The Netherlands plans to deliver F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine in the summer.
The Netherlands will supply the first F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine during the summer, according to Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren in an interview with the Ukrainian publication "European Pravda." Denmark will be the first nation to send these aircraft to Ukraine, with the Netherlands following suit. Ollongren also mentioned the possibility of providing Ukraine with another Patriot air defense system.
In disturbing news, kidnapped Ukrainian children are being sold for adoption on a Russian website, as reported by the "Financial Times." The newspaper found four Ukrainian children on this adoption platform, where some had false identities, including Russian names and ages. All children were taken from state orphanages while their cities in southern and eastern Ukraine were under Russian control in 2022. The "Financial Times" disclosed that these children are currently in the Russian regions of Tula and Orenburg, with one taken to the Crimean Peninsula. The "New York Times" identified 17 other Ukrainian children on the website who supposedly come from an orphanage in Kherson.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh for discussions related to the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland, as detailed by Zelensky. However, their talk also included updates about the summit planning. Initially, Zelensky was supposed to visit Riyadh in early June, but his trip was postponed due to concerns about Saudi Arabia's participation in the Switzerland event since Russia would not be present. It is unclear if Saudi Arabia will send a delegation to the Swiss town of Bürgenstock bei Luzern on June 15 and 16.
Ukrainian military claimed success in air raids against Russian air defense installations on the Crimean Peninsula overnight. According to the Ukrainian General Staff, S-300 and S-400 systems were attacked at the Belbek military airfield near the port city of Sevastopol. Two radar installations were reportedly destroyed along with ammunition depots. However, no evidence was presented. Mikhail Razvozhaev, the occupied port city's governor, confirmed Ukrainian rocket attacks, noting that all targets were destroyed mid-flight over the sea.
Russia is demanding the release of a Russian woman arrested in Denmark on spying charges. The Russian embassy has asked Denmark to free her and provide consular support. The Danish authorities have yet to present any evidence against the woman, who is expected to be released after questioning.
In other international news, the US government sees negotiations on utilizing frozen Russian state assets for Ukraine's benefit as making satisfactory progress. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan remarks that talks have been fruitful and assures that a decision on this matter will be made at the G7 summit in Italy. He clarified that the statement to be made by the leaders will not coverevery detail, but will only create a framework.
Germany's voluntary military service was suspended in 2011, but Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht is planning to create more reservists and bolster defense capacity with a new model. However, military expert Ralph Thiele criticizes the initiative, suggesting that this is exactly what President Putin wants and, therefore, it is inadequate.
The United States has canceled its bilateral security agreement with Ukraine. President Biden and Ukrainian President Zelensky plan to sign the new deal at the forthcoming G7 summit in Italy on June 13. Sullivan stated that the agreement does not obligate the US to deploy its military to defend Ukraine. "It's a commitment to ensure Ukraine can defend itself," he concluded.
(Cover Photo: Halil Fidan / Anadolu Agency)
Nine individuals lost their lives due to a Russian missile strike on Kryvyi Rih, a location in southern Ukraine, as per Ukrainian officials. Moreover, at least 29 were injured in the attack, including five children, disclosed the General Prosecutor's Office. The city is known as the hometown of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In response to this situation, Zelenskyy again appealed to Ukraine's allies to provide air defense systems to his country. He wrote, "Modern air defense systems can provide maximum protection for people, cities, and our positions. We need them as soon as possible." Explore more on this topic here.
17:58 Exceeding the mark of a hundred agreements at the reconstruction conference in Berlin
Credits for small businesses, city partnerships, and the initiative for training: As per Development Minister Svenja Schulze, over 100 agreements have been inked at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. This includes declarations of intent between companies and governments, alliances, and initiatives. She specified four "Berlin dimensions" of reconstruction: the commercial, the human, the local, and the EU dimension. The format is unlikely a donor conference where finances are collected but rather a platform for connecting.
