Ukraine releases its first detainees for deployment on the battlefield.

Ukraine liberates initial detainees for deployment on battlefront

Ukraine is set to free prisoners in order to enlist them in its military forces. The court in the western city of Khmelnytsky has made this decision, allowing two convicted theft offenders to be released on parole to join theNational Guard. Their application for release has been granted under a new regulation that allows those willing to fight in the war against Russia to be paroled. Over 3,000 inmates have already applied for release after the law passed.

Is Romania considering handing over a Patriot air defense unit to Ukraine? Despite Germany's commitment, an overall stalemate still prevails. While President Klaus Iohannis has stated that a Patriot delivery is only a possibility if they receive a replacement, the final decision lies with the National Defense Council, and he cannot mention any timeframe. The possibility of Romania giving a Patriot unit to its neighbor, which is a NATO country, would be significant under these circumstances.

The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported 105 attacks along the entire front today. Most clashes occurred near Kupjansk. The Ukrainian defense forces are responding flexibly to the aggressors and taking necessary measures to weaken the offensive potential of the Russian troops, they announced.

A former top aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky has been charged with corruption. He is accused of illegally acquiring real estate, land, and luxury vehicles worth $400,000, according to the National Anti-Corruption Investigation Bureau. This former deputy office manager, Andriy Smyrnov, was dismissed in March. The suspect obtained two Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen cars, two Honda and BMW motorcycles, three parking spaces in Kiev, an Lviv apartment, and a plot of land in Transcarpathia. To hide his holdings, Smyrnov transferred most of them to his brother, but reserved the right to "dispose of the entire property". Conviction could lead to imprisonment for up to ten years.

Republican House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson, one of the highest US political figures, supports Ukraine's right to use US weapons to fight. He told Voice of America: "I think Ukraine should be allowed to wage war as it sees fit. It should be able to defend itself." US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a similar statement: "We have not supported or encouraged attacks outside of Ukraine. But Ukraine must decide for itself how it wants to carry out this war to defend its territory." This comment could imply approval but also contrasts with recent statements from other high-ranking US officials who advocate maintaining the ban.

X article by analyst Brady Africk suggests that Russia has positioned barriers in the water in front of the Crimean Bridge to protect it from Ukrainian naval drone attacks. The barriers were primarily erected within the last two weeks, according to satellite images. Last month, an official from Ukrainian military intelligence submitted that a third attack on this bridge was planned, and its destruction was imminent. This could mean that a major attack must happen soon, given the timing in 2024. It was considerably damaged twice before.

Russia's presence in the Baltic Sea has been questioned, with military expert Ralph Thiele considering the region as contentious after the Second World War. He reflects upon whether the Baltic Sea countries have genuine cause for concern: theBaltic Sea.

17:54 Rewards await Ukrainian troops for vanquished Russian equipment

Day by day, clips appear from Ukrainian forces showcasing damaged or wrecked Russian military gear. These videos, often filmed by kamikaze drones, serve as potent propaganda for Ukraine. Despite these, the Russians too destroy tanks and the like but such instances are kept hidden. There's a high likelihood of missed targets as drones get jammed or fail to reach their goal for several other reasons. However, it's quite common for Ukrainian soldiers to destroy considerably more than they lose themselves. The Cabinet in Kiev has lately decided to allow additional leave for soldiers based on obliterated enemy equipment. The Ukrainian military has often shouted for some relief, which is also connected to the scarcity of troops.

17:29 Ukraine updates on several injuries from Russian attack in Kharkiv

As per local authorities, ten people have sustained injuries, some of them severely, during a Russian assault on Kharkiv. A café was struck in the attack, along with a gas station that caught fire, claim the officials. A bus also sustained damage and its driver reportedly lost both legs. Three others are recuperating in medical establishments. The city of Kharkiv has become a regular target for Russian airstrikes, terrifying the civilians there non-stop.

