Two possible Russian spies detained in Latvia

Two suspected Russian spies detained in Latvia: 18:49

Latvian authorities have apprehended two individuals suspected of spying for Russia. These individuals are under investigation for acquiring and relaying confidential information to Russian intelligence services, as reported by the security forces in Latvia, which belongs to the European Union (EU) and NATO. The detainees are believed to have provided information about other potential spies in Latvia, leading to their current detention. It has been revealed that one of them is a man who had been accused of spying for Russia previously.

Gerhard Mangott, a political scientist, suggests that Russian President Putin's recent visit to China is motivated by a desire for an alliance against the West. This cooperation between the two countries stems from a shared desire to form a unified front against the Western powers.

At an EU celebration near the Kremlin, EU Ambassador Roland Galharague expressed his disapproval of Russia's aggressive war towards Ukraine. He denounced the unprovoked, unlawful, and unjust violation of the United Nations Charter that Russia has committed. Galharague was joined by protesters who criticized this celebration of diplomats from various countries in the center of Moscow, given the ongoing Russian aggression. Activists compared the delivery of Western weapons to the "criminal regime in Ukraine" with the loss of Russian lives, claiming that EU blood was on the hands of those at the event. Diplomats claimed that they had been approached by both the activists and Russian media as they entered the hotel where the celebration took place.

UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps issued a warning regarding ongoing support for Ukraine, citing the recent offensive on Kharkiv as a wake-up call. He emphasized the importance of consistent support for Ukraine rather than offering help only intermittently. Shapps claimed that this lesson could be learned from the situation in Kharkiv and cautioned against allowing distractions causing inattentiveness.

Security expert Frank Umbach addressed the connection between the assassination of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico and Russia's hybrid warfare in an interview with ntv.

Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klimenko accuses Russian soldiers of executing civilians in Vovchansk, a city within the Kharkiv region. He mentions a resident who attempted to flee and defied Russian orders, resulting in their death. Other residents, who were attempting to evacuate, were captured and detained in basements, according to his Telegram post. These facts have not been independently verified.

The head of the military administration of Vovchansk, Tamaz Gambarashvili, was injured in an attack on a village close to the city. This incident took place while Oleh Sinehubov, the governor of the Kharkiv region, was announcing the news on his Telegram page. In total, five people were hurt in the shelling, including two medical personnel and two drivers.

Russia has recently made significant territorial gains in Ukraine, capturing approximately 278 square kilometers in the past week, as per AFP's estimates. During its attack on the Kharkiv region, the Russian army gained 257 square kilometers between May 9 and 15. Additionally, 21 square kilometers were seized in other areas, like the village of Robotyne in southern Ukraine. These advances represent the most significant territorial gain by Russia since December 2022. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) data shows that Moscow has captured around 65,300 square kilometers of Ukrainian land since the conflict's inception in February 2022, which is around twelve percent of the entire country. However, this does not include the Crimean peninsula, which had already been annexed by Russia.

NZ Imposes Fresh Sanctions on NK, Russian, and Iranian Entities Over Ukraine

New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters reveals new penalties targeting 28 individuals and 14 entities. Peters made the announcement in an official government statement and on a platform X. The sanctions seek out those linked to North Korea's transfer of weapons to Russia for deployment against Ukraine or those offering military aid to Moscow's forces from Iran. North Korea has now become Russia's key arms provider, reportedly providing Moscow with significant military bundles, including ballistic missiles and over 3 million artillery shells. Iran, on the other hand, has been providing Russia with Shahed drones and allegedly helping Moscow manufacture them in local factories.

Retired Russian Defense Minister Commends Offensive in Ukraine

Shortly after being sacked from his role as Russian Defense Minister, Shoigu speaks publicly for the first time regarding military-related issues. In an update on Russian reporter Pavel Tsarubin's Telegram channel, he comments on the frontline situation in Ukraine: "The offensive is successfully progressing in every direction, and we hope it will continue." Shoigu asserts that the special military operation in Ukraine represents Russia's primary objective, repeatedly emphasizing the need to produce considerable amounts of ammunition, weapons, and military equipment. His dismissal as Defense Minister was confirmed earlier this week by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

President Zelensky Visits Kharkiv Region, Calls Situation Tough But Manageable

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky makes a trip to the besieged Kharkiv region. At a press briefing, he labels the situation there as extremely challenging but mostly under control. Zelensky asserted that meetings with military leaders had occurred during his visit, while acknowledging the many difficulties faced by Ukraine. In a separate statement by the Ukrainian General Staff, it was confirmed that successes were achieved in hampering Russia's major offensive, which had been going on for about a week.

Ukrainian Military Slows Down Russian Incursions in North-Eastern Region

The Ukrainian military claims it has successfully hindered Russian forces' progress in the north-eastern provinces. Ukrainian troops have reported intense clashes in the northern areas of Vovchansk, where they have stopped the Russian soldiers' advance. The situation is stable, according to the Ukrainian General Staff. Meanwhile, the Russian news agency RIA cited Russian officials in captured territories, stating that Russian troops were preparing to conquer the village of Lyptsi. Lyptsi is situated further west than Vovchansk and closer to Kharkiv.

