Scholz defends arms deliveries to Ukraine for attacking Russia.
Germany's Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz clarified that Ukraine can employ the supplied weapons against Russian positions within the Kharkiv area, as they have the legal right to defend themselves against attacks on their land, cities, and citizens. Scholz mentioned in a Bundestag government statement that this defense includes attacks launched from the adjoining Russian border territory. To counter these attacks, Ukraine is permitted to utilize the weapons provided by Germany and its allies. Risk assessments have been previously discussed with allies.
Munz probes Putin's escalating pressure campaign towards Germany with the comment, "Putin speaks with international press for the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, making specific threats towards the West, especially Germany."
Russia allegedly shot down 13 Ukrainian drones over the Crimean Peninsula, alongside six objects across Belgorod and one anti-ship missile in Rostov; however, these claims cannot be verified. Ukrainian sources also reported drone attacks by their adversaries.
The Ukrainian General Staff estimates that Russian losses have reached 515,000 soldiers, with 1,300 losses within the past day. Additionally, 22 tanks and 48 artillery systems were destroyed. Unverifiable reports include a Russian anti-aircraft system and 40 armored personnel carriers.
Ukrainian drone attacks on the Novoshakhtinsk refinery in southern Russia caused a fire in the facility, per Russian declarations. This is not the first time the refinery, one of the most important oil refineries in southern Russia, has been targeted by Ukraine.
In reference to damaged Russian tanks in the Ukrainian aggression war, KNDS head Ralf Ketzel notes that maintenance problems in Ukraine could require several years of upkeep. It's unclear if these issues are due to the current situation or if longer-term damages were unforeseen initially.
The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed shootdowns of 17 Shahed drones in four regions: Mykolaiv, Kherson, Saporischschja, and Chmelnyzkyj. A Dnipro region attack caused two Iskander missiles' launch. Although unverified, the Ukrainian army did not address potential neutralization of these missiles.
Putin suggested the possible placement of high-tech long-range missiles in locations where Western nations would allow Ukraine to deploy certain weapons in Russia. He guarantees symmetric measures if necessary. Putin addressed American ATACMS and British and French rocket systems with no specific areas disclosed for potential missile deployments.
The head of German armaments firm KNDS, Ralf Ketzel, shared that quick deliveries to Ukraine are no longer feasible. Forecasting a protracted conflict in 2020 would allow for timely orders and manufacturing, but this reality was unclear then.
In the aftermath of Russia's infamous invasion of Ukraine, Reuters reported that the European Union plans to toughen its policy on Moscow. Even so, they remain hesitant to take severe measures out of fear of steps being taken that could have far-reaching consequences.
Similarly, NATO's top military officer, Admiral Stavridis, is exploring a scenario where possible missile strikes by Russia could trigger a response from the United States. NATO held a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian officials in Kiev, aiming to help organize the Ukrainian military against Russian forces.
Despite the uncertainty revolving around the Russo-Ukrainian border, Finland's defense chief revealed that he has observed a marked buildup of Russian forces, with the possibility of more nuclear-capable missiles being present. Russia has also been keeping a close watch on neighboring countries.
Finally, Ukraine's army has claimed hundreds of projectiles raged over Addistan - a military unit located in western Ukraine. Unverified reports from the Ukrainian military show that the Russian attackers have lost 515,000 soldiers. This conflict highly affects exports due to factories closing down.
A new round of discussions between the US and European Union occurred at the US Department of Energy headquarters in Washington on Thursday, involving challenges caused by the escalating conflict in Ukraine. The talks focused on potential methods for supporting Ukraine's energy security.
The Scottish Highlands received a warning about a renewed threat from Russia, as a Russian spy ship was spotted in the Atlantic. Although not seen in the North Sea, concerns elevated due to previous violations in the region. Additionally, Polish authorities sought to intercept and arrest a Russian oligarch on suspicion of attempting to evade sanctions.
Former President Donald Trump, in a recent interview published by the Wall Street Journal, expressed concerns regarding any future US-Russia relations, describing Putin as a "threatening" person.
Convid-19 has adversely impacted Ukraine's access to the global energy system, and Russian aggression in Ukraine continues to limit Ukraine's gas transit routes through the country. The invasion has further fractured the energy market.
