Ukrainian navy turns to advanced surface drone, "Stalker 5.0," for operations
In the clashes against Russian intrusion, Ukraine employs water-based drones, introducing a new model known as "Stalker 5.0". This drone was unveiled by the Ukrainian military forces on social media, as reported in Odessa. The drone is reported to travel up to 75 hours at 60 mph and carry a maximum load of 150 kilograms (330 pounds), which could be explosives or other cargo. Its operational range is around 600 kilometers (373 miles), and it's estimated to cost approximately €60,000.
19:36: A Russian Journalist Perishes in Drone Attack
Recent reports from Russia claim a journalist was slain in an aerial attack by drones in Eastern Ukraine. As per News.Ru's Telegram post, "Our guy Nikita Zizagi was taken out by Ukrainian drones." The incident allegedly transpired near a monastery close to Vugledar, a city that's seen intense fighting of late. It's reported that another journalist from Russian state television was killed in a Ukrainian drone strike in Golmiwsky and another was injured on Thursday. Russia’s foreign ministry accuses Ukraine of intentionally targeting journalists.
19:03: Zelensky Expects F-16 Jets to be Delivered "Soon"
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky anticipates the delivery of the first Danish F-16 fighter jets "soon," as discussed during a bilateral meeting at a peace summit in Switzerland with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.
18:24: LGBTQ+ Soldiers and Allies Demonstrate for Equal Rights
Hundreds of Ukrainian military personnel, including representatives of the LGBTQ+ community and their supporters, marched in Kiev's Pride parade. They appealed to the Ukrainian government for official recognition of same-sex partnerships. Some soldiers and allies donned rainbow and unicorn emblems on their uniforms. A soldier stated, "We're just regular folks, fighting side by side with everyone else, but those whose rights are denied, it's others' rights too." Employees of the US Embassy and European embassies also participated. The event took place under tight police protection due to threats from counter-demonstrators, and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church denounced the protest.
17:52: Ukrainian Army Reports Advances in Serebrjansker Wald
The Ukrainian military recorded advancements made by their forces in the Serebrjansker Wald of the Luhansk region, as reported by their Telegram page. According to the updated, the "Asow" and "Burewij" brigades advanced one kilometer deep and two kilometers wide in the forest, and earlier, the "Asow" brigade had reported the loss of Russian troops' positions in that area.
17:18 Trump Jests Zelenskyy is "the Best Salesman Ever"
At a campaign rally in Detroit, Trump reiterated his refusal to provide Ukraine aid, jokingly labeling Zelenskyy as "the best salesman of all time" and claiming the Ukrainian president demanded "every time 60 billion."
16:47 Kremlin Advocates Consideration of Putin's Proposal "Thoughtfully"
The Kremlin encourages the leadership in Kiev to give Putin's proposal for a troop withdrawal from the east and south of Ukraine careful consideration to facilitate peace talks. "The current condition of the battlefield indicates that it's getting worse for the Ukrainians," says Kremlin spokesman Peskov, while Zelenskyy is in Switzerland with other state and government leaders discussing an end to the conflict. "It's probable that a politician thinking about his country's well-being before his own and his masters' would consider such a proposal," says Peskov. Moscow had previously proposed a ceasefire and peace negotiations, contingent on Ukraine relinquishing its partially occupied territories in the east and south and abandoning NATO membership.
16:23 Zelenskyy Conditions Peace Negotiations on Russian Troop Withdrawal
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy deems a Russian troop withdrawal as a prerequisite for the commencement of peace negotiations. "Russia can start talking with us tomorrow, without any delay, if it withdraws from our legally-held territories," says Zelenskyy in front of journalists at the end of the Ukraine conference in Switzerland. He adds, "However, Russia and its leaders are not ready for a fair peace."
16:14 Von der Leyen Sees "No Sincere Eagerness from Putin to End the War"
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen asserts that the conference in Switzerland was aptly labeled "Way to Peace," since peace isn't accomplished in a single step. It wasn't about peace negotiations, as Russian President Vladimir Putin has no genuine desire to end the war. He demands capitulation and seizure of Ukrainian land, says von der Leyen. Such terms cannot be agreed upon.
