Vue normale

Aujourd’hui — 22 juillet 2025Flux principal
  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Zelenskyy signs controversial law undermining Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies
    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed Law No. 12414, which grants the Prosecutor General’s Office control over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP). The official website of the Ukrainian Parliament has confirmed that the president approved the law despite mass protests from anti-corruption watchdogs, European officials, and activists. People in Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa took to the streets to protest agains
     

Zelenskyy signs controversial law undermining Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies

22 juillet 2025 à 16:43

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed Law No. 12414, which grants the Prosecutor General’s Office control over the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP).

The official website of the Ukrainian Parliament has confirmed that the president approved the law despite mass protests from anti-corruption watchdogs, European officials, and activists.

People in Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa took to the streets to protest against the law that brings Ukraine back to the times of former pro-Russian President Victor Yanukovych, who was ousted in the 2013-2014 Euromaidan protests. 

The bill provides that:

  • The Prosecutor General gains access to all NABU cases or can grant such access to any other prosecutor.
  • The Prosecutor General can issue mandatory written instructions to NABU detectives and, if they are not followed, can change jurisdiction by transferring cases to other agencies,
  • Has the right to close investigations at the request of the defense,
    Independently resolves jurisdiction disputes,
  • Signs notes of suspicion against high-ranking officials personally.

The head of SAPO loses the right to participate in prosecutor groups, as this is decided solely by the Prosecutor General. 

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Poland warns dual citizens at risk of forced mobilization in Russia
    Evacuation may become impossible. Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged all Polish citizens currently in Russia to leave the country immediately, The Moscow Times reports, citing an official statement by the agency. Russia perceives Poland as one of its main adversaries among the EU and NATO countries. The Kremlin regularly accuses Warsaw of supporting Ukraine. In 2025, Poland recorded instances of Russian sabotage against its targets, such as the fire at a large shopping center in Wa
     

Poland warns dual citizens at risk of forced mobilization in Russia

22 juillet 2025 à 15:39

Bloomberg: Putin’s strength in Ukraine may be an illusion as Russia’s corporate debt hits $ 446 billion

Evacuation may become impossible. Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged all Polish citizens currently in Russia to leave the country immediately, The Moscow Times reports, citing an official statement by the agency.

Russia perceives Poland as one of its main adversaries among the EU and NATO countries. The Kremlin regularly accuses Warsaw of supporting Ukraine. In 2025, Poland recorded instances of Russian sabotage against its targets, such as the fire at a large shopping center in Warsaw.

The Polish Foreign Ministry has emphasized particular concern for Polish nationals holding dual citizenship with Russia. According to Polish diplomats, Russian authorities treat such individuals exclusively as Russian citizens, making them subject to military mobilization, a decree issued in September 2022 and still formally in effect.

“We recommend that Polish citizens currently in Russia leave the country using available commercial or private means, unless their personal, family, or professional circumstances require them to remain,” the statement reads.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Poland has also warned that consular assistance options are extremely limited. Due to Russia’s reduced diplomatic and consular presence, obtaining support may require traveling to remote regions far from major urban centers.

Other risks include the suspension of direct air travel between Poland and Russia, inoperative international bank cards, and the aggressive conduct of Russian security services, who are reportedly authorized to detain individuals, search phones, and carry out street-level surveillance.

“In the event of a sudden deterioration in the security situation, closure of borders, or other unforeseen developments, evacuation may be significantly hindered, or entirely impossible,” the ministry cautions.

Earlier, a Russian drone attack on Ukraine damaged the Polish company Barlinek in the city of Vinnytsia.  As a result of the strike, two employees were hospitalized in serious condition, suffering from numerous burns. According to Polish sources, the attack could be deliberate as retaliation for providing Ukraine with aid. 

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • From Lviv to Odesa: Ukrainians take to streets to save anti-corruption agencies
    People in Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa took to the streets to protest the adoption of bill No. 12414 by the Ukrainian Parliament. It restricts the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), reports Suspilne. If Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signs the law, it will become immediately effective and bring Ukraine back to the times of former pro-Russian President Victor Yanukovych, who was ousted in the 2
     

From Lviv to Odesa: Ukrainians take to streets to save anti-corruption agencies

22 juillet 2025 à 14:47

People in Lviv, Dnipro, and Odesa took to the streets to protest the adoption of bill No. 12414 by the Ukrainian Parliament. It restricts the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), reports Suspilne.

If Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signs the law, it will become immediately effective and bring Ukraine back to the times of former pro-Russian President Victor Yanukovych, who was ousted in the 2013-2014 Euromaidan protests. 

On 22 July, the parliament approved bill No. 12414, which introduces changes to the Criminal Procedure Code regarding the pre-trial investigation of cases related to enforced disappearances under martial law conditions.

According to Ukrainian deputy Anastasiia Radina, amendments were added at the last moment that “turn SAPO into a decorative institution and make the activities of NABU and SAPO fully dependent on the will of the Prosecutor General.”

The bill provides that:

  • The Prosecutor General gains access to all NABU cases or can grant such access to any other prosecutor.
  • The Prosecutor General can issue mandatory written instructions to NABU detectives and, if they are not followed, can change jurisdiction by transferring cases to other agencies,
  • Has the right to close investigations at the request of the defense,
  • Independently resolves jurisdiction disputes,
  • Signs notes of suspicion against high-ranking officials personally.

The head of SAPO loses the right to participate in prosecutor groups, as this is decided solely by the Prosecutor General, Hromadske reports

In Lviv, people gathered near the Taras Shevchenko monument to protest against the law. Co-organizer Justyna Moyseev said initially 30 people registered for the protest, but the expected number grew, and is expected to reach 100.

During the protest, people chanted slogans such as “Hands off NABU,” “Change or die,” and “Corruption is the death of the future.”

Ukraine’s parliament votes to gut anti-corruption agencies amid Russian spy scandal (UPDATED)

“One must always remember that the Ukrainian people stand together primarily because we want victory, peace, and to move toward the EU. Only for this reason do Ukrainians endure and do not want to cause trouble. But it seems the authorities are forgetting this a little. We want to remind them,” said one Lviv protester, Roman Schmidt.

Residents of Dnipro also joined the protest. Participant Anna stressed that she does not support the adoption of this bill.

“This directly affects the fact that corruption in the country will most likely flourish, and that’s not okay. They won’t be independent,” she said. 

A similar protest gathered in Odesa, where people called on the president not to sign the bill, chanting “Protect democratic institutions.” 

Kyiv is also protesting against the bill. People are carrying posters reading “People’s wrath is scarier than NABU and SAPO,” “Money hates silence,” “No to the destruction of the anti-corruption system.”

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Alleged FSB infiltration investigation used to smash Ukraine’s anti-corruption system, says watchdog
    On 22 July, the Ukrainian Parliament passed bill No. 12414, which effectively destroys the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), says the Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (NAKO).  Under the new rules, key decisions of these bodies must be coordinated with the Prosecutor General’s Office, calling into question their impartiality. The NAKO emphasizes that this decision will severely undermine tr
     

Alleged FSB infiltration investigation used to smash Ukraine’s anti-corruption system, says watchdog

22 juillet 2025 à 14:15

On 22 July, the Ukrainian Parliament passed bill No. 12414, which effectively destroys the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), says the Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (NAKO). 

Under the new rules, key decisions of these bodies must be coordinated with the Prosecutor General’s Office, calling into question their impartiality.

The NAKO emphasizes that this decision will severely undermine trust in Ukraine on the international stage. The development of anti-corruption institutions, supported by civil society and international partners since 2015, was a key condition for Ukraine’s progress towards the EU and NATO.

The liquidation of NABU’s and SAPO’s independence threatens further international aid.

The law was adopted amid high-profile searches at NABU, where security forces uncovered an FSB agent working inside the bureau who passed information to Russia.

“Yesterday we saw SBU searches that showed NABU is not perfect, and that is true, but today these searches have been used by the authorities to dismantle an independent anti-corruption investigation,” says NAKO senior researcher Tetiana Nikolaienko.

Now the Prosecutor General becomes the de facto head of SAPO prosecutors, gains full access to NABU cases, has the right to transfer them to other bodies, decides jurisdiction disputes, and signs indictments against high-ranking officials. This destroys the possibility of conducting impartial investigations according to the law.

Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Action Center stresses that President Zelenskyy’s signature under this law will return the country to the times of former pro-Russian President Victor Yanukovych.

“Under these conditions, NABU, SAPO, and the High Anti-Corruption Court lose all meaning as Zelenskyy-installed Prosecutor General will stop investigations against all the president’s friends,” adds NAKO.

Accordingly, there is no point in electronic asset declarations, punishment for illegal enrichment, special confiscation, or other anti-corruption reforms.

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Abuse of power: Ukraine’s Civil Anti-Corruption Council urges Zelenskyy to veto new law undermining anti-corruption system

22 juillet 2025 à 13:38

The Civil Anti-Corruption Council under the Ministry of Defense says Ukraine’s anti-corruption system has lost its independence within several minutes. The organization is urging President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to veto a bill No. 12414, passed by Ukrainian lawmakers, which curtails the freedom of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO)

On 22 July, the Ukrainian Parliament adopted bill No. 12414, which requires key decisions by these institutions to be coordinated with the Prosecutor General’s Office. Vitali Shabunin, head of the Anti-Corruption Action Center, published the full text of the amendments, which he says “de facto nullify the independence of NABU and SAPO.”

While the bill was introduced as addressing the investigation of wartime disappearances, last-minute amendments radically altered its essence. Both the relevant committee and the parliamentary chamber approved the changes at record speed.

“This law strips SAPO of its independence,” states the Civil Anti-Corruption Council under the Ministry of Defense.

From now on, the Prosecutor General will have direct control over prosecutors in the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, can reassign their powers, seize NABU cases, and issue directives.

This opens the door to manual control, political interference, impunity for loyal officials, and the destruction of independent investigations into high-level corruption.

“We are fighting for justice. But this law is about abuse of power and shielding installed persons,” the Council emphasizes.

 

The West has reacted swiftly to the law. The European Commission has voiced concern, stressing that EU financial support depends on progress in democratic governance. G7 ambassadors have said they plan to raise the issue with Ukrainian officials.

Guillaume Mercier, the spokesperson for the European Commission for Enlargement, has claimed that the EU is providing Ukraine with significant financial assistance “subject to progress in transparency, judicial reform, and democratic governance.”

“These bodies are crucial to Ukraine’s reform agenda and must act independently to fight corruption and maintain public trust,” he says.

NABU was established in 2015 under pressure from Western partners and civil society.

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Moscow resurrects Leningrad and Moscow military districts, builds new divisions as part of its largest rearmament since Soviet collapse

22 juillet 2025 à 13:14

ISW: Moscow rolls out recycled lies and nuclear bluster to split NATO and halt US aid for Ukraine “If you need nukes, maybe, you should eye Belarus?” Israeli politician tells Ukraine

Russia is planning its largest armament program since the collapse of the USSR, spending approximately $1.1 trillion by 2036, says Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence, UNIAN reports. 

US Army Europe and NATO Allied Forces Supreme Commander General Alexus Grynkewich has warned that American and its European allies likely have only a year and a half to prepare for a potential global military conflict with China and Russia. According to Bild, the two dictatorships may launch a coordinated strike in 2027.

“There is a total mobilization of politics, economy, and society in the Russian Federation to prepare for a future large-scale war,” emphasizes Budanov.

Russia’s military reform already includes the creation of two new military districts, the Moscow and Leningrad districts, as well as plans to form new divisions, formations, and military units.

The Ukrainian intelligence head also notes that Moscow seeks to dismantle the global security and economic order. Russia is expanding its influence in Africa, primarily through private military companies Wagner and the African Corps, and supports authoritarian regimes and terrorist organizations worldwide.

Additionally, Russians actively conduct hybrid information and cyber operations in other countries, employing controlled media outlets and politicians to spread their influence.

“Moscow aims to impose its own vision of the future world order, where the ‘great’ powers, primarily the Russian Federation, hold full authority, monopoly over all critical resources, and decide the fate of the world within a closed circle,” Lieutenant General Budanov stresses.

Earlier, UK Defence Journal reported that the US deployed nuclear weapons on British soil for the first time since at least 2008 amid Russia’s aggression. Several B61-12 thermonuclear gravity bombs have been transferred from the US Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico to RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk.

During the Cold War, US nuclear arsenals were stationed at this base, but they were withdrawn in 2008 as part of nuclear disarmament efforts across Europe.

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Western trust under threat as Zelenskyy nears signing controversial law that crashes Ukraine’s anti-corruption system

22 juillet 2025 à 12:03

national anti-corruption bureau of Ukraine

Kyiv risks losing crucial Western support after the Ukrainian Parliament passed, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reportedly signed, the controversial bill No. 12414. It curtails the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), UkrInform reports. 

The law requires key decisions by these institutions to be coordinated with the Prosecutor General’s Office. Vitali Shabunin, head of the Anti-Corruption Action Center, published the full text of the amendments, which he says “de facto nullify the independence of NABU and SAPO.”

The West has reacted swiftly. The European Commission has voiced “concern,” stressing that EU financial support depends on progress in democratic governance. G7 ambassadors have said they plan to raise the issue with Ukrainian officials, Reuters reports.

Guillaume Mercier, the spokesperson for the European Commission for Enlargement, has stressed that the EU is providing Ukraine with significant financial assistance “subject to progress in transparency, judicial reform and democratic governance,” according to Ukrainska Pravda. 

“These bodies are crucial to Ukraine’s reform agenda and must act independently to fight corruption and maintain public trust,” he said.

Earlier, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) arrested a NABU officer on suspicion of spying for Russia and detained another over alleged business ties with Russia. At least 15 NABU detectives were searched. NABU stated the SBU’s actions were “excessive” and effectively “paralyzed the agency’s operations,” Reuters reports.

Transparency International has warned that the developments show “systemic pressure” on independent anti-corruption bodies and urged President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to publicly reaffirm their independence. The allegations against the detectives are seen as too broad and contradictory not to raise suspicion of political motives.

NABU was established in 2015 under pressure from Western partners and civil society. Its ability to operate independently is now in doubt, especially in light of the arrests, which risk undermining trust in Ukraine’s anti-corruption efforts. Diplomatic missions are continuing to closely monitor the situation. 