17:03 Horrors of war on display in a viral video

The tumultuous war inflicted by Russia can be witnessed in a video circulating wildly on social media, although its authenticity cannot be confirmed. The aerial view shows explosions persistently popping up across a vast expanse every second. The numerous explosions fill the sky:

16:25 Germany blocks the transfer of billions from Russia to Ukraine

The German government is reluctant towards America's plan to use confiscated Russian funds for Ukraine. "Our standpoint persists: it's about the income from frozen assets. It's not about the assets themselves," expressed German spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit in Berlin. The justification lies in the G7 finance ministers' meeting in Italy this Friday and Saturday where they're searching for methods to sustain Ukraine financially for a longer timeframe. The US desires to either entirely expropriate the frozen Russian assets or use them as collateral for debt or loans. Nonetheless, other EU nations have legal reservations regarding this. Following the Russian assault, approximately $300 billion worth of resources were frozen, with the majority of it being in Europe. Dispendirig solely the revenue will likely only provide a small-digit annual billion amount, which offers negligible help to Ukraine.

15:51 Extra training offered to Ukrainian personnel for incoming F-16 jets

The deployment of F-16 fighter jets in Ukraine is drawing closer by the day. The long-delayed project may accordingly launch the first aircraft in June or July. As mentioned by Ukrainian media, technicians who have completed their training abroad are currently returning. They're anticipated to convey their know-how to other workers. Ukraine is projected to progressively obtain fighter jets from the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. The Dutch Ministry of Defense stated yesterday that ten Ukrainian soldiers completed their training in the upkeep of F-16 jets. The Netherlands plans to deliver 24 combat aircraft to Kiev.

15:19 Ukraine: Village surrenders to Russian occupation forces for the second time

For the second time since the inception of its unprovoked war against Ukraine, Russia asserts to have seized the village of Klishchiivka in its neighboring nation's east. According to Moscow's defense ministry, Russian troops acquired control of Klishchiivka near Bakhmut "due to offensive activities". The Ukrainian General Staff, in their morning report, acknowledged assaults on Klishchiivka but described the scenario as "under control". Formerly, the village housed roughly 500 inhabitants.

14:45 Ukraine: Civilians executed by Russian troops

According to Ukrainian reports, Russian troops are committing war crimes and gunning down civilians in Vovchansk, on their third front. Oleksii Kharkivskyi, the city's police chief, says in an interview with Kyiv24 that several skirmishes occurred. According to Ukrainian law enforcement, Russian forces are shooting people trying to flee the battle. Approximately 100 civilians are presumed to still be in the city. Kyiv Post, among other outlets, shared a picture resembling a person apparently dead on the ground:

14:19 Polish citizens show great enthusiasm for joining army- no need to reintroduce conscription
The Polish government doesn't plan to reestablish mandatory military conscription. Defense Minister Władysław Kosiński-Kamysz confirmed this in a meeting at the Polish parliament in Warsaw, stating that "the interest of citizens in serving in our armed forces is high enough, so there is no need to reintroduce regular conscription. Volunteer basic military service is adequate." Poland has approximately 198,000 soldiers in its military at present. The nation is a significant contributor of military support to Ukraine, facing aggressive actions from Russia. The Polish military aims to reach a total of 300,000 personnel in the coming years. Back in 2009, Poland abolished compulsory military service. Despite that, males of legal age are required to attend a draft board and register in case they need to be conscripted during times of defense.

13:59 Ukrainian grain exports in April skyrocketed
As per British data, Ukraine exported more grain and oilseeds in April than any other month since the start of the Russian attack in 2022. The British Ministry of Defense reported a massive 6.6 million tons of exports. The flow of goods through Ukrainian Black Sea ports is also higher compared to the time of the grain agreement. The Ukrainian sea corridor, permitting secure navigation of ships alongside the coast of Ukraine's greater Odessa region, has allowed 1,600 ship transits and the export of 45 million tons of cargo since the summer of 2023.