16:06 Zelenskyy: Special Groups to Develop "Peace Action Plans"
At the conclusion of the Ukraine summit in Switzerland, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy envisions another international conference. The representatives have agreed to continue working in special groups, and as soon as "peace action plans" are created, the path for a second summit will be cleared, says Zelenskyy. They have agreed to "work in special groups after the summit on concrete ideas, proposals, and developments that can restore security in various aspects."
3:58 PM: President Zelenskyy Pushes for Rapid Follow-up Ukraine MeetingPer Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, a quick second gathering of the Ukraine conference is on the agenda. He mentioned that the preparations won't take years but merely a few months, following the conclusion of a two-day conference with approximately 100 countries and organizations in attendance. A few countries have expressed their readiness to host such a meeting. For Russia's participation, EU Commission President Von der Leyen stated that Moscow must acknowledge the UN Charter. However, no follow-up conference mention was made in the final declaration that wasn't signed by all attendees. Swiss President Amherd acknowledged the varying perspectives among participants but noted that it marked the first instance where a high-level and broad-based conference discussed a peace process.
3:50 PM: Nuclear Weapons Use Warned in DeclarationThe majority of Ukraine conference participants agreed with the final declaration that bans any nuclear threats or uses in the war against Ukraine. Nuclear energy and facilities should be maintained safely, protected, monitored, and eco-friendly. Ukrainian nuclear power plants and facilities, including the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, must operate under Ukrainian control and comply with IAEA standards and supervision.
3:32 PM: Drone Strike Hits Russian Military Truck in BelgorodIn the Russian region of Belgorod, a Ukrainian kamikaze drone struck a Russian military truck. No injuries were reported, but the attacks are becoming more frequent. Governor Gladkov declared that there were numerous air strikes on Saturday alone.
3:21 PM: Prisoners of War and Deported Children Should be ReturnedThe final declaration of the Ukraine conference demands that food security should not be weaponized. Free and secure shipping and access to seaports in the Black and Azov Seas are needed. Attacks on cargo ships in ports and along routes, as well as on civilian ports and infrastructure, are unacceptable, as stated by Swiss President Viola Amherd, the conference host. Furthermore, all prisoners of war should be exchanged, and all forcibly displaced and illegally removed Ukrainian children and civilians should be returned to Ukraine.
3:17 PM: Participants Advocate for Russia's Inclusion in Peace TalksThe majority of Ukraine conference participants advocate for Russia's involvement in future consultations for peace. In the closing statement, it was noted: "We believe that achieving peace requires the inclusion and dialogue between all parties." There was no clear statement regarding a follow-up conference in the declaration, though some attendees, such as Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz, previously urged Russia's inclusion in future conferences. Russia was not invited to the conference, and China was also absent. The conference aimed to find common ground on an international scale for potential peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
3:02 PM: Peace Summit Ends in Disagreement: Not all Countries Approve DeclarationThe peace summit closing statement wasn't endorsed by all participating countries. The document was only approved by 80 of the 93 participating countries. The declaration was based on the UN Charter and "territorial integrity and sovereignty" for a "comprehensive, fair, and lasting peace in Ukraine." The declaration also covered nuclear security, food security, and prisoner exchange. Not signing the declaration were six members of the G20 group of leading economic powers: Brazil, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, India, and Indonesia. Additionally, Armenia, Bahrain, Thailand, Libya, the United Arab Emirates, Colombia, and the Vatican did not sign.
2:53 PM: Union Calls for End to Refugee Aid for UkrainiansThorsten Frei, CDU parliamentary leader in the German Bundestag, advocated for the discontinuation of civilian aid for Ukrainian refugees. Frei criticized the aid, claiming it offers incorrect incentives—even though it is crucial for Ukraine amid Russian aggression, many wehrfähige Ukrainians have sought refuge here. Frei also suggested changes to the way civilian aid is provided to Ukrainian women, noting that the number of Ukrainian women seeking work in Germany is lower than expected.
13:50 Post controversial diplomatic gesture: Putin not dismissing discussions with UkraineAs per Russian news sources, Russian President Vladimir Putin hasn't ruled out negotiating with Ukraine. However, verifiable guarantees are essential to maintain the trustworthiness of any potential dialogue, as stated by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, according to Russian media. Putin previously made a peace gesture that some perceive as a surrender of Ukraine and giving vast territories to Russia. This gesture is viewed as tainted, intended to sway the talks in Switzerland. Kiev swiftly rejected the alleged offer.
