UK Defense Secretary Affirms: Ukraine Has Historically Been Excluded from Russia's Wider Influence Groups
John Healey, the UK's Defense Secretary, Cheers Ukraine on Its Independence Day in an Article on "European Pravda". "Thirty-three years ago today, Ukraine declared its independence. It pledged a brighter, wealthier future as a self-governing democracy, separate from Soviet Russia's control," Healey stated. Today, Ukrainians are celebrating Independence Day amidst conflict. It's a life-or-death battle to remain a free and sovereign nation in the face of Putin's brutal, unlawful invasion. "Ukraine has historically been the underdog against Russia's significantly larger forces and resources. Today, we commend the Ukrainian people," Healey wrote. They continue to battle with immense courage, not just the military, but also the civilian population. The UK vows to stand with its Ukrainian mates unwaveringly for as long as needed. Consequently, the UK is launching a campaign today, urging folks in Britain and beyond to convey their support to the Ukrainians. "On social media, we ask you to 'Make Some Noise for Ukraine' and share relevant posts. Besides the military and financial aid we're offering Ukraine, we've also pledged our friendship and camaraderie," Healey said.
20:05 Zelenskyy Upgrades Syrskyj to GeneralUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has advanced Oleksandr Syrskyj, the leader of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, to the rank of General. This announcement was made in a decree by Zelenskyy. Previously, Syrskyj was a Lieutenant General. The promotion was due to the Ukrainian troops' progress in Russia's border region of Kursk.
19:19 Russians Voice Internet Disruption Grievances - Ukrainian Hackers SuspectedAccording to Ukrainian portal "Kyiv Independent", Ukrainian military intelligence hackers (HUR) reportedly carried out a massive cyberattack on Russian internet providers' servers. "Many" online platforms in Russian industrial facilities have been blocked, reported a source from HUR to "Kyiv Independent". The latest attack is said to have affected at least 33 servers and 283 office computers in industrial facilities, causing the shutdown of 21 websites, and wrecking 15 cloud and file storage services. Ukrainian hackers are said to have also left pro-Ukrainian messages on the impacted online platforms. Russian users have been complaining about connectivity issues with telecommunications company Rostelecom, instability with mobile operators MTC and Beeline, and problems with technology company Yandex and its services. A source claimed that Russian platforms targeted by cyberattacks were supporters and financiers of the war against Ukraine.
18:31 Lukashenko Sends Cryptic, Friendly Greetings to Ukrainians in a Dubious MessageBelarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko sent a friendly greeting to the Ukrainian people on their Independence Day despite deploying close to a third of his army to Ukraine's border. His greeting, shared on Pul Pervogo, a Belarusian propaganda channel, sees Lukashenko praising the "kind and friendly" Ukrainian people. He adds that "our lands have always admired the hardworking and friendly Ukrainian people". He expresses his belief that "in these trying times, it's vital to speak the language of peace, for the advantage of present and future generations of Slavic nations. There's no other alternative. Belarus will continue to work diligently to ensure regional security as soon as possible."
17:49 Scholz and Zelenskyy Discuss by Phone and Make a CommitmentGerman Chancellor Olaf Scholz assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Germany's "unwavering loyalty" in a phone call. According to spokesman Steffen Hebestreit, Scholz and Zelenskyy conversed about the military and humanitarian situation in Ukraine on Ukraine's Independence Day. Scholz reiterated Germany's consistent and unwavering commitment to Ukraine in the face of Russia's ongoing aggression, explained Hebestreit. Zelenskyy thanked the German government for persistent military support, especially in air defense. "Both agreed on the significance of the Swiss summit process and its continuation," Hebestreit added, referring to the Ukraine Conference in Switzerland in mid-June.
17:02 Putin's Popularity Among Russians Wanes After Kharkiv OffensiveAccording to a poll by the Russian pollster, approval ratings and trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin have dwindled in the wake of the Ukrainian military's Kharkiv operation. Meduza, a Russian media outlet based in Latvia, reported this, citing data from the Russian pollster's website. Meduza reports that, according to the Russian pollster's website, Putin's approval rating dropped by 3.5 percent compared to the previous week, settling at 73.6 percent. Trust in Putin also dipped by 2.6 percent in the same period, reaching 78.2 percent. This is the steepest decline since Russia's conflict with Ukraine commenced.
