Zelenskyi announces restoration of combat control in Kharkiv region at 10:23 p.m.
According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian military has regained control of the eastern border region in Kharkiv. "Our soldiers have now managed to take over the combat control of the border area where the Russian invaders have penetrated," said Zelensky in his evening address. He had previously visited Kharkiv. Russian forces launched a ground offensive in the border region two weeks ago and captured several Ukrainian villages.
At the moment, Russia reportedly holds over 400 Ukrainian women captive. There are currently 403 Ukrainian women being held captive by the Russians. Many of them are illegally detained civilians. This information comes from the Ukrainian Coordination Center for the Treatment of Prisoners of War. The report also includes women who have been missing since 2014 and whose fate remains unknown. The Russian side has ignored numerous appeals demanding the release of the captured women.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba believes Russian President Vladimir Putin wants the upcoming Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland to fail. In response to reports of Putin's alleged readiness for peace negotiations, Kuleba claims the Kremlin leader has no desire to end the war waged by Moscow in its entirety. "Putin is trying his best to prevent the peace summit in Switzerland on June 15 and 16. He's afraid of its success," said Kuleba.
Six NATO member states bordering Russia have proposed building a "drone wall" to protect against "provocations." According to Lithuanian Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite, the goal of this "drone wall" stretching from Norway to Poland is to use drones and other technologies to safeguard their borders. Bilotaite noted that the project isn't only about preventing "provocations from unfriendly countries" but also about combating smuggling. The plan includes using drones for border surveillance and deploying anti-drone systems. Bilotaite described it as a "completely new thing." She did not provide a timeline for the project. This initiative follows security concerns resulting from Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine.
The United States has announced additional military aid for Ukraine. This new package, worth $275 million, includes ammunition for the Himars multiple rocket launchers, as well as 155 and 105 millimeter caliber artillery ammunition, according to the US State Department. This marks the fifth batch of approved aid by US President Joe Biden since Congress allocated $61 billion to Kiev at the end of April. The US State Department stated that the aid had already reached the front line, and the newly provided support would be delivered "as quickly as possible" to help the Ukrainian military defend their country and protect its people. Since the beginning of Russia's war against Ukraine two years ago, the US has provided Kyiv with over $50 billion in military aid.
Starting this school year, children and teenagers in Russia have a new required subject - "Fundamentals of Life Safety." This apparent harmless name hides military basics such as shooting and dressing wounds.
Russian President Vladimir Putin made a public statement implying a new willingness to negotiate. After more than two years of invasion, Putin said, "People are talking about the need to return to negotiations. Let's go back to them. But not on the basis of what one side wants, but (...) on the basis of today's realities that have developed on the ground" - an apparent reference to his continued occupation of Ukrainian territory. Ukraine has consistently stated that the withdrawal of Russian troops from its territory is a prerequisite for lasting peace.
Political scientist Gerhard Mangott doubts Putin's sincerity in initiating negotiations. He maintains the Russian leader aims to seize full control of the occupied territories and sabotage the Ukraine conference in Switzerland.
18:57 Russian holdings: EU Official envisions G7 consensus on embargoed fundsThe European Commissioner for Economy, Paolo Gentiloni, foresees an agreement on frozen Russian assets at the forthcoming G7 summit in Apulia next month. The G7 finance ministers had a "favorable closing" in their talks at Stresa, Italy, said Gentiloni. The EU's existing scheme to accumulate the interest on Russian holdings for Ukraine's assistance appears to be a promising course, according to him. This week, the EU member states approved a strategy to harness the interest revenues from confiscated Russian assets for further military aid for Ukraine. This approach will likely generate roughly three billion euros annually for Ukraine's aid. Additionally, the G7 are debating a US proposal for a $50 billion loan facility, expected to be funded with future revenue from Russian assets.
17:25 Controversial recordings: Envisioned footage allegedly indicates ATACMS barrages in CrimeaPowerful blasts rattle Crimea once more. Ukraine registers a fruitful assault on a Russian communication installation. Video records depict multiple blasts and an air defense reaction. Russia accounts for two casualties.