13:23 Exit strategies for the war: "We're not dodging negotiations with Moscow"While delegates from 92 countries discussed a peace plan for Ukraine at the Swiss Bernstein Conference Center, warfare continued in the country under attack by Russia. Ukrainian journalist Dennis Trubetskoy discusses the poor chances of a negotiated solution and the positions of Zelensky and Putin in an interview with ntv:
12:49 The closing statement of the Ukraine summit in Switzerland is unlikely to gain universal approvalAccording to Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer, the closing statement of the Ukraine summit in Switzerland is unlikely to receive unanimous support. Some countries have issues with the phrasing of the statement, Nehammer informed journalists at Bernstein Conference Center. There's a desire for a follow-up conference on Ukraine. However, it's premature to decide on the conference's format. Furthermore, it remains to be seen whether Russia will be able to participate. Prior to the participation of a Russian delegation, there may be an interim conference.
12:23 Putin's peace gesture: Ukrainian soldiers don't want to "play with the brute"Putin declares that Russia is prepared for a ceasefire and dialogue with Ukraine under specific conditions. Kiev dismisses the offer outright, as it is seen as a capitulation. What do the soldiers, who risk their lives daily at the front, think about the Kremlin's offer?
12:02 Ukrainian Foreign Minister welcomes declaration of Ukraine conference in Switzerland
The declaration of the Ukraine conference in Switzerland is complete and "well-balanced," according to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to journalists at Bürgenstock. The perspectives of the Kiev government were taken into account. No different peace plans were discussed at the summit meeting. Ukraine will not permit Russia to speak in the language of ultimatums.
11:23 British intelligence expects extra $29 billion revenue for Russia
The recently announced tax hikes in Russia, according to British intelligence, "are likely to be used with great certainty to fund the growing financial responsibilities, including the war in Ukraine." London anticipates additional revenue for the Kremlin in the amount of $29 billion by 2025 through the increase of the corporate tax rate from 20 to 25 percent. In addition, new tax classes will be introduced and the highest income tax rate of 15 percent will be raised to 22 percent in the context of the new income tax system. "The increased tax burden for companies is likely to restrict future investments and the growth of non-military sectors," says the British intelligence.
11:04 Peace conference in Ukraine: Nuclear security is the focus
The participants of the international Ukraine conference in Switzerland continued their debates today. In larger groups, they discussed nuclear security, grain exports from Ukraine, and humanitarian issues such as the fate of the abducted Ukrainian children. Results from these aspects are to be incorporated into a declaration. For the afternoon, press conferences are planned, among others, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the end of the two-day meeting. The purpose of the conference is to initiate a peace process, in which Russia is to be integrated in the long term. Moscow was not invited to this conference and has not expressed a desire to attend.
10:23 Putin's "Puppet in Ukraine" gives unusual "Interview"
Historian Matthäus Wehewski from the Hannah-Arendt Institute for Totalitarianism Research finds it at best naive to believe that Putin is open to any form of compromise or negotiations. As an example, Wehewski cites X, the head of the movement "Another Ukraine": "Putin's 'peace offering' phase 2 is an 'interview' with Viktor Medvedchuk, who is already in Putin's marionette stage in Ukraine." In the interview published by the Kremlin propaganda outlet TASS, Medvedchuk spreads absurd lies, such as that Zelenskyy does not represent the interests of the Ukrainian people. He also states that Russia's and the Ukrainian people's interests are now the "liberation of Odessa and other cities." Medvedchuk also repeats familiar Kremlin narratives and speaks of a "complete denazification and demilitarization" of Ukraine. According to Historian Wehewski, the movement "Another Ukraine" consists of politicians from former pro-Russian parties in Ukraine. "Putin has already constructed an 'alternative' Ukrainian government, with which he intends to conduct 'negotiations' for the dismemberment and political/cultural subjugation of Ukraine. This strategy was used by Stalin in 1939/40 against the Baltic countries and Finland."
09:49 Swiss Conference without Russia: "Scholz addresses the core problem"
In Switzerland, leaders from various countries are discussing possibilities for peace in Ukraine. An important player is absent at the event. Russia is not present at the conference. The reason is not that Moscow didn't receive an invitation, explains NTV reporter Jürgen Weichert:
Russia's casualties in Ukraine remain significant, though not as high as in May following the Kremlin's offensive in Kharkiv. As per reports, approximately 1160 soldiers have been wiped out in the past day, with 58 artillery pieces and six armored personnel carriers also annihilated. Despite these numbers, no destructed tanks have been reported. These figures have not been independently confirmed.