17:19 Navigation through the Caribbean: A Russian Naval Convoy made its way through
A Russian warship flotilla has made it through to the Caribbean. The first two ships have passed through the entrance of Havana Bay. The United States military estimates that about a dozen Russian ships and support vessels will participate in the drills, and they may even drop by in Venezuela. During the previous week, US representatives recognized that the Russian flotilla might continue to remain in this region till the summer. Even though Russian warships have been regularly present in the Caribbean, this deployment is happening a fortnight after the US approved armaments for Ukraine to protect the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. Subsequently, the Kremlin hinted that they could respond with "asymmetric steps" in other locations globally. A representative from the United States government, however, has stated that none of the vessels contain nuclear weapons onboard. Their purpose is not to pose an immediate danger to the United States. Read here for more information.
16:42 USA escalates by bringing out a fresh sanctions list against Russia
In anticipation of the G7 summit in Italy, the United States introduces a new round of sanctions in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The sanctions target more than 300 individuals and entities that have facilitated Russia in extending the war, according to the U.S. administration. This also encompasses Chinese companies.
16:39 Rheinmetall seeks to amplify the collaboration with Ukraine
Rheinmetall and Ukraine plan to expand their strategic partnership. The DAX company and Ukraine, represented by Minister for Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyschin, ink a declaration of intent at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. Rheinmetall's management board chairperson Armin Papperger shares that they are in talks to establish a joint venture for the production of artillery ammunition in Ukraine. They also intend to supply the first Lynx infantry fighting vehicles to the country and swing into producing these systems in Ukraine immediately.
16:10 Instruction: Construct the world's first drone combat force
Hordes of drones hover above the battlefield. Since the start of the war, the Ukrainians have been using the flying robots to keep tabs on military installations and launch assaults. The Ukrainians are now merging the uncrewed devices into a combat unit - as the first army in the world.
15:48 Expecting 5,000 new recruits annually
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius projects that his new military service idea will yield 5,000 more recruits for the Bundeswehr annually. His aim is to enlarge this count each year, Pistorius mentioned during the announcement of his proposals. He assumes that about 400,000 young men reach the age of 18 each year. This group is to be approached and requested to complete a questionnaire pertaining to their perspectives on the Bundeswehr. He estimates that a quarter of them could express interest in joining the Bundeswehr. The fitting aspirants are to be identified through a grading process. Females are also to receive the questionnaire, but they are not under obligation to fill it. Pistorius emphasizes that the Basic Law does not support mandatory military service for women. The chosen individuals are expected to undertake a basic military service of six months or pledge for 23 months. However, the concept also indicates, "We seek a new model that primarily depends on voluntarism, yet comprises compulsory elements as well."
15:25 Hogl advocates for "modern military service" - applicable for all genders
German politician Eva Hogl, representing the German Parliament's military sector, welcomes Defense Minister Boris Pistorius' new military service model and urges widespread support. "This model could help alleviate the Bundeswehr's personnel problems and substantially boost our defense capabilities," shares the SPD member. "For the preservation of our peace, freedom, and democracy, both militarily and civilly, we require a contemporary military service that combines voluntary and compulsory elements."
Pistorius had previously presented his proposals to the Defense Committee of the German Parliament. The minister aims to reactivate the revaluation of potential conscripts, which was suspended thirteen years ago. He also wants young men to complete questionnaires detailing their willingness and aptitude to serve and attend a screening if selected.
The Federal Ministry of Education and Research committed 24 million euros to support science and research in Ukraine over the next four years. Stark-Watzinger, the FDP politician in charge, made the announcement at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. She emphasized the significance of outstanding scientists and researchers and an educational perspective for young people. The ministry will support joint research groups, with German and Ukrainian institutions collaborating in areas such as German-Ukrainian and European history of the twentieth century, antibiotic research, and quantum research.
