Ukraine claims success in further air defense destruction in Crimea at 20:37.

Ukraine declares success in taking out more aerial defenses in Crimea at 20:37.

Ukrainian forces have successfully conducted air raids against Russian air defense installations on the occupied Crimean Peninsula, as reported by the Ukrainian military. Within these attacks, various divisions armed with S-300 and S-400 systems were targeted at the Belbek military airport near the city of Sevastopol. This resulted in the destruction of two radar installations and explosions in ammunition depots. The Ukrainian General Staff did not provide any evidence. The governor of the port city of Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhaev, previously confirmed Ukrainian rocket attacks, indicating that all targets were destroyed in the air and partially over the sea.

Russia has called for the release of a Russian woman who was arrested in Denmark on suspicion of espionage. The Russian embassy in Denmark has urged the Danish authorities to immediately release the woman, promising to provide necessary consular assistance. Danish authorities have not yet presented any evidence against her. Danish secret service had previously announced that the Russian woman had been arrested, stating that she had allegedly facilitated the activities of a foreign intelligence service. The woman is expected to be released after questioning.

Talks on using frozen Russian state assets for Ukraine's benefit are moving forward, according to the US government. National Security Adviser to US President Joe Biden, Jake Sullivan, noted that the negotiations have been productive and constructive, with a decision on this matter being expected at the G7 summit in Italy. He emphasized that the statement from state and government leaders on the plans would not address every detail but only provide a framework.

Military expert Thiele believes that politics and media are promoting Russia's idea of attack. Thiele argued that since 2011, mandatory military service has been suspended in Germany, and Defense Minister Pistorius wants to create more reservists and defense capabilities with a new model. However, Thiele considered it "too light" and "too unambitious." Thiele believes that Putin is even benefiting from this.

The US government is planning to sign a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine at the G7 summit in Italy, as announced by Biden's National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan. Fifteen countries have previously concluded similar agreements with Ukraine, but the specific content of this agreement has not been revealed. Sullivan clarified that the agreement does not commit the US to deploying forces to defend Ukraine, but is rather a pledge that Ukraine will have the necessary resources to protect itself.

At least nine people were killed, and 29 others injured, including five children, in a Russian missile attack on Kryvyi Rih in southern Ukraine. According to the Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office, the search for the missing continues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on Ukraine's allies to provide air defense systems to his country, as these systems could provide maximum protection for people, cities, and their positions.

Over 100 agreements were signed at the reconstruction conference for Ukraine in Berlin, according to Development Minister Svenja Schulze. These included declarations of intent between companies and between governments, as well as alliances and initiatives. Schulze emphasized that the format was not a donor conference for collecting money, but a networking opportunity.

A Russian warship convoy has reached the Caribbean after passing through the mouth of Havana Bay. Officially, a handful of Russian ships and support ships will participate in exercises in the region, with US officials estimating that they will likely remain there until the summer. While Russian warships have previously been present in the Caribbean, this time the deployment is occurring amidst heightened tensions between Russia and the US, and just weeks after US President Joe Biden authorized Ukraine to strike within Russia to protect the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv.

The United States is proposing a new sanctions package in response to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, targeting over 300 people and institutions that have enabled Russia to continue the war. Chinese companies are also included in the package.

Rheinmetall, a German company, and Ukraine are looking to escalate their strategic alliance. On the sidelines of a reconstruction conference in Berlin, the DAX member and Ukraine's Minister for Strategic Industries, Oleksandr Kamyschin, signed a statement of intent. Papperger, chairman of Rheinmetall's board, remarked: "We're currently in talks to establish a joint venture to manufacture artillery ammunition in Ukraine. Additionally, we plan to deliver the first Lynx infantry fighting vehicles to the nation this year, with the goal of producing them in the country as soon as possible."

16:10: Ukraine Establishes the First Drone Combat Force

Numerous drones flood the battleground. Since the outbreak of the war, the Ukrainians have utilized these flying robots to surveil military locations and attack them. Now, the Ukrainians are consolidating the unmanned units - as the globe's first army.