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With single FPV drone strike, Ukraine is blowing up North Korea’s outdated rocket launchers before they ever get chance to fire

22 juillet 2025 à 09:53

North Korean rocket launchers in Ukraine

All it takes is one FPV drone, and old North Korean iron blows up like fireworks. The outdated multiple rocket launch systems that North Korea has supplied to Russia have proven fatally vulnerable to Ukrainian FPV drones, Business Insider reports. 

North Korea has sent Russia hundreds of artillery pieces, including M1991s, Type-75s, howitzers, and more modern Pyongyang launchers such as the KN-09 multiple rocket launcher system.

Ukrainian drones don’t just hit targets. They target loaded munitions directly in open launch tubes, causing explosions, fires, and catastrophic damage.

According to the military, the 429th Separate Regiment of Unmanned Systems Achilles launched a drone at a North Korean 107mm Type-75 launcher when it was already loaded. The strike triggered a chain reaction — missile explosions, fire, debris.

The Type-75 is Pyongyang’s version of the Chinese Type-63, equipped with 12 open launch tubes. These old launchers have been spotted on the Russian front for several months now, and they are the ones exploding en masse after drone strikes.

Another case involved the 413th Battalion of Unmanned Systems. In late June, a drone hit one of the munitions in an M1991 launcher. It resulted a premature launch, pierced truck chassis, and a smoke-filled cabin from which soldiers jumped out.

Most Korean weapons are copies of Soviet or Chinese systems that Russia has long used. For example, old BM-21 Grads are also loaded manually and lack drone protection.

In contrast, Western systems like the American M142 HIMARS have protected rocket containers, making the job much harder for kamikaze drones.

While North Korea supplies Russia with outdated systems, militaries around the world are already betting on drones, which are cheap, accurate, and lethally effective.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • “Putin fears only Trump,” Ukrainian foreign minister says after Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv
    Russia did not launch a single missile on Kyiv during US Presidential Envoy Keith Kellogg’s visit. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha says this is a direct signal that only Washington can compel Moscow to pursue peace, UkrInform reports. Russia does not intend to end its war against Ukraine. On the contrary, Russian ruler Vladimir Putin told US President Donald Trump that military actions will escalate. He also stated that Ukraine and Russia are “one people” and intensified air terror agai
     

“Putin fears only Trump,” Ukrainian foreign minister says after Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv

22 juillet 2025 à 05:26

Ukrainian military intelligence presented Keith Kellogg with Western-manufactured electronics recovered from Russian battlefield wreckage, highlighting how Moscow's defense industry obtains critical components through unauthorized supply networks

Russia did not launch a single missile on Kyiv during US Presidential Envoy Keith Kellogg’s visit. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha says this is a direct signal that only Washington can compel Moscow to pursue peace, UkrInform reports.

Russia does not intend to end its war against Ukraine. On the contrary, Russian ruler Vladimir Putin told US President Donald Trump that military actions will escalate. He also stated that Ukraine and Russia are “one people” and intensified air terror against civilians. Trump says Putin has only 50 days to reach a peace deal with Ukraine. In response, Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine with over 400 drones and 24 missiles, which is a clear indication that Moscow refuses to stop its killings of Ukrainians.

“While he was in Kyiv, no attacks by the Russian aggressor were recorded. This is further evidence of whom Putin truly fears. Putin fears only Trump,” Sybiha stresses.

According to him, during his intensive visit, Kellogg had the opportunity to receive information “firsthand.” This, the minister notes, is crucial in countering the Russian narrative: “Russia will not win, and Ukraine will not lose. It is important to operate from this very paradigm.”

The absence of massive attacks on Kyiv during Kellogg’s visit may suggest that Russia wants to avoid escalation between Moscow and Washington to avoid new sanctions on its energy. However, at the time of the visit, strikes continued across Ukraine, except Kyiv. 

In addition, the talks included discussions on arms procurement, particularly air defense systems. Sybiha states that Kellogg was provided with specific figures on the required number of air defense systems, long-range weapons, and other front-line priorities.

“Following this, we expect the appropriate contact and communication between Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump for the further implementation of the agreements reached,” the minister adds.

During the meeting, Ukrainian high-ranking defense officials explicitly warned Kellogg that Russia was preparing for a large-scale war, not only in Ukraine, but also against the North Atlantic Alliance.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • From thieves to heroes: 100 Ukrainian women with criminal records now serve in army
    A hundred women who served prison sentences have already joined the ranks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. They now fight alongside men, both on the frontlines and in communications, logistics, and medical units. Ukraine’s legislation allows for the early release of convicted individuals to join the Armed Forces. Upon completion of their military service, the court reconsiders their case, and the service may be taken into account as a mitigating factor during sentencing. One of them is Halyna, w
     

From thieves to heroes: 100 Ukrainian women with criminal records now serve in army

22 juillet 2025 à 03:20

Ukrainian women in military uniforms

A hundred women who served prison sentences have already joined the ranks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. They now fight alongside men, both on the frontlines and in communications, logistics, and medical units.

Ukraine’s legislation allows for the early release of convicted individuals to join the Armed Forces. Upon completion of their military service, the court reconsiders their case, and the service may be taken into account as a mitigating factor during sentencing.

One of them is Halyna, who was convicted of theft and formerly imprisoned in Poltava. She had experience volunteering even before her detention, according to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. 

“I want to go to the front because I lost my son and my husband,” she says.

Another woman, Alvina, also convicted of theft, explains: “My husband and two brothers are fighting. And I have a child I must protect. I don’t want my child to be the one who finishes this war.”

According to Ukraine’s State Criminal Executive Service, around 9,500 convicted individuals have already enlisted in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. 

“About 9,500 convicted individuals are carrying out tasks on the front, including in combat zones. But not all of them are men, 100 are women with criminal convictions now serve in the Armed Forces,” the statement says.

Most were convicted of property-related crimes. The breakdown, according to the Service:

  • 55% — property crimes
  • 11% — drug offenses
  • 9% — bodily harm
  • 6% — traffic accidents with injuries
  • 6% — murder

Deputy Minister of Justice Yevhen Pikalov said that 20–30% of all convicts in Ukraine could potentially be mobilized, UkrInform reports. 

“Today, more than 8,300 convicts have joined the Armed Forces, with another 1,000 applications under review. In terms of potential, about 20–30% of Ukraine’s total prison population could take advantage of this opportunity and help defend the country,” he explained.

According to Pikalov, Ukraine currently holds 37,000 detained individuals. However, not everyone is eligible for the service: those convicted of terrorism, corruption, sexual violence, or crimes against national security are excluded.

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Hier — 21 juillet 2025Flux principal

Germany pledges five Patriots, Norway — billions for drones, as Ukraine’s new defense chief leads first major international push since taking office

21 juillet 2025 à 13:43

add new post patriot air defense system's launcher illustrative eastnewsua system

Russia launched over 400 drones on 21 July. The same day, Ukrainian allies announced 200,000 shells for the Gepard air defense system at the 29th meeting in the Ramstein format. 

The US initiated the Ukraine Defense Contact Group’s meeting in the Ramstein format in 2022. Its purpose is to coordinate international military aid to Ukraine. The meetings bring together more than 50 countries, including NATO states and members of the Coalition of the Willing. 

In addition, Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal, who took office on 17 July, stated that the US has initiated a new mechanism with NATO, allowing European countries to purchase American weapons specifically for Kyiv.

During the meeting, Germany announced it would contribute five Patriot systems, which will be delivered to Ukraine “soon.” Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed he had agreed with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on supplying them, RBC-Ukraine reports. The Patriots are the only assets Ukraine has capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles. 

Berlin is also supplying over 200,000 shells for the Gepard system and will fund the procurement of Ukrainian long-range drones. 

“The parties will coordinate actions to achieve this goal in the coming days,” Pistorius added.

Other aid from allies:

  • Canada: 20 million CAD for the maintenance of Ukrainian tanks + support via the Danish model.
  • The Netherlands: €200 million for interceptor drones, €125 million for F-16 maintenance.
  • Norway: €1 billion for drones in 2025, including €400 million for Ukrainian manufacturers.
  • Sweden: Preparing a new package with air defense, artillery, and equipment.

This meeting was co-organized by the defense ministers of the United Kingdom and Germany, John Healey and Boris Pistorius. Representatives from 52 countries and international organizations participated in it.

Key guests included: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Christopher G. Cavoli, and EU High Representative Kaja Kallas.

According to Denys Shmyhal, the meeting was “more technical and coordination-focused,” concentrating on the procurement of American weapons for Ukraine.

He paid special attention to financial support: “Ukraine needs $6 billion to cover this year’s procurement deficit. This will enable us to create more FPV drones, more interceptor drones to counter ‘Shahed’ drones, and additional long-range weapons.”

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SBU: Russian “mole” in Ukraine’s Anti-Corruption Bureau spied for FSB under former President Yanukovych’s security chief

21 juillet 2025 à 12:57

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Office of the Prosecutor General have uncovered a Russian mole in the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU). He worked in the elite, classified D-2 unit and was spying for the Russian intelligence service.

The Second Main Special Unit of Detectives, also known as D-2, holds a special status within NABU and reports directly to the bureau’s head. It investigates corruption-related crimes committed by high-ranking officials. 

The investigation has established that the agent’s subversive activities were coordinated by traitor Dmytro Ivantsov, the former deputy head of security for ousted ex-president Viktor Yanukovych. In February 2014, Ivantsov helped Yanukovych flee to Russia after EuroMaidan protests, where over 100 activists were killed by pro-government snipers. He stayed in Crimea, where he was recruited by the FSB.

The SBU documented at least 60 instances of the suspect transmitting classified information to the former deputy head of Yanukovych’s security. According to the intelligence agency, he gathered foundational data on Ukrainian law enforcement officers and other citizens targeted by Russia for planned terrorist attacks and special information operations. Moscow planned to use this information for its attacks on them.

The agent obtained personal information about potential Russian targets from closed databases of Ukrainian law enforcement agencies. For each completed task, he received payments from his handler via bank card transfers.

“Earlier, SBU officers alerted NABU leadership about possible risks related to this employee. However, the agency’s management took no response measures, and the suspect continued working in his position while attempting to destroy evidence of his illegal activities,” the SBU statement says.

After documenting the crimes of the spy, the SBU and Prosecutor’s Office detained him, seizing his phone and computer equipment used to contact his handler. He faces imprisonment for up to 15 years.

 

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New Ukrainian defense chief tests his negotiation skills during Ramstein meeting as Putin answers Trump’s ultimatum with escalated attacks

21 juillet 2025 à 12:13

Ukraine needs $6 billion to cover this year’s procurement deficit. During the latest online meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format on 21 July, new Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal addressed partners and called for continued support.

The US initiated the Ukraine Defense Contact Group’s meeting in the Ramstein format in 2022. Its purpose is to coordinate international military aid to Ukraine. The meetings bring together more than 50 countries, including NATO states and members of the Coalition of the Willing. 

This was the first meeting following Shmyhal’s appointment as Defense Minister, replacing Rustem Umerov. The UK and Germany co-chaired the meeting. Participants included US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, and NATO’s new commander in Europe, Alexus Grynkievich.

On 17 July 2025, Ukraine received a new government, the first full reshuffle since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. According to experts, Shmyhal was a very effective coordinator inside the government despite never being a big political figure. Now, he’s tasked with bringing that skill to the defense sector.

According to Denys Shmyhal, the meeting was “more technical and coordination-focused,” concentrating on the procurement of American weapons for Ukraine. At the call, he emphasized that Patriot air defense systems and interceptor missiles are “critically important for protecting Ukrainian cities” as Russia escalated its attacks on civilians. 

He paid special attention to financial support: “Ukraine needs $6 billion to cover this year’s procurement deficit. This will enable us to create more FPV drones, more interceptor drones to counter ‘Shahed’ drones, and additional long-range weapons.”

Previously, US President Donald Trump announced that he would impose strict secondary tariffs on Russia and its allies if a peace agreement on Ukraine is not reached within the next 50 days. However, a recent Russian attack serves as an indicator that Moscow is just using this time to kill more Ukrainians. 

The Ukrainian defense minister also stated the need for sustained support in 2026 and for Ukraine’s inclusion in the European SAFE credit program, a “critically important source of funding for next year.”

Although Ukraine is not a formal member of the initiative, in 2025, the EU granted it associate partner status, recognizing Ukraine’s security as integral to that of Europe. This allows Kyiv to participate in joint defense projects and access funding from SAFE’s credit facility, which totals up to €150 billion. 

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Russian military ramps up attacks in Donetsk Oblast to sever Ukrainian logistics at Pokrovsk, says commander
    The Russians are ready to sacrifice tens of thousands of their soldiers for a political goal. Donetsk Oblast remains one of the hottest regions of Ukraine, where the Russians try almost daily to break through to the city of Pokrovsk, says Andrii, the commander of the battalion of the 32nd Separate Mechanized Brigade, Suspilne reports. In a recent phone call to US President Donald Trump, Russian ruler Vladimir Putin revealed that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine wi
     

Russian military ramps up attacks in Donetsk Oblast to sever Ukrainian logistics at Pokrovsk, says commander

21 juillet 2025 à 11:34

The Russians are ready to sacrifice tens of thousands of their soldiers for a political goal. Donetsk Oblast remains one of the hottest regions of Ukraine, where the Russians try almost daily to break through to the city of Pokrovsk, says Andrii, the commander of the battalion of the 32nd Separate Mechanized Brigade, Suspilne reports.

In a recent phone call to US President Donald Trump, Russian ruler Vladimir Putin revealed that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days. Russia currently occupies about 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including most of Luhansk Oblast, two-thirds of Donetsk Oblast, and parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson Oblasts.

“Pokrovsk is located at one of the transport hubs. Accordingly, for them, this is a standard target — to partially cut off our logistics. This is a political goal,” the commander explains.

Russian troops use all possible forces and tricks to break through the Ukrainian defense, but unsuccessfully. According to the commander, they are even ready to “sacrifice tens of thousands of their soldiers just to occupy or capture something.”

Recently, the President of Ukraine and the Commander-in-Chief reported the destruction of sabotage groups in this direction. As Andrii notes, Russia’s tactics of using small sabotage groups of 2–3 people are not new. They try to “sneak past the positions of the Armed Forces units” to weaken the Ukrainian defense.