15:03
Germany backs Ukraine's scientific community through 24 million euros in funding
The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research is investing 24 million euros in science and research in Ukraine over the next four years. This was revealed by Research Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. She highlighted the importance of talented and networked scientists and researchers and an educational perspective for young people. The ministry plans to support the establishment and enhancement of joint research groups involving German and Ukrainian institutions in fields such as German-Ukrainian and European history of the twentieth century, antibiotic research, and quantum research.
14:33
Kim labels Russia-North Korea relation as “Weapons Brotherhood” before anticipated Putin visit
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praises the relationship between North Korea and Russia as a “Weapons Brotherhood,” according to Pyongyang. This IGran-Russian connection has allegedly strengthened after a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin last year. Following the September summit, the two countries enhanced their military and economic ties. It is speculated that North Korea provided artillery, rockets, and other conventional weapons to Russia to aid its invasion of Ukraine, while Russia provided North Korea access to advanced military technology and economic assistance.
14:06
Alliance of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises established
At the international reconstruction conference for Ukraine in Berlin, Germany and Ukraine, along with twelve other countries and seventeen development organizations and banks, established an alliance for small and medium-sized enterprises. These businesses are deemed "the backbone of Ukraine's economy," says the German Development Ministry. They account for two-thirds of Ukraine's economic output and create over 80% of its jobs. The alliance's objective is to "empower these enterprises amidst the ongoing conflict and facilitate reconstruction."
13:31
Schulze promotes city partnerships between Ukraine and its partner countries
During the second day of the international Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin, Germany encourages Ukraine's partner nations to support the war-afflicted country by promoting more city partnerships. "We should collaborate to ensure that every Ukrainian community has at least one international partner," Development Minister Svenja Schulze urged at a forum with multiple German and Ukrainian mayors. Schulze suggested evaluating progress at the next reconstruction conference in Rome. There are over 200 German-Ukrainian municipal partnerships, she added.
12:54
Medvedev proclaims entire Ukraine to be Russian territory on 2023 holiday map
Former Kremlin chief Dmitry Medvedev claims Ukraine belongs to Russia on a map shared for the Russian national holiday. In his Telegram blog, he published an animated graphic with the Russian anthem playing in the background: a white-blue-red flag flutters over a map of Russia, encompassing the whole of Ukraine, right up to the borders with Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary.
12:18
Hungary supports NATO-Ukraine plan
Hungary has approved the NATO-Ukraine plan according to recent reports. This was announced at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin by Hangaegook Karina, Hungary's minister of military affairs. The plan includes security, political, infrastructure, and humanitarian aid for Ukraine.
11:51
Rheinmetall said to be manufacturing Lynx infantry fighting vehicles in Ukraine
Arms manufacturer Rheinmetall is allegedly building new Lynx infantry fighting vehicles in Ukraine, as per media reports. Representatives of both countries agreed to initiate production at the reconstruction conference in Berlin. Ukrainian Minister for Strategic Industries Olexander Kamyshin disclosed that the first Lynx would be produced this year. However, the extent of future manufacturing remains unclear.
11:33
Russians equip motorcycles and buggies with cages for protection against drones and attacks on military vehicles
In response to the increased use of drones in the Ukraine conflict, Russians are arming not only tanks but also other vehicles with protective roofs, according to military expert Ralph Thiele. It remains uncertain, though, whether this tactic is sensible or not.
11:00
Rheinmetall reportedly constructing new Lynx infantry fighting vehicles in Ukraine
German-based arms company Rheinmetall is alleged to be constructing Lynx infantry fighting vehicles in Ukraine. According to "Handelsblatt," an agreement was reached at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin, where Ukrainian Minister for Strategic Industries Olexander Kamyshin declared that the first Lynx tank would be produced this year. The extent of further production has yet to be established.
Budapest will not partake in the expansion of NATO support for Ukraine, yet won't hinder it either. NATO's Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg shared this news after a meeting with Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Hungary has opted out of financially and personally engaging in the NATO plans. On the other hand, Orban assured that Hungary wouldn't get in the way of NATO decisions previously agreed upon by other member states. "Hungary will not block decisions of the NATO that other member states have consented to," Orban explained.