15:48: Pistorius Projects Over 5,000 New Recruits Yearly

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius projects that with his proposal of a new military service, 5,000 more soldiers will be available to the Bundeswehr annually. His target is to increase this number each year, he announces during the revealing of his strategy. About 400,000 young men turn 18 every year. This group should be reached out to and asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their attitudetowards the Bundeswehr. He anticipates that an estimated quarter of them would be interested in joining the Bundeswehr. The credible candidates ought to be determined. Females should also receive the questionnaire, yet they don't need to complete it. Pistorius emphasized, "The German constitution doesn't mandate obligatory military service for women." The selected candidates must participate in a basic military service for six months or opt for a 23-month commitment. However, the concept states, "We want a fresh model that relies primarily on voluntary service, but also includes compulsory elements."

15:25: Högl Advocates for a "Modern Military Service" - for all Genders

German Parliament's Defence Ombudsman Eva Högl welcomes Minster Boris Pistorius's novel military service design and advocates for broad support. "This could aid in solving the Bundeswehr's personnel predicament. It could significantly contribute to our defense ability. Since the entire society must defend our peace, our freedom, and our democracy - militarily and civilly," stated the SPD politician. "Thus, a modern military service with a blend of voluntary service and compulsory elements is required." Pistorius previously presented his strategy to the Defense Committee of the German Parliament. He wants to reintroduce the evaluation of potential conscripts, which was suspended 13 years ago. Furthermore, he wants young males to be solicited about their willingness and capacity to serve via a questionnaire and to be screened for a medical evaluation.

15:17: Germany Championing Research in Ukraine

The Federal Ministry of Education and Research reportedly backs science and research in Ukraine to the amount of 24 million euros for the upcoming four years. This was announced by Germany's Research Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger at the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. She remarked, "Superb science and research are a crucial element for rebuilding Ukraine." The ministry is supporting, among other things, the establishment and amplification of joint research groups. Ukrainian and German institutions have collaborated on themes such as German-Ukrainian and European history of the 20th century, antibiotic research, or quantum research.

14:49: Kim Affirms Weapons Brotherhood Ahead of Expected Putin Visit

The North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un, praises the partnership with Russia as a "weapons brotherhood." According to Pyongyang, "this close and cooperative connection has evolved into an unbreakable relationship" after the summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin last September. After this summit, both nations substantially expanded their military and economic cooperation. The USA, South Korea, and their allies presume that North Korea furnished artillery, rockets, and other conventional weapons to Russia to aid in its invasion of Ukraine. In exchange, North Korea received access to highly advanced military technology and economic aid. While Japanese broadcaster NHK reports, citing diplomatic sources, that Putin is slated to visit North Korea in the near future as Russia requires more weapons for its invasion war.

14:24: Alliance for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Formed

As part of the second day of the international reconstruction conference in Berlin, Germany jointly with Ukraine, twelve other countries, and seventeen development organizations and banks created an alliance for small and medium-sized enterprises. These enterprises, as per Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development in Berlin, "serve as the mainstay of Ukraine's economy." They generate approximately two-thirds of the value added and create more than 80% of the jobs in Ukraine. The objective of the alliance is to "reach out to these businesses amidst wartime and prepare them for reconstruction." The foundation members will provide monetary investments, political counsel, or programs to amplify capacity. The combined promises for the alliance surpassed €7 billion for existing and fresh initiatives.

Germany Urges Ukraine's Partner Countries to Expand City Partnerships in Rebuilding Efforts

Development Minister Svenja Schulze urged partner countries of Ukraine to enhance collaboration via city partnerships as part of the rebuilding efforts. She made this plea during the international reconstruction conference for Ukraine in Berlin amidst the presence of numerous German and Ukrainian mayors. Schulze proposed that "every Ukrainian city should have at least one international partner." The balance sheet for these endeavors is slated to be completed during the subsequent reconstruction conference in Rome next year. According to the SPD politician, there currently exists a major German-Ukrainian municipal partnership network consisting of over 200 collaborations.

Dmitry Medvedev Marks Russian National Day with a Map of Ukraine as Part of Russia

Dmitry Medvedev, a former Kremlin head, publicly asserted that the entire Ukraine belongs to Russia by showcasing a map which incorporated the nation up to the borders of Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary as part of Russian territory. This controversial map accompanied the Russian national anthem, sparking conflicting responses on Russia's aims in subjugating Ukraine.