On 14 July, Dmytro Zhmailo, a Ukrainian expert and the Executive Director of the Ukrainian Center for Security and Cooperation, said Kyiv troops managed to stop the first wave of the Russian summer offensive. Currently, Moscow is trying to fulfill its main objective, which is the complete capture of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

Russia masses 100,000 troops to crush Ukraine’s defenders in Donetsk’s crucial battle

About 100,000 troops from the overall 700,000-strong Russian grouping are concentrated near the Kostiantynivka settlement in Donetsk Oblast. The Russians are receiving reinforcements for the start of the second wave of the offensive.

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Western veterans join Ukrainian Army to end unfinished wars from Afghanistan and Iraq, chief of staff of International Legion reveals

21 juillet 2025 à 11:12

Pavel Slavinsky, Chief of Staff of the 2nd International Legion, reveals the motivations of foreigners fighting in Ukraine. He says this Ukrainian military project is quite dynamic and “has a future,” Dzerkalo Tyzhnia reports. 

Foreign volunteers in Ukraine are a part of the International Legion, a military unit within the Ukrainian Ground Forces. Formed in 2022, the legion has attracted thousands of fighters from over 50 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, to fight against Russian aggression. 

“Some want to earn money. Some want to improve their service record. Some want to gain experience, learn modern warfare techniques and methods. Some fight for the adrenaline rush. Some fight for freedom and justice, and some want to kill Russians,” says Slavinsky. 

According to him, volunteers from Colombia and Brazil form one large conglomerate in the Legion. 

“The rest are from America, Britain, and Europe. Roughly 50/50 are Anglos and Spanish speakers. Their motivations differ greatly,” he explains. 

For Brazil and Colombia, many are either economic migrants or cartel-related, sent to gain military experience. These are mostly young men of 25–35 years.

“The Anglos are mostly much older men, over 40, who came to finish what they started in Afghanistan or Iraq,” he continues. 

He does not disclose the exact number of volunteers in the Legion: “That’s classified information. We are a special forces battalion with additional capabilities.”

The ratio of Ukrainians to foreigners is about 50/50. Half are Ukrainians, the other half are international fighters. Many of them are in support roles like logistics, while infantry and specialists tend to be foreigners.

Slavinsky notes that Americans and Brits have the highest discipline. But due to coordination issues, mistakes happen: “If Colombians or Americans are in key positions and aren’t informed that friendly UAVs are flying overhead, they might shoot down anything they see, considering anything unknown as hostile.”

Military tactics have changed fundamentally since 2022. Western veterans, who taught the Ukrainians at the start of Russia’s war, now have to learn new approaches on the frontlines. 

“Now combat involves UAV dominance, small groups of two to four soldiers, and heavy equipment is largely unnecessary as it can’t reach the front line—it gets destroyed en route,” Slavinsky says. 

Sometimes, legionnaires depart from active duty military service and stay in Ukraine before returning home.

“Of course, at the train stations, a person who doesn’t look Ukrainian, especially in camo, attracts police and military police attention. These foreigners often end up in reserve battalions,” Slavinsky says.

From there, they are either transferred to the Legion or try to find ways to leave Ukraine, often communicating well with each other to find exit routes.

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EU imposes sanctions for first time on Chinese companies over aid to Russia in killing Ukrainians — Beijing protests

21 juillet 2025 à 09:57

Beijing threatens to respond following sanctions for cooperation with Russia. The European Union has, for the first time, included Chinese banks and companies in a new sanctions package against Russia for the attack on Ukraine.

On 4 July, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told the EU’s foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas that Beijing, Moscow’s top economic ally, cannot allow Russia to lose in its war against Ukraine. China fears that such an outcome would allow the US to fully pivot its attention to Beijing, he said. 

Beijing’s reaction was immediate and harsh: “China expresses strong dissatisfaction and resolute protest.”

According to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese side views the 18th sanctions package as an unfriendly act that violates international law, undermines economic relations with the EU, and threatens financial cooperation.

Four Chinese companies were added to the EU blacklist, including two from Hong Kong, Zhu Jiang Shipmanagement and ACE Electronic HK, as well as Wuhan Global Sensor Technology and Shandong ODES Industry from mainland China. The reason: assistance to Russia in circumventing restrictions, supplying technologies and components that can be used in the production of weapons that kill Ukrainians.

“China calls on the EU to immediately stop its wrongful practice of including Chinese enterprises and financial institutions on sanction lists and will take necessary measures to reliably protect the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies,” the statement said.

China’s outrage coincides with preparations for the 25th anniversary China–EU summit, scheduled for 24 July in Beijing. This is the second consecutive time the summit will not be held in Europe as Xi Jinping refused to travel to Brussels, and instead, European leaders will come to China to discuss the most sensitive issues in bilateral relations.

Despite the pressure, Brussels sends a clear signal: sanctions evasion via third countries, including China, will no longer go unanswered.

Previously, US Army Europe and NATO Allied Forces Supreme Commander General Alexus Grynkewich has warned that American and its European allies likely have only a year and a half to prepare for a potential global military conflict with China and Russia. According to Bild, the two dictatorships may launch a coordinated strike in 2027.

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Peace talks haven’t even started — and Russia has already responded to them with missiles, says French foreign minister at subway attack site in Kyiv

21 juillet 2025 à 09:29

On 21 July, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot came to Kyiv for a two-day visit. After arriving, he immediately headed to the sites hit during the massive overnight attack on the Lukianivka district.

The strike came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy formally proposed a new round of peace talks with Russia, aiming for negotiations to take place between 21 and 27 July 2025. Earlier, he also said he was ready for a direct meeting between himself and Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, the Kremlin said it would only happen in the case of Ukraine’s capitulation. 

“Shelters themselves are no longer entirely safe, as the metro station next to me, which serves as a shelter for Kyiv residents, became a target of the attack. It happened at the same time President Zelenskyy, on Saturday morning, declared Ukraine’s readiness to enter new negotiations with Russia,” he emphasized

In Kyiv, Foreign Minister Barrot is set to meet with Zelenskyy, new Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko, and his counterpart Andrii Sybiha, UkrInform reports

The Lukianivska subway station, damaged in a Russian attack in Kyiv, on 21 July 2025. Source: The French Foreign Ministry

During the visit, he will also take part in Ukraine’s Ambassadors Conference and visit the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The facility is still undergoing the restoration of the site after the Russian occupation in 2022 and a Shahed strike, which damaged the protection shield over the plant itself. 

“Our embassy staff, like all Kyiv residents, were forced to seek shelter from 3 AM to 5 AM,” the minister said.

He noted that the wave of attacks struck not only civilian infrastructure but also kindergartens, supermarkets, and residential buildings. Two people were killed in an attack, and a dozen civilians were hospitalized. 

“That’s why the package of mass sanctions adopted at the European level last Thursday is crucial to increase pressure on Vladimir Putin, to raise the cost of this outrageous war, and to compel him to cease fire and engage in talks that will lead to a just and lasting peace,” Barrot stated.

On 18 July, the EU agreed on a new Russia sanctions package, with ambassadors reaching consensus on the bloc’s 18th sanctions round. The round targets key sectors of the Russian economy, including Slovakia and Malta. The restrictions hit energy, the main source of Moscow’s revenues. 

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À partir d’avant-hierFlux principal
  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Zelenskyy honors Ukrainian teenagers who recorded farewell video before being executed by Russians in Berdiansk
    For their love for Ukraine, Tigran and Mykyta paid the highest price, their lives. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a decree awarding the Order of Freedom to 16-year-olds Tigran Ohannisian and Mykyta Khanganov, Ukrainian teenagers killed by Russian soldiers in occupied Berdiansk. On social media, Ohannisian managed to publish a video reportedly before being shut down by snipers, in which he says: “Two for sure. That’s it, this is death. Guys, goodbye! Glory to Ukraine!” Afte
     

Zelenskyy honors Ukrainian teenagers who recorded farewell video before being executed by Russians in Berdiansk

19 juillet 2025 à 14:48

Tihran Ohannisian and Mykyta Khanhanov.

For their love for Ukraine, Tigran and Mykyta paid the highest price, their lives. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a decree awarding the Order of Freedom to 16-year-olds Tigran Ohannisian and Mykyta Khanganov, Ukrainian teenagers killed by Russian soldiers in occupied Berdiansk.

On social media, Ohannisian managed to publish a video reportedly before being shut down by snipers, in which he says: “Two for sure. That’s it, this is death. Guys, goodbye! Glory to Ukraine!”

After the full-scale invasion and occupation of the city, the boys stayed home. They were friends, and both openly supported the Ukrainian cause.

Ohannisian was repeatedly persecuted by the occupying authorities: he was abducted from his home, tortured, abused, subjected to electric shocks, and mock executions. He was arrested, beaten, and forced into silence.

Khanganov was targeted for arrest as early as October 2022. The occupiers interrogated him and his father, fabricated a case accusing him of “railway sabotage,” and searched their home. He was charged with a crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison in Russia.

In 2023, both boys were accused of “preparing sabotage.” Tigran was interrogated and tortured for five days as the occupiers tried to force a confession.

The European Parliament passed a resolution demanding the release of Tigran and Mykyta, but the occupiers ignored the calls of the international community. On 24 June 2023, Russian forces executed the boys.

Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets reported that Russia still refuses to return their bodies to the parents or to Ukraine. Available information suggests the occupiers buried the teenagers in secret, without notifying the families.

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Italy faces backlash for hosting Russian conductor, who backs killings Putin’s regime, at UNESCO World Heritage palace

19 juillet 2025 à 14:26

The Ukrainian community in Italy has called to cancel the concert of Russian conductor Valery Gergiev, scheduled for 27 July at the Royal Palace of Caserta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Gergiev publicly supports the Russian regime and its military aggression against Ukraine.

Russia has always made art and culture highly politicized, using past accomplishments as reflections of its power. Earlier, Peter Gelb, General Manager of the Metropolitan Opera in New York, said that art is a symbol and expression of civilization, whereas Russia has treated it as a propaganda tool. 

The community has sent a letter to UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, Dr. Antonio Patuelli, Chair of the Italian National Commission for UNESCO, and the Italian Minister of Culture, Alessandro Giuli.

The activists emphasize that Gergiev’s support “goes beyond the realm of art” and includes public acts that legitimize a regime responsible for war crimes, the deportation of children, attacks on civilian infrastructure, and on Ukraine’s cultural heritage, which is also under UNESCO protection.

Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence: Russia loots ancient treasures from Crimea’s UNESCO heritage site

“Ukrainians view UNESCO as the last line of defense for fundamental values: memory, truth, and respect, all of which the Russian government blatantly disregards,” the letter continues.

The Ukrainian community continues, “How can an institution that safeguards the dignity and memory of nations allow one of its protected sites to host an artist who has become a global symbol of military propaganda?”

“How can it ignore how deeply offensive this decision is to the victims of the conflict, to the Ukrainian people, and to all those fighting for peace and justice worldwide?” the activists say. 

The letter also argues that holding Gergiev’s concert at a historical site like the Palace of Caserta contradicts UNESCO’s principles of protecting peace, cultural heritage, and solidarity among peoples.

Ukrainian supporters to rally in Bologna after Russian propaganda found in Italian textbooks
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EU declares Georgia’s path to bloc effectively frozen until free elections, as protests rage for eighth consecutive month

19 juillet 2025 à 13:48

Georgia protests gas

The European Parliament has declared that Georgia will not be able to join the European Union until its government abandons its authoritarian path.

The bloc does not recognize the country’s current government, the ruling party Georgian Dream, as legitimate due to widespread violations during the parliamentary elections on 26 October 2024. According to the EU, these elections were rigged and did not meet democratic standards. Consequently, Georgia’s EU accession process is effectively suspended until free and transparent elections take place.

“Georgia cannot join the EU until its government changes its authoritarian course. The European Parliament stands with the Georgian people. Parliament does not recognise Georgia’s current government and says its EU path is effectively suspended until fair elections happen,” it says in a statement on X. 

The authorities have harshly suppressed protests that erupted after the elections and have continued for over eight months, employing repression against activists and political opponents.

The country’s power remains concentrated in the hands of the pro-Russian Georgian Dream party. The European Parliament also supports former President Salome Zourabichvili as the legitimate leader.

Despite an official pro-European integration stance, the government is working to deepen relations with Moscow, particularly in the security and economic spheres. Approximately 20% of Georgia’s territory is currently occupied, namely Abkhazia and South Ossetia, where Russian troops are present.

Georgian society has been actively protesting since late 2024 for more than eight months against a regime that fails to meet European and democratic standards. People demand new, honest elections, the release of political prisoners, and the country’s return to the European path.

The European Parliament continues to support the people of Georgia, but stresses clearly that without fundamental changes in the political system, including a rejection of authoritarianism and the restoration of democracy, the EU cannot admit Georgia as a member.

In response to the protests and European statements, Russia publicly accuses the West of interfering in Georgia’s internal affairs, supporting “color revolutions,” and attempting to increase informational and political pressure to maintain its influence.

Thus, without transforming the Georgian government and conducting free elections, Georgia’s prospects for EU membership remain blocked indefinitely, while its society continues to fight for a European future.

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“He will risk everything in Ukraine”: Putin may be preparing for even harsher war in Ukraine after Trump’s ultimatum

19 juillet 2025 à 13:19

nyt china targets russian tech territory scientists leaked fsb file shows presidents xi (l) putin russia meeting moscow 2025 official video putin-xi secret intelligence document obtained new york times fsb’s

Despite US President Donald Trump’s ultimatum, Russian ruler Vladimir Putin shows no intention of abandoning his objectives in Ukraine or ending the war. Even under the threat of new sanctions, he appears ready to go to extremes, Foreign Affairs writes. 

Trump has set a 50-day “deadline” for Russia to reach a peace deal or agree to a ceasefire in its war against Ukraine. Otherwise, Moscow will face economic restrictions. Countries that continue buying Russian oil would also be subject to sanctions.

Meanwhile, Russia itself is entering a full-fledged economic crisis, something even the Kremlin is now publicly admitting. However, analysts are convinced that Putin still has tools to continue the war, the ones he has so far chosen not to use.

In particular, he could launch a brutal mobilization campaign with harsh penalties for those who refuse to serve. Experts note this would shatter the myth of stability that Putin has carefully built over the years, but destroying Ukraine still takes priority for him.

They point out that after 25 years in power, Putin has created an almost sinister calm in Russia: there is no meaningful political opposition, and public criticism of the government is virtually nonexistent. As a result, Russians are expected to adapt to the new reality.

