Zelenskyy shares his "victory strategy" with Biden in September
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a September meeting with American President Joe Biden. "I will present him with the blueprint for triumph," the head of state declared during an appearance in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. It pertains to a interconnected series of decisions that will provide Ukraine with sufficient troops to steer the conflict towards peace. "Such victorious wars can be concluded in several moral methods: either the invading army is forced out by force or by diplomacy," Zelensky explained. This will guarantee the genuine sovereignty of the nation. However, Kyiv depends on American support for the necessary solid stance.
22:59 Russian aggression shifts focus southwardIntense battles continue in the east of the country, as reported by the Ukrainian military. There were 115 engagements, the General Staff in Kyiv reported in its evening situation report. "The situation was most intense today in the direction of Kurachove, besides the enemy was also active in the direction of Lyman and Pokrovsk," it said. Kurachove is a small town south of Pokrovsk. Pokrovsk had long been considered the main attack direction of the Russian troops. Recently, however, the Russians have only made minimal territorial gains in that area. Instead, they expanded their attack axis southwards to capture the mining town of Hirnyk near Kurachove.
22:18 Zelensky: Advance in Kursk brings desired reliefThe Ukrainian advance into the Russian oblast of Kursk is bringing the desired victory, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. In the Charkiv region, the enemy has been held at bay, and in Donetsk, the Russian advance has slowed down, he says. Russia has not yet achieved any significant victories in its counterattack in Kursk. Experts had repeatedly questioned the redeployment of larger Russian troop formations from Donetsk and other regions to Kursk. Russia claims to have recaptured ten of the 100 occupied villages.
21:46 "West is fearful" - Zelensky with clear words about alliesUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accuses the West of having "fear" of addressing aid to Ukraine in downing Russian missiles. "If the allies together shoot down missiles and drones in the regions of the Near East, why is there still no similar decision to shoot down Russian missiles and (Iranian) Shaheds in the sky of Ukraine?" Zelensky said at a conference in Kyiv. "They are afraid to even say: 'We are working on it.' And this happens not even when missiles and drones are literally heading for the territory of our neighbors," the Ukrainian head of state said. This is "disgraceful for the democratic world."
21:30 Russia has used over 8000 Iranian drones so farRussia has fired 8060 Iranian Shahed drones developed by Iran on Ukraine since the beginning of the war, according to the government in Kyiv. Statements from Iran or Russia are not available yet. The Ukraine first accused the government in Tehran of supplying the suicide drones to Russia in autumn 2022.
20:43 Approval for Long-Range Weapons for Ukraine? USA Evades QuestionsIn Washington, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and American President Joe Biden are set to meet for talks. There's anticipation over whether there will be announcements regarding the approval of using long-range weapons for Ukraine. According to sources from the British "Guardian", Britain has allowed Ukraine to launch attacks with Storm-Shadow missiles. However, it's reported that no announcements will be made on this topic during today's meeting. "I wouldn't expect an announcement today about the use of long-range weapons inside Russia - certainly not from the US," says John Kirby, the Communications Director of the National Security Council. He only shares that they continue to discuss with Britain, France, and other allies "the type of capabilities that will be made available to Ukraine." He also avoids giving a clear answer when asked if the US government would announce any changes. "I'm not going to engage in a hypothetical discussion about what we might or might not say at a certain time."
20:00 German aircraft intercept Russian aircraft over the Baltic SeaGerman Eurofighter aircraft took off to identify Russian aircraft. A maritime reconnaissance/anti-submarine warfare aircraft of the Tu-142 Bear type, accompanied by an Su-30 escort, was flying without a flight plan and transponder, as reported by a Luftwaffe post on X. The Eurofighters, alerted from Laage and Lielvarde in Lithuania, escorted the Russian jets. Incidents like this with Russian aircraft have occurred repeatedly in recent months.