11:19 Trubetskoy: AfD's justification for Selenskyj boycott deemed 'nonsense'
A strong reaction occurs during Zelenskyy's speech in the Bundestag, as members of the BSW and a significant portion of the AfD were absent. Ukrainian journalist Dennis Trubetskoy views the AfD's justification unconvincingly.
11:05 Uniper faces a 13 billion euro bill from Gazprom in compensation
German energy company Uniper, having undergone nationalization due to the gas crisis, is confronted with a 13 billion euro claim from the Russian Gazprom conglomerate. In June 2022, Gazprom reduced its gas supplies, and by August of the same year, it ceased completely. A court has consequently ruled in favor of Uniper, awarding compensation for non-delivered gas volumes. Uniper plans to formally end the existing contracts with Gazprom as a result. However, the company also notes that it's highly unlikely Gazprom will actually pay these damages.
10:39 The debate on conscription: To be or not to be?
Public discourse tackles the issue of reintroducing conscription. We want to know your thoughts. Shall conscription be reinstated?
10:10 Moscow clarifies Berlin's public transport frustration
Russia will stage a major military exercise in the Atlantic. Germany correspondent Rainer Munz places this drill into perspective, shedding light on Russia's response to the news circulating about Selenskyj's trip to Berlin.
09:44 Strack-Zimmermann's succession in the Defense Committee is confirmed
For Chancellor Olaf Scholz, matters won't become less complicated: The next chairperson of the Bundestag Defense Committee is FDP politician Marcus Faber. The 40-member committee elected Faber in Berlin, replacing Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, who's leaving the Bundestag to be a member of the European Parliament for the FDP. Faber hails from Saxony-Anhalt and joined the German Bundestag in 2017. He's been a recurring member of the Defense Committee since 2018 and supports providing robust support for Ukraine assertively. Faber has long called for supplying Ukraine with the German Taurus missile system, which has been rejected by Scholz.
09:24 BSW Leader: Bundeswehr insufficient to safeguard Germany
The Left Party co-chair and Bundestag member Amira Mohamed Ali opposes the reintroduction of conscription. "To introduce conscription again is an error," Mohamed Ali shared on ntv in the early hours. Discussing conscription or militaristic jargon is something she rejects, adding: "That's just war rhetoric for preparing Germany for a significant conflict. That must be avoided at all costs." While accepting the Bundeswehr's shortfalls in fulfilling its constitutional obligations, Mohamed Ali believes the Bundeswehr needs to be suitably equipped and its procurement system improved. "For years, an astronomical sum of money has been poured into the military budget. The money seems to vanish in the channels for consultants or equipment that doesn't work efficiently. It's the wrong approach."
09:09 Russia exerts stronger pressure on foreign entities in the nation
Russia raises the pressure on foreign associations in the country. The Duma has introduced a bill on Tuesday that might label any foreign or international organization as "undesirable," offering the Russian administration extended powers to combat them. Additionally, a bill allowing for criminal penalties is also being considered, encompassing fines and imprisonment for those involved.
08:40 Kyiv anticipates Russian participation in a second Ukraine peace conference
There's optimism in Kyiv surrounding the potential involvement of Russia in a second peace conference on Ukraine. According to authorities, the Ukrainian presidential administration will work with all nations with interest in participating. "We're working on a 'joint plan' that'll be backed by every meaningful country," Andrij Yermak, head of the Ukrainian presidential administration, stated during a video call from Berlin. Yermak highlighted around "100 or more nations," span- nising representatives from every continent. "We hope for the feasibility of inviting a Russian representative to the second summit and presenting this 'joint plan' jointly."
A Russian satellite communications station reportedly experienced destruction through a sabotage activity in the region of Moscow. This has been claimed by pro-Ukrainian Aesh partisans on Telegram, who also claimed responsibility for the attack. In a video released by the partisans, an Aesh "agent" can be seen pouring a flammable substance onto an R-441 Liven communications satellite. A photo also demonstrates the burning communications station. It is alleged that this incident occurred in the Klin district in the Moscow region, approximately 85 kilometers northwest of the Russian capital. As per the partisans, the air defense systems of the entire Moscow area have been weakened due to the attack.