“Russia’s rise to greatness may be Sisyphean for Putin, but he will go to extreme lengths to avoid defeat. In Ukraine, Putin will risk everything,” the report says. 

Still, the situation does not yet look catastrophic for Ukraine. The territories captured by Russia are not strategically vital for Ukraine’s survival, and all major cities remain out of reach for the Russian military.

Even if Trump ultimately fails to follow through on his own ultimatum, Ukraine continues to receive growing support from Europe.

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US plans to develop new cruise missile modeled on Ukrainian war needs and capable to strike targets over 450 km away

19 juillet 2025 à 12:59

The US Air Force has announced a search for contractors to develop a new air-launched cruise missile under the working title LACM (Lugged Affordable Cruise Missile). Aviation Week reports, the project is largely based on the concept of the ERAM missile, which is being developed specifically for Ukrainian fighter jets

According to the requirements, the missile will carry a 227 kg (500 lb) warhead with a multi-mode fuse capable of high penetration. It must be able to strike targets over 450 km away with an accuracy margin of no more than ten meters, even without satellite navigation, flying at around 0.6 Mach.

What sets the LACM apart is its focus on low-altitude flight, no higher than 300 meters, with the ability to strike at angles exceeding 70 degrees. A critical requirement is the ability to mass-produce the missile within two years of the contract’s start, at a cost not exceeding $300,000 per unit.

The missile will be compatible with standard external pylons on fighter jets or internal weapons bays, according to Militarnyi.

At least three potential companies are being considered in the early phase of the LACM program: Anduril (with its Barracuda-500M missile), Zone 5 Technologies (Rusty Dagger), and CoAspire, which is already working on the Rapidly Adaptable Affordable Cruise Missile. However, other manufacturers, including L3Harris, may also join the competition.

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Ukraine remembers linguist Iryna Farion, target of Kremlin’s propaganda, assassinated in Lviv in apparent campaign against Ukrainian voices

19 juillet 2025 à 11:59

Iryna farion murder Lviv Ukrainian language

She was killed to be silenced. On July 19, in Lviv, Ukrainians marked the first anniversary of the death of Iryna Farion. She was a prominent linguist, scholar, politician, and symbol of the fight for Ukrainian identity, UkrInform reports.

Farion served as a Member of Parliament from 2012 to 2014, lectured at the university, and spent decades leading the movement to revive the Ukrainian language after centuries of Russification. Her political stance was openly anti-Russian, making her a frequent target of Kremlin propaganda and hate.

Her murder in Lviv in 2023 at the age of 60 is seen not merely as a criminal act but as part of Russia’s hybrid war.

“The enemy is trying to use every tool to divide our nation,” said Ukraine’s military intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, following her death.

The attack on Farion is also regarded as a psychological attempt to intimidate its most courageous Ukrainian voices.

A year after the assassination, her family, colleagues, students, and community members gathered for a memorial service at the Saints Peter and Paul Garrison Church. Later, a procession made its way to Lychakiv Cemetery, where Farion is buried.

People will also assemble in silence in the courtyard on Masaryk Street, where she was killed, at 7:22 PM, the exact moment the fatal shot was fired one year ago. 

Farion’s daughter, Sofiia Osoba, left a powerful message on Instagram.

“A year. What is it like to live without Mom?.. I am an orphan. Ukraine is orphaned… I don’t want 19 July… This is the end of everything. 23:20. The end of your life. Now, it will be years,” she wrote.

Six days after the murder, Ukrainian law enforcement detained the suspect, 19-year-old Dnipro resident Vyacheslav Zinchenko. The court trial is currently ongoing.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Ukraine swiftly eliminated Russian-ordered killers of SBU colonel in Kyiv, but spy war will continue across globe
    When Russia kills Ukrainian heroes, Ukraine doesn’t forgive. The intelligence war between Ukraine and Russia won’t end with the hot phase of the war. It will continue in the shadows, in hotel hallways, parking lots, and spy offices across the globe, The Times reports.  The Ukrainian colonel of the Security Service (SBU), Ivan Voronych, who was assassinated in Kyiv, may have been targeted by Russian intelligence for his role in some of Ukraine’s boldest covert operations in recent years, say inte
     

Ukraine swiftly eliminated Russian-ordered killers of SBU colonel in Kyiv, but spy war will continue across globe

19 juillet 2025 à 11:35

When Russia kills Ukrainian heroes, Ukraine doesn’t forgive. The intelligence war between Ukraine and Russia won’t end with the hot phase of the war. It will continue in the shadows, in hotel hallways, parking lots, and spy offices across the globe, The Times reports. 

The Ukrainian colonel of the Security Service (SBU), Ivan Voronych, who was assassinated in Kyiv, may have been targeted by Russian intelligence for his role in some of Ukraine’s boldest covert operations in recent years, say intelligence sources.

On 10 July, FSB agents executed the colonel in broad daylight, when five precise shots from a pistol struck him on a Kyiv street. Just three days later, Ukrainian special services eliminated the perpetrators. It was a swift and targeted response.

Voronych was involved in big numer of operations, including the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipeline. Major General Viktor Yahun says the upcoming retaliation from the Ukrainian side will be compared to the Operation Spiderweb, when Kyiv hit 41 Russian aircraft

Voronych served as a deputy in the unit commanded by Roman Chervinsky, the same figure The Washington Post described as the “coordinator” of the Nord Stream attack. He also oversaw naval drone strikes against Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.

The SBU colonel was a calm and quiet man who kept himself in excellent physical shape, his colleagues recall. He had served in the elite Alpha unit and carried out missions deep behind enemy lines, including in Russia’s Kursk Oblast.

Some sources claim it was Voronych who initiated the ambush and elimination of Oleksiy Mozgovoy in 2015, the leader of the “Prizrak” group and one of the key commanders of Russian proxy forces in Donbas.

Any one of these actions could have sealed his fate, and, according to intelligence sources, his assassination in Kyiv was the direct result of a long list of high-risk operations where Voronych played a pivotal role.

Ukraine has already avenged his murder by eliminating the killers, but that’s just the beginning. Former SBU officer Ivan Stupak says that such assassinations will continue worldwide for many years. Ukrainians won’t want to operate on allied territory, but perhaps in Thailand, Africa.

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“Everyone who wanted to fight is already fighting”: Top Ukrainian UAV commander prepares for war with drones, not people

19 juillet 2025 à 11:07

The full-scale war in Ukraine will continue beyond 2025, said Robert Brovdi, also known as Madiar, the commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Unmanned Systems, during the LANDEURO conference in Germany’s Wiesbaden, UNIAN reports.

Russia shows no sign of willingness to stop the war against Ukraine. On the contrary, it has begun launching 700 drones per night on civilians and killing more people than during the last three years of fighting. Russian ruler Vladimir Putin has recently said that Ukraine and Russia are one people, while his aides directly claim the war will continue until Kyiv’s capitulation.

“We don’t see the end of the war coming tomorrow — or likely even this year. Putin is sending more infantry than we can destroy,” Madiar stated.

According to him, the main threats include massive Shahed drone attacks, Ukraine’s shortage of mobilization resources, and the enemy’s numerical advantage.

“Everyone who wanted to fight is already fighting,” he noted.

However, the Ukrainian Armed Forces are already working on solutions: plans include replacing infantry with ground-based drones and building a multi-level “drone wall” to intercept everything coming from Russia.

“This wall, taller than the Great Wall of China, is already being built,” the commander concluded.

Brovdi became the commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Unmanned Systems in June. After taking the position, he announced he would work on the new Drone Line project, a 10-15 kilometer “kill zone” where enemy forces cannot advance without suffering significant losses.

His program also includes:

  • Increasing domestic production of munitions and creating a unified supply depot for critical components such as Starlink, batteries, electronic warfare systems, and FPV parts;
  • Deploying ground robotic platforms for the logistics of munitions, drones, and peripheral equipment;
  • Launching a unified recruitment campaign and establishing a dedicated training network for drone pilots and operators of various systems.

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“Everyone who wanted to fight is already fighting”: Top Ukrainian UAV commander prepares for war with drones, not men

19 juillet 2025 à 10:50

The full-scale war in Ukraine will continue beyond 2025, said Robert Brovdi, also known as Madiar, the commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Unmanned Systems, during the LANDEURO conference in Germany’s Wiesbaden, UNIAN reports.

Russia shows no sign of willingness to stop the war against Ukraine. On the contrary, it has begun launching 700 drones per night on civilians and killing more people than during the last three years of fighting. Russian ruler Vladimir Putin has recently said that Ukraine and Russia are one people, while his aides directly claim the war will continue until Kyiv’s capitulation.

“We don’t see the end of the war coming tomorrow — or likely even this year. Putin is sending more infantry than we can destroy,” Madiar stated.

According to him, the main threats include massive Shahed drone attacks, Ukraine’s shortage of mobilization resources, and the enemy’s numerical advantage.

“Everyone who wanted to fight is already fighting,” he noted.

However, the Ukrainian Armed Forces are already working on solutions: plans include replacing infantry with ground-based drones and building a multi-level “drone wall” to intercept everything coming from Russia.

“This wall, taller than the Great Wall of China, is already being built,” the commander concluded.

Brovdi became the commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Unmanned Systems in June. After taking the position, he announced he would work on the new Drone Line project, a 10-15 kilometer “kill zone” where enemy forces cannot advance without suffering significant losses.

His program also includes:

  • Increasing domestic production of munitions and creating a unified supply depot for critical components such as Starlink, batteries, electronic warfare systems, and FPV parts;
  • Deploying ground robotic platforms for the logistics of munitions, drones, and peripheral equipment;
  • Launching a unified recruitment campaign and establishing a dedicated training network for drone pilots and operators of various systems.
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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • “I want to help Ukraine as much as I can”: American volunteer James joined Ukraine’s Army to build future
    “I want my children to grow up in Ukraine”. James, an American volunteer known as “Sonechko” or Sun, has voluntarily joined the 154th Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. He is a part of the International Legion of Ukraine, a military unit within the Ukrainian Ground Forces, composed of foreign volunteers. Formed in 2022, the legion has attracted thousands of foreign volunteers from over 50 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, to fight against Russian aggression. 
     

“I want to help Ukraine as much as I can”: American volunteer James joined Ukraine’s Army to build future

19 juillet 2025 à 09:39

“I want my children to grow up in Ukraine”. James, an American volunteer known as “Sonechko” or Sun, has voluntarily joined the 154th Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

He is a part of the International Legion of Ukraine, a military unit within the Ukrainian Ground Forces, composed of foreign volunteers. Formed in 2022, the legion has attracted thousands of foreign volunteers from over 50 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, to fight against Russian aggression. 

He has been living in Ukraine for a year now and plans to stay there.

“I want to help Ukraine as much as I can. That’s why I’m here. Maybe after the war, my children will grow up here,” James said in a comment shared by the brigade on social media.

His native language is Italian, and although he’s only just learning Ukrainian, James can already communicate freely with his fellow soldiers. He says the decision to become a fighter was thoughtful and deliberate.

“This is my life. I did everything I could to be here, and now I am. The people here are quite professional. It’s not bad at all,” he continued. 

Earlier, Chief of Staff of the 2nd International Legion, Pavlo Slavyntskyi, explained that the distinguishing feature of foreign volunteers units is that all of them came to Ukraine of their own volition. No one recruited or persuaded them, Dzerkalo Tyznia reports

Inside the units, there’s no pomp or patriotic slogans. Slavyntskyi stated that some of the figters want to earn money, while others — to boost their CVs, gain experience, learn military affairs, equipment, or tactics of warfare. Some want to fight for freedom and justice, and some simply want to kill Russians.

He said that Americans, Brits, Europeans are mostly men over 40, who came to finish the war they didn’t finish in Afghanistan or Iraq.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • In new movie, Czech director takes pro-Kremlin conspiracy theorists , who blamed Zelenskyy for war, to Ukraine
    They set out believing Russian aggression didn’t exist. Then they saw missiles and mass graves. Three Czech conspiracy theorists who had publicly questioned the scale and even the existence of Russia’s war traveled to Ukraine as part of a documentary project, according to Gromada.cz.  What began as a skeptical “fact-finding mission” became a confrontation with a reality they could no longer deny. The resulting film, Velký vlastenecký výlet or The Great ‘Patriotic’ Trip, will premiere on 21 Augus
     

In new movie, Czech director takes pro-Kremlin conspiracy theorists , who blamed Zelenskyy for war, to Ukraine

18 juillet 2025 à 17:10

They set out believing Russian aggression didn’t exist. Then they saw missiles and mass graves. Three Czech conspiracy theorists who had publicly questioned the scale and even the existence of Russia’s war traveled to Ukraine as part of a documentary project, according to Gromada.cz. 

What began as a skeptical “fact-finding mission” became a confrontation with a reality they could no longer deny. The resulting film, Velký vlastenecký výlet or The Great ‘Patriotic’ Trip, will premiere on 21 August.

The participants, two men and one woman, had openly supported the Kremlin’s position, calling the invasion a “special operation,” spreading disinformation about a media conspiracy, disputing casualty numbers, and blaming everything from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to liberals and even the EU’s Green Deal.

They responded to an open call by Czech director Robin Kvapil themselves, who used social media to invite skeptics to witness the war firsthand. The film crew accompanied them from Prague to Kharkiv and Donbas, capturing their raw reactions as they came under missile fire, met wounded civilians, visited mass graves, and descended into underground schools in metro stations where children study amid constant danger.

Kvapil said one of the defining moments came when they arrived at the site of a children’s oncology hospital in Kyiv just hours after a Russian missile had struck it. This scene further solidified his intent to confront denial with unfiltered truth.

The team also included security analyst Petr Pojman, psychiatrist Petr Piot, and interpreter Lucie Řehořiková, former head of the Czech Centre in Kyiv, to ensure security and mental support. The production was coordinated with the Czech Interior Ministry and Ukraine’s Security Service.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • London also slashes price cap on Russian oil to $47.60 per barrel after EU’s sanctions adoption
    London and Brussels jointly cut the Kremlin’s oil revenues. The UK government decided to lower the price cap on Russian oil from $60 to $47.60 per barrel after the EU adopted the 18th EU sanctions package on 18 July. The new Russia sanctions package will include a formal ban on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines. It will also target 105 ships from Russia’s shadow fleet and the entities enabling their operations. In addition, 22 Russian banks will face new financial restrictions aimed at cutting
     

London also slashes price cap on Russian oil to $47.60 per barrel after EU’s sanctions adoption

18 juillet 2025 à 16:26

A Russian oil tanker, illustrative image. Photo via Wikimedia.