16:52 Additional German IRIS-T system handed over to UkraineThe German authorities have provided an additional IRIS-T-SLM air defense system to Ukraine. As per "Der Spiegel," the weapon system has reportedly arrived in Ukraine. Hence, the nation currently under assault from Russia now possesses four long-range IRIS-T systems and one short-range IRIS-T system.
16:25 London: Russian Africa Corps in combat in KharkivBased on British estimations, Russia has withdrawn soldiers from its Africa Corps and allocated them to the front in Ukraine. As per the British Ministry of Defense's statement, these troops have lately been deployed alongside regular Russian forces and vigilante units in the Vovchansk region of northern Kharkiv. The African Corps of the Russian Ministry of Defense was founded in December 2023, featuring over 2,000 regular soldiers and officers as well as skilled mercenaries who previously served in the Wagner Group. Troops from the Africa Corps may have previously been deployed in Syria, Libya, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
15:53 Putin hints at truce contemplation? Potentially dividing the WestReports suggest Putin may be contemplating a ceasefire, though these negotiations are not solely in Ukraine's hands, asserts military analyst Ralph Thiele. He clarifies that the indicator from Moscow has the potential to divide the international community.
15:18 Russians thwart Ukrainian long-range bombardmentThe Russians have deployed jammers to impede many of Ukraine's recently acquired long-range bombings from hitting their designated targets. Three individuals privy to the issue informed Reuters. The glide bomb boasts a range of up to 100 miles (160 kilometers). The navigational system, which averts obstacles such as mountains and recognized air defense systems, has been thwarted. While Boeing asserted the system could stymie some interferences, one insider contends this would necessitate several months to rectify the problem.
15:01 Scholz conquers Taurus dissent: No to delivery to UkraineOlaf Scholz reaffirms his resistance to delivering Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine. Scholz maintains that he wants to avert any risks that could lead to an expansion of the war in Ukraine into a conflict between Russia and the Western security alliance NATO. As of now, Germany has supplied or committed €28 billion worth of weapons to Ukraine and is the second most significant benefactor globally after the USA (Notice also at 15:02). Germany has also already provided two Patriot systems to Ukraine and will dispatch one more, which Scholz considers essential. "We have truly gone as far as we can," Scholz voiced at the democracy festival in Berlin. In his position as Chancellor, he expresses, "the responsibility is: we are aiding Ukraine in its defense fight, but we will prevent the war from escalating into a war between Russia and NATO." With regard to Taurus, "it is dubious to deliver a weapon that can reach 500 kilometers, given its extraordinary precision," asserted Scholz. "This is only warranted if the nation providing the weapon identifies and defines the targets itself - which, in turn, is not doable when uninvolved in the conflict."
3:24 Russia interferes with Elon Musk's Starlink signal on the front line
Recently, Russia disrupted the Starlink satellite service that is operated by Elon Musk's SpaceX. The Ukrainian military reported this news to the New York Times. Starlink has been a crucial asset for Ukraine since the start of the Russian aggression, as the military uses it for communications, surveillance, and drone strikes. Ukrainian forces reportedly noticed the disruption in the Starlink signal as Russian troops were about to cross the border with Ukraine. This led to them switching to text messages as a temporary solution.
14:58 Erwin Sellering steps down as head of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's climate protection foundation
The former Minister President of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Erwin Sellering (SPD), has resigned as the chairman of the board of the state's climate foundation. The climate protection foundation has been a subject of controversy due to its ties with Nord Stream II. In a statement, Sellering mentioned the foundation's success in defending itself against all attacks and attempts to dissolve it. He felt it was the right time for him to retire early since no one was planning to continue the attacks. The climate foundation was established in early 2021 with the additional purpose of supporting the completion of the Nord Stream 2 Baltic Sea pipeline through covert deals because of the sanctions imposed on construction companies by the United States. The Nord Stream 2 consortium funded the foundation with €20 million. Following the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the state government under Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig attempted to dissolve the foundation with the support of the state parliament. The foundation vehemently opposed this.