07:40 Pistorius Views Rheinmetall Advertising As "Turning Point"
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is comfortable with Borussia Dortmund advertising for the defense company Rheinmetall during the upcoming season. Pistorius expressed his stance to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland: "I'm fine with Rheinmetall advertising at Borussia Dortmund. Arms manufacturers produce weapons required to deter aggressors or defend a country in times of crisis. Besides, these firms pay taxes, create jobs, and preserve expertise." He further stated that the advertising signifies "the arrival at a turning point." Pistorius also expressed that while some may still have difficulty with this notion, arms manufacturers contribute significantly to the security of a country.
07:34 Pistorius Suggests Redesigning Conscription for Military Service
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius plans to reinstate the conscription of young men for a revamped compulsory military service model. Pistorius, who is a member of the SPD, also wants young men to disclose their willingness and capacity to serve and participate in a conscription selection process.
07:11 Numerous Attacks on Kiev
Approximately two dozen explosions were reported in the Ukrainian capital Kiev this morning, believed to be from anti-aircraft fire by the air defense system. There are allegations that two dozen Russian combat drones, cruise missiles, and at least one hypersonic missile were fired at targets in the city of three million inhabitants. While the military administration of Kiev has only confirmed the use of air defense, it has been reported that several Russian rockets might have reached their targets. Targets include an industrial facility, a warehouse, a gas station, and an oil depot.
06:46 Bolivia Buys Additional Fuel from Russia
In an effort to alleviate its fuel shortage, Bolivia is seeking Russian assistance. Bolivian President Luis Arce confirmed the deal after meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Arce, who also met with Russian oil company Rosneft, did not reveal any details about the agreement. Bolivia has a decreasing domestic fuel production and an increasing demand. The two countries maintain a close relationship, and Bolivia has not imposed any direct sanctions against Russia concerning the war in Ukraine nor officially condemned the Russian attack on Ukraine.
06:17 Gabriel Urges Stronger Response Against Russia
Former Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel maintains that a firmer stance against Russia is vital considering the evolving situation in Ukraine. "I never thought I'd say this: We must once again bring Russia down, just as we did with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Putin must understand how serious we are," Gabriel said to Stern. "We need to give the clear message to Putin: Stop this war, or we'll bring it to you. If this means that German air defense systems, aided by the Bundeswehr, establish no-fly zones in Ukraine to safeguard Ukrainian cities from Russian assaults on the civilian population, I'd repeat that message to Mr. Putin."
05:54 Putin Retains Powerful Patrushev in the Security Council
Despite restructuring his political apparatus, Russian President Vladimir Putin keeps his long-time confidant Nikolai Patrushev in the highest Russian Security Council. Patrushev was transferred from his 16-year post as Russia's security chief to a position with little power - as an advisor for shipbuilding. The Russian Security Council, led by Putin, serves as an advisory body on national security policy management and integration for the Kremlin. It has no direct authority over Russian security agencies and ministries; however, Patrushev is being retained in the Council, despite the recent transfer.
The NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, urged defense ministers from alliance members to make long-term commitments to provide financial aid to Ukraine. He suggested providing 40 billion euros annually as fresh funding. While acknowledging that it's a significant amount, he believed it's necessary and easier to handle as a collective effort within the NATO alliance. The financial contribution from individual countries could be based on their GDPs. The United States would contribute around half of the total amount while the remaining expenditure would be shared by European allies and Canada. "This is feasible," stressed Stoltenberg.
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According to media reports, President Biden is planning to provide Ukraine with another Patriot air defense system to fortify its defense against Russian aerial assaults. The "New York Times" revealed that he made this decision after discussions with senior officials. However, the White House hasn't confirmed the information yet. The latest Patriot air defense system of the United States is currently in Poland and could be deployed to the Ukrainian front within the upcoming days. This would be the second Patriot air defense system that the United States has given to Ukraine.