London and Brussels jointly cut the Kremlin’s oil revenues. The UK government decided to lower the price cap on Russian oil from $60 to $47.60 per barrel after the EU adopted the 18th EU sanctions package on 18 July.

The new Russia sanctions package will include a formal ban on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines. It will also target 105 ships from Russia’s shadow fleet and the entities enabling their operations. In addition, 22 Russian banks will face new financial restrictions aimed at cutting their access to international funding. Brussels will also ban the export of European technologies used in Russian drone production.

According to Western analysts, Moscow’s oil profits have already dropped by 35% compared to last year. The new lower price cap will further restrict the Kremlin’s financial resources used to fund its aggression against Ukraine.

“The UK and its EU allies are turning the screw on the Kremlin’s war chest by stemming the most valuable funding stream of its illegal war in Ukraine even further,” said UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves.

The official added that this decisive step to lower the crude oil price cap will target Russia’s oil revenues and intensify pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin by exploiting his greatest vulnerability.

London emphasized that the sanctions are intended to punish the aggressor and preserve the stability of the global energy market.

 

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • New Ukrainian PM Svyrydenko: Kyiv, Washington to launch joint drone deal under Trump-Zelenskyy mega pact
    The US plans to invest in the production of Ukrainian drones. New Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko has announced that Ukraine intends to sign a drone agreement with American partners, Reuters reports. Drone warfare has defined the Russo-Ukrainian war, with unmanned systems deployed across air, land, and sea. Ukraine and Russia remain locked in a fast-paced arms race, constantly advancing their drone technologies and testing new offensive and defensive systems. “We plan to sign a ‘drone deal’ wi
     

New Ukrainian PM Svyrydenko: Kyiv, Washington to launch joint drone deal under Trump-Zelenskyy mega pact

18 juillet 2025 à 16:06

zelenskyy; major executive overhaul

The US plans to invest in the production of Ukrainian drones. New Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko has announced that Ukraine intends to sign a drone agreement with American partners, Reuters reports.

Drone warfare has defined the Russo-Ukrainian war, with unmanned systems deployed across air, land, and sea. Ukraine and Russia remain locked in a fast-paced arms race, constantly advancing their drone technologies and testing new offensive and defensive systems.

“We plan to sign a ‘drone deal’ with the United States. We are discussing investments in the expansion of production of Ukrainian drones by the US,” says Svyrydenko.

The official has clarified that the deal involves the purchase of a large batch of Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles.

Svyrydenko added that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump made the political decision on the agreement earlier, and officials are now discussing its details.

Earlier, Euromaidan Press reported that both leaders were considering what’s being called a “mega deal.” Under the proposed agreement, Kyiv would sell its combat-hardened drone systems to Washington. In return, it would sell Ukraine a significant array of American weapons.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is ready to share its knowledge gained from over three years of fighting against Russia’s full-scale invasion.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • UK forms second “NATO” inside Alliance amid fears of 2027 global conflict with Russia and China
    The UK is forming a new military alliance that mirrors NATO’s Article 5. Within a single week, London signed two defense agreements with key players, Germany and France, reports Defense Express. Previously, US Army Europe and NATO Allied Forces Supreme Commander General Alexus Grynkewich has warned that American and its European allies likely have only a year and a half to prepare for a potential global military conflict with China and Russia. According to Bild, the two dictatorships may launch
     

UK forms second “NATO” inside Alliance amid fears of 2027 global conflict with Russia and China

18 juillet 2025 à 15:38

London-UK-britain-united-kingdom

The UK is forming a new military alliance that mirrors NATO’s Article 5. Within a single week, London signed two defense agreements with key players, Germany and France, reports Defense Express.

Previously, US Army Europe and NATO Allied Forces Supreme Commander General Alexus Grynkewich has warned that American and its European allies likely have only a year and a half to prepare for a potential global military conflict with China and Russia. According to Bild, the two dictatorships may launch a coordinated strike in 2027.

Experts are already calling this the emergence of a trilateral military bloc that could either supplement NATO or act as its insurance policy.

The UK-Germany agreement outlines deep mutual defense commitments, including military assistance in case of an attack. Meanwhile, the declaration with France explicitly states that while the nuclear forces of both countries remain independent, they can be coordinated in case of an extraordinary threat.

“It’s clear that the UK is effectively creating an additional trilateral defense arrangement centered around itself,” notes Defense Express.

This is happening despite all three nations already being bound by obligations within NATO. Analysts believe such an initiative signals a “need to reaffirm mutual commitments.”

The core of the signed documents essentially duplicates NATO’s famous Article 5, a collective response to aggression. Across Europe, there is growing concern that relying solely on NATO in the event of a large-scale crisis may no longer be sufficient.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • UK hits Russian intel unit involved in killings of 600 Ukrainian civilians in Mariupol, with historic sanctions
    The UK hits a Russian military intelligence unit behind the destruction of the Mariupol Drama Theater with the largest-ever sanctions package in history. It is also responsible for prolonged malicious hybrid operations worldwide.  On 16 March 2022, at least 600 people were killed as a result of a Russian airstrike on the Mariupol Drama Theater. Many of the victims were civilians sheltering inside the building, where the word “Children” was clearly written in large letters on its roof. Around 40
     

UK hits Russian intel unit involved in killings of 600 Ukrainian civilians in Mariupol, with historic sanctions

18 juillet 2025 à 13:22

The UK hits a Russian military intelligence unit behind the destruction of the Mariupol Drama Theater with the largest-ever sanctions package in history. It is also responsible for prolonged malicious hybrid operations worldwide. 

On 16 March 2022, at least 600 people were killed as a result of a Russian airstrike on the Mariupol Drama Theater. Many of the victims were civilians sheltering inside the building, where the word “Children” was clearly written in large letters on its roof. Around 400 more people were injured. The exact number of casualties remains difficult to determine due to the city’s occupation.

“In 2022, Unit 26165, sanctioned today, conducted online reconnaissance to help target missile strikes against Mariupol, including the strike that destroyed the Mariupol Theatre, where hundreds of civilians, including children, were murdered,” says the UK government. 

The restrictions hit three units of Russia’s military intelligence (GRU) and its 18 officers accountable for conducting a sustained campaign of cyberattacks over many years, including attacks inside the UK. 

“The GRU routinely uses cyber and information operations to sow chaos, division and disorder in Ukraine and across the world with devastating real-world consequences,” the UK government said.

Sanctions also target GRU officers responsible for hacking a device of Yulia Skripal, a daughter of former Russian military officer Sergei Skripal, using the malicious software known as X-Agent. This happened five years prior to the failed attempt by GRU officers to assassinate them with the deadly nerve agent “Novichok” in Salisbury.

Russian operatives have also attempted to disrupt UK media outlets, telecom providers, political and democratic institutions, as well as critical energy infrastructure.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Digital occupation: Russia deploys AI army of bots on Telegram for promoting Kremlin’s propaganda narratives
    Russia has begun using artificial intelligence-based bots for spreading propaganda on social media, especially on Telegram, according to a joint investigation by OpenMinds and the Digital Forensic Research Lab (DFRLab). The tactic is part of Russia’s broader strategy to dominate the information space in occupied areas, which began by forcibly switching residents to Russian telecom providers, cutting off Ukrainian media, and launching dozens of Telegram channels posing as local news outlets. Rese
     

Digital occupation: Russia deploys AI army of bots on Telegram for promoting Kremlin’s propaganda narratives

18 juillet 2025 à 12:50

Russia has begun using artificial intelligence-based bots for spreading propaganda on social media, especially on Telegram, according to a joint investigation by OpenMinds and the Digital Forensic Research Lab (DFRLab).

The tactic is part of Russia’s broader strategy to dominate the information space in occupied areas, which began by forcibly switching residents to Russian telecom providers, cutting off Ukrainian media, and launching dozens of Telegram channels posing as local news outlets.

Researchers have uncovered over 3,600 bots that posted more than 316,000 AI-generated comments in Telegram channels linked to Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories. Another three million messages were spread in broader Ukrainian and Russian Telegram groups. These bots used human-like language, adapting replies to the context of each conversation to promote pro-Kremlin narratives and undermine Ukraine.

Unlike traditional bots that spam identical messages, these accounts simulate real users. They reply directly to other users, shift tone and content, and tailor messages to appear authentic. On average, a bot posts 84 comments per day, with some exceeding 1,000 daily.

The goal is not just to spread fake news, but to create the illusion of widespread public support for the occupation regime, filling comment sections with praise for Russia and attacks on Ukraine. In an environment of information isolation, this becomes a potent tool of mass manipulation.

AI-generated bots often give themselves away through:

  • absurd usernames,
  • unnatural or AI-generated profile pictures,
  • overly formal or awkward phrasing,
  • and highly diverse language: one in three comments is uniquely generated by AI.

Even when bot accounts are deleted, their influence lingers. Locals repeatedly exposed to these comments may perceive Kremlin propaganda as the majority opinion, especially in regions where Ukrainian news is inaccessible.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Russia’s drones now target civilians with napalm firebombs that burn through sand and cannot be extinguished
    Russian Shaheds now carry napalm and break through Ukrainian electronic warfare systems. Moscow continues to upgrade its Shahed attack drones, enhancing their warheads, engines, and protection, says Serhii “Flash” Beskrestnov, a military expert, in an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.   “Recently, we discovered a fluid in a Shahed’s warhead that resembled napalm. It not only spreads but keeps burning even in sand. This is terrorism, when drones attack residential areas with incend
     

Russia’s drones now target civilians with napalm firebombs that burn through sand and cannot be extinguished

18 juillet 2025 à 12:27

Russian Shaheds now carry napalm and break through Ukrainian electronic warfare systems. Moscow continues to upgrade its Shahed attack drones, enhancing their warheads, engines, and protection, says Serhii “Flash” Beskrestnov, a military expert, in an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

 

“Recently, we discovered a fluid in a Shahed’s warhead that resembled napalm. It not only spreads but keeps burning even in sand. This is terrorism, when drones attack residential areas with incendiary mixtures that cannot be extinguished,” explains Beskrestnov.

According to him, such weapons are absolutely inappropriate for warfare in large cities. Russia is also using at least 4–5 different types of warheads on Shahed drones, expanding their operational roles, from striking industrial targets to deliberate terror against civilians.

Flash reports that Russian engineers have upgraded Shahed engines, allowing them to reach speeds of up to 220 km/h in favorable weather conditions. However, the expert notes that this speed increase is not a decisive advantage: “Globally, whether it’s 180 or 200 km/h. It doesn’t change much.”

The most serious threat now comes from the improved Shahed defense systems against Ukrainian electronic warfare.

“We are increasingly seeing the same target being hit repeatedly. This indicates electronic warfare’s failure to disrupt navigation,” says Beskrestnov.

According to him, Chinese reinforced antennas have been found among the drone wreckage, successfully breaking through Ukrainian electronic warfare defenses.

“Our electronic warfare systems simply aren’t designed to handle such a number of elements. That’s why urgent modernization is needed,” the expert emphasizes.

Beskrestnov separately emphasized that electronic warfare systems do not physically destroy drones but only help protect targets and give air defense systems time to strike them.

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Kremlin’s mouthpiece calls Europeans “imbeciles,” says strikes on Kyiv will intesify after EU imposed new sanctions against Putin’s war machine

18 juillet 2025 à 10:45

The Kremlin has once again erupted in threats and vitriol. Following the adoption of the EU’s 18th sanctions package against Moscow’s aggression, Dmitry Medvedev, the Russian former president, lashed out, calling European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen a “disgusting old hag” and branding Europeans as “imbeciles.”

Medvedev is often called the Kremlin’s “mouthpiece” for his apocalyptic social media statements reflecting Moscow’s official position. The former Russian president has frequently issued nuclear threats aimed at the West.

“European imbeciles have approved the 18th package of sanctions against our country. There’s no point in writing that it will change Russia’s stance any more than the previous seventeen did,” Medvedev said on social media.

EU agrees on new Russia sanctions package targeting energy and finance

He believes the Russian economy would endure and stated that the destruction of Ukraine would continue.

“Strikes on targets in the so-called Ukraine, including Kyiv, will be carried out with increasing force,” he stressed.

Medvedev then escalated his tirade, launching insults at EU nations including Poland, Germany, France, the Baltic states, and the UK. He urged maximum detachment from the EU, which he claimed is now home to “Brits mired in their own shit.”

He went further, stating that Russians should learn to hate Europeans, just as their ancestors once did.

“Hatred is the most powerful weapon, allowing us to move most effectively toward its opposite—love. Naturally, toward those who deserve it,” he claimed.

Von der Leyen received particular scorn, with Medvedev attempting to mock her medical background.

“I’m not sure she even knows where the heart is. Though it seems she’s always thought with the part of her body she used during her failed medical career,” he said. 

Medvedev’s outburst once again illustrates the tone of official Russian rhetoric amid intensified missile strikes on Ukrainian civilians, Russia’s answer to US President Donald Trump’s recent peace efforts.

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France to train more Ukrainian pilots on Mirage fighter jets, capable of carrying missiles that destroy Russian command posts

18 juillet 2025 à 10:05

france deliver three mirage 2000-5 fighter jets ukraine early 2025 french air force's dassault 2000-5f

Ukrainian pilots to gain greater chances in the sky due to Paris’s support. After an hour-long meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on 18 July, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that France is ready to continue training Mirage fighter jet pilots on its own territory.

In February 2025, Ukraine received the first batch of Dassault Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets, modified to carry the powerful SCALP-EG cruise missiles and Hammer glide bombs. The SCALP-EGs are crucial to Ukraine’s strategy. With a range of up to 155 miles and bunker-busting warheads, these 2,900-pound missiles are designed to target Russian command posts, disrupting military coordination and weakening their resistance.

“I want to specifically highlight our agreement on Mirage pilot training: France is ready to accept additional pilots for training on additional aircraft,” said Zelenskyy.

Among other key issues was the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defense system. The two leaders discussed the supply of missiles for modern SAMP/T systems and the launch of a joint project to fund interceptor drones. Zelenskyy noted that relevant decisions will be prepared at the level of both countries’ defense ministries.

The Ukrainian president also thanked France for its active role in promoting the EU’s 18th package of sanctions and confirmed that Kyiv and Washington are working together so that “Russia feels truly global pressure.”