14:35 Germany considering legally secure steps for Russian assets to support Ukraine
The leading democratic industrial nations are discussing how to utilize froze assets of the Russian central bank to support Ukraine. German Finance Minister Christian Lindner confirmed Germany's willingness to take further measures to utilize the income generated from frozen Russian assets for Ukraine. However, he emphasized that these steps should not result in any legal or economically risky consequences. There's a general openness among Europeans to carefully examine the US proposal, but negotiations are still a long way off due to several unresolved issues. The European Union states had decided to use the interest income from the Russian central bank's assets to fund future military aid for Ukraine. The United States, on the other hand, proposed that the G7 could grant Ukraine a large loan, secured by the interest income. This approach would likely generate more funds than the €3 billion planned by the EU. Lindner insists it's unclear who would be responsible for providing the necessary guarantees and bearing the risks. Negotiations have a long way to go until a conclusion is reached. Reports suggest that an agreement could be reached at the upcoming G7 leaders' meeting in Apulia in mid-June.
14:20 Ukraine claims success against Moscow's ground offensive in Kharkiv
Ukraine claims that it stopped a Russian ground offensive in the eastern region of Kharkiv. The Ukrainian army stated in online platforms, "The Ukrainian defense forces have stopped the Russian troops in the Kharkiv area and are conducting retaliatory attacks." Representatives from the General Staff described the situation as "difficult," but "stable and under control." Army chief Oleksandr Syrskyj explained on social media that the Russian military's advances in the region in northeastern Ukraine had ceased. In battles in the border town of Vovchansk, Russian troops were reportedly bogged down and experienced significant losses in their attacking units. Russia is allegedly sending reserves from various areas in an attempt to capture the city, but they have had no success so far.
14:00 Germany provides Ukraine with more Leopard tanks and other equipment
Germany has given Ukraine more Leopard 1 A5 main battle tanks, 100 Marder infantry fighting vehicles with ammunition and spare parts, 18 Leopard 2 A6 main battle tanks, ammunition, and spare parts. The German government also provided various Dingo transport vehicles, multi-purpose vehicles, and armored transporters. Germany has provided or is planning to provide a total of €28 billion in military aid to support Ukraine. This is according to the most recent update on military support services.
14:15 Incident at the border: Estonia summons Russian diplomat
Estonia calls in the chargé d'affaires of the Russian embassy in Tallinn over the removal of markers in the border river Narva. This was mentioned by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna after a conversation with the diplomat. He stated that the actions were "provocative and unacceptable." Estonia is requesting an explanation for the disappearance of border markings and for them to be immediately returned. On Thursday night, Russian border guards took away 24 buoys used by Estonia to designate the sea lane in the Narva River. This waterway serves as the boundary between the two neighboring countries, as well as representing the eastern border of the EU and NATO.
13:49 Stalemate for Russian army in Ukraine's Kharkiv region
Ukrainian army head Oleksandr Syrskyj reports that the Russian forces' progress in the Kharkiv region, northeastern Ukraine, is slowed down. In the fighting around the border town of Vovchansk, the Russian troops "got stuck in a quagmire" and have suffered heavy casualties among the units charging. To capture the city, Russia is now deploying reserves from different locations, but the effort has had no success. Vovchansk, located about 5 kilometers from the Russian border, has been the focus of a ground attack Russia launched two weeks ago in northeastern Ukraine.
13:17 Baerbock: Russia's aggression cannot be tolerated
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warns Russia against provoking the European Union with harmful actions along its western borders. She posts on Platform X, "Russia is setting fire to the EU's borders." She declares Germany's solidarity with Estonia, Finland, and Lithuania, and remains resolute against "this aggressive behavior." On Thursday, Estonian officials raised concerns about the removal of navigation buoys in the Narva River on the Estonia–Russia border.
