding Putin's visit to North Korea. "The increased partnership between Russia and North Korea is a matter of concern for anyone aiming to maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, as well as support for the people of Ukraine, who are still battling against Russian aggression," said John Kirby, spokesperson for the US Defense Department in Washington.
At 07:06, a US Soldier receives multiple-year prison sentence in Russia
A US Soldier named Gordon Black was sentenced to several years in prison by a Russian court for threats and theft. Black's lawyer has announced plans to file an appeal against the verdict, as reported by Russian agencies RIA Novosti and TASS. Black was arrested in Vladivostok in May after visiting a Russian woman he met during his service in South Korea. The Russian justice system accuses Black of assaulting the woman and stealing 10,000 Rubles (around 109 Euros) from her. Black has reportedly confessed to part of the crime but denies making threats against the woman, who was heavily intoxicated at the time of the incident. The two had initially met through a dating app in South Korea and had developed a relationship, with Waschtschuk inviting him to Vladiwostok. According to the US Army, the soldier completed his service in South Korea on April 10 before traveling to Vladiwostok for personal reasons via China.
At 06:31, a Kazakh activist and popular blogger is shot in Kiev
A known Kazakh opposition figure and blogger, Aydos Sadykow, was shot and injured near his home in Kiev, according to his wife Natalia Sadykowa and Ukrainian authorities. Sadykow is reportedly in poor condition and an investigation has been launched into the attack. Sadykow was granted asylum in Ukraine in 2014 and operates a popular YouTube channel that provides critical analysis of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
Here's a paraphrased version of the text:
06:05 Russia Ponders Long-Range Weapon Placement with Allies:According to the state-owned Russian news agency TASS, Russia is discussing the possibility of placing long-range weapons with its closest allies. The Russian government reportedly has "close allies" in Asia and Latin America, with whom the security situation is extensively discussed, not just at the level of exchanging opinions, TASS quotes Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov. "There's nothing unusual about that." The discussion on the placement of long-range weapons is taking place with numerous allies. These talks are a regular part of Russia's diplomatic and security efforts, Ryabkov added. No additional details were provided about which countries these discussions are happening with or which weapons are being discussed.
05:43 Russian Journalist Arrested:In Russia, a journalist has been arrested again in Moscow, this time on accusations of supporting organizations associated with the deceased opposition leader Alexei Nawalny. Artem Krieger will remain in custody until August 18th, according to a court in the capital. The 23-year-old works for Nawalny's extremist-labeled anti-corruption organization FBK. Previously, an independent media outlet, Sotavision, reported on the detention of one of its employees.
04:56 Ukrainian Sentenced for High Treason:A Ukrainian court has sentenced a Ukrainian to 15 years in prison for high treason. The prosecutor's office in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk announced this. A resident of the city of Kostyantynivka near the frontline was charged with disclosing the locations of Ukrainian troops and the movements of Ukrainian artillery in the region via the Telegram online service in May 2023. By doing so, he committed high treason, the prosecutor's office stated. The Russian contact person of the man had promised a counterpart but failed to deliver.
03:51 Ukraine Advances towards a Joint Roaming Zone with EU:In the context of its collaboration with the European Union, Ukraine is moving forward towards a joint roaming zone with EU countries. A corresponding law was signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "Next, we must receive a positive evaluation of our legislative changes from the European side and begin negotiations on joining the single roaming area with the EU," says Digital Minister Mykhailo Fedorov according to a statement from his ministry. Ukraine is the first EU membership candidate to take this step.
02:48 Lindner Encourages Eastern Germans: NATO and EU Could Collapse:Finance Minister Christian Lindner calls for a clearer explanation of Germany's Ukraine policy in Eastern Germany. "We must explain the Ukraine policy of the German government openly to the people in Eastern Germany," Lindner told the "Rheinische Post." "It's not just about helping Ukraine in its defense against Russia. Our arms deliveries, refugee aid, and economic aid also serve German interests," Lindner emphasized. "If we accept Russia's violation of international law and aggression, NATO and the EU could collapse," Lindner warned. "For example, Poland and the Czech Republic would ask themselves if we would leave them in the lurch in a critical situation," so the FDP chairman.
