Thuringia's interior minister urges able-bodied Ukrainian soldiers to rejoin military service.
Thuringia's Interior Minister Georg Maier encourages armed Ukrainians currently residing in Germany to return to their homeland and defend it. Maier comments to "Spiegel," "These gentlemen carry a moral duty to defend their homeland. If we provide weapons to Ukraine that can be operated by folks living among us, it's logical these weapons would be used." Maier also discounts the idea of pressuring Ukraine to deny social benefits: "It's Ukraine's responsibility to ensure their military personnel are available." The SPD politician admits uncertainty on the potential outcomes of offering no social benefits to Ukrainians seeking refuge in Germany, a proposal made by the Union and FDP.
21:15 Patriot Missiles rerouted from Switzerland to Ukraine
American-manufactured Patriot missiles intended for Switzerland's air defense, slated for production, are allegedly being diverted to Ukraine instead. The Swiss "Blick" reports this anonymously, citing sources indicate that the US has delayed delivery to Switzerland and chosen to send the weapons to Ukraine, which critically needs them for defense against Russian air raids.
20:37 French Right-wing Leader: Ongoing Support for Ukraine
The leader of the French right-wing Rassemblement National (RN), Jordan Bardella, aims to continue supporting Ukraine as a potential future prime minister. Bardella clarifies, "I oppose the delivery of long-range missiles and weapons that Ukraine can use to attack Russian territory."
20:05 Ukraine establishes database for sexual violence by Russian troops
Ukrainian officials have developed a registry for potential instances of sexual violence committed by Russian soldiers. This is reported by the deputy prosecutor general Wiktorija Litwinowa. It pertains to a pilot project, with five individuals already charged in absentia. Litwinowa refuses to divulge details about the cases. The underlying offenses were allegedly committed in areas under Russian attack or occupation. "Historically, we investigated in areas where hostilities were unfolding," she says. "But now, victims of sexual abuse seek information from us."
19:28 Ukraine announces intent to sign security agreements with the EU
Following a series of security agreements with Western allies, Ukraine plans to soon also sign such an agreement with the EU. "The Ukrainian and EU negotiation teams have finalized the text of the security agreement and have agreed to sign it soon," the Ukrainian presidential administration announces.
18:59 Severe fire in oil depot in Southern Russia
A fire at an oil depot in Southern Russia's Rostov-on-Don region, sparked by a drone attack, remains uncontrolled over a day after the attack. Rostov Governor Vasili Golubev's Telegram channel reports that the situation at the depot in Asow cannot be stabilized. In the afternoon, a second oil reservoir experienced pressure loss. The fire department continues to battle the flames. The depot near the Ukrainian border was attacked by drones Monday night. Official reports indicate no casualties during the attack.
18:25 US firm plans munitions production in Ukraine
The US defense contractor Northrop Grumman plans to build a munitions production site in Ukraine. David Bartell, head of international business for the company, discloses during the Eurosatory weapons fair in Paris, "We are currently working on medium caliber munitions production in Ukraine. This is our first project funded by Ukrainian currency." Bartell further elaborates that they aim to extend production into armor-piercing shells, 155mm artillery shells, and other areas, provided they discover innovative methods.
17:54 Russia bombs children's institution in Charkiw with precision bombs
The Russian army attacked Charkiw with two precision KAB-type bombs in the afternoon. This was reported by the Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform, citing Charkiw Mayor Ihor Terekhov. According to him, a children's institution on the outskirts of the city was hit. Thankfully, there were no casualties.
17:22 China: We do not supply weapons to belligerent parties
China denies providing Russia with weapons for their war efforts. "China does not supply weapons to either of the warring parties, maintains tight control on civilian-military goods exports, and has received positive feedback from the international community," says China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian. The US and NATO have repeatedly accused Beijing of aiding Russia by exporting dual-use goods that can be utilized for both civilian and military purposes.
16:58 Ukrainian artillery fire strikes civilians in Donetsk
In the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk, a man and a woman were reportedly killed by Ukrainian artillery fire. This was announced by the pro-Russian mayor of Donetsk, Alexei Kulemzin. Two more people, including a child, were severely injured. The claims remain unverified.
16:26 Jaeger: Putin's North Korea visit symbolizes weakness
Putin embarks on a quest to forge new alliances through Asia. However, Beijing is reportedly wary of a Russian-North Korean alliance, according to political scientist Thomas Jaeger. In an interview with ntv, he explains why Beijing "establishes boundaries for cooperation between Russia and North Korea."