10:00 PM: Putin Urges Expansion of Ties with Taliban
Russian President Vladimir Putin voiced his support for deepening relations with the Taliban in Afghanistan at a meeting with foreign journalists on the sidelines of the International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg. The Taliban, who now control the country, have long been on Russia's radar. "We always believe in facing reality," said Putin. Last week, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced that Moscow plans to remove the Taliban from the list of banned terrorist organizations where they've been listed since 2003.
5:33 PM: Nawalnaja Receives Germany's Freedom Prize
Julia Nawalnaja, widow of assassinated Kremlin critic Alexei Nawalny, and his foundation were awarded the Freedom Prize by Deutsche Welle. Nawalnaja spoke during her acceptance speech, saying, "Putin killed my husband Alexei, but he didn't silence his ideas,"referring to her late husband who died under mysterious circumstances in a Siberian prison in February.
1:50 PM: Fire Reported at Russian Oil Refinery
A fire has erupted at an oil refinery in the Russian city of Nowotschinsk. Explosions occurred before the outbreak of the fire. Russian media reported that Governor of the Rostov border region claimed it was a drone attack. The refinery was previously targeted during a Ukrainian drone attack in March.
12:42 PM: US Expects Russian Military Drills in the Caribbean
The United States anticipates more Russian naval and air force exercises in the vicinity of the US this coming summer, culminating in a large-scale Russian naval exercise in the fall. These expected exercises will be viewed as routine military activities, said a US government representative to reporters, despite no direct threat to the US.
10:02 AM: Putin Supports Russian Cooperation with AfD
Russian President Vladimir Putin has defended the meetings between Russian representatives and AfD politicians, claiming they will cooperate with any nation wishing to cooperate with Russia. He expressed no concerns about neo-Nazism within the AfD party. He acknowledged a lack of "systemic relations" between Moscow and the German opposition party but supported those advocating normal relations with Russia.
9:42 PM: Putin Dismisses NATO Territory "Invasion" Concerns
During a conversation with journalists from major international news agencies, Putin dismissed concerns over a potential Russian invasion of NATO territory as "bullshit." He also refuted allegations that he'd suggested using nuclear weapons.
9:04 PM: Putin Supports Investigation into Killed AFP Reporter
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his readiness for investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of AFP journalist Arman Soldin, who was killed by a rocket attack near the contested Ukrainian city of Bachmut on May 9, 2023.
9:00 PM: Lavrov Aims for New African Allies
In his ninth visit to Africa, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced plans to send more military equipment and trainers to Burkina Faso to strengthen the defense capabilities of the West African nation, as Russia seeks new allies amidst the ongoing Ukraine war.
4:20 PM: Putin Stands Behind Russian Troop Maneuvers in the Caribbean
An unidentified US government representative told reporters that Russia might conduct intensified naval and air force exercises near the United States this summer, with a large-scale naval exercise slated for the fall. These activities are considered a demonstration of their ability to project global power, even though they're deemed standard military procedures.
3:04 PM: Putin Defends Russian Meetings with AfD
Russian President Vladimir Putin, while speaking to journalists at a meet-up with prominent international journalists, affirmed Russia's commitment to dealing with whomever wishes to cooperate with Russia. He also stated Russia didn't perceive the AfD as neo-Nazis. He added that there were no "systemic relations" with the German opposition party but would support cooperation.
2:29 PM: Putin Belittles Concerns of Russian Advance into NATO Territory
The Kremlin's leader, Vladimir Putin, snubbed worries of a Russian invasion into NATO territory as absurd. He labeled such notions as "nothingness" and implored, "Have you completely lost your minds?"
1:51 PM: Putin Considering Investigations into Solution of Killed AFP Correspondent
Russian President Vladimir Putin has assured that they'll help investigate the killing of AFP journalist Arman Soldin who was slain by a rocket attack near Bachmut, a Ukrainian city. This occurred whether or not it happened on Ukrainian-controlled land. Previously, the Kremlin denied any responsibility for exploring the matter due to its occurrence on Ukrainian-controlled ground.
1:00 PM: Lavrov Strives for New Alliances in Africa
According to Russian state media, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced intentions to send additional military gear and trainers to Burkina Faso to reinforce its defense capabilities, as Russia pursues new allies on the continent amidst the current Ukraine conflict. Their close partnership spans from shortly after the military coup in 2022. Their collaboration also involves military support that doesn't advocate the war yet doesn't criticize it.