01:48 German City Council Warns against Reducing Benefits for Ukrainian Refugees:The German City Council cautions against lowering benefits for Ukrainian refugees. They react to the demand of several Interior Ministers to deny reduced payments under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act to Ukrainian war refugees in the future. "The Minister-Presidents should not engage in a debate with the Federal Chancellor over the citizen's benefit payments of Ukrainian women and men," says City Council President Markus Lewe to the Redaction Network Germany. The Social Code II offers the best tools to help Ukrainian refugees find employment more frequently and earlier. "If Ukrainian women and men had to switch to the asylum system instead, access to language courses, employment agencies, or qualification would be significantly impaired. It would be much harder for them to find a job," so Lewe. In addition, the administrative effort for the cities would be enormous.
00:43 Swedish Parliament Approves Defense Agreement with USA:The Swedish Parliament approves the controversial defense agreement with the USA with a large majority. After a five-hour debate, 266 parliamentarians voted for the agreement, 37 against. Critics fear that it could lead to the stationing of nuclear weapons in Sweden and permanent US military bases in the country. The agreement, signed in December in Stockholm and Washington, grants the USA access to 17 military support points and military training areas in Sweden and allows for the storage of weapons, military equipment, and ammunition.
23:42 Kerner: False EM Map with Crimea: Kerner Apologizes for TV Mistake:A mistake with a false European Championship map forces TV moderator Johannes B. Kerner to apologize during the live broadcast of the football EM. In the joint broadcast of MagentaTV and RTL before the match Turkey against Georgia, a map was shown with the Black Sea peninsula Crimea not marked as part of Ukraine. "That is an absolute mistake, it genuinely upsets us and we sincerely apologize for it," says Kerner and describes the error as a serious mistake.
22:51 Zelenskyy: Effective Use of Western Weapons on Russian Territory:The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy evaluates the use of Western weapons against Russian territory as effective. The destruction of Russian fortifications and launch ramps near the border is significant, says Zelenskyy in his daily video address. "It works. Exactly as we expected." The Ukrainian leader praised several units for unnamed successes.
22:12 Death by Russian Border Mine Explosion
As per the local governor, Alexander Bogomas, a tragic incident has taken place in the Bryansk region of Russia, near the Ukrainian border. Apparently, two locals disregarded warning signs and entered a restricted border zone, leading to their untimely deaths due to a mine blast. Bogomas regrettably confirmed that "two locals were instantaneously killed from a mine explosion." A third individual was also reported to have been injured. The incident took place in the Klimowski district, neighboring the northern Ukrainian region of Chernihiv. Bogomas advises everyone to remain vigilant and steer clear of areas within border zones where mine warnings are posted. Over the past few weeks, there's been a series of mine accidents along Russia's border regions during the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. In this month alone, several incidents have occurred, including a recent one in the Belgorod region that left four people, including a state television journalist, injured from another mine blast.
You can catch up on earlier events here.
Read also:
- In response to Denmark's new aid package for Ukraine, which includes military equipment and spare parts for their defense industry, Russia might view it as a provocative move, potentially escalating the ongoing conflict.
- During a press briefing, a military spokesperson warned against spreading false information about Russia's planned assault on Borowa, emphasizing the importance of maintaining calm and avoiding panic.
- Volodymyr Selensky, the President of Ukraine, has expressed concerns about Putin's visit to North Korea and the potential impact it may have on the cyberwar dimensions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- Russia's increased military operations near Ukraine and its alleged support for North Korea's subpar rocket technology have raised concerns among NATO members over cyberwarfare capabilities and potential threats to their own infrastructure.