19:32 Osatschuk on Potential Arms Release: "Valuable Contribution to Ending Aggressive War"Ukraine has been urging for the use of long-range rockets in the Russian heartland for some time. Britain and the US are currently debating this. Colonel Sergii Osatschuk explains how Ukraine would benefit from this in the conflict:
19:06 Zelensky Invites Russia to Next Peace Summit - Success UncertainAccording to Ukrainian President Zelensky, Russia will be invited to the next peace summit in Switzerland in November, as reported by "Le Monde" among others. Both Kyiv and western partners have repeatedly confirmed this. However, it's completely uncertain whether Russia will agree. High-ranking representatives have repeatedly rejected this. Moreover, Moscow continues to assert that it wants to achieve all its war goals in Ukraine or sets poisoned peace or negotiating conditions that amount to a dictate for Ukraine.
18:07 EU Contemplates Fresh Sanctions against Iran due to Missile Transfer to RussiaIn light of allegations of Iran supplying missiles to Russia, the European Union is pondering new penalties against Iran. A statement reveals that the EU has continually warned Iran about transferring ballistic missiles to Russia. The delivery poses a direct security threat and marks a significant escalation, prompting a swift and extensive response, including sanctions for the Iranian aviation sector. Germany is reportedly actively discussing the imposition of new sanctions, including potential flight or landing restrictions, with its European and international peers.
17:25 Kosyrev Warns West of Further Russian Aggression - Objective is EmbarrassmentFormer Russian Foreign Minister Andrei Kosyrev alerts the West of forthcoming Russian aggression. If Putin is rewarded in Ukraine, Kosyrev, a long-time ally of the West, asserts that Putin, perceiving NATO's weakness and cowardice, will attack NATO member states in the Baltics before any NATO guarantees are given. Putin's primary motive is not territory gain but humiliation and discrediting of the USA and NATO.
17:04 Taurus Debate Arises Again: Ampel Politicians Advocate for Long-Range Weapon DeploymentPoliticians from the Ampel parties advocate for Ukraine's usage of long-range weapons against Russian targets. FDP politician Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann suggests that Germany, alongside European states and the US and UK, should arm Ukraine to destroy Russian military targets before intensive attacks begin. Similarly, Green politician Toni Hofreiter stresses that long-range weapons are essential for rebuilding damaged energy facilities and combating Russian attack bases.
16:35 Intense Fighting in Kurachove - Ukraine Reports Major AssaultsUkrainian government sources report that Russian forces are escalating their attacks in eastern Ukraine near the besieged city of Kurachove. The most intense fighting this month has taken place, according to Kyiv. Simultaneously, Russian soldiers are advancing toward the town of Pokrovsk, a significant railway junction about 33 kilometers north of Kurachove. Russia aims to establish new fronts, disturb Ukrainian supply lines, and capture the rest of the Donetsk region's eastern sector. Ukrainian troops have reportedly repelled 100 attacks near Kurachove and 64 near Pokrovsk within the past 24 hours. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commends his troops for maintaining their positions in the challenging sections of Pokrovsk and Kurachove.
15:56 Northern Russia Wary of Potential Ukrainian Drone ThreatRussian authorities in the Murmansk region, which is approximately 1,900 kilometers from Ukraine, have expressed concern about the possibility of Ukrainian drone attacks. As a precaution, Governor Andrei Chibis has declared an airspace closure, according to a Telegram update. Rosaviatsiya, the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency, has ceased take-offs and landings at Murmansk and Apatity airports because of safety concerns. The Murmansk region is home to the Russian Northern Fleet and a military airbase from which strategic bombers target Ukraine.
15:22 United Kingdom Unveils Information - Iranian Missiles Now in Russian HandsBritain's Ministry of Defence has shared details regarding the reported Iranian missiles that have been supplied to Russia. According to their daily intelligence report on the Ukraine war, these are short-range ballistic missiles called Fath-360 or BM-120. First introduced in 2020, these missiles can carry a 150-kilogram warhead up to 120 kilometers, with an alleged accuracy of 30 meters. The ministry asserts that Russia's ability to launch accurate strikes against Ukrainian military or civilian infrastructure near the frontline has been augmented by these missiles.