The EU agreed on a new package after the bloc’s ambassadors reached consensus on restrictions targeting key sectors of the Russian economy. Malta and Slovakia reportedly lifted their vetoes after receiving critical assurances. 

The new Russia sanctions package will include a formal ban on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas said the bloc would also reduce the oil price cap as part of efforts to cut the Kremlin’s war revenues.

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From adrenaline seekers to war veterans: New book of British journalist shows diverse faces of Ukraine’s International Legion

18 juillet 2025 à 09:41

They paid the highest price for Ukraine’s freedom. British journalist Colin Freeman, in his book The Mad and the Brave, told the stories of foreign volunteers who joined Ukraine’s International Legion, writes The Telegraph.

The International Legion of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, a military unit established in 2022, brings together volunteers from over 50 countries, including the US, Canada, and the UK, to help Ukraine fight off Russian aggression.

Freeman compares the influx of volunteers who rushed to aid Ukraine in the early weeks of the all-out war to the International Brigades in the Spanish Civil War of 1936–1939 when thousands from around the world fought fascism.

He portrays a variety of individuals, from veterans of the Syrian war against ISIS to adrenaline seekers and those fleeing heartbreak.

One striking story is that of British combat medic John Harding, who joined the Azov Battalion in 2018. He disproved Russian propaganda about “national extremists” and endured the horrors of the battle for Mariupol, the siege of Azovstal, and months of torture in captivity.

Another hero is Briton Christopher Perryman, a veteran of wars in Iraq, Somalia, and Bosnia, who left behind a young son to fight the Russian aggressor.

Perryman believed he had no moral right to abandon millions of Ukrainian parents in distress, given his extensive military experience. Sadly, he was killed by artillery fire at the end of 2023.

After more than three years of war, the fates of foreign volunteers vary: some died, some cope with PTSD, and others continue fighting alongside Ukrainians.

Earlier, Euromaidan Press published a story about a former paramedic from Colombia, known as Miguel, who came to Ukraine intending to serve as a combat medic. However, due to the language barrier, he was assigned to the infantry.

Despite this, he never abandoned his mission. Every day on the front line, he saves the lives of his comrades. He is learning Ukrainian by singing Chervona Kalyna, the country’s patriotic anthem, and surviving tactics against Russian artillery. 

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International Fencing Federation seeks to reinstate Russian thletes — even those who support killing of Ukrainians

18 juillet 2025 à 09:12

The International Fencing Federation seeks to bring back athletes who support or take part in the killing of Ukrainians. Over 440 fencers from 40 countries have signed an open letter to the organization, urging it to reinstate strict background checks for Russian and Belarusian athletes, Reuters reports.

The reason is the admission of athletes from aggressor states to the World Championship in Tbilisi, scheduled for 22–26 July, without thorough vetting of their involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Russia’s war has killed over 500 Ukrainian athletes, including children. Nearly 500 sports facilities have been partially or completely destroyed in Russian attacks. 

“By removing comprehensive background checks, the FIE risks allowing individuals whose affiliations or actions conflict with the values of neutrality and non-violence to compete under a neutral status,” the athletes stated in the letter, published by the Global Athlete movement.

Elite fencers voiced their opposition to the International Fencing Federation’s decision to replace screening procedures with a formal declaration of neutrality.

Putin’s “neutral” athletes cheer Russia’s atrocities in Ukraine — but FIFA can’t wait to get them back

“The FIE’s decision contradicts the core principles of fencing, respect, integrity, and fair play, and deviates from the approach originally taken by the international sporting community,” the letter reads.

The Ukrainian Fencing Federation has warned it may pursue legal action, as some admitted Russian athletes hold military ranks. The European Fencing Confederation also condemned “the lack of independent verification in the eligibility process for so-called neutral athletes.”

Last week, the organization claimed that its position “underscores the Federation’s commitment to peace, fairness, and the global unity of sport.” But many athletes and federations see this as a cover for bringing aggressors back into international sports.

Ukrainian Olympic champion Olga Kharlan, who was disqualified in 2023 for refusing to shake hands with a Russian opponent, says that such International Fencing Federation policies could destroy fencing’s presence in the Olympic program.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • As Trump threatens sanctions on buyers of Russian oil, India prepares to switch suppliers to avoid fallout
    Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri says India is ready to meet its oil needs from alternative sources if Russia’s supplies are affected by secondary sanctions, Reuters reports. Currently, Russia remains India’s main oil supplier, accounting for about 35% of total imports, but the country is actively seeking new sources, including Guyana, Brazil, and Canada. Moscow’s energy export remains its leading source of profits, which it uses to fund its war against Ukraine.  US President Donald Trump has r
     

As Trump threatens sanctions on buyers of Russian oil, India prepares to switch suppliers to avoid fallout

17 juillet 2025 à 15:58

Arctic LNG2 Russia gas sanctions

Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri says India is ready to meet its oil needs from alternative sources if Russia’s supplies are affected by secondary sanctions, Reuters reports.

Currently, Russia remains India’s main oil supplier, accounting for about 35% of total imports, but the country is actively seeking new sources, including Guyana, Brazil, and Canada. Moscow’s energy export remains its leading source of profits, which it uses to fund its war against Ukraine. 

US President Donald Trump has recently warned that countries continuing to buy Russian oil could face 100% tariffs if Moscow does not agree to a peace deal with Ukraine within 50 days. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has also stated that due to the new economic measures, countries, including India, could suffer losses if continue business with Mooscow. 

At the same time, India emphasizes energy security as a priority and says it will make decisions based on market conditions. The head of the Indian Oil Corporation, A.S. Sahni, has stated that if Russian supplies are restricted, the company will revert to traditional import schemes used before the war in Ukraine, when Moscow’s export was lower than 2%

So far, some large private refineries, such as Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy, continue to purchase significant volumes of Russian oil, which led to an increase in imports from Russia in the first half of 2025.

Despite the restrictions the West has already imposed on Moscow, the Kremlin continues to use its “shadow” fleet. It includes a large group of oil tankers, many of which are old and poorly maintained. 

Earlier, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence said a powerful explosion occurred in the engine room of Russia’s  Vilamoura tanker on 27 June, while it was en route from the Libyan port of Es-Zuwaytina.

It was located about 150 km northeast of Libya’s territorial waters and was carrying approximately 1 million barrels of crude oil. The tanker sailed under the Marshall Islands flag.

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Switzerland’s Patriot air defense systems delivery delayed by US — Ukraine’s urgent need takes priority amid rising civilian deaths

17 juillet 2025 à 15:01

nyt approves german transfer 125 gmlrs rockets 100 patriot missiles ukraine ukrainian president volodymyr zelenskyy visits battery germany 2024 pres zelensky office biden-era aid winds down trump hesitates new commitments

The Swiss Ministry of Defense reports that the US is delaying deliveries of Patriot air defense systems ordered by Switzerland due to priority support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.

Ukraine needs Patriot air defense systems and missiles to them to intercept Russian ballistic missiles. Moscow has intensified its aerial terror against civilians, launching sometimes over 700 drones per night. Russian attacks have resulted in an increased number of civilian deaths, with the UN reporting that in June alone, Moscow killed 232 people, including women and children. 

In 2022, Switzerland ordered five Patriot systems, which were planned for delivery between 2026 and 2028. However, on 16 July 2025, the US officially announced a revision of delivery priorities due to the urgent need to replenish armaments for countries supplying weapons to Ukraine.

According to Defense Express, the contract included the delivery of 17 launchers and a stock of 70 GEM-T surface-to-air missiles, five AN/MPQ-65 radars, six MIDS-LVT data distribution systems, and five AN/MSQ-132 command posts.

Additionally, in November 2022, the US State Department approved the supply of 72 PAC-3 MSE missiles and related equipment to Switzerland worth $700 million.

Switzerland will receive the systems from later production batches, resulting in delivery delays. Meanwhile, Germany has increased its aid to Ukraine by transferring an additional two Patriot systems.

The delay currently has no specific timeline, and it is unclear whether it will affect deliveries of the PAC-3 MSE guided missiles, which the US promised to provide Ukraine earlier than Switzerland last year.

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Ukraine gets 850,000 Czech shells in 2025, but new government may freeze further shipments, despite Russia’s aid boost from North Korea

17 juillet 2025 à 13:53

Rheinmetall

The Czech Ministry of Defense has announced a significant increase in artillery ammunition deliveries to Ukraine in 2025 under its weapon initiative. It combines NATO countries’ donations with direct ammunition sales through a government-led program that has earned the confidence of international partners, Reuters reports. 

Meanwhile, Russia receives up to 40% of battlefield ammunition from North Korea, mainly through massive shipments of artillery shells, rockets, and ballistic missiles.

Czechia formed a special team for Ukraine, which together with private companies, scours global markets for surplus ammunition stockpiles and new production lines. Ammunition batches are offered to donor countries, which decide individually what to finance.

Director Ales Vytecka of the Czech Defense Ministry’s AMOS international cooperation agency says 850,000 shells have already been delivered in 2025 to Ukraine, including 320,000 of NATO-standard 155 mm rounds. These figures are approaching last year’s total of 1.5 million shells, 500,000 of which were 155 mm.

Despite the opposition party’s threats to shut the program down after elections, Vytecka stresses that transparency is maintained to the extent allowed by security considerations. He added that the 29% increase in donor contributions compared to 2024 is a clear vote of confidence in the program’s effectiveness.

Donor nations, including Canada, Germany, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Denmark, choose which deliveries to fund, and all procurement offers are subject to audit in their respective jurisdictions.

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Russian attack on Polish factory in Ukraine regarded as possible message to Warsaw after Kyiv’s aid meeting in Lublin

17 juillet 2025 à 12:47

“Putin’s criminal war is approaching our borders,” the Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has emotionally declared after the strike on Barlinek. On 16 July, a Russian drone attack on Ukraine damaged the Polish company Barlinek in the city of Vinnytsia.

Russia perceives Poland as one of its main adversaries among the EU and NATO countries. The Kremlin regularly accuses Warsaw of supporting Ukraine. In 2025, Poland has recorded instances of Russian sabotage against its targets, such as the fire at a large shopping center in Warsaw, which Poland officially linked to the activities of Russian intelligence services.

As a result of the strike, two employees were hospitalized in serious condition, suffering from numerous burns. 

“Russian drones struck the Barlinek group’s factory in Vinnytsia. The factory director just told me this was done deliberately from three directions. There are wounded, two of them with severe burns,” Sikorski wrote on X.

Barlinek is a global manufacturer of wooden flooring, supplying products to 75 countries across 6 continents. The company also produces sports flooring, skirting boards, and biofuel pellets and briquettes for fireplaces. The Vinnytsia factory was opened in 2007.

Ukrainian emergency services and representatives of the Polish consulate were working on the attack site.

The Polish Foreign Ministry has informed a Russian diplomat that the products of the Polish company Barlinek in Ukraine serve civilian purposes. Therefore, Russia’s strike on the company’s factory in Vinnytsia violates international law and may have legal consequences in the future, UkrInform reports.

Paweł Wroński, the Polish Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson, says that the bombing of the Barlinek factory could be connected to the meeting of the Ukrainian, Polish, and Lithuanian foreign ministers of the Lublin Triangle in Lublin.

Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania form new alliance to counter Putin’s weaponized historic narratives amid war of attrition

The main objective of these annual meetings, established in 2020, is to strengthen mutual military and cultural ties between the three countries and to support Ukraine’s integration into the EU and NATO.

Barlinek’s CEO, Wojciech Michałowski, reports that the attack severely damaged the factory. Production at the facility will be suspended for at least six months.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • “He said we deserve genocide”: Journalists unmask Russian “Dr. Evil” torturer of Ukrainian POWs
    Schemy, a project of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, has identified a Russian prison medic responsible for crimes against Ukrainian soldiers held at Penal Colony No. 10 in Mordovia. His cruelty was so extreme that Ukrainian prisoners nicknamed him “Dr. Evil.” Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) are systematically tortured in Russian captivity and denied medical care. More than 95% of released Ukrainian POWs report experiencing torture, including beatings, electrocution, sexual violence, and psy
     

“He said we deserve genocide”: Journalists unmask Russian “Dr. Evil” torturer of Ukrainian POWs

17 juillet 2025 à 11:51

Schemy, a project of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, has identified a Russian prison medic responsible for crimes against Ukrainian soldiers held at Penal Colony No. 10 in Mordovia. His cruelty was so extreme that Ukrainian prisoners nicknamed him “Dr. Evil.”

Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) are systematically tortured in Russian captivity and denied medical care. More than 95% of released Ukrainian POWs report experiencing torture, including beatings, electrocution, sexual violence, and psychological abuse.

Journalists have gathered testimonies from more than 150 former captives who recognized “Dr. Evil” in photos and videos. He turned out to be 34-year-old Illia Sorokin, a father of two and employee at Medical Unit No. 13 of Russia’s Federal Penitentiary Service (FSVP). He had previously listed his workplace publicly on social media, visited occupied Crimea, and participated in 9 May parades wearing Soviet uniforms with a St. George ribbon.

Pavlo Afisov, a Ukrainian marine from the 36th Brigade, said that Sorokin used a stun gun, forced Ukrainian prisoners to crawl, jump, and sing Russian songs.

“He derived aesthetic pleasure from seeing you bent over in front of him, hands raised, with nothing on you, eyes closed. Yet he would kick you between the legs, hit you in the gut, strike your liver, beat you with a rubber baton and a stun gun. He even said that people like us deserve genocide,” the soldier recalled. 

Another soldier, Oleksandr Savov, confirmed the abuse and the denial of medical care. Sorokin was approached concerning the mental health of Ukrainian prisoner, Volodymyr Yukhymenko, who was brutally beaten and later died. A Ukrainian forensic examination found multiple fractures, hemorrhages, and pneumonia.

Despite Sorokin’s denials of responsibility, Tetiana Zhuravliova, a personnel officer at Medical Unit No. 13, confirmed his involvement. She said that Sorokin is currently serving in the Russian army, using the callsign “Doctor” and collecting supplies, equipment, medicine, and camouflage nets for his unit.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Axis of Evil’s show of force: China deploys 58 warplanes to Taiwan’s borders amid major defense drills
    As Taiwan is conducting its massive Han Kuang exercises, China has deployed a record number of warplanes and ships toward the island, UkrInform reports. In the past 24 hours, China has sent 58 military aircraft and 10 naval and coast guard vessels toward Taiwan. Taiwan and Ukraine have become symbols of democracy resisting authoritarian aggression. China, Russia’s key strategic partner, which considers Taiwan a breakaway province, has not ruled out the use of force for “reunification.” Analyst
     

Axis of Evil’s show of force: China deploys 58 warplanes to Taiwan’s borders amid major defense drills

17 juillet 2025 à 11:27

russia-china

As Taiwan is conducting its massive Han Kuang exercises, China has deployed a record number of warplanes and ships toward the island, UkrInform reports. In the past 24 hours, China has sent 58 military aircraft and 10 naval and coast guard vessels toward Taiwan.