13:32 Russian forces capture village in Donetsk region
Russian Ministry of Defense has declared the capture of Klishchiivka, a village in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk. Media outlets affiliated with the Russian government reported the development. Ukrainian officials stated there were Russian attacks near the village but that counter-offensives were successful. Now, they claim the situation is under control. This village is situated close to the town of Bachmut, which has been devastated by continuous skirmishes for several months.

13:05 London: UK Defense Secretary insinuates China supports Russia with lethal aid
The British Defense Secretary, Grant Shapps, suggests that China is giving Russia supplies that could be used for deadly purposes in the ongoing conflict against Ukraine- or is preparing to do so. Answering questions in London, Shapps remarked, "there are indications that lethal aid is currently being provided, or will be provided shortly, from China to Russia and Ukraine." This contradicts China's earlier stance of positioning itself as a moderating influence on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Shapps didn't present any evidence for these claims. The Chinese embassy in London has not yet responded to a request for comment. The Chinese embassy in the United States stated in April that China had not supplied weapons and wasn't "involved in the Ukraine crisis."

12:37 Moscow dismisses reports of planned border shifts in Baltic Sea
The Russian presidential office has indirectly responded to allegations regarding potential border adjustments in the Baltic Sea. They instructed the Ministry of Defense to provide further information on this. It added that "[t]ensions in the Baltic Sea region are rising."

12:06 Sweden to offer Ukraine military aid amounting to billions
Sweden intends to support Ukraine with military aid valued at approximately 6.5 billion Euros over the next three years. The Swedish government announced a framework for spreading these funds equally between 2024 and 2026. The goal is to boost Swedish assistance to Ukraine and improve its long-term prospects. This help includes both delivery of goods and financial aid used to buy military equipment. Thus, the total Swedish military aid for Ukraine would add up to over 8.6 billion Euros.

11:36 Moscow refutes claims of planned border alteration in Baltic Sea
Reports of Russia altering its borders in the Baltic Sea have been rebuffed by the Kremlin. According to Interfax, quoting someone from the military diplomatic world, "Russia is denying plans to alter its maritime borders." State news agencies TASS and RIA also disclosed this denial. Earlier, a bill circulated from the Russian Ministry of Defense implied Russia might try to change maritime boundaries.

11:12 Are Grad missiles compatible with Ukrainian naval drones? Reports suggest that the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) has upgraded its Sea Baby drones. As per the Kyiv Independent, a source within the agency claims that these drones are now capable of launching salvoes of Grad missiles. The SBU has utilized these naval drones to attack several Russian warships, but they have thus far functioned as suicide drones that detonate upon impact or near their intended target. According to the source, the upgraded weapon system has already been put to use against Russian positions on the Kinburn Spit, a narrow coastal stretch near Mykolaiv. "This technological solution is proving to be quite effective," the source said. "Our Sea Baby is not just a drone, but a multitasking platform that is constantly being improved." The SBU's range covers almost the entire Black Sea area.

10:49 Poland acquires US radar system for air defense
Poland is purchasing a radar system from the United States to monitor its east-northern border. A contract worth 960 million dollars has been signed, according to Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz. He shared, "Poland will be the second nation in the world to deploy this system." Under the terms of the agreement, Poland will receive four balloons stationed along its eastern and north-eastern borders, supporting Polish air defense and coastal surveillance systems.

10:17 Moscow's unexpected move shocks Baltic Sea countries
Russia has never seriously claimed the Swedish Baltic Sea island of Gotland, thereby prompting Sweden to maintain minimal military presence there. Suddenly, the threat landscape is changing, prompting the Swedish government to sound the alarm. Moscow, however, is proceeding with a perceived "aggressive act," as Rainer Munz explains.

09:53 Finland demands Russia's adherence to international maritime law
Finland's Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen requests that Russia abide by United Nations conventions and international maritime law. It was previously announced that Russia plans to expand its borders in the Baltic Sea. The reasons for the plan remain unclear. It is unclear if Russia has held any talks with the other Baltic Sea nations. Finland is a part of NATO.