12:52 Romanian citizen suspected of spying for Russia arrested
The Romanian prosecutor's office in Bucharest reports that a person has been detained for suspected spying for Russia. The suspect had been taking photos of military facilities and transporting military equipment belonging to the Romanian army and other NATO countries near Tulcea, since 2022. They sent the information to the Russian embassy in Bucharest. An investigating judge has ordered the Romanian citizen be detained for an initial 30 days. The investigation is being conducted by DIICOT, which specializes in organized crime and terrorism, in conjunction with the SRI, domestic intelligence service, and the Intelligence Service of the Romanian Army. A search at the suspect's home revealed incriminating evidence.
12:22 Putin reportedly willing to accept the current frontline as a ceasefire
Sources in the Russian president's circle claim that Vladimir Putin might agree to a ceasefire recognizing the current frontline. "Putin can continue to fight if necessary," one of four sources informed by Reuters said. "But he's also ready for a ceasefire. To halt this unfolding conflict." The sources state that Putin expressed his frustration with attempts they believed were backed by the West to discourage peace talks. Putin has expressed his desire for negotiations before, only to backtrack later, saying, "We're not prepared for negotiations based on some sort of 'dreamland' mentality emerging from drug-induced delirium, but we're ready for discussions based on the actual conditions that have arisen."
11:51 NATO member country orders €300 million in artillery ammunition from Rheinmetall
Rheinmetall, an arms manufacturer, receives a massive order worth nearly €300 million for artillery ammunition from a NATO member state. The order includes tens of thousands of artillery shells and several hundred thousand propellant charge modules. The ammunition will be delivered between 2024 and 2028. Rheinmetall attributes the significant orders to the need to resupply the military's ammunition stockpiles due to the conflict in Ukraine.
What could be the reasons behind the wave of dismissals in Russia's Ministry of Defense? The Institute for the Study of War believes the Kremlin might be using allegations of corruption against senior officials as a cover to conceal the actual reasons for removing certain disgraced individuals from the ministry. With a Russian insider source revealing that six more officials in the ministry want to resign after their superior, Sergei Shoigu, was dismissed, it seems that there's more to this purge than meets the eye. Military bloggers have also supported this idea, as they see the recent arrests as the start of efforts to bring corrupt officials to justice under the new Defense Minister Andrei Belousov. ISW adds that the Kremlin may tolerate this criticism as it's focused on people targeted by the Ministry of Defense. The new defense minister is also portrayed as someone who tackles internal issues within the ministry, unlike his predecessor.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban considers fears that Russia could attack a NATO member state to be unfounded. He explains that the Russian military faces a tough battle against the Ukrainians and would not be able to conquer NATO if it were possible. He emphasizes that NATO's military power is significantly greater than that of Ukraine. Orban doubts the likelihood of Russia or any other country attacking NATO and compares the situation to a scenario where Russia unexpectedly conquers the entire Western world.
For the first time, Russia has attributed the deadly attack on a concert hall near Moscow to the jihadist militia Islamic State (IS). Alexander Bortnikov, director of the Russian domestic intelligence service FSB, has announced that members of the Khorasan Province group, the Afghan branch of IS, coordinated the preparations, financing, assault, and retreat of the terrorists via the internet. IS has taken responsibility for the attack on March 22, which left more than 140 people dead and over 360 injured. Despite this, Moscow is still attempting to link Ukraine to the attack, a claim that Kiev vehemently denies. Even now, Bortnikov confirms: "The investigation is ongoing, but we can say with certainty that Ukrainian military intelligence is directly involved in the attack." However, he does not explain how this relates to IS.
In the city of Vovchansk, Kharkiv is currently experiencing yet another period of heavy bombardment. Ntv correspondent Stephan Richter reports that the situation is alarming as there's "no forward and no backward." And in updated casualty figures, Ukraine states that Russia has lost 498,940 soldiers since the beginning of the invasion on February 24. The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reports 1,240 losses suffered by the Russian armed forces in the past 24 hours. In addition, Russia has lost 7,635 tanks, 14,775 armored combat vehicles, 17,569 vehicles and fuel tanks, 12,902 artillery systems, 1,080 multiple launch rocket systems, 813 air defense systems, 356 aircraft, 326 helicopters, 10,401 drones, 27 ships and boats, and one submarine.