Taiwan and Ukraine have become symbols of democracy resisting authoritarian aggression. China, Russia’s key strategic partner, which considers Taiwan a breakaway province, has not ruled out the use of force for “reunification.” Analysts warn that a Kremlin victory could embolden Beijing to launch a military move against Taiwan. If the US fails to contain Russia, China may question the credibility of American security guarantees.

Of those 58 aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, drones, and helicopters, 45 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan’s air defense zones in the north, center, southwest, and east. The heaviest activity was recorded in the central and southwestern zones, home to key Taiwanese Air Force and Navy bases.

There have been no official intrusions into Taiwan’s airspace or territorial waters, but the situation is described as extremely tense. Taiwanese forces continue combat simulations as part of the extended 10-day exercises, the longest ever, involving a record 22,000 reservists this year.

Earlier, Taiwan unveiled a new naval drone, the Endeavor Manta, inspired by Ukraine’s SeaBaby and Magura drones. At 8.6 meters long, it can carry over a ton of explosives or lightweight torpedoes, another sign the island is preparing for a potential maritime attack.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Top Kremlin’s mouthpiece warns of “preemptive strikes,” but denies any plans to attack Europe
    Russian Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev has threatened the West with “preemptive strikes,” but added that Moscow has no intention to attack Europe, the Kremlin agency TASS reports.  Medvedev is often called the Kremlin’s “mouthpiece” for his apocalyptic social media statements reflecting Moscow’s official position. The former Russian president has frequently issued nuclear threats aimed at the West. He has accused the West of waging “full-scale war against Russia,” clai
     

Top Kremlin’s mouthpiece warns of “preemptive strikes,” but denies any plans to attack Europe

17 juillet 2025 à 09:47

Russian Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev (right) and Russian President Vladimir Putin (left).

Russian Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev has threatened the West with “preemptive strikes,” but added that Moscow has no intention to attack Europe, the Kremlin agency TASS reports. 

Medvedev is often called the Kremlin’s “mouthpiece” for his apocalyptic social media statements reflecting Moscow’s official position. The former Russian president has frequently issued nuclear threats aimed at the West.

He has accused the West of waging “full-scale war against Russia,” claiming that NATO supplies Ukraine with satellite data and facilitates missile launches.

Medvedev’s statements came after US President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum to impose harsh sanctions on Russia if a peace agreement is not reached within 50 days. He called it “theatrical demands” and said “Russia did not care.” Trump also confirmed his intention to send Ukraine various types of weapons, including Patriot missile systems. 

“The West has not only treachery in its blood but also a sick, outdated belief in its own superiority. Russia must act accordingly, and, if necessary, deliver preemptive strikes,” Medvedev says.

Despite this, he called information about a possible Russian attack on Europe “nonsense,” which is allegedly being deliberately spread.

Earlier, Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service Head Sergey Naryshkin accused NATO of escalating military activity near Russia’s borders. He warned that Poland and the Baltic states would be the first to suffer in a war between Moscow and the Alliance.

He claimed these countries were displaying particular aggressiveness. As an example, he cited Warsaw’s alleged plan to deploy around two million anti-tank mines along its borders with Belarus and Russia’s Kaliningrad Oblast. 

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EU will try again to choke off Putin’s war machine with 18th sanction package this week, after Slovakia blew whole plan apart

17 juillet 2025 à 09:26

European Parliament

The EU may revisit the vote on its 18th sanctions package against Russia as early as 18 July after the bloc’s representatives failed to reach a consensus on Wednesday, 16 July. The deadlock stems from Slovakia’s opposition, which is tied to the European Commission’s gas policy.

According to The Guardian, Slovakia is demanding guarantees on Russian gas supplies and wants changes to the European Commission’s plan to phase out all Russian gas imports by 2028. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has said he aims to reach a compromise with the EU by 15 July.

“No green light today on Russian sanctions during debate with 🇪🇺 ambassadors. They may return to the issue on Friday,” reports Rikard Jozwiak from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

The proposed sanctions package reportedly includes:

A “dynamic mechanism” for pricing Russian oil, 15% below the market price, which is approximately $47 per barrel

  • A ban on operations involving the Nord Stream gas pipelines,
  • Sanctions against a Russian oil refinery operating in India,
  • Restrictions on two Chinese banks assisting Moscow in evading sanctions,
  • Measures targeting Russia’s “shadow fleet” transporting energy resources outside sanctions regimes.

Meanwhile, Estonia has warned it will block the package if the provision to lower the oil price cap is removed, ERR writes.

“We have a very clear position that the oil price cap reduction must be included in this package. We hold a very firm stance on this issue,” Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna says.

At the same time, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has expressed hope that pressure on Russia will only intensify, according to Delfi. He has also announced that the country will begin its work on the next 19th sanction package after the 18th is adopted. 

“The next package should follow, and we will continue this process until the Russian war machine either chokes or shuts down due to lack of revenue,” he has noted. 

Unanimity remains the EU’s only path to advancing sanctions policy, and Russia has proven adept at exploiting this vulnerability.

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Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania form new alliance to counter Putin’s weaponized historic narratives amid war of attrition

17 juillet 2025 à 07:51

Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania have agreed to establish a Historians’ Forum within the Lublin Triangle framework to deprive Moscow of any opportunity to manipulate shared history and sow discord among partners.

The forum is a direct response to Russia’s attempts to exploit historical events to fuel tensions between the countries amid its war against Ukraine. It concerns particularly the 1943–44 Volyn tragedy, when nearly 80,000 Poles and 10,000 Ukrainians were killed. Poland classifies it as genocide committed by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. Kyiv sees the complex motives behind its actions.

“We must seek understanding, resolve sensitive issues, and thus deny Moscow any opportunity to undermine our unity,” Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said in Lublin.

On 16 July, he visited the Lublin Triangle’s conference with Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys and Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski. The main objective of these annual meetings, established in 2020, is to strengthen mutual military and cultural ties between the three countries and to support Ukraine’s integration into the EU and NATO.

The Ukrainian foreign minister added that the parties agreed such meetings of foreign ministers will be held regularly, at least twice a year.

Russia systematically manipulates and distorts historical facts to justify its aggression against Ukraine and to construct a narrative of the war’s “legality” and “necessity.” For instance, on 14 July, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that Russian President Vladimir Putin sent not negotiators, but a “historian” to the last peace talks in Istanbul.

The head of the Alliance was referring to Vladimir Medinsky, who began recounting Russian history starting in 1250 and tried to force Ukraine into capitulation. He also said that Moscow is ready to fight forever, mentioning the 21-year war against Sweden. 

In 2024, during a high-profile interview with American propagandist Tucker Carlson, Putin began the conversation with a long historical monologue in which he attempted to justify his aggression against Ukraine.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Ukraine launches AI startup battle, backed by German Defense Ministry, to outpace Russia’s war machine
    The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine is launching a project to ensure technological superiority on the battlefield. With support from the German Federal Ministry of Defense and the Office of Effective Regulation (BRDO), Kyiv has announced a program to develop defense startups focused on artificial intelligence technology. In 2025, former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi said that hoping for a return to the 1991 borders without a technological leap is pointless.
     

Ukraine launches AI startup battle, backed by German Defense Ministry, to outpace Russia’s war machine

17 juillet 2025 à 05:38

The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine is launching a project to ensure technological superiority on the battlefield. With support from the German Federal Ministry of Defense and the Office of Effective Regulation (BRDO), Kyiv has announced a program to develop defense startups focused on artificial intelligence technology.

In 2025, former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi said that hoping for a return to the 1991 borders without a technological leap is pointless. According to Zaluzhnyi, Russia has been waging a war of attrition since the end of 2023. In this situation, Ukraine’s victory is only possible by completely destroying Russia’s ability to wage it.

The launch of K4 Startup Studio promises a new format of cooperation between the state, developers, military experts, and global mentors.

Participating teams will compete to solve four key military challenges and can also submit their own ideas. Selected startups will undergo combat testing and receive mentoring support.

After a four-month intensive program, teams will have the opportunity to attract investments or sign government contracts. The four best startups will receive grants of $250,000 each.

“We are not just adapting — we are setting trends,” emphasizes Deputy Defense Minister Kateryna Chernohorenko.

Applications are open on k4.mod.gov.ua until 15 August 2025. Developers and investors interested in battlefield-proven technologies, both Ukrainian and international, are invited to apply.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • One Telegram message promised romantic date for Ukrainian soldier — next almost killed him
    A Ukrainian soldier could have gone on a date after meeting someone on Telegram. But before the meeting, he was asked to do a “small favor,” which could have turned deadly if not for law enforcement. Russia has expanded its hybrid operations amid the war. It is creating new units for information and psychological sabotage, spreading fake news and intimidation, carrying out cyberattacks and sabotage with booby-trapped gifts, and orchestrating assassination attempts against military personnel an
     

One Telegram message promised romantic date for Ukrainian soldier — next almost killed him

17 juillet 2025 à 05:16

sbu

A Ukrainian soldier could have gone on a date after meeting someone on Telegram. But before the meeting, he was asked to do a “small favor,” which could have turned deadly if not for law enforcement.

Russia has expanded its hybrid operations amid the war. It is creating new units for information and psychological sabotage, spreading fake news and intimidation, carrying out cyberattacks and sabotage with booby-trapped gifts, and orchestrating assassination attempts against military personnel and leaders via social networks.

 
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), together with the National Police, thwarted a terrorist attack planned by an FSB agent network. One of the plots involved a fake “romantic date” in Dnipro.

A pair of Russian agents gained the trust of the Ukrainian soldier. Through Telegram, they suggested he meet with the “sister of a fellow soldier.” Before the date, the girl asked him to pick up her brother’s belongings from her friend.

“In reality, it was an accomplice who handed the soldier a bag containing explosives,” the SBU reported.

Afterward, Russian agents tried to detonate the device remotely, but it was defused in time.

It was just one of at least five terrorist attacks planned by them inside Ukraine.

  • In Kyiv, two drug addicts tried to plant explosives near a military facility. They were coordinated from a detention center by an inmate who recruited his cellmate and two more accomplices.
  • In Vinnytsia, a 19-year-old individual from Zhytomyr Oblast was detained while planting explosives near an apartment building housing military families.
  • In Rivne, a terrorist hid explosives inside a soldier’s service vehicle and installed a surveillance camera.

Russian intelligence recruited all perpetrators via Telegram channels advertising “easy money.” According to the SBU, each attack attempt came with promises of financial reward.

All suspects have been charged with state treason, sabotage, and terrorism. They face life imprisonment and confiscation of property.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • “You can fight back against artillery”: Colombian volunteer learns war and Ukrainian on battlefield
    He sings Ukrainian songs and stops Russian assault troops. A former paramedic from Colombia, known as Miguel, came to Ukraine intending to serve as a combat medic. However, due to the language barrier, he was assigned to the infantry. He became a member of the 2nd International Legion of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, a military unit that brings together volunteers from over 50 countries, including the US, Canada, and the UK, who joined the fight to defend Ukraine from Russian aggression. Despi
     

“You can fight back against artillery”: Colombian volunteer learns war and Ukrainian on battlefield

17 juillet 2025 à 03:09

He sings Ukrainian songs and stops Russian assault troops. A former paramedic from Colombia, known as Miguel, came to Ukraine intending to serve as a combat medic. However, due to the language barrier, he was assigned to the infantry.

He became a member of the 2nd International Legion of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, a military unit that brings together volunteers from over 50 countries, including the US, Canada, and the UK, who joined the fight to defend Ukraine from Russian aggression.

Despite this, he never abandoned his mission. Every day on the front line, he saves the lives of his comrades. He is learning Ukrainian by singing Chervona Kalyna, the country’s patriotic anthem. 

“At first, it was tough on the front line,” Miguel says, “but over time I realized you can fight back even against artillery. You have to attack and retreat, attack and retreat. That’s how I survived.”

The hardest part, he says, is overcoming the fear in your first battle.

“That’s the problem: people go into their first fight and afterward, because of fear, decide they can’t do it. But you have to adapt,” Miguel explains.

Even without official medic status, Miguel has repeatedly provided first aid to the wounded.

“The first cases stayed with me the most, but every single one of them inspires me to keep fighting and helping people. In the Legion, we are all one family. We always support each other,” he concludes.

Earlier, the Ukrainian 47th Mechanized Brigade Magura formed a reconnaissance and strike group composed mainly of Colombian volunteers.

The company commander, known as Hamlet, personally organized the arrival of foreign volunteers, including Colombians and fighters from Peru, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Italy, and Mexico. Ukrainian state programs allow them to quickly undergo training and integrate into the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Ukrainian fighters describe Colombian volunteers as “brave and humane,” who retrieve their wounded comrades and injured Ukrainians from the frontline, and are ready to carry out essential missions.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Poland says let Russia pay for US weapons to Ukraine, not European taxpayers
    Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski stated that it should not be Europe, but Russia itself, using its frozen assets, that pays for American weapons for Ukraine. He made this comment in response to the new US and NATO initiative to rearm Kyiv, PAP reports. On 14 July, US President Donald Trump announced the delivery of 17 Patriot air defense systems to Kyiv and a new agreement with NATO under which allies will pay for US weapons for Ukraine. Trump also issued an ultimatum: Russia will face
     

Poland says let Russia pay for US weapons to Ukraine, not European taxpayers

16 juillet 2025 à 04:20

polish fm suggests 20-year un control crimea subsequent referendum foreign minister poland radosław sikorski x/twitter gikdozfwuaao70k

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski stated that it should not be Europe, but Russia itself, using its frozen assets, that pays for American weapons for Ukraine. He made this comment in response to the new US and NATO initiative to rearm Kyiv, PAP reports.