Russian Scientist Faces 17 Years Imprisonment for Allegedly Spying for Germany

At a trial in St. Petersburg concerning spying charges against Anatoly Maslov, a scientist from Novosibirsk, the Russian Prosecutor's Office seeks a 17-year sentence and a massive fine. Maslov has been charged with disclosing classified information to the German secret services. The court proceedings are held behind closed doors. The three scientists, Alexander Shiplyuk, Valery Swegintsev, and Anatoly Maslov, were apprehended in 2022. They have expertise in hypersonic technology, critical for creating weapons like the Kinshal missile. The defendants assert their innocence. In April, Alexei Kuranov, who worked on hypersonic technologies, was also found guilty of treason and given a seven-year prison term.

Munz: Putin's China Visit Shows Russia's Options Are Running Out

Vladimir Putin embarks on a state visit to China, with ntv journalist Rainer Munz stating, "China is Russia's most important ally." However, despite China's authoritarian system akin to Russia's, it refuses to cut diplomatic ties with the West. Munz describes Russia as China's subordinate partner.

Duma President Warns of Danger as Ukraine Threatens Global Conflict

Russia's parliament's head and Vladimir Putin ally, Vyacheslav Volodin, addressed the West, warning them of the risk of a massive war. Ukraine, according to him, is pushing the US and Europe into a perilous global catastrophe. Various politicians affiliated with Putin and the President himself have repeatedly cautioned the West against breaching the Russian government's red lines by providing weapons to Ukraine. Russian nuclear arsenals have also been occasionally referenced as potential threats.

10:35 ntv journalist Weichert on current affairs in Kharkiv: "Russians making progress"

Ukraine's President Zelenskyy states the circumstances in contentious Kharkiv remain peaceful. However, a hidden truth is revealed through ntv news correspondent Jurgen Weichert that shows Russians are making headway in other areas. The scenario on the new frontline is generally under control; however, Moscow continues to expand their presence.

10:07 Putin complements China's endeavors in resolving the "Ukraine situation"

During a trip to Beijing, Russia's leader Putin thanks his Chinese peer Xi Jinping for aiding in settling the "Ukraine situation". Putin later informs Chinese President Xi Jinping about the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Russian soldiers are pushing forward in various locations there. During the stay in Beijing, both leaders emphasize the significance of their nation's bilateral connections (see notes at 8:57, 6:37, and 2:06). China is identified as a dependable neighbor, comrade, and collaborator to Russia, with mutual trust, stated Xi on Chinese state TV CCTV. Chinese reports indicate Putin insists the two countries have a robust foundation in collaborative enterprises.

9:43 Ukraine fires projectiles at Crimea's Belbek military airfield for the second night in a row

For the second consecutive evening, Ukraine launches missiles onto the Crimean peninsula's Belbek military airfield, seized by Moscow since 2014. A fuel system was hit, resulting in a fire. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed the launching of five US ATACMS missiles over Crimea. Additionally, four Ukrainian drones were downed and two more were disrupted due to radio interference. Nonetheless, entrenched Russian military bloggers confirmed the blaze. The airport had been the focus of Ukrainian assaults the day prior.

9:18 SPD politician Roth petitioning for revisions to Western weapons use in Ukraine

Foreign policy specialist for the Social Democrats, Michael Roth, advocates for adjustments to the guidelines for using Western-supplied weapons in Ukraine. Roth observes the current phase of the war suggests a shift in Russia's offensive tactics. So far, the Russians have targeted Ukraine from their own territory; nonetheless, this has now modified. "Up to now, the Russians have attacked from Ukrainian soil," shares Roth in a ZDF morning show. "But this may have changed now," Roth asserts. There is reportedly "a consistent agreement amongst all international allies: we aren't permitted to attack Russia on their soil with the weapons we've provided." A sensible solution could be "necessary here", opines Roth.

8:57 Video: Putin embarks on first state visit of new presidency to China in pursuit of guidance

Aerial bombings in Kherson decimate a residential area. Simultaneously, the events in Kharkiv remain tense. Putin extols the advancements made by his army in Ukraine's war zone - and then travels to China for the first official visit of his new chairmanship.

8:17 Missile discharge from Russia: Kiev proclaims air alert

At dawn on Wednesday, the authorities declared an air raid alert for the Ukrainian capital, Kiev, and several other regions. This news was relayed by Radio Free Europe. The Ukrainian air force released a warning about the potential risk of Russian ballistic missile launchings. The alert was issued for the regions of Sumy, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, Poltava, Dnipropetrovsk, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhya, Kirovohrad, Cherkassy, and Kiev.

7:43 Closure of airports in Tatarstan for 'security reasons' after drone attack

Following a drone incident, authorities in the Russian region of Tatarstan shut down two major airports in the region's capital, Kazan, and the city of Nizhnekamsk for a few hours. This alert was reported by Radio Free Europe. The Russian Ministry of Defense indicated a "Ukrainian drone" was destroyed over Tatarstan at approximately 7:30 am local time on Wednesday. The drone was likely heading to the Zakamsk industrial region. Previously, drones struck an oil refinery in Tatarstan and a residential dwelling in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Nizhnekamsk. According to reports, a plant generating drones is located at the industrial zone.