The UK's Intelligence Defence reports that despite high-ranking Russian officials declaring their readiness to negotiate, a series of subsequent statements indicates that Russia remains highly determined to accomplish the Kremlin's initial objectives for Ukraine. The UK's Ministry of Defence cites a proclamation by Dmitri Rogozin, a previous Russian Deputy Prime Minister and self-proclaimed "Senator" from the annexed part of Saporischschja, who recently bragged about destroying Ukrainian literature. Rogozin advocates for "eradicating everything Ukrainian at the source" and suggests that any ceasefire with Ukraine would result in "certain death for our children." The UK's Intelligence Defence remarks in its report that these statements represent the latest in a sequence of Ukrainophobic statements by high-ranking Russian officials that threaten and undermine Ukrainian identity and culture. It is likely that numerous individuals within the Russian establishment are pursuing maximalist ambitions for the conflict, including the annihilation of Ukrainian culture, identity, and statehood. "Despite the supposed Russian inclination to negotiate, which President's spokesperson Dmitri Peskov has repeatedly stated on July 1, 2024," writes the UK's Intelligence Defence.
15:50 Zelensky: Ukraine Introduces New Drone Missile for the First Time
Ukraine's military has engaged the Russians for the first time using a new weapon, the Palianytsia drone missile, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky during Independence Day celebrations. "This is our new method of retaliation against the aggressor. The enemy has been vanquished. I thank everyone who made this possible. All developers, manufacturers, and our soldiers. I am proud of you," says Zelensky. The challenge for Russia will grow, and it will be increasingly difficult to decipher exactly what the missile or drone has struck. It is a weapon of a "completely new class."
15:31 Ukraine Refugees Can Still Assert Claims as Late Repatriates
According to the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Ukraine refugees can maintain their potential claims as late repatriates. This will now be secured with a new regulation, announces State Secretary in the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Juliane Seifert, at the "Day of Homeland" of the Federation of Expellees (BdV) in Berlin. For the refugees from the country attacked by Russia two and a half years ago, the regulation should apply retroactively from the day the war began, she adds. Even people who have previously unsuccessfully applied for late repatriate status due to their war-induced displacement can now assert their claim and refile their application - provided they meet the additional legal requirements of the Federal Expellees Act.
14:56 Zelensky Warns Putin, Discussing Buffer Federation
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasizes the people's will for freedom in his speech on the country's Independence Day. "We will not allow the land to become a gray zone where the blue and yellow flag (Ukraine's national flag) will continue to fly legally," Zelensky says in his speech. The Ukrainians will respond to the aggressor with all the horrors - proportionally, Zelensky warns. Those who seek to turn Ukraine into a buffer zone should be mindful that their country does not become a "buffer federation," he says, addressing Russian President Vladimir Putin in light of the counteroffensive in the Kursk region.
14:28 Five Civilians Killed in Russian Attack in Eastern Ukraine
At least five civilians have died in a Russian attack in eastern Ukraine this morning, according to authorities. Police and emergency services are on site in the city of Kostiantynivka, the governor of the Donetsk region, Vadym Fillaschkin, said on the Telegram platform. He again urged residents to seek safety. Kostiantynivka is near the front line, where Russian troops have gained ground in recent months and have repeatedly targeted the nearby city of Pokrovsk, a crucial logistics hub for Ukrainian forces.
14:06 Historical Home of Ukrainian Anarchist Nestor Makhno Destroyed in Saporischschja Attack
The historical home and family estate of Ukrainian anarchist fighter Nestor Makhno in Hulyaipole has been destroyed in a Russian attack on the Saporischschja region. The Kyiv Independent newspaper reported this, citing the Ukrainian National Police. The house of the renowned 20th-century revolutionary had been transformed into a museum. After the Russian attack, the building burned to the ground. According to the National Police, the Russian military launched 306 attacks on nine frontline settlements in the Saporischschja region overnight, damaging or destroying several houses and infrastructure. No civilians were injured or killed.