08:31 Ukraine still awaits the lion's share of the $61 billion aid package from the U.S.A.
As stated by General-Lieutenant Ivan Havriljuk, Ukraine's first deputy Defense Minister, a substantial portion of the promised U.S. support package remains undelivered. However, a portion has made it to the country, alleviating the scarcity of artillery ammunition. The advantage of Russian forces in projectiles is reportedly decreased from seven to five to one. Until the arrival of enough Western aid has an impact on the battlefield, it will likely take several weeks or months, claims Hawriljuk.
07:53 Ukraine's coal power plants are said to be creating 'Frankenstein Units'
Dmytro Sakharuk, of Ukrainian energy conglomerate DTEK, shares that due to Russian attacks, the coal power plant's capacity has dropped from 5 Gigawatts to 500 Megawatts, a critical issue for the upcoming heating season. Efforts are being made to repair the power plants, but the needed parts like turbines or generators are hard to acquire. To restore some capacity quickly, Ukraine may use material from power plants built in countries like Poland, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece during the Soviet era. However, these power plant blocks will be 'Frankenstein units', as the material may not always fit.
07:32 Germany is allegedly ill-equipped to counter hybrid threats, according to an expert
Cybersecurity expert Christian Dörre believes Germany isn't adequately prepared to fend off foreign disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks. He states that the past two years of the Ukraine conflict expose society's lack of readiness and effectiveness against hybrid threats, ranging from disinformation and false news to attacks on infrastructure.
06:54 Increased Russian military activity reported in Wremiwka sector
The Ukrainian General Staff discloses that Russian military activity in the Wremiwka sector has tripled. This area is situated between the cities of Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia. Russian forces have reportedly assaulted the frontlines in Vodjane, Uroschajne, and Staromajorsk around ten times, according to the General Staff. The situation, they say, is tense, and actions are being taken to bring it under control.
06:07 Advances claimed in counterattack by Ukrainian forces
Ukrainian forces claim to have seized Russian positions in the Serebryansky Forest. Swjatoslaw Palamar, deputy commander of the 12th Brigade of the Asow National Guard, announced this on social media, while Nasar Voloshyn, a Chortyzja grouping spokesperson, confirmed the advances. Ukrainian forces claim to have stormed enemy positions, pushed back defensive lines, and captured firing positions, driving the Russians out of their lines. These frontline advances are located in the Luhansk region.
05:24 Criticism from Interior Minister Conference chairman regarding benefits for Ukrainian refugees
The chairman of the Interior Minister Conference, Brandenburg's Interior Minister Michael Stübgen, advocates for withdrawing citizens' benefits from Ukrainian refugees in Germany. Stübgen comments that it's illogical to support Ukraine while providing benefits to fleeing Ukrainians. The immediate decision to give refugees benefits from Ukraine, according to Stübgen, has been a grave mistake. Stübgen asserts that the low employment rate of Ukrainians is alarming because citizens' benefits are stifling employment opportunities. The federal government is urged to reconsider its approach.
03:55 Biden opts out of Ukraine Summit; Vice President Harris attends
At the G7 Summit in Italy, U.S. President Biden decided against attending the Ukraine Conference in Switzerland like his fellow G7 participants. Instead, Biden returns to the U.S.A. to participate in a gala dinner with celebrities, such as Julia Roberts and George Clooney, to boost his election fund. At the Ukraine Summit, Biden is replaced by U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris.
02:50 von der Leyen: Peace must restore Ukraine's territorial integrity
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen advocates for peace that would restore Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. She suggests that a 'frozen conflict' with foreign troops occupying Ukrainian land is not a solution, as it would lead to future attacks. The summit participants should promote a comprehensive, fair, and sustainable peace for Ukraine instead.
Civil Defense Exercise Takes Place in Latvia: Preparing for EmergenciesIn Latvia, a nationwide civil defense awareness day known as "Knowledge Armed" transpired. In 14 cities and municipalities, the citizens were taught steps to take in crisis situations. Topics such as first aid, emergency supply preparation, handling explosives, radiation, and chemical hazards were taught. These lessons aim to bolster civil defense capabilities amidst Russia's aggressive war in Ukraine. Defense Minister Andris Spruds emphasizes that everyone should take responsibility for how they act during a crisis. "It's crucial to inform the public on what to do in any given hour X."