15:54 Denmark unveils new aid package for Ukraine
Denmark pledges additional assistance to Ukraine. The package consists of financial aid for the Ukrainian defense sector, F-16 combat jet spare parts, and materials from the Danish military, according to the Danish Defense Ministry in Copenhagen. This marks the 19th Danish aid package for Ukraine.
3:34 PM: Russian Military Preparing for Renewed Attack on Borowa, per Ukraine
Ukrainian reports detail that the Russian military is planning a fresh offensive on Borowa, a settlement in the Charkiw region. This intel comes from a Ukrainian news agency, Ukrinform, who've sourced their claim from an army spokesperson on national TV. The spokesperson advises against spreading fear and unfounded rumors in society about Russian advances.
3:01 PM: China Denies Aiding Russian War Effort Against Ukraine
China denies having supported Russia during its assault on Ukraine and fiercely rebukes the United States for allegations made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated, "China has never fueled the conflict or attempted to capitalize on the situation, and has consistently advocated for diplomatic talks." Lin further condemned the US for spreading false narratives without evidence and trying to blame China.
2:29 PM: Russia Shifts Troops from Finnish Border to Ukraine
Finland's publicly-funded broadcaster Yle, citing an anonymous source from the Finnish Military Intelligence Agency, reports that Russia has moved the majority of its ground troops stationed near Finland to Ukraine. In contradiction to earlier claims by Russia, itPrevious claim by Russia stated that they were strengthening their troops near the Finnish border in response to Finland joining NATO. "On average, 80% of the equipment and soldiers have been transferred to the conflict in Ukraine," the source from Yle announced.
2:00 PM: Russian Attacks Damage Multiple Energy Facilities in Ukraine
Ukrainian reports detail Russian attacks on the western part of Ukraine which have caused damage to several energy facilities near the Polish border and in the country's center. One energy facility in a central region was reportedly damaged during the night. Power lines and electrical installations were also damaged in the western region of Lviv, which had previously escaped the worst fighting. Two civilians, ages 47 and 70, were injured during the night-time attacks, and the Ukrainian Air Force shot down 19 of 21 Russian attack drones of Iranian origin that night.
1:35 PM: ECB Study: Ukraine War Slows Eurozone More Than US
A study by the ECB suggests that the Corona pandemic and the Ukraine war are slowing down growth in the Eurozone far more than in the US. The Eurozone's economy expanded by approximately three percent from the fourth quarter of 2019 to the fourth quarter of 2023, while the US economy grew by over eight percent during the same period. The authors of the study attribute the difference to weaker private consumption in the Eurozone, which was severely impacted by Russia's aggression against Ukraine, energy crises, surging inflation in food prices, and negative effects on consumer confidence. The Eurozone, with its open trade structure, was also more vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and a global economic downturn.
1:17 PM: Russia to Withdraw from OSCE Assembly Due to Perceived Hostility and Ukrainian Influence
Russia intends to withdraw from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and cease payments to the organization. Valentina Matvienko, head of the Russian Federation Council, made the announcement via Russian state media, stating that Russia is being unjustly targeted by the organization, which is unduly influenced by Ukraine. Matvienko added that the organization would suffer if it continued to exclude Russia from discussions on European security matters.
The Foreign Affairs Committee in the Federation Council had previously lamented that Romania, host of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, had denied visas to all members of the Russian delegation due to their stance on Russia's aggression against Ukraine. The 31st annual session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is scheduled to take place in Bucharest from June 29 to July 3.
12:47 PM: Ukraine to Receive High-Tech Weapon
Ukraine has secured a contract with KNDS for the delivery of 54 advanced RCH 155 artillery systems. This mobile self-propelled howitzer, capable of hitting targets up to 54 kilometers away while in motion, offers precision fire. The system can be remotely controlled, and earlier reports suggested that Ukraine would receive 36 RCH 155 systems. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2025, and KNDS also plans to produce 78 CAESAR systems for Ukraine in the same year.
Putin's journey to North Korea stirs concerns in Ukraine. A Ukrainian journalist, Dennis Trubetskoy, reported in an ntv interview that North Korea's weapons deliveries have been all-encompassing. Yet, these weapons weren't top-notch, but that might change.