14:45 Czech Artillery Initiative Has Yet to Secure Polish FundingGazeta Wyborcza reports that Poland has not contributed any funds to the Czech artillery initiative aimed at supplying ammunition to Ukraine. Although Germany is the primary and speediest financier, the shortage of funds from Poland could present challenges. If all goes according to plan, Ukraine is projected to receive 100,000 rounds this month, with a total of 500,000 rounds by the end of 2024, and further supplies in 2025. Allegedly, problems are emerging in the market as a result of Russian activities.
14:20 Pistorius Says NATO Partners Approval for Ukrainian Long-Range Weapons is LegalGerman Defense Minister Boris Pistorius opines that a hypothetical approval from NATO partners for Ukraine to employ long-range weapons against Russian targets is legal under international law. He explains that the US and UK have the autonomy to make their own decisions about the weapons they have given to Ukraine. In response to Putin's warnings that NATO would then be at war with Russia, Pistorius dismisses such threats as empty, stating that Putin makes threats and offers incentives depending on his circumstances.
13:57 Zelenskyy Announces Release of 49 War Prisoners
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announces the homecoming of 49 war prisoners, including combatants from Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant, which was under siege by Russian forces in the spring of 2022. Zelenskyy shares images of soldiers and service members returning home, draped in Ukrainian flags. The group consists of military personnel from the army, national guard, national police, border patrol, and civilians. Initial reports suggest that 23 of these returnees are females. Zelenskyy does not specify if this homecoming is due to a prisoner exchange with Russia.
13:46 Tusk on Putin's Threats: "Don't Blow It Out of Proportion"Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk remains composed in the face of Russian President Vladimir Putin's warnings about long-range weapons targeting Russia. While acknowledging the gravity of the Ukraine conflict and tensions along the Ukrainian-Russian border, Tusk advises against overreacting to Putin's statements, suspecting they merely reflect the Russian military's precarious position on the frontline.
13:21 Beijing Views Negotiations as the Only Solution for Ukraine ConflictChinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu reveals negotiations as the sole means to tackle disputes such as those in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip. Li emphasizes that settling "the Ukraine crisis and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict" requires fostering peace and encouraging negotiations, making it the only viable option.
12:58 Oil and Gas Key Factor in Scholz's Central Asia TripThe German government desires to boost oil imports from Kazakhstan, according to an official speaking about Chancellor Olaf Scholz's trip to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. The aim is to provide various supply sources for the PCK refinery in Schwedt, with additional Kazakh oil being a potential option. However, Kazakh oil moves through Russian pipelines to Germany, giving Moscow leverage. Since Russia invaded Ukraine, Germany ceased importing Russian oil, with Scholz's visit focusing on Central Asian gas supplies, as the official notes, "We must obtain gas from somewhere, and this area is abundant in it."
12:26 France Recalls Iranian Diplomat Over Missile Supply to RussiaFrance has summoned the Iranian diplomatic representative in France, citing the provision of ballistic missiles to Russia as the reason. Earlier, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken claimed that Russia had acquired missiles from Iran, meant for deployment in Ukraine within weeks. Iran has denied these allegations.
12:03 Pentagon Dismisses Russian Counteroffensive in Kursk as 'Minimal'The Pentagon remains indifferent to Russia's counteroffensive in Kursk. Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder said, "We've spotted Russian units attempting some kind of counteroffensive in the Kursk region." Ryder described it as "minimal" but acknowledged monitoring its progress. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims to have recaptured ten settlements but fails to confirm these reports. Ukrainian forces initiated an offensive in the nearby Russian border region of Kursk about five weeks ago, claiming around 100 captured villages and nearly 1,300 square kilometers of territory since then.