Rheinmetall Allegedly Producing Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicles in Ukraine

Arms manufacturer Rheinmetall is reported to be assembling Lynx infantry fighting vehicles in Ukraine, as per the "Handelsblatt". The Ukrainian Minister for Strategic Industries, Olexander Kamyshin, confirmed they had agreed to this during the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. "This year we will produce the first Lynx," Kamyshin stated. While the production is underway for 2023, the broader scope of future production remains unclear.

Russians Arm Tanks and Other Vehicles with Protective Roofs to Counter UAV Threats

Responding to the increase in drone usage by both sides during the conflict, Russian forces have embarked on protecting their vehicles by equipping them with protective roofs. However, a military expert, Ralph Thiele, doubts if this move is sensible.

Hungary Allows NATO-Ukraine Support Plan Without Participating

At a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban affirmed that Hungary wouldn't join NATO's planned support for Ukraine but would also avoid hindering any approved decisions by other member states. "Hungary will not block decisions of the NATO that other member states have agreed on," Orban specifically stated.

Svoboda Era Mayor's Austerity Plan Embraced by Zelensky in TV Interview

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's speech in the Bundestag was disrupted by a group of BSW and a portion of the AfD lawmakers who didn't attend the speech. Ukrainian journalist Dennis Trubetskoy dismissed the AfD's reason for their absence as "nonsensical."

Uniper Claims $13 Billion Compensation from Gazprom

The German energy company Uniper claims to have received a court order for a $13 billion compensation from Gazprom as a result of the gas crises in June 2022 and August of the same year. The Düsseldorf-based company plans to cancel all remaining legal agreements with Gazprom due to the expected non-payment of damages.

Conscription Debate Intensifies: Should It Be Reintroduced?

As the conscription debate reaches a fever pitch, it's time for you to weigh in. Do you believe we should reintroduce conscription?

Russia Responds to Zelensky's Berlin Visit and German Attitudes

Russia respected the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Berlin while assessing German responses towards the situation. Russia correspondent Rainer Munz weighed in on the situation, examining how the Kremlin reacted to Zelensky's trip.

Next Chairman of Bundestag Defense Committee Announced: Marcus Faber

With Chancellor Olaf Scholz navigating challenging circumstances following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's speech in the Bundestag, the new chairman of the Bundestag Defense Committee was appointed: the FDP's Marcus Faber. Faber, a 40-year-old Saxonian, has been part of the German Parliament since 2017 and a consistent member of the Defense Committee since 2018. The military expert publicly supports providing Ukraine with critical aid, including the contested Scholz-rejected German Taurus missile.

09:24 Critics of Bundeswehr's Capability: The Left Party's Co-Chair Challenges Conscription

The Left Party's co-chair, Amira Mohamed Ali, adamantly opposes the idea of reintroducing conscription in Germany. The Bundestag member argued against the notion of conscription during an interview with ntv, emphasizing that it breeds a culture of war. For her, discussing military readiness is a prelude to preparing for a major war, a scenario to be avoided. However, Ali also acknowledged that the Bundeswehr struggles with fulfilling its constitutional duty to defend the country. She believes it needs to be better equipped and the procurement process overhauled. She criticized the fact that billions have been poured into the military budget only to vanish into consultant channels or poorly functioning equipment.

09:09 Kremlin Increases Pressure on Foreign Organizations in Russia

The Russian government is applying more pressure on foreign organizations in their country. It proposed a bill at a Duma meeting on Tuesday, aimed at lending the government power to "recognize" any foreign or international organization as "undesirable." Another bill, which also had its first reading, introduces criminal sanctions, such as fines and imprisonment, for being involved with these "undesirable" organizations. The Institute for the Study of War interprets this move as an expansion of the Kremlin's discretion in combatting and censoring numerous international organizations operating in Russia.