09:25 The United States seeks more access to frozen Russian funds
At this week's meeting of the seven leading Western industrialized nations' (G7) finance ministers in Italy, they will explore options for financing Ukraine over the long term. The United States is pushing them to go beyond their previous efforts. They propose seizing all frozen Russian assets or utilizing them as collateral for securities or loans. However, this proposal faces legal concerns, particularly in the EU.

08:56 Russia and Belarus are believed to be sending more refugees toward Western Europe
According to a media report, Russia and Belarus are stepping up their attempts to redirect refugees through their countries to the EU, including Germany. Based on the German Federal Police's data, the number of migrants entering Germany via this route has significantly increased in the last few months. According to statistics provided by the German Federal Police, migration along this route dwindled to just below 30 instances in January and February 2024. However, there were 412 arrests in March, 670 in April, and 416 by mid-May. The Polish border police have also observed an increase in the number of individuals entering Poland from Belarus in recent weeks. Security experts are once again discussing "hybrid warfare."

08:21 A covert Ukrainian squad is delivering deadly blows from the skies
Under the cover of dusk, a small group of Ukrainian soldiers sets up near the front lines. Armed with smartphones, Starlink, explosives, and drones, they launch mission after mission at night. "Without a visa," they joke, they infiltrate Russian territory and lay booby traps from the air.

07:37 Ukraine is slated to receive funds from frozen Russian assets in July
Ukraine is expected to receive its first financial assistance from the proceeds of frozen Russian assets in July. This was announced in a press release by the European Commission. Commission Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis stressed the urgency of providing the funds promptly. "The European Commission will make every effort to ensure the first payment occurs as early as July," he added, according to the press release.

07:03 "Moscow Times" reports Russian plans to increase territorial waters in the Baltic Sea

It seems Russia is aiming to enlarge its territorial waters in the Baltic Sea, near its borders with Lithuania and Finland, as mentioned in "Moscow Times". A government decree is said to have been prepared by the Ministry of Defense for this purpose. The draft dictates that parts of the waters in the east of the Gulf of Finland and near the towns of Baltiysk and Zelenogradsk in the Kaliningrad region will be declared inland waters by Moscow. On the Lithuanian border, the areas near the Curonian Spit, Cape Taran, Cape South of Cape Taran, and the Baltic Spit will be inspected. Additionally, adjustments are planned for the borders with Finland, involving the islands of Jähi, Sommers, Holland, Rodsher, Maly Tyuters, and the northern entrance cap of the Narva River.

06:35 Russian network circulating fake celebrity quotes on social media

The Federal Ministry of the Interior attributes a disinformation campaign involving fabricated quotes from German celebrities to the Russian "doppelganger" network discovered in 2022. The campaign now includes fake quotations attributed to famous figures in the entertainment industry. Fictitious statements about Ukraine have been attributed to Til Schweiger and shared as sharepics on social media, even appearing as Facebook ads. According to the ministry, the "Doppelganger" campaign is still active and has adopted new tactics, nonexclusive to mimicking websites of existing quality media and public institutions.

06:06 Russia condemns EU's seizure of financial reserves for Ukraine

Russia's representation to the EU in Brussels has criticized the EU's decision to use frozen Russian central bank assets to fund military aid for Ukraine, labeling it a "theft" from a sovereign state. The EU is displaying its disregard for protecting property and disrespect for international law, according to the representation. This year alone, up to three billion euros may be raised for Ukraine through interest income from these assets. In turn, latest reports indicate that Russia is nationalizing apartments and houses in the illegally occupied territories of Ukraine on a massive scale.

05:38 Council of Europe advises Georgia to repeal controversial 'foreign influence' law

The Venice Commission of the Council of Europe strongly urges Georgia to retract its law on 'foreign influence'. The law, criticized for infringing on rights such as freedom of expression, freedom of association, and the right to privacy, is deemed incompatible with the principles of the European Convention on Human Rights.