Kharkiv, a city that has been under constant bombardment for weeks, was subjected to another glide bomb attack during the night. No casualties were reported this time. Two residential buildings and an uninhabited one were slightly damaged. The day before, seven people were killed by Russian fire in Kharkiv. A total of around 15 converted S-300 or S-400 anti-aircraft missiles fell over Kharkiv and its surrounding areas. One of the largest printing houses for literature in Ukraine was also hit. Famed Ukrainian writer Serhij Zhadan commented on the incident, saying that the enemy wants to destroy the Ukrainian book, which represents the Ukrainian strength.
08:26 FSB chief asserts Ukrainian involvement in Moscow concert hall attack
The chief of the Russian domestic intelligence service, FSB, Alexander Bortnikov, declares that the Ukrainian military intelligence service played a direct role in the deadly attack on a concert hall near Moscow in March. Although the probe continues, Bortnikov claims that evidence already supports this assertion, echoing prior Russian accusations. However, he fails to provide any proof for his claims. The radical Islamic IS militia has admitted responsibility for the attack, resulting in over 140 fatalities.
08:02 Missile strike causes 'significant damage' in Crimean communications center
A Ukrainian report cites the pro-Ukrainian partisan group Atesh and Crimean Wind telegram channel, revealing that a Russian communications center in Alushta, occupied Crimea experienced "considerable equipment damage" and multiple casualties due to a missile attack. According to Crimean Wind, the facility is where high-ranking military personnel reside. The missile strike is believed to be carried out by at least six ATACMS missiles supplied by the U.S.
07:27 Former Russian spokesperson critiques own nation
Alexander Nezorov, a former Russian Duma deputy critical of the Kremlin, compares Russians to circus animals, claiming they'll retain the abilities taught over their lifetimes. He accuses Russians of maintaining their desire for war, patriotism, and other traits created by Russian propaganda. Despite the death of Vladimir Putin, Nezorov predicts Russians will continue to be "destined to live and die as fools" for multiple generations.
07:03 Scholz backs European defense enhancements but opposes EU nuclear weapons
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz endorses French President Emmanuel Macron's ambition for reinforcing European defense capacities, which could encompass nuclear deterrence, as well as strong conventional armed forces, air and missile defense, cyber, space, and precision strike abilities. He stresses the need to improve the European defense industry through investment and strengthen the European pillar of the deterrence. However, Scholz dismissed the concept of "EU nuclear weapons," deeming it "unrealistic."
06:38 Washington exerts pressure on Tbilisi due to contentious agent law
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken introduces new visa limitations and commences a comprehensive review of bilateral interactions with Georgia following the enactment of a divisive foreign influence operations law. While expressing hope that Georgia's leadership could reconsider the legislation and foster its 'democratic and Euro-Atlantic aspirations', Blinken emphasized the repercussions.
06:29 Estonian aid supports education in conflict zones and helps Ukrainian refugees
The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will contribute €650,000 to humanitarian assistance in Ukraine, primarily supporting education systems in war-torn regions and offering aid to children enduring the conflict. As reported by the Kyiv Independent, the Estonian non-profit organization Eesti Pagulasabi will utilize some funding to enhance living standards in vulnerable areas and support Ukrainian refugees in Georgia. Additionally, the non-profit group Mondo will employ a portion of the allocation to arrange summer camps and provide psychological support for children in Zaporizhzhya.
05:57 Russian MP reveals strategic targets
Russian forces aim to seize more than half of the territory in the border town of Vovchansk of the Kharkiv region, reports the Russian news agency TASS, quoting Russian parliamentary deputy Viktor Vodolatsky. Should Vovchansk be under Russian control, Slavyansk, Kramatorsk, and Pokrovsk are considered the next major objectives, according to Vodolatsky.
05:30 Putin jets off to Belarus for talks with Lukashenko
Reports are swirling that Russian leader Vladimir Putin has made the trip to Belarus, kickstarting his visit with some casual chats. According to sources, Putin said, "We have a lot to discuss, and things are going great for us," emphasizing the importance of their talks. On the itinerary are further negotiations with Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko to beef up security and plan military drills involving tactical nuclear weapons. Minsk will be pulling a frontline role in these drills, practicing the deployment of small nuclear warheads.