08:40 Ukraine Hopes for Russian Participation in a Second Peace Summit

Andrij Yermak, head of the Ukrainian presidential administration, expressed optimism that Russia might join a second peace conference on Ukraine. Prior to the Swiss summit's commencement, he engaged in a video conference from Berlin, discussing the possibility of a comprehensive peace accord. Yermak expressed his intention of engaging with "all interested countries." He proposed the development of a joint plan that would win support from responsible nations, as representing over a hundred countries from all continents and extending an invitation to a Russian representative to present this proposed plan together.

08:11 Satellite Communications Station in Moscow is Claimed to be Target of Sabotage

Pro-Ukrainian partisans claimed responsibility for destroying a Russian satellite communications station located in the Moscow region. They posted a video on Telegram, depicting a "Alesh agent" pouring a flammable liquid on an R-441 Livnen satellite communications station. The agents also provided a photo showing the communications station engulfed in flames. The incident occurred in the Klin district, approximately 85 kilometers northwest of the capital. The partisans asserted that this act weakened the air defense of the entire Moscow region.

07:40 Pistorius: Borussia Dortmund's Rheinmetall Advertisement Marks a Significant Milestone, is Crucial for Security

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius viewed Borussia Dortmund's advertisement for Rheinmetall favorably, emphasizing that arms manufacturers produced weapons needed for deterring aggressors or defending one's country in emergencies. He highlighted how tax payments, job creation, and preservation of expertise represented additional contributions. He viewed the advertisement as symbolizing a turning point since some people still encountered issues with viewing arms manufacturers' relevance in enhancing national security.

07:34 Minister Pistorius's Ideas: Reintroduce Conscription and Consumer Questionnaire

Bundeswehr will undergo a conscription overhaul, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius proposing the reintroduction of the compulsory military service for young men. Additionally, he plans to administer a questionnaire to young men, aiming to determine their inclination and suitability for conscription and mandatory appearances at examinations.

In its ongoing battle to resolve fuel shortages, Bolivia is now turning to Russian assistance. It is reported that an agreement has been made for the sale of fuel to the South American nation, as Bolivia's reserves continue to deplete. This news came from Bolivian President Luis Arce after a meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Moscow. While President Arce also met with representatives of the Russian oil company Rosneft, no additional details regarding the deal were disclosed. Bolivia, known for its dwindling fuel production capabilities, is facing increasing demand from its population. The South American country has maintained a close relationship with Russia; thus far, it has not imposed any direct sanctions against Russia relating to the Ukrainian war nor has it publicly condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

6:17Gabriel Advocates a Toughened Approach Towards Russia

Gabriel is urging for a more assertive response towards Russia given the escalating Ukrainian crisis. The former Foreign Minister made his stand clear, suggesting a reversion to the strategies used during the Cold War against the Soviet Union. "It's hard to believe I'm saying this now: We must once again bring Russia down like we did during the Cold War. Putin has to be made aware of our serious determination," he expressed in an interview with Stern. He emphasized the need for a decisive message to Putin to cease the invasion of Ukraine right away. To achieve this, Gabriel advocated for NATO's potential deployment of air defense systems in Ukraine to defend the country from Russian air assaults on civilian targets.

5:54Putin Retains Powerful Allies in Government Rearrangement

Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to retain Nikolai Patrushev, a long-time confidant, within the highly influential Russian Security Council despite changes in his power apparatus. Additionally, Putin tapped the new Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov to fill another crucial role within the council. The Security Council was created under Putin's leadership and is responsible for executing national security policies. Although it has no direct authority over Russia's security agencies, its role is significant in advising the Kremlin. Shockingly, an unexpected shakeup last May saw Patrushev's power demoted, transferring him to an unimportant position overseeing shipbuilding. Until recently, Patrushev held a position of significant authority in Russia's governing body.

4:32Stoltenberg Urges Allies for Long-Term Military Commitments to Ukraine

NATO Chairman Jens Stoltenberg has urged NATO defense ministers to commit long-term funding for military support for Ukraine, amounting to €40 billion annually. He believes this financial commitment is achievable and essential for the alliance members. The funding can be determined by the respective country's GDP as each member's share in meeting this financial goal. The United States is expected to make up approximately half of the total amount, while the rest is to be dispersed among European allies and Canada. As he described, the additional funding is "affordable."