7:10 At least one civilian perished after Russian shelling of Sumy region

Russian soldiers attacked ten settlements in the Sumy region. This was confirmed by the Sumy military administration. The strikes used mortars, multiple launch rocket systems, or artillery. The ensuing blasts totaled 187. One civilian loss of life and another civilian harm were caused by the assault, per the regional authorities.

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12:37 State television: Xi welcomes Putin with a grand ceremony in BeijingAs per Chinese state television, Chinese President Xi Jinping has welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing. The footage from state broadcaster CCTV on Thursday captured Xi meeting the Kremlin leader at a grand ceremony in front of the Great Hall of the People. According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Xi stated that Sino-Russian relations contribute to peace. China intends to work in partnership with Russia to maintain truthfulness and justice in the world, said Xi. The Kremlin previously announced that the two heads of state would discuss their comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation. This is Putin's first trip overseas since his re-election in March and his second journey to China in six months.

12:06 Border with Russia: Finland alters conscription rules for military serviceFinland is planning to modify its conscription legislation to permit reservists to patrol the border with Russia in case of a sudden influx of migration, according to Reuters on May 15. The amended regulations permit Finns who have completed their military service in the border troops to be called up to border patrol duties during exceptional circumstances.

11:32 Two Ukrainian railroad employees seemingly slain by Russian shellingThe Ukrainian railroad firm "Ukrzaliznytsia" reports that a railroad inspector and a Ukrainian railroad mechanic were killed by Russian shelling of a civilian railroad structure in the Dnipropetrovsk oblast. The fatalities were Serhiy Derevytskyi, 48, and Oleksandr Prykhodko, 51.

10:20 Russia castigates UN draft resolution commemorating the Srebrenica massacreRussia has sternly denounced a UN draft resolution for a day of remembrance honoring the Srebrenica massacre. "We consider this hostile text a danger to peace and stability" in Bosnia and "the entire region," said Russian UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzia at the United Nations Security Council. He accuses Western backers of the draft resolution of "reopening old wounds of the civil war." The resolution is set to be discussed in the General Assembly instead of the Security Council, where Russia could veto it.

09:17 Six presumed Russian secret agents arrested in UkraineAccording to the security forces, six suspected representatives of the Russian military intelligence service GRU have been apprehended in Ukraine for allegedly aiding Russia in attacks on targets in eastern Ukraine. The detainees allegedly gave coordinates for Russian assaults in the Donbass region. The Ukrainian domestic intelligence service SBU states that the detained individuals threaten imprisonment for life for treason. According to reports, the suspects are said to have divulged the coordinates of a housing complex in the city of Pokrovsk to the Russian army.

08:06 Russian President Putin arrives in China for a formal visitAccording to Chinese and Russian state media, Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in China for a two-day state visit. This information was revealed today. Putin's agenda in Beijing included a meeting with Chinese party and state leader Xi Jinping. Additionally, Putin plans to visit a Russian-Chinese trade fair in the northern Chinese industrial city of Harbin.

07:58 Estonia adopts law to transfer frozen Russian funds to UkraineEstonia has initiated the legal process for moving frozen Russian assets to Ukraine, which has been attacked by Russia. The Estonian parliament agreed upon a law that allows Russian assets, subject to sanctions, to be utilized to compensate for war damage. 65 MPs voted in favor of the proposed action, with three voting against. The president's approval is now needed. Parliament asserts that the amendment would enable assets of individuals and businesses that have funded Russia's unlawful operations to be used for Ukraine's war reparations.

21:42 Ukraine peace conference: Over 50 nations vow commitments - not yet from ChinaOne month before the Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland, more than 50 countries have already committed to participation. However, one significant participant remains absent: "China has not yet registered," acknowledges Swiss President Viola Amherd after a consultation with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin, but she adds, "We assume that the list of participants will continue to evolve till the summit kicks off."

20:17 Moscow: West wages hybrid war in stealing Russian assetsRussia has once again decried the intentions of the US and EU to utilize confiscated Russian assets to aid Ukraine. According to the Foreign Ministry in Moscow, the nations are defying their legal obligations and imperiling the international financial system. "These efforts are an aspect of a hybrid war that the West is waging against Russia," asserts Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.

9:48pm: Frozen Russian Assets Worth 3.9 Billion EurosThe Federal Ministry of Finance reported that a whopping 3.9 billion euros' worth of Russian assets are now under freeze in Germany. A government spokeswoman made the revelation to reporters, saying that the confiscated assets belong to sanctioned individuals, businesses, and organizations. Just last June, the government placed the estimated value at 5.2 billion euros, in response to an inquiry from the CDU/CSU parliamentary group. The spokeswoman added that this figure is susceptible to market changes and could also be affected by EU de-listing -- individuals or organizations being taken off the sanctions list. Feel free to check out our coverage of previous events on this matter.

Check out all previous developments here.