13:38 115 Ukrainian Soldiers Return from Russian Captivity
115 Ukrainian soldiers have returned from Russian captivity, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced via Telegram. "We remember each one of them. We are searching and doing our best to get everyone back," the Ukrainian leader wrote. He thanked the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for facilitating the prisoner exchange with Moscow. Zelensky also published some photos of freed prisoners on Telegram. They include members of the Ukrainian army, national guard, navy, and border guard.
A prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine is scheduled today, with both sides set to release 115 captives, as stated by a government official from the mediating United Arab Emirates (UAE). This will be the first exchange since Ukraine initiated its offensive within Russian territory this month. The Russian news agency RIA confirmed this, citing information from Moscow's defense ministry. Russian soldiers captured by Ukraine during its offensive in the Kursk region reportedly reside on Belarusian soil. This marks the seventh exchange mediated by the UAE since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The UAE, a close security ally of the US, has maintained cordial relations with Moscow despite the displeasure of Western governments. Concurrently, ties with Kyiv have strengthened.
13:16 Polish President Duda and Lithuanian PM Simonyte Celebrate in Kyiv
Today, Ukraine is celebrating its 33rd Independence Day. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is hosting Polish President Andrzej Duda and Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte during the festivities in Kyiv. Several images from the event have recently been shared by the Ukrainian presidential office.
12:56 Latvia Commits $126 Million in Military Aid to Ukraine in 2024
Latvia has pledged to contribute $126 million (€112 million) in military assistance to Ukraine this year and will collaborate in expanding the drone coalition initiative. The Ukrainian Defense Minister, Rustem Umerov, made this announcement on Facebook following a meeting with a Latvian delegation led by Defense Minister Andris Spruds. As mentioned by Umerov, strengthening the drone coalition, with Latvia playing a leading role, is a significant topic. In response to large-scale Russian aggression, Latvia will deliver thousands of drones to Ukraine. The Ukrainian defense minister also revealed that dozens of nations are already part of the coalition.
12:16 Accession to the International Criminal Court for Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has paved the way for Ukrainian membership in the International Criminal Court (ICC) by enacting a law that ratifies the Rome Statute. Full membership in the ICC is viewed as a significant step toward Ukraine's integration into the EU. The Ukrainian parliament previously endorsed this move. The ICC has issued international arrest warrants for individuals such as Russian President Vladimir Putin.
11:38 "Liberation from Moscow's Demons": Zelensky Signs Law Banning Pro-Kremlin Orthodox Church
On Ukraine's 33rd Independence Day, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law barring the pro-Russian Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Zelensky stated that this move would strengthen Ukraine's independence. The law has been published on the Ukrainian parliament's website. Members of parliament voted for the bill on August 8, which calls for prohibiting religious organizations with connections to Moscow. Russia has criticized this measure. According to the law, religious organizations will have until an undetermined period to sever their links with Russia.
11:02 Russian Ammunition Depot Burns after Drone Strike
Ukraine seems to have inflicted damage on a military target: A Russian ammunition depot in the Voronezh region reportedly suffered drone attacks, according to media reports. The target was an ammunition storage facility near the town of Ostrogozhsk, approximately 100 kilometers south of Voronezh. The local governor, Alexander Gusev, announced an emergency in several locations due to the "resolution of the consequences of a fire and the detonation of explosive objects." (Further details will be provided in the 9:54 AM entry.)
10:26 "War has Returned to Russia" – Zelensky's Statement
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According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the war has returned to Russia. With Russia's invasion of Ukraine, its intention was to "destroy" Ukraine, Zelensky said in a video message on the occasion of Ukraine's independence day. Consequently, Ukraine is now celebrating its 33rd independence day, Zelensky added. "And what the enemy brought to our land has now returned to its source." According to Zelensky, his video message was recorded in the border region where Ukraine launched a surprise offensive in Russia. Ukrainian troops entered the Kursk region on August 6.