04:35 South Korea tightens the screws on North Koreans and Russian vessels
South Korea has clamped down hard on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian ships, named for their involvement in arms trade between Pyongyang and Moscow. Seoul's Foreign Ministry shared the deets, citing high-level efforts to quash this illicit trade route.
03:40 USA gears up for more aid to Ukraine, tallying $275 million
The US government is assembling another financial windfall for Ukraine, valued at a cool $275 million. On the shopping list: artillery shells, precise-targeting bombs, and ride-worthy vehicles. And how is this one-of-a-kind rescue operation being facilitated? Through President Joe Biden's Presidential Drawdown Authority, a nifty little clause that's perfect for emergencies and doesn't require Congress' seemingly unwaivering consent.
02:36 Brazil and China hedge bets on Ukraine peace summit
Both Brazil and China, who have been notoriously silent on the sidelines, are sending some subtle signals about the impending international peace summit on Ukraine in Switzerland, where Putin received an invitation in the mail, but Ruskies definitely did not. In a document swiped straight from Brazil's special advisor Celso Amorim and China's top diplomat Wang Yi, both countries are jeering at Russia and Ukraine to sit down and chat it out already. The problem, of course, is that Moscow won't play nice if it ain't got an invite.
01:17 Russian activist gets 25 years for Ukraine sabotage
A Russian court has unleashed a thunderbolt on activist Vladimir Malina, a 36-year-old barman from Moscow. The charge? Sabotage, terrorism, and high treason. Prosecutors allege the man was a loyal member of the "Legion for the Freedom of Russia," a group of Russians fighting for Ukraine. Taken into custody in June, Malina was also nabbed for attempting to torched a railroad control box and planning more united acts of sabotage.
23:55 Shaky skies Strife over Europe's aerial defense
As things heat up between Ukraine and Russia, Poland and Greece are stepping up demands for an aerial defense shield to protect continental Europe. Said the Premiers of Poland and Greece, "As long as the skies above Europe are safe, Europe will be safe," bestowing the call for action on EU Commission supreme boss Ursula von der Leyen. The air defense mechanism, they insist, is a chance to shore up EU defenses in the face of Russian instigation.
22:29 Explosive events? Crimea takes a hit
Something heavy appears to be flying in Crimea's skies, but it's unclear if Ukraine's working overtime or a Russian revenge plot. Witnesses claim they spotted some suspicious explosions in the area, sparking suspicions that Ukraine's used the US-handed ATACMS missiles to rain havoc on its enemy. Strangely, Russia tends to play down any Ukrainian attacks, but the mere rumors have them on high alert. Kiev's been laser-focused on targeting Russian air defense systems and radars as of late.
22:56 More arrests? Putin's troops are getting picked off
Russia's military seems to be feeling some heat lately, as pro-Russian outlets report Russian Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the army Vadim Shamarin's recent arrest. Shamarin's the fourth major officer to be nabbed since April, charged with pilfering on a massive scale.
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- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's announcement of restored combat control in Kharkiv region was met with Russian concerns over potential NATO involvement in the Ukraine conflict, as Lithuanian Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite proposed building a "drone wall" along the border of six NATO member states to protect against "provocations."
- As the Ukraine conflict continued, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed his doubt in Russian President Vladimir Putin's sincerity in initiating negotiations, believing Putin aimed to seize full control of the occupied territories and sabotage the upcoming Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland.
- Meanwhile, Russia's military operations in Ukraine included cyberwarfare, with reports of Russian interference disrupting Elon Musk's Starlink signal used by the Ukrainian military for communication and surveillance.
- In response to Russia's continued aggression, NATO members, such as Germany, have provided aid to Ukraine, including military equipment, with German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht committing to sending additional Gepard anti-aircraft systems and anti-tank weapons to help Ukraine defend its territory against Russian attacks.
Source: www.ntv.de