11:38 Despite Many Shootdowns: Drone Attacks Result in DamageThe Ukrainian air force claims to have shot down 24 of 26 drones during the previous night. In Odessa, a person was injured and 20 houses were harmed, while in Mykolaiv, debris from the drones triggered a fire at a food processing plant. The energy infrastructure in Ivano-Frankivsk also suffered damage, as per the Ministry of Energy.
11:16 Putin's Security Chief Meets Kim in PyongyangRussian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, as reported by the Russian Security Council. The meetings took place in an atmosphere of unparalleled trust and camaraderie, and it was predicted that they would contribute significantly to implementing the defense agreement signed between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin in June. The defense pact stipulates mutual aid in defending a signatory nation against aggression, according to Putin. The West suspects Moscow of using North Korean rockets and artillery shells in Ukraine as the conflict persists, and Russia is actively seeking additional ammunition from countries like China, Iran, and North Korea to continue its offensive in Ukraine.
10:46 Russian Parliament Chief: NATO Fights Against Our CountryRussian Parliament Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin accuses NATO of participating in Ukrainian conflict, asserting, "They are fighting against our country." He suggests that NATO is aiding Ukraine in selecting Russian cities for attacks, directing military operations with the Ukrainian army, and commanding Kyiv's government actions.
10:17 Munz on Putin's War Threat to NATO: "Putin's Statement Fails to Make Breakfast News"In the West, concerns that enabling Ukraine to attack Russian territory with long-range rockets could spark an escalation persist. Yet, Russian President Vladimir Putin again threatens such escalation. ntv correspondent Rainer Munz explains several reasons why Putin's threats likely lack credibility.
09:42 Belarus: Critical Condition of Imprisoned Opposition LeaderThe Belarusian opposition leader Maria Kolesnikova is in a critical state, her sister reveals. She's been held in harsh conditions for four years, weighing only 45 kg at 1.75 meters tall, and is enduring psychological and physical abuse by authorities, as Tatyana Khomitsa alleges, based on information from ex-prisoners. "I strongly believe this is a critical juncture, as no one can endure such mistreatment for an extended period." The Belarus Interior Ministry declined to comment on Kolesnikova's detention situation. Kolesnikova, a 42-year-old symbol of resistance post the 2020 protests against Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, is serving an 11-year sentence for alleged power seizing plot.
08:56 UK Diplomats Ousted by Russia for Spying ChargesRussia has expelled six British diplomats under allegations of espionage. The FSB claims to have documents proving that the London Foreign Office arranges political and military escalation. The FSB's role, as per their statement, is to ensure Russia's defeat in the Ukraine war. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused the British embassy of intentionally harming the Russian people, as reported by Tass. The British Foreign Office dismissed the accusations as "baseless." Russia's actions are a retaliation against British measures following supposed Russian state-sponsored activities in Europe and the UK, BBC revealed.
08:31 Putin Warns Over Long-Range Missile ApprovalUkrainian President Selenskyj has been advocating for the authorization of long-range missile usage against Russian military bases for some time now. The US and UK are now planning a joint review of this matter. Putin did not waste time in issuing a warning to the West.
08:03 Russia Offers Insights on Western WeaponsRussia is willing to share its insights from the Ukraine war with its allies. It claims to have exclusive expertise in combating various Western weapons, according to Russian Vice Defense Minister Alexander Fomin at a security conference in China, reported by RIA. Russia is open to sharing this knowledge with its partners, stating that conflicts have led to advancements in modern warfare. Russian weapons, they claim, can neutralize Western weapons.
07:34 Arrests Announced by Domestic Intelligence Service: Arson Attacks in Kyiv Carried Out for RussiaFive suspects are under suspicion for arson attacks in Kyiv on behalf of a Russian intelligence agency, as per the Ukrainian domestic intelligence service. The men are accused of setting fire to five military vehicles and spreading disinformation against the military. According to the domestic intelligence service, the arrested men relocated to the capital from various Ukrainian regions seeking employment. They were contacted by Russian agents via Telegram. The men also documented their actions on their phones to receive promised payment, which never materialized.