2:19U.S. to Equip Ukraine with Additional Patriot System

Reports indicate that US President Biden is planning to provide another Patriot air defense system to Ukraine as a part of their defense against Russian air assaults. However, no official statement has been released from the White House; the "New York Times" is one of the sources claiming this news. According to the publication, the latest Patriot air defense system is currently in Poland and could potentially be deployed at the Ukrainian frontline in the near future. This act would mark the transfer of two Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine.

1:01Decrease in Kharkiv Attacks Since Ukraine's Authorization to Use Foreign Weapons

Ukrainian officials have noticed a decline in attacks on the city of Kharkiv since they were legally authorized to use weapons provided by the United States and its allies. As per Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov in an interview with Reuters, the permission to utilize these weapons has been beneficial for the city. Since Ukraine received this authorization, they have used the US weapons extensively to defend against attacks. He explained, "It has helped. Perhaps that's why Kharkiv has been relatively calm in the last few weeks [...] the attacks were less intense than, for example, in May."

23:38Swelling Ranks of Russian Emigres: An Opportunity for Europe

A group of Russian dissidents is proposing that the European Union increases its immigration from Russia to weaken the Russian economy and its war readiness. This idea was expressed during a presentation of a study in Paris, which argued that the exodus of highly skilled emigrants could adversely affect Russia more effectively than current sanctions. The study, conducted among 3,200 Russian dissidents, revealed that between 2014 and now, 80% of them left Russia - 50% of them vastly departed after the start of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022. The emigrants primarily hold advanced education and support Western ideals. It is therefore advised to promote "economic immigration" from Russia to achieve this goal.

22:16Russia Announces Capture of Further Settlements in Eastern Ukraine

Russia has supposedly seized two more settlements in eastern Ukraine, according to their statement. The exact location of these settlements was not revealed along with the report. Their capture signals a continuation of Russian efforts to expand their territory within Ukraine. However, the legitimacy of the Russian claims is yet to be verified independently.

The Russian military has seized control over two more settlements in eastern Ukraine. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims their troops have moved into Timkovka village, near the city of Kupyansk in the Kharkiv region, as well as Miasoschariwka, situated in the northern area of Luhansk.

At 21:56, Latvia is urging cooperation among NATO's eastern member states in backing Ukraine. President Edgars Rinkevics says, "What matters most is that we have a joint strategy for the upcoming NATO summit in Washington." Hungary has withdrawn from a meeting of the 'Bucharest Nine' eastern European NATO countries, while President Zuzana Caputova of Slovakia also canceled her participation "last minute." Hungary refuses to offer military assistance to Ukraine, and Slovakia has ceased its aid after the election of Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed disappointment regarding AfD and BSW's boycott of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's address in the German Bundestag. A government spokesman comments to the ARD studio that this absence is "disrespectful." Most of the AfD faction and the entire BSW group refused to attend Zelensky's speech.

To counter the ongoing Russian assault, Estonia will provide Ukraine with Mistral missile systems. In a statement, Estonia's Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur explains, "Ukraine must receive urgent air defense to resist the continuous barbaric Russian attack, and it's also crucial for our security to help in this endeavor with our allies." While they didn't provide a specific timeline, Pevkur claims the aid package is structured in a way ensuring Ukraine gains maximum benefit without negatively impacting Estonia's own defense readiness.

On a lighter note, the USA has removed its weapons ban on the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. The military organization shares their excitement on Telegram, "A new page in the history of our brigade has been opened." With a revised assessment concluding no evidence of human rights transgressions during a review, the US can now provide military support to the Azov Brigade, which has been part of the Ukrainian National Guard for some time. In 2014, the brigade's soldiers drew attention due to their usage of Nazi symbols like the Wolfsangel. The unit's co-founder, Andriy Biletsky, is a well-known right-wing extremist leader. Now, the Americans declare the current brigade diverges from the controversial militia of the conflict's onset.

To catch up on past events, check out this article. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bucharest_Nine http://www.defence.gov.ly/_resources/0d231114-d64d-11ed-85b5-0242ac120002_en.pdf https://www.armyrecognition.com/army_recognition_russia_takes_full_control_of_great_donbass_battle_in_ukraine/