12:02 "A Helping Hand" in "Aggression": Putin seals deal with Kim
The extensive partnership agreement between the two nations, signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin's trip to North Korea, includes mutual assistance in case of "aggression" against either party, according to Putin, as reported by Russian news agencies. "The signed comprehensive partnership agreement includes mutual assistance in the event of an aggression against one of the parties," Putin was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies. Russia may not dismiss military-technical collaboration with North Korea. The agreement marks a "breakthrough," elevating the relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang to a "new level," Putin asserted. "Both Russia and North Korea pursue self-defined foreign policies and refuse the language of coercion and dictates," Putin added. Both parties will persist in countering the practice of strangulation through sanctions, an instrument the West uses to preserve its authority in politics, economics, and other arenas, Putin said. North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un spoke of a "peaceful and defensive" accord between the two nations. The "powerful" agreement is "constructive" and "future-oriented," Kim said. Kim labeled Putin "the best friend of the Korean people" (see also entries at 07:27 hours).
11:21 Execution of a Ukrainian soldier: Kiev identifies implicated Russians
Ukrainian prosecutors are allegedly identifying Russian commanders who may be accountable for the execution of a Ukrainian soldier. This was reported by the General Prosecutor of Ukraine, Andriy Kostin, in an X interview. The soldier is also reportedly identified. The information is currently being verified. This is additional evidence that Russia "completely disregards international law and universal morality," the General Prosecutor detailed. "Every world leader who shakes hands with Putin must be conscious that they are shaking hands with someone who condones barbaric murder," so Kostin. It was earlier reported that Russians in the Donetsk region had decapitated a Ukrainian soldier. The head was found on a military vehicle during an aerial reconnaissance mission. The photo was posted online.
10:54 Russian deputy minister: Russia awaits US response on prisoner exchange proposals
Few days before the trial begins against the US reporter Evan Gershkovich, who is accused of espionage in Russia, Moscow expressed its view regarding a potential prisoner exchange. "The ball is in the court of the United States" says the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov in an interview with the state Russian news agency TASS. "We are waiting for their response to the proposals we have made", he added. The Russian proposals are "well known" to the relevant US authorities, Ryabkov further stated. "I understand that the Americans might not fancy some aspects of these proposals. That's their problem", he concluded. In his view, Moscow's approach is "completely justified, reasonable, and balanced." He provided no further details. Gershkovich was arrested in March 2023 during a reporting trip to Russia and has been detained in the Lefortovo Prison in Moscow since then. The Prosecutor's Office accuses the Wall Street Journal reporter of functioning for the CIA and gathering covert information about the tank manufacturer Uralvagonzavod in the Sverdlovsk region. The trial against him is scheduled to begin on June 26 in the eastern Russian city of Yekaterinburg behind closed doors. A conviction could result in up to 20 years in prison for the 32-year-old.
10:20 Russian nuclear-powered submarines conduct shooting in Barents Sea
Russia, according to its own reports, deploys nuclear-powered submarines for military drills in the Barents Sea. Ships from the Northern Fleet fired rockets at targets in the sea, as Russian news agencies report. The exercise was declared successful. The Barents Sea lies off the northern coasts of Norway and Russia.
10:01 US Senator warns of Russian interference in British elections
Russian interference in the forthcoming elections in the UK is likely to escalate 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, stated further that Russia and its proxies are seeding discord or attempting to pit groups against each other to exacerbate social divisions in the UK. "The US is closely monitoring the situation in the UK," Warner said, adding that the US has evidence of Russia's extensive attempts to interfere in elections worldwide. "Russia appears to dislike the fact that the UK has remained resolute in its support for Ukraine," so Warner.
09:31 Munz: Announcement "extremely vague" - that's why Russia is revising its Atom doctrine
Russia is revising its Atom doctrine. ntv correspondent Rainer Munz talks about the possible reasons behind the announcement and looks at Putin's first visit to North Korea since 24 years. Behind the visit is a major shift in the Kremlin, so the Russia expert.
08:31 Reisner: Ukraine's move - Western rockets intensively used against Russian targets
Since Ukraine has access to western weaponry, they now have the capacity to launch attacks on targets within Russia. The strain on Russian logistics is evident on the front lines, and Ukrainian troops might take back the offensive in certain war zones, as Colonel Reisner of the Austrian Army points out.
08:08 Kiev revised Russian casualties to over 529,000 troops
The Ukrainian military general staff estimates that since the start of the offensive war on February 24, Russia has suffered over 529,750 casualties. Additionally, Moscow has reportedly 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 one submarine.