04:45 Swedish armed forces commander fears Russian ambitions in the Baltic Sea

Micael Byden, the Command-in-Chief of the Swedish Armed Forces, warns of Russia's intentions in the Baltic Sea, asserting that Putin's goal is to control the entire region. If granted control, the accompanying impact on the lives of people in Sweden and other countries would be substantial. "The Baltic Sea must not become Putin's playground where he bullies NATO members," Byden stressed.

03:49 Pentagon claims Russia has launched a space weapon

The Pentagon has announced that Russia has launched a satellite that likely serves as an anti-satellite weapon. Positioned in a low-Earth orbit, it can potentially target other satellites. The launch occurred on May 16, with the Russian satellite now sharing the same orbit as a US government satellite. When asked if it poses a threat to the US satellite, Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder confirmed, "yes, it's a space defense weapon in the same orbit as a US government satellite." Two similar Russian launches occurred in 2019 and 2022.

02:42 FDP suggests reactivating reservists instead of obligatory military service

Christian Dürr, FDP parliamentary group leader, advocates for engaging with military reserves in light of potential reintroduction of compulsory military service. The Bundewehr reserves, boasting over one million potential soldiers, could collaborate with active forces, according to Dürr. Speaking to Funke newspapers, he urged Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to send a strong message to reservists, emphasizing their significance.

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01:45 EU Council Presidency offers hope for early start of Ukraine negotiations

Ukraine and Moldova may see a prompt launch of EU accession talks. Following a meeting in Brussels, the current Belgian EU Council Presidency has indicated its intention to arrange a first conference of negotiating delegations by the end of June. "We are putting in our best effort to reach an agreement," shares Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib. There's a chance negotiations could commence within the next 40 days. However, before accession talks can begin, the EU states must unanimously approve the negotiating frameworks which outline guidelines and principles for the accession negotiations with each candidate nation.

00:39 Baerbock backs Pistorius' request for increased Ukraine aid

Federal Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock wholeheartedly supports Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius' appeal for a €3.8 billion increase in aid to Ukraine this year. "I'm in total agreement with the Defense Minister – and not only with him, but also with the Interior Minister," commented the Green politician in an interview with the "Bild" newspaper in Kiev. "We need a security budget." Europe's peace order, our continent, has never faced such a direct threat so close to its doorstep. It would be impossible to justify saying: "At that time, we weren't prepared to spend billions more for peace. And that led to this Russian war of aggression escalating throughout Europe."

00:01 Economist labels Germany a threat to European security

The Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW) is urging the German government to increase its defense spending. According to IfW President Moritz Schularick, interviewed by the "Süddeutsche Zeitung", "German budgetary policy poses a security risk to Europe." To address significant gaps in Germany's defense capabilities, the country will have to allocate around three percent instead of two percent of its GDP to defense in the near future.

23:16 Baerbock slams Russian nuclear exercise

Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock blasts the new Russian nuclear exercise, taking place near the Ukrainian border. "It's a sign that they want to pull out all stops, even if that includes playing with insecurity," remarks the Green politician in a ZDF television interview. "The Russian president is simply trying to wear down this society, which for two years has desired absolutely nothing more than to live in peace and freedom."

22:11 Selensky describes Donetsk situation as highly challenging

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi describes the situation in the Donetsk region's eastern front as highly challenging. Kramatorsk, Kurakhove, and Pokrovsk see the most intense fighting, while Zelensky reports success in Kharkiv where the Ukrainian forces are successfully engaging and eliminating occupying forces in his evening broadcast. After meeting with the Ukrainian military leadership, Zelensky highlights the progress made.

21:38 Situation in Kharkiv region stabilized, claims Ukraine

As reported by their own statements, Ukrainian forces have stabilized the situation in the Kharkiv region. Nazar Voloshyn, spokesperson for the Khortytsya operational grouping, shares this on Ukrainian television. "The operational environment in the Kharkiv region remains complicated and is evolving constantly. Nonetheless, our units and other participating forces have managed to stabilize it, especially in the city of Vovchansk," Voloshyn says, adding that Russian attempts to breakthrough remain in the Vovchansk area.