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Ukrainian authorities have stated that the permission they received from the United States and other allies to use weapons provided on Russian territory has resulted in diminished attacks in Kharkiv. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov expressed in an interview with Reuters, "This has helped. Perhaps this is the reason why Kharkiv has been relatively calm in the last few weeks... the attacks were less intense compared to, say, May." Ukraine has been allowed to use US weapons against Russian attacks in the Kharkiv region on Russian territory for almost two weeks.
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A group of critics of the Kremlin is urging EU countries to accept more Russian opponents. In a study presentation in Paris, they mentioned that this move would benefit Europe as it would weaken the Russian economy and the Kremlin's war readiness. 80% of the 3,200 respondents exited Russia post 2014, the year of the annexation of Crimea. The majority of these expats left after the Ukraine conflict in 2022. Most of the emigrants are highly-educated and embrace Western values, the study added. The group recommends launching a "bureaucratic immigration" campaign from Russia.
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The Russian Defense Ministry asserted that two more settlements in eastern Ukraine have been taken over by Russian troops. They claimed that Russian soldiers have entered the villages of Timkovka near the city of Kupyansk in the northeastern Kharkiv region and Miasoschariwka in the northern Luhansk region.
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Latvia is advocating for unanimity among the NATO-eastern members in their assistance to Ukraine. "The most essential thing is we have a united strategy for the NATO summit in Washington," notes President Edgars Rinkevics during a gathering of representatives from the "Bucharest Nine." Hungary's President Tamas Sulyok has backed out of attending the Riga summit of nine Eastern European NATO nations. Slovakia's President Zuzana Caputova has also canceled her trip "at the last minute," reports the office of the Latvian President. Hungary has rejected military aid for Ukraine. Slovakia halted its aid after Robert Fico's election as Prime Minister last year.
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A government spokesperson criticized the AfD and BSW commotion for shunning Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's speech in the German Bundestag. They described it as a "lack of respect." Scholz conveyed his deep dissatisfaction but was not shocked by their actions. The AfD bloc and all members of the BSW group skipped Zelensky's address in the Bundestag.
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Estonia plans to offer Ukraine more military aid to battle Russia. Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur announced that Estonia will deliver rockets and launchers of the short-range air defense system Mistral to Ukraine. "Ukraine needs quick air defense to counter the constant brutal attacks by Russia, and it's also in Estonia's direct security interest to help them with our allies," he added. Pevkur withheld further details about the extent of the weapon delivery. "We've coordinated this aid package in such a way that Ukraine gets the most benefit and our armed forces' combat readiness isn't affected."
The United States of America will no longer restrict the provision of weapons to the Azov Brigade in Ukraine. This announcement has been made by the brigade itself via Telegram. As a result, they can now receive military assistance from the USA. According to the U.S. State Department, after a detailed investigation, no proof of human rights violations has been discovered. The Azov Brigade, which is currently under the Ukrainian National Guard, has been under scrutiny since the onset of the conflict in Donbass in 2014. The group's members were recognized for their neo-Nazi symbols like the Wolfsangel. Prominent right-wing extremist Andriy Biletsky was a founding member of this volunteer battalion. However, the U.S. government asserts that the current Azov Brigade is unlike the militia during its initial days.
To know more about past developments, you can follow this link.
Read also:
- Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh to discuss the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland, despite concerns about Saudi Arabia's participation due to Russia's absence.
- The Netherlands plans to deliver F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine later this summer, following Denmark's lead, as part of efforts to strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities.
- Cyberwarfare has become a concern in the Ukraine conflict, with Russia reportedly using cyberattacks to disrupt Ukrainian military operations and even target critical infrastructure.
- Nato's support for Ukraine has been a key factor in the conflict, with several Nato nations providing military aid and training to Ukrainian forces to help them defend against Russian aggression.