On 14 July, US President Donald Trump announced the delivery of 17 Patriot air defense systems to Kyiv and a new agreement with NATO under which allies will pay for US weapons for Ukraine. Trump also issued an ultimatum: Russia will face 100% tariffs if it doesn’t end the war within 50 days.

“I asked my fellow foreign ministers: Who should pay for American equipment? Should it be European taxpayers, or, in my opinion, should the aggressor pay for it using its frozen funds?” Sikorski said following a meeting of EU foreign ministers. 

He voiced support for Trump’s new plan with a 50-day deadline: if Russia does not end the war within this period, the US will impose tough sanctions on Moscow and its partners.

“We hope that this 50-day window before potential US sanctions is a time to increase pressure on the Russian Federation so that it finally comes to its senses,” the Polish foreign minister emphasized.

Sikorski also noted his approval of Washington’s new stance on the war, adding that he is pleased the US president has now reached the same conclusions that EU countries had drawn earlier.

Earlier, Kaja Kallas, EU foreign policy chief, said that the timeline of a 50-day ultimatum to Putin for Ukraine peace talks is too long, as civilians die daily.

Also, Trump did not clarify what would happen if Russia refuses to agree to a peace deal with Ukraine. Meanwhile, the deadline coincides with the timeframe reportedly shared by Putin during a recent conversation, in which he stated that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine. This effectively gives Putin 1,5 months to continue killing Ukrainian civilians.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • UN diplomat: Russia’s war is global catastrophe, not regional conflict
    Russia’s war has triggered a tsunami of crises, says Bob Rae, President of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and Canada’s Permanent Representative to the UN. Moscow’s aggression against Ukraine has sparked a global food crisis, mass displacement, and setbacks in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, UkrInform reports. Russia shows no signs of being ready to end its war on Ukraine. On the contrary, Moscow is intensifying attacks on civilians and accelerating the arms race with
     

UN diplomat: Russia’s war is global catastrophe, not regional conflict

16 juillet 2025 à 03:25

Russia’s war has triggered a tsunami of crises, says Bob Rae, President of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and Canada’s Permanent Representative to the UN. Moscow’s aggression against Ukraine has sparked a global food crisis, mass displacement, and setbacks in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, UkrInform reports.

Russia shows no signs of being ready to end its war on Ukraine. On the contrary, Moscow is intensifying attacks on civilians and accelerating the arms race with the help of its partners, Iran, China, and North Korea. The logic of power based on nuclear deterrence has effectively been eroded by the development of drones. International law, too, was broken after the annexation of Crimea.

Rae notes that the war has sharply increased food prices for billions of people, endangered food security, and caused large-scale forced migration both within Ukraine and beyond its borders. This poses a serious challenge to the international community, which must ensure that people’s basic needs, especially access to affordable food, are met.

According to Rae, Russia’s effect on the global economy has been consistently negative. Even though inflation is beginning to ease, its effects remain deeply felt in many countries.

The diplomat likens the war’s impact not to “ripples on the water” but to a tsunami, so vast is the scale of the invasion’s consequences on a global level.

At the same time, he emphasizes that despite all challenges, Ukraine remains strong: its economy is holding, and its people continue to resist. Rae expresses hope that international support would remain as resilient as Ukraine itself.

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Become a patron or see other ways to support

  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Ukraine plans massive minefields along 3,000-kilometer border with Russia and Belarus
    Ukraine aims to strengthen the defense of over 3,000 kilometers of its border with Russia and Belarus. Roman Kostenko, Secretary of the Parliament Committee on National Security, says that to achieve this, Kyiv is seeking a temporary suspension of the Ottawa Convention on the prohibition of anti-personnel mines, UkrInform reports.  Russia has never signed the Ottawa Convention, and has been laying mines across Ukrainian territory for over two years. Moscow troops have planted dense minefields a
     

Ukraine plans massive minefields along 3,000-kilometer border with Russia and Belarus

15 juillet 2025 à 13:23

tm-62 anti-vehicle state emergency service ukraine news ukrainian reports

Ukraine aims to strengthen the defense of over 3,000 kilometers of its border with Russia and Belarus. Roman Kostenko, Secretary of the Parliament Committee on National Security, says that to achieve this, Kyiv is seeking a temporary suspension of the Ottawa Convention on the prohibition of anti-personnel mines, UkrInform reports. 

Russia has never signed the Ottawa Convention, and has been laying mines across Ukrainian territory for over two years. Moscow troops have planted dense minefields along key routes where Ukrainian troops might advance. They have deployed mines via hand emplacement, rocket delivery, and have scattered them in rural and urban areas using drones.

The Ottawa Convention bans anti-personnel landmines worldwide. Since 1999, it has drawn 164 countries committed to destroying their mine stockpiles and clearing contaminated land, as mines can cause severe injuries and deaths among civilians. However, given that Ukraine has the right to protect itself, the government temporarily suspended its participation in the treaty.

“Considering the over 3,000 km border with Russia and Belarus, it is necessary to create a minefield at least several dozen kilometers wide, a preventive defense,” Kostenko explains.

Anti-personnel mines are effective, low-cost, and straightforward means of holding positions and creating denial zones for enemy infantry. They can demoralize the adversary and significantly complicate their movements and operations.

Kostenko emphasizes that fortifications without mine barriers are often ineffective.

“The enemy bypasses them. They are not always built in the right places. Fortifications must be guarded or be part of a combined system with mine barriers. One without the other does not work,” he says. 

According to him, the use of anti-personnel mines will allow Ukraine to rapidly defend positions and significantly enhance the country’s defensive capabilities.

Six months ago, Lithuania and Finland also withdrew from the Ottawa Convention. Now, they are preparing to start the domestic production of anti-personnel landmines to supply their militaries and Kyiv. This decision reflects growing European concerns that Russia’s military ambitions may extend beyond Ukraine. China and the US never signed the document.

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Ukrainian female journalist sentenced to seven years in Russian jail urges EU to act as guards force prisoners to stand for hours in freezing cold

15 juillet 2025 à 12:56

More than 8,300 inmates have already joined Ukraine's armed forces, with officials projecting up to 30% of the country's 37,000 prisoners could eventually serve

A Ukrainian female political prisoner has spoken out about brutal torture in Russian captivity. Journalist Iryna Danylovych has appealed to the European Parliament, asking to pay attention to the terrible conditions in Russian Women’s Colony No. 7 in Zelenokumsk, Zmina reports. 

Russia holds over 16,000 Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians in detention across Russia and occupied Ukrainian territories, though the exact number is unknown due to Russia’s lack of transparency. Conditions for Ukrainian POWs in Russian captivity are dire and characterized by systematic and widespread torture, reported by over 95% of released prisoners.

Danylovych’s relatives have delivered the appeal to Pina Picierno, the Vice-President of the European Parliament. 

The Ukrainian woman describes the colony as “an endless hell.” At night, the Russians never turn the lights off, making it impossible to sleep even with a blindfold. Every day, loud equipment operates in the barracks for several hours, which is especially difficult for her due to chronic ear inflammation, which goes untreated there.

Prisoners are also forced to stand outside for hours in cold and bad weather.

The journalist calls on the European community and Russian Ombudswoman Tatyana Moskalkova to intervene in the situation.

Before her arrest, Iryna defended the rights of medical workers in Crimea and reported on violations in healthcare. In 2022, she was abducted by FSB agents, held in a basement without a lawyer, and later sentenced to seven years in prison on charges of possessing explosives.

Earlier, 22-year-old Ukrainian soldier Valentyn Marynych came back home from 36 months in Russian captivity. He said Russian troops beat him with rebar, bricks, knuckledusters, belts, fists, and boots during regular runs through crowds of occupiers. 

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Ukraine charges three Russian commanders for killing 20 people in Chernihiv’s shop queue in 2022
    Ukraine has charged three Russian commanders suspected of ordering the rocket attack on a residential area of Chernihiv with Grad multiple launch rocket systems in 2022. The attack killed 20 people and wounded 28, the Prosecutor General’s Office reported. The identification of Russian war criminals is a key tool in holding the guilty accountable and restoring justice. There are also cases when, after the publication of the data on Russian perpetrators, they were eliminated on the battlefield o
     

Ukraine charges three Russian commanders for killing 20 people in Chernihiv’s shop queue in 2022

15 juillet 2025 à 12:29

Ukraine has charged three Russian commanders suspected of ordering the rocket attack on a residential area of Chernihiv with Grad multiple launch rocket systems in 2022. The attack killed 20 people and wounded 28, the Prosecutor General’s Office reported.

The identification of Russian war criminals is a key tool in holding the guilty accountable and restoring justice. There are also cases when, after the publication of the data on Russian perpetrators, they were eliminated on the battlefield or behind the front lines. For instance, last week, Ukrainian forces eliminated a Russian drone unit responsible for the killing of a one-year-old boy in Kherson Oblast. 

The Prosecutor General’s Office, together with the Security Service of Ukraine, has identified Colonel Oleg Kurygin, a commander of the 35th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade of the Russian 41st Army, as well as two subordinates, Major Ramis Zagretdinov and Captain Timur Suleymanov, who were responsible for battalion tactical groups.

On the morning of 16 March 2022, they ordered a massive strike on the residential area using unguided rockets, despite the absence of any nearby military targets. At that time, civilians were standing near a shop buying groceries.

“Russian military personnel were aware they were using weapons against civilians. This was a deliberate attack on the civilian population,” the Prosecutor General’s Office emphasizes.

Under international law, such actions constitute a war crime. The commanders are charged with violations of the laws of war, combined with the intentional murder of a group of persons by prior conspiracy.

The documentation of war crimes was conducted by the public organizations Truth Hounds and Global Rights Compliance.

According to the investigation, Kurygin personally gave the order to shell using high-explosive fragmentation ammunition, and his unit temporarily controlled the border areas of Chernihiv Oblast in 2022.

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • After Trump announes plan to arm Ukraine, Xi calls to deepen Russia–China strategic partnership
    During a recent meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing, Chinese leader Xi Jinping stated that China and Russia must “deepen their strategic partnership.” China’s official stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine is one of neutrality and calls for peace, but in practice, Beijing has become Russia’s key strategic partner and main sponsor. While China continues to deny supplying weapons, evidence suggests the supply of weapons components and the presence of Chinese nationals fight
     

After Trump announes plan to arm Ukraine, Xi calls to deepen Russia–China strategic partnership

15 juillet 2025 à 10:39

xi putin

During a recent meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Beijing, Chinese leader Xi Jinping stated that China and Russia must “deepen their strategic partnership.”

China’s official stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine is one of neutrality and calls for peace, but in practice, Beijing has become Russia’s key strategic partner and main sponsor. While China continues to deny supplying weapons, evidence suggests the supply of weapons components and the presence of Chinese nationals fighting for Russia in Ukraine.

The meeting took place the day after NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and US President Donald Trump gathered in Washington, where both sides pledged greater support for Ukraine.

On 14 July, the American leader announced the delivery of 17 Patriot air defense systems to Kyiv and a new agreement with NATO under which allies will pay for US weapons for Ukraine. Trump also issued an ultimatum: Russia will face 100% tariffs if it doesn’t end the war within 50 days.

At the meeting with Lavrov, the Chinese president claimed that the two countries must strengthen mutual support and unite Global South nations to form “a more just international order.”

Xi emphasized that the foreign ministries of both countries must implement the agreements reached between him and Russian ruler Vladimir Putin, and enhance cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

“The SCO has become an influential regional organization that plays a major role in the stability of Eurasia,” the Chinese leader stressed.

The SCO was founded in 2001. Its mission has evolved from counterterrorism to broader economic and political cooperation. The organization currently unites 10 countries and is headquartered in Beijing.

China is Russia’s largest trading partner and has provided Moscow with economic support that has helped it withstand Western sanctions.

Xi and Putin have met dozens of times and signed a “no-limits partnership” in February 2022, less than three weeks before Putin sent troops into Ukraine, according to Ukrainska Pravda. 

This year, Putin and Xi signed another agreement to further deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership.

Earlier, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told a senior EU diplomat that China “cannot accept” a Russian defeat in the war against Ukraine, arguing that such an outcome would allow the US to shift its foreign policy focus toward Beijing.

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Germany, Denmark, Netherlands plan to buy US-made Patriots, capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles, for Ukraine

15 juillet 2025 à 10:03

Patriot air defense system

Europe is preparing billions of dollars to deter Russian ruler Vladimir Putin. Denmark and the Netherlands have agreed to join US President Donald Trump’s new plan for jointly financing American weapons for Ukraine, including Patriot air defense systems, EurActiv reports. 

US-made Patriot batteries are the only air defense solution Ukraine possesses, which is effective against Russian ballistic missiles. Moscow mostly launches them to target civilians. Integrating these systems into Ukraine’s multi-layered air defense network has saved countless lives and safeguarded key energy and military facilities. 

The agreement, which was announced on 14 July in Washington, provides that European NATO allies will purchase air defense systems from the US, including Patriot systems, and deliver them to Kyiv. Germany has already proposed purchasing at least two batteries.

“This is an appeal to all other European NATO members. They all need to open their wallets,” emphasized German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.

According to him, Ukraine urgently needs to strengthen its air defense, as Russia escalates its attacks whenever peace is discussed.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has also confirmed that the country is “absolutely ready” to join the program, with details still being finalized. His Dutch counterpart, Caspar Veldkamp, has said the Netherlands is “positively inclined” to participate.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has stated that the scheme would allow Ukraine to receive weapons from existing stockpiles, which would then be replenished with new purchases from the US. However, systems like the Patriot are scarce in Europe, and not all countries are willing to part with them.

In addition to the three countries, Canada, Norway, Sweden, and the UK are also considering joining the program. Final funding amounts and the list of weapons will be determined in the coming weeks. 

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  • ✇Euromaidan Press
  • Ukrainian spy chief Budanov warns Kellogg: Putin’s war goals stretch into next decade—and NATO is target
    Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, passed alarming information to US Presidential Special Representative Keith Kellogg during their meeting in Kyiv. Russia is preparing for a major war, not only against Ukraine but also against NATO.  On 14 July, Kellogg arrived in Ukraine to discuss concrete steps toward peace. He has already met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The talks came against the backdrop of intensified Russian assaults, with over 330 missiles, 5,
     

Ukrainian spy chief Budanov warns Kellogg: Putin’s war goals stretch into next decade—and NATO is target

15 juillet 2025 à 09:14

Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, passed alarming information to US Presidential Special Representative Keith Kellogg during their meeting in Kyiv. Russia is preparing for