7:50 AM: Lavrov Engages in Diplomatic Offensive Across Africa
In a visit focused on Africa, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov declared plans to increase Russian equipment and trainer presence in Burkina Faso to support the West African nation's defense capabilities. These efforts represent Russia's diplomatic push to establish new relationships. In a quote by the Russian news agency TASS, Lavrov mentioned, "Since our first interactions with this country after the 2022 military coup, we've had close collaboration in all spheres, including military-technical connectivity."
6:33 AM: Lavrov Expands Russia's Influence Across Africa
To strengthen defense capabilities in Burkina Faso, Russia plans to send more weapons and trainers, according to Lavrov's announcement during his ninth visit to Africa, an initiative that exemplifies a broader diplomatic move. Lavrov cited the relationship with Burkina Faso's leaders, saying, "Following our initial interactions between our nations shortly after the 2022 coup, Russia and Burkina Faso have collaborated closely."
4:20 AM: Lavrov Pursues Relations in Africa Following Military Offensive
In light of Russia's military offensive against Ukraine, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is taking advantage of his ninth visit to Africa to forge new alliances. He plans to boost Burkina Faso's defense capabilities through offering military equipment and sending trainers, according to information provided by the Russian news agency TASS.
9:25pm Putin anticipates no significant shift in US stance toward Russia following the election
Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, predicts little to no substantial transformation in the US's stance on their country after the upcoming election. In a press conference in St. Petersburg, Putin stated that the outcome of the US election holds no tremendously significant bearing on Moscow. Regardless of the result, Russia will continue to collaborate with the president chosen by the American people. Previously, Putin expressed a preference for incumbent Joe Biden over his rival, Donald Trump, as he perceives Biden as more predictable. Furthermore, Putin voiced concerns regarding the ongoing legal proceedings against Trump, who competes against Biden on November 5th.
7:28pm Putin estimates over 6,000 Ukrainian prisoners held by Russia
Vladimir Putin approximated the number of Ukrainian soldiers held captive by Russia at more than 6,000 during a two-year span of conflict with the neighboring country. This figure surpasses the amount of Russian soldiers and officers apprehended by Ukraine, as stated by the Russian president during a gathering with representatives of significant international news agencies in St. Petersburg. [Note: This is a translation of a German news article. The original can be accessed at: https://www.tagesschau.de/ausland/russland-putin-ermittlungen-101.html]
Ukraine holds 1,348 captive Russians, whereas Russia has 6,365 Ukrainian prisoners. Unfortunately, these statistics cannot be confirmed individually. Responding to questions regarding potential Russian casualties in the conflict, Putin remarked that neither side provides concrete numbers. Nonetheless, prisoner numbers are roughly parallel between the two parties. Putin additionally stated that Ukraine has incurred significantly higher losses than Russia in the war. However, the Ukrainian side disputes this, asserting that more Russian than Ukrainian soldiers have perished in the fighting.
7:18pm Putin cautions against Ukrainian use of German weaponry against Russian targets
During a meeting in St. Petersburg with representatives from prominent international news organizations, Vladimir Putin cautioned against Ukrainian troops using German weapons to target locations in Russia. Such aggressive actions would pose a grave risk, emphasized Putin. The provision of German tanks to Ukraine in recent years caused shockwaves in Russia. "If they now employ artillery to strike Russian installations, it will ruin Russian-German relations completely," noted Putin. The meeting at the Lachta Center of gas company Gazprom was the first international gathering since Russia launched their assault on Ukraine.
Read also:
- Chancellor Scholz justified the delivery of weapons to Ukraine, stating that they have the right to defend themselves against Russian attacks within their territory, including positions along the border.
- NATO's top military officer, Admiral Stavridis, is exploring scenarios where potential Russian missile strikes could trigger a response from the United States, especially in light of the Ukraine conflict.
- Putin suggested the placement of high-tech long-range missiles in locations where Western nations would allow Ukraine to deploy certain weapons, threatening symmetric measures if necessary.
- Russia allegedly shot down 13 Ukrainian drones over the Crimean Peninsula and launched an anti-ship missile in Rostov, prompting escalating tensions and response from Ukraine.