09:31 Kyiv: 1160 Russian Soldiers "Neutralized" in a DayOfficial Kyiv statistics reveal substantial casualties on the Russian side: 1160 Russian soldiers were either killed or rendered incapacitated within a day. As per the Ukrainian Defense Ministry, a staggering 606,490 Russian soldiers have been "neutralized" since the war commenced in February 2022. The ministry's daily report on Russian losses also mentions that the opposition lost 9 additional tanks (now totalling 8,542). Since the onset of the Russian invasion, Ukraine has recorded over 16,600 armored vehicles and approximately 14,000 drones either captured or destroyed by the Russian military. These numbers, however, cannot be authenticated independently, as Russia has remained silent about its own losses in Ukraine.
08:48 Zelensky: "We're Gradually Pushing Back the Russian Army from Kharkiv"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that the Russian army is being forced back from the Kharkiv region. He made this statement in his evening address following a conversation with the Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, General Oleksandr Syrskyi. "Kharkiv is indeed a heroic city, a city of people and life. Since early May, our defense forces have repelled Russian attempts to advance on Kharkiv and destroy our city and the entire Kharkiv region," Zelensky said. "We're gradually pushing back the Russian army."
08:10 Authorities Report 10 Injured in Russian Shelling of Kherson OblastTen individuals were injured in Russian shelling in the Kherson Oblast the previous day, as reported by the state news agency Ukrinform, quoting Oleksandr Prokudin, head of the military administration of the Kherson Oblast.
07:54 Russian Rockets Target Grain Facilities in Sumy OblastRussian rockets struck several grain infrastructure facilities in the Ukrainian Sumy Oblast, according to the regional prosecutor's office, as reported by the state news agency Ukrinform. Russian troops launched rocket attacks on grain infrastructure in the afternoon, the statement said.
07:29 Report: Drone Strike Hurts Munitions Depot in Russian Voronezh OblastA drone strike overnight in the Russian Voronezh Oblast triggered a fire and an "explosion of explosive materials," according to "Kyiv Independent," citing regional governor Aleksandr Gusev. Russian air defense units reportedly shot down several unmanned aerial vehicles over the oblast. Debris, allegedly, sparked a fire and explosion at an unspecified location. The Russian Telegram channel Astra reported that the explosion occurred at a munitions depot in Ostrogozhsk. In recent months, Ukrainian forces have carried out a series of drone strikes targeting Russia's military infrastructure and oil industry.
06:53 USA Imposes Sanctions on 400 Entities and IndividualsThe U.S. Department of State announced that the U.S. has imposed sanctions on over 400 entities and individuals for allegedly backing Russia's war in Ukraine. "Today's actions hit Russia where it hurts," said Aaron Forsberg, Director of Economic Sanctions Policy at the U.S. Department of State. The measures target, among others, the Russian energy sector and companies in Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. They also include Chinese companies suspected of aiding Moscow to evade Western sanctions and bolster its military. For instance, the import-export department of the Chinese Dalian Machine Tool Group is said to have supplied Russian companies with dual-use goods worth $4 million. Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, stated that Beijing firmly opposes unilateral sanctions and that normal trade between China and Russia should not be impacted.
06:18 Belarus and China Pursue Enhanced Security CooperationBelarus and China have agreed to intensify their cooperation in the field of security, as reported by the Ukrainian newspaper "Kyiv Independent". Apart from strengthening their security cooperation, the two countries aim to collaborate more closely in the financial and energy sectors. They also intend to strengthen their cooperation in industrial supply chains.
04:38 British PM Starmer Commits Long-Term Support to Ukraine on its National DayBritish Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged the UK's long-term support to Ukraine on its national day. "My message to all Ukrainians, whether at the front or here in their second home in the United Kingdom, is clear: we are with you today and forever," Starmer said in a message of greeting. He had also expressed this sentiment in his conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy when he visited London a few weeks ago, Starmer added. Not only the British government, but the whole country stands behind Ukraine. "We are here for you as long as you need us." The Prime Minister concluded his message with the Ukrainian greeting "Slawa Ukrajini" (Glory to Ukraine).