07:05 Ukrainian Chief Rabbi Grieves Lost Adoptive Son in WarUkrainian Chief Rabbi Moshe Asman is mourning the passing of his adoptive son, Anton Samborskij, who perished during the Russian invasion. A memorial service was held in Kyiv on Thursday to pay respects to the 32-year-old, missing since July-end. Confirmation of his death followed weeks of uncertainty. In May, Samborskij became a father and was deployed a few weeks later. Asman last spoke to his son on June 17.
06:29 Japan Reports Intrusion by Russian Fighter JetsJapan's air force mobilized fighter jets on Thursday following two Russian planes approaching the nation. The warplanes did not intrude Japanese airspace, the Defense Ministry stated. From morning till afternoon, the planes, Tu-142s, swept around the Okinawan region, the ministry added. In response, "we hastily deployed Air Self-Defense Force fighter jets," the ministry explained. The Russian jets concluded their expedition in the north, also crossing the Kuriles, a disputed area between Japan and Russia. Russian and Chinese warships initiated joint exercises in the Sea of Japan earlier this week. The exercises form part of a massive naval operation. Russian military aircraft circled Japan in 2019. [Read more here.]
06:07 Moscow Criticizes US's Containment Policy Against Russia and ChinaRussian Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin claimed at a security conference in China that the US is implementing a strategy of containment against Russia and China. The Russian news agency TASS reported this. Fomin informed the agency that Russia and China advocate for the establishment of a just, multipolar world order based on equality and mutual respect, while the West is planning for Asian wars through the formation of new security alliances in the region.
05:27 Black Sea Incident: Civil Freighter Hit by Russian MissileThe Ukrainian navy provided updated information regarding a suspected Russian airstrike on a civilian freighter in the Black Sea. A Tu-22 bomber believed to have fired a Ch-22 anti-ship missile at the ship, positioned outside Ukrainian territorial waters. The vessel, flying under the flag of St. Kitts and Nevis, transported a wheat cargo from the southern Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk to Egypt. As per a BBC report, the freighter was within Romania's exclusive economic zone at the time. The report also stated that a less powerful Ch-31 missile, used for radar jamming, was employed instead.
03:19 Tragic Death at Border: Moldovan Soldier DiesUnder unclear circumstances, a Moldovan soldier lost his life while performing duty at the border with the separatist region of Transnistria. The Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Moldova confirmed that the soldier was fatalistically shot by his own weapon during his duties. Authorities are investigating the incident, including police and forensic experts. Since 1992, following the Soviet Union's collapse, soldiers from Moldova, Transnistria, and Russian troops have been stationed at the boundary dividing the two parties. Moldova has pledged to reintegrate Transnistria into its territory, and incidents at the border are rare.
02:18 UK PM: No Conflict with Russia IntendedUK Prime Minister Keir Starmer countered Russian President Putin's claims that the West's provision of long-range weapons for attacks deep into Russian territory equated to NATO's involvement in the war. Starmer acknowledged Ukraine's right to self-defense while emphasizing that "we are not seeking a conflict with Russia" - a firm belief he emphasized. Read more here.
01:09 Harris' Stronger Support for UkraineAccording to former US Ambassador to Ukraine William B. Taylor, Kamala Harris, a potential Democratic presidential candidate, would display a stronger commitment to supporting Ukraine than the current incumbent, Joe Biden. Harris has demonstrated this support in specific areas, as Taylor stated at an event in Kyiv. In contrast to Biden's slower decisions, such as those concerning HIMARS, Abrams, and F-16 fighter jets, as well as his reluctance to allow Ukraine to strike deep into Russia, Taylor predicts a more forceful approach from Harris due to expected foreign policy shifts in the White House.