07:27 Putin unveils new "foundational document" with North Korea
During his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, Russian President Vladimir Putin introduced a new "foundational document" intended to strengthen relations between Moscow and Pyongyang. "Today, a new foundational document is ready, which will be the basis for our long-term relations," Putin announced, according to Russian news agencies TASS and Ria Novosti. Moscow and Pyongyang have reportedly made significant strides in improving their bilateral relations, with Putin extending an invitation for Kim to visit Moscow. "I am looking forward to meeting you again," Putin said, who has previously received Kim twice in the Far East of Russia, most recently in September and earlier in April 2019. "I hope that the next meeting will take place in Russia, in Moscow," he reiterated. Putin arrived in North Korea on Tuesday evening.
Prior to the visit, the US government had expressed concerns over Putin's visit to North Korea. "The increasing cooperation between Russia and North Korea is a matter that ought to worry anyone seeking to maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, as well as supporting the Ukrainian people, who are still fighting against Russian aggression," said John Kirby, spokesperson for the US Defense Department in Washington.
07:06 A US Soldier sentenced to multiple years in Russian prison
A Russian court has sentenced a US Soldier to several years in prison on charges of threats and theft. Gordon Black was sentenced in the city of Vladivostok to three years and nine months in prison, according to reports from Russian state news agencies RIA Novosti and TASS. Black's lawyer plans to appeal the verdict. Black was arrested in May, and the Russian justice system accuses him of physically assaulting Alexandra Waschtschuk and stealing 10,000 Rubles (around 109 Euro) from her. Black reportedly admitted to some parts of the crime but denied threatening Waschtschuk with death. Waschtschuk was heavily intoxicated during the altercation. The two had initially connected on a dating app in South Korea and had started a relationship in October 2022. Waschtschuk later invited him to visit Vladiwostok. According to the US Army, the soldier had completed his service in South Korea on April 10. Despite this, he chose to travel to Vladiwostok over China for personal reasons instead of returning to the United States mainland.
06:31 A Kazakh activist in Ukrainian exile critically injured
A prominent Kazakh opposition figure and well-known blogger was shot and injured in Kiev. Aydos Sadykow was attacked near his home in the Ukrainian capital, according to his wife Natalia Sadykowa and Ukrainian authorities. He was taken to a hospital and is reportedly in critical condition. Kiev launched an investigation into the matter. "Preliminary information indicates that an unknown assailant with a weapon approached the car in which the victim and his wife were sitting, shot at the man, and then fled," it was reported. Sadykow was granted asylum in Ukraine in 2014. Along with his wife, he operates a popular online channel that critically analyzes Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The channel has over a million followers on YouTube.
06:05 Moscow discusses strategic weapons placement with partners
According to TASS news agency, Russia is discussing the question of strategic weapons placement with its nearest allies. The Russian government reportedly has "key allies" in Asia as well as in Latin America, with whom "the security situation is thoroughly discussed, not only on the level of exchanging assessments," quotes TASS Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov. "There's nothing special about that." The question of strategic weapons placement is being explored with a range of partners, and these discussions are seen as a regular part of Russia's diplomatic and security strategy, Ryabkov added. No further details were provided regarding the partners involved or the specific weapons being considered.
05:43 Detention of Journalist in Russia:
Back in Russia, a journalist has landed in trouble once more, this time for backing groups associated with the late opposition leader Alexei Nawalny. Artem Krieger finds himself in custody until the 18th of August, as per a Moscow court's decision. Krieger, who is only 23, works for Nawalny's controversial anti-corruption organization FBK. Independent media outlet Sotavision formerly reported about the arrest of one of their members.
04:56 Ukrainian Convicted for 15 Years for Aiding Enemy:
A Ukrainian court has sentenced a local resident to 15 years in jail for passing military information to Russian troops. The announcement came from the prosecutor's office in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk. Allegedly, the resident from Kostyantynivka, close to the battlefront, revealed the positions of Ukrainian troops and their artillery movements in the region via the Telegram online platform in May 2023. The court labeled his actions as high treason. Despite a Russian contact promising a counter-offer, he failed to deliver.
03:51 Ukraine-EU Roaming Zone Agreement:
As Ukraine moves closer towards the European Union, it's making preparations for a joint roaming zone with EU countries. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a bill toward this goal. Digital Minister Mykhailo Fedorov stated, "Following a positive evaluation of our legislative changes from the European side, we can begin negotiations to join the single roaming area with the EU." Ukraine seems to be the first EU membership candidate to take this step.