01:29 Norway Grants Ukraine License for Grenade Development and Funds itNorway has granted Ukraine a license for the development of 155-mm grenades and has agreed to finance the project. The Norwegian company Nammo has signed an agreement with a Ukrainian defense company to grant a license for the production of artillery grenades at Norway's expense. "Norway is currently supporting Ukraine by providing ammunition from its own stockpiles and directly from industry. Now, Nammo wants to share its plans with Ukraine. This means that the Ukrainian armed forces can be resupplied more quickly," said Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram.
23:54 Kiesewetter on NATO Base Geilenkirchen Incident: Is Russia's Hybrid War Aiming at GermanyAfter a brief escalation in the safety level at NATO's airbase in Geilenkirchen and rumors of potential Russian drone attacks, German security politicians are encouraging vigilance. CDU foreign policy expert Roderich Kiesewetter tells the "Tagesspiegel" that Germany has long been a target for Russia's hybrid war, and as a result, military installations, particularly those connected to NATO in Germany, are potential targets for sabotage and espionage operations. Previously, the security level at NATO's airbase in Geilenkirchen had temporarily been raised to its second-highest level, Charlie, due to a potential risk. According to Kiesewetter, the airbase in Geilenkirchen is of significant importance to NATO, housing the air-based early warning and control system AWACS. "The Charlie security level implies that NATO is taking necessary precautions, including countering potential drone infiltrations, and there are signs of potential concrete dangers," Kiesewetter noted. However, the general escalated risk level and potential for Russian attacks is well-known and not a new development.
22:21 Latvia Announces Largest Drone Delivery to Ukraine YetLatvia has announced its most significant drone delivery to Ukraine to date. According to Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds, 1,400 drones produced in Latvia are set to be shipped, bringing the total number of drones procured from its home industry to over 2,700. Latvia, together with the UK, leads an alliance committed to supplying one million drones to Ukraine. Its members, including Germany, have pledged to invest in drone manufacturing and deliver drones and spare parts to Ukraine.
21:34 Biden Pledges New Military Aid to Ukraine, Emphasizing Air DefenseUS President Joe Biden has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine during a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This package includes air defense missiles, drone defense equipment, anti-tank missiles, and ammunition, as per the White House. Biden reaffirmed the "unwavering support of the United States for the Ukrainian people" to Zelenskyy. Financial aspects of the new aid were not disclosed.
21:29 Zelenskyy Presses for Delivery of Promised WeaponsThe Ukrainian military is experiencing an urgent need for foreign support. President Zelenskyy urges his Western allies to deliver the pledged weaponry packages. "On the frontline, they fight with ammunition and equipment instead of words like 'tomorrow' or 'soon'," he says in his evening video message. According to him, Ukraine is still waiting for packages of weapons or equipment "that have been agreed upon, but not yet delivered". He did not provide specifics.
20:58 Residents in Kursk Vent Frustration: "Everyone is on Their Own"While conflict persists in the southern Russian region of Kursk, residents there appear increasingly frustrated: with authorities they believe have forsaken them, with the Ukrainian military, and even with their own military. A 28-year-old resident told the "Moscow Times" that both Russia and Ukraine view them as mere pawns. "To Russia, we're just a part of the map. To the Ukrainians, we're enemies supporting Putin's regime. Everyone here is on their own." She accuses authorities of lying and downplaying the situation. A 32-year-old resident explains that while people blame Ukraine for the attacks, they also question the competency of the Russian military: "How could they miss the buildup of such a large number of Ukrainian troops at the border?" The stance of those previously indifferent or neutral has now shifted to intense anger, she claims. Another resident of Kursk states: "The Ukrainians are certainly not our friends at the moment." However, a Red Cross volunteer in Kursk voices no anger towards Ukraine, saying, "They're also just pawns in this situation."
Stay updated on previous developments here.
The Ukrainian conflict continues to be a life-or-death battle for Ukraine as it battles to remain a free and sovereign nation, facing Putin's invasion. The UK continues to stand with Ukraine, with John Healey commending the Ukrainian people's courage and launching a campaign to convey support.
In a significant move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has promoted Oleksandr Syrskyj, the leader of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, to the rank of General. This promotion follows the Ukrainian troops' progress in Russia's border region of Kursk.