00:27 Zelensky Praises Estonia's Military AidUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed Esteonian President Alar Karis in Kyiv and expressed gratitude for the military aid. Estonia, an EU and NATO member, pledged to allocate 0.25% of its annual GDP for Ukraine's defense needs. Their discussion focused on reconstruction efforts and Ukraine's EU aspirations. Latvia's Prime Minister, Evika Siliņa, also pledged additional support during her meeting with Zelensky.
23:19 BND Not Expected to Share Assessment on Ukraine with JournalistThe Federal Intelligence Service (BND) is not obligated to disclose whether it characterized a military victory for Ukraine as challenging or impossible in background discussions. Journalists collaborating in such discussions also remain undisclosed, as decided by the Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig. The journalist's application for an interim order was primarily denied, although the BND must provide information on the number of confidential individual background discussions on Ukraine's military situation this year.
22:06 Coalition Politicians Back Use of Long-Range Weapons Against RussiaPoliticians from the traffic light coalition advocate for allowing Kyiv to utilize long-range weapons against Russian targets. Social Democrat foreign policy spokesman Michael Roth claimed that targeting Russian military bases, such as airfields, command centers, or launch bases, with long-range western rockets was justified and in line with international law. He highlighted that these bases played a significant role in prompting attacks on civilian Ukrainian targets. The Defense Committee chairman, Marcus Faber, argued that authorization to strike Russian military airports with long-range weapons like ATACMS and Storm Shadow had long been delayed. Green politician Anton Hofreiter emphasized that Russia's targeting of Ukrainian civilian population daily with rocket attacks on hospitals, residential buildings, and energy infrastructure required protection by striking military bases on Russian territory with long-range weapons.
21:35 Vance Discusses Trump's Ideas for Resolving Ukraine ConflictRepublican vice-presidential candidate J.D. Vance believes that Donald Trump's strategy to put an end to the ongoing Russian conflict with Ukraine could involve establishing a designated demilitarized zone between the two nations. Vance elaborates on this notion during an interview with TV producer Shawn Ryan, suggesting that Trump could potentially gather Russians, Ukrainians, and Europeans for negotiations to explore the possibility of a peaceful resolution. "I think he could reach an agreement swiftly," Vance remarks. Trump has publicly expressed his sympathy for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his critiques of U.S. aid to Ukraine. Moreover, the former presidential candidate asserts that he could conclude the conflict within 24 hours if elected, but he fails to unveil the specifics of his strategy.
21:03 "We are Russians, God is on Our Side" - Fascist Rally in St. PetersburgAlthough they cannot claim an ultimate authority, neither can they be challenged: "We are Russians, God is on Our Side," echo numerous Russian nationalists and extremists during their march through St. Petersburg. Over and over, they shout: "Onward, Russians!" The gathering is in commemoration of the transfer of relics of Alexander Nevsky, revered as a national hero and saint in the Orthodox Church.
20:28 Russian Propagandist Advocates for Atlantic BarrierPopular Russian TV host Vladimir Solovyov advocates for Russia's ambitions extending beyond just conquering Ukraine. "I reckon the ideal barrier is the Atlantic. A natural barrier," states the Kremlin propagandist. "The ideal location for our troops - Berlin, Lisbon, Madrid. And how captivating they looked in Paris." When reminded of Russia's limited population, he retorts, "The Belarusian brothers are with us." Alternatively, China could also be relied upon.
20:01 Preparations of British Volunteers for WinterIn numerous Ukrainian residences that have miraculously survived the bombardments, windows remain absent - a critical predicament on the cusp of winter. The British non-profit organization "Insulate Ukraine" seeks to rectify this issue: they embark on war-stricken areas and install provisional windows.
You can review all previous developments [here].
Sentence 1: In light of the ongoing cyberwarfare, Ukrainian officials have emphasized the need for stronger cybersecurity defenses to protect crucial national infrastructure from Russian cyberattacks.
Sentence 2: Concerns about potential Russian cyberwarfare tactics have prompted Western allies to increase their support for Ukraine in bolstering its cyber defenses and digital resilience to safeguard its digital sovereignty.