02:48 Lindner Warns Eastern Germans About Potential Collapse of NATO and EU:
Germany's Finance Minister, Christian Lindner, calls for transparency about the country's Ukraine policy in Eastern Germany. "We need to openly discuss the Ukraine policy of the German government with the people in Eastern Germany," Lindner said in an interview with the "Rheinische Post." Lindner stressed that more than just aiding Ukraine in its struggle against Russia, their aid also serves German interests. "If we tolerate Russia's violation of international law and aggression, NATO and the EU are at risk of collapsing," Lindner cautioned. "Countries like Poland and the Czech Republic would question our commitment if we abandon them in critical situations," Lindner added, as the leader of the liberal Free Democratic Party (FDP).
01:48 German City Council Opposes Cutting Benefits for Ukrainian Refugees:
The German City Council advises against reducing benefits for refugees from Ukraine. In response to the demand from various Interior Ministers to curtail payments under the Asylseekers Benefits Act for Ukrainian refugees in the future, City Council President Markus Lewe said, "The minister presidents should refrain from arguing with the Federal Chancellor about the pension for Ukrainian men and women." Lewe argued that Social Code II provided the most suitable tools to get Ukrainian refugees into employment more frequently and swiftly. He warned that switching to the asylum system instead would limit access to language courses, employment agencies, and qualification programs, making it harder for them to find work. Additionally, the administrative burden on the cities would significantly increase.
00:43 Swedish Parliament Approves US Defense Agreement:
The Swedish Parliament approves a contentious defense agreement with the United States with a large majority. Following a five-hour debate, 266 parliamentarians supported the agreement, while 37 opposed it. Critics express concerns that it could lead to atomic weapons being stationed in Sweden and permanent US military bases in the country. Signed in December in Stockholm and Washington, the agreement grants the USA access to 17 military support points and training areas in Sweden for weapons storage, military equipment, and ammunition.
23:42 Apology for False Map on European Football Championship:
A live broadcast of the European Football Championship on MagentaTV and RTL showed a false European map due to a technical error, causing the moderator Johannes B. Kerner to apologize. The map showed Crimea, the Black Sea peninsula, as part of Russia instead of Ukraine before the match between Turkey and Georgia. "This is a grave mistake that upsets us deeply, and we sincerely apologize for it," Kerner explained.
22:51 Zelenskyy: Successful Use of Western Weapons on Russian Territory:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy considers the use of Western weapons against Russian territory as effective. The destruction of Russian fortifications and launch ramps near the border brings immense importance, according to Zelenskyy, in his daily video address. "It's working, just as we anticipated." Various units received Zelenskyy's praise for their successes, although their details were not disclosed.
22:12 Dead due to border mine blast in Bryansk, Russia
As per Alexander Bogomas, the local governor, a fatal incident occurred in Bryansk, Russia, near the Ukrainian border, where two individuals lost their lives due to a mine explosion in a restricted border zone. Bogomas mentioned that the locals disregarded warning signs about mine danger. According to his statement, both locals met instant death due to the explosion. One more person was reported to have been injured. The incident took place in the Klimowski district, which adjoins the north Ukrainian region of Chernihiv. Bogomas warned people to exercise caution and avoid visiting areas in border zones where mine warnings are posted. Over the past few years, Russia has bolstered its border regions during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In the current month alone, there have been numerous mine-related mishaps. Last week, four people, including a state journalist, sustained injuries due to a mine explosion in the Belgorod region, another area that borders Ukraine.
You can catch up on previous events here.
Read also:
- In light of the ongoing Ukraine conflict, German Interior Minister Georg Maier encourages eligible Ukrainian soldiers in Germany to return to their homeland and join Nato forces in defending Ukraine, citing a moral duty to protect their homeland.
- Amidst the escalating cyberwar between Ukraine and Russia, there are concerns about potential military operations that could involve attack on Ukraine's critical infrastructure, including its cyber defenses.
- Volodymyr Selensky, the President of Ukraine, has called for stronger international support in the face of Russia's aggressive actions, highlighting the need for Western nations to provide military aid and increase diplomatic pressure on Russia.
- As tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to rise, there are growing concerns over the potential for a full-scale military conflict, with both sides warily watching each other's movements and preparing for potential attacks.