Zelenskyy: Monthly Shelling of Civilian Targets by RussiaAccording to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, around 3,500 rockets are fired at civilian targets and Ukrainian infrastructure each month by Russia. In an interview with the Italian television channel Sky TG24, Zelenskyy claimed that this tactic is used to force people out of cities and villages, paving the way for Russian occupation. Russia's denial of only targeting military sites is described as a lie by Zelenskyy.
Allegations of Kidnapped Children Indoctrination by RussiaUkrainian human rights activists accuse Russia of indoctrinating children taken from Ukraine. The leader of the charitable organization Save Ukraine, Mykola Kuleba, pointed out that children are prohibited from speaking Ukrainian or expressing any Ukrainian symbols. They are reportedly punished if they refuse to sing the Russian anthem, and their names have been changed by Russian authorities. Save Ukraine has retrieved 373 children so far, with many showing signs of trauma. The Ukrainian government claims that over 20,000 children have been kidnapped since the beginning of the conflict. Russia disputes the kidnapping allegations and claims to have taken the children away from the war zone for their safety.
Injuries and Deaths from Russian Shrapnel in Eastern UkraineUkrainian investigators accuse the Russian military of killing and injuring civilians by using shrapnel in the eastern part of the country. The village of Ulakly in the Wolnowacha district was reportedly shelled by multiple rocket launchers containing shrapnel, according to the Regional Prosecutor's Office of Donetsk. Two men and a woman were killed, and five more civilians were injured.
Strong Criticism from British Prime Minister Rishi SunakBritish Prime Minister Rishi Sunak heavily criticizes Russia's supporters and allies, stating that "they are siding with the aggressor - and the wrong side of history." Sunak further commented that anyone supplying weapons or components for these weapons should reconsider their decisions, referring to Buca, Mariupol, and Kharkiv as examples of alleged Russian war crimes in Ukraine. Sunak also claimed that Putin has no interest in achieving peace.
Saudi Arabia: Russian Participation Needed for Credible Peace TalksSaudi Arabia suggests that Russian participation is essential for credible peace talks regarding a peace agreement. Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud mentioned at the Ukraine conference in Switzerland that reaching peace would demand "difficult compromises." Saudi Arabia is considered one of the leading contenders to host a subsequent conference.
Ukrainian Advancements on Eastern FrontThe Ukrainian military reports successes against Russian troops in the areas of Klitschjiwka and the Serebrjansker Wald. These gains were attributed to the 12th Special Brigade Asow, with its deputy commander, Sviatoslav Palamar, announcing the loss of Russian positions in the Serebrjansker Wald area on Facebook.
New Attacks on Various Fronts in UkraineThe international community's efforts for peace in Ukraine are met with continued Russian attacks on various front lines. In the east of the country near Wowtschansk, Russian forces, supported by their air force, launched another attack, as reported by the General Staff in Kiev. Unusually aggressive advances were also recorded from the region Pokrowsk in the southeast of Ukraine, where about one third of the 74 attacks of the day were registered. All attacks were repelled, according to the report.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Supports Russia's Inclusion in Peace ProcessGerman Chancellor Olaf Scholz asserts that making peace in Ukraine is impossible without Russia's involvement. Scholz emphasizes that a complete withdrawal of Russia from the occupied parts of Ukraine is required, stating that "Russia could end this war today or at any other time, if it stops its attacks and withdraws its troops from Ukraine."
Read also:
- Due to the ongoing cyberwarfare from Russia, Ukraine's military is considering strengthening its cyberdefenses to protect against attacks on critical infrastructure.
- Volodymyr Selensky, the Ukrainian president, has called on NATO for increased military support to bolster Ukraine's defenses against Russian aggression and potential attacks on Ukraine.
- In response to the Russian attack on Ukraine, NATO leaders have accused Russia of breaching international law and have reiterated their commitment to protecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine.
- Concerned about the escalating tensions and potential Russian military intervention in Ukraine, the international community has condemned the use of force and has urged Russia to withdraw its troops from the Ukrainian conflict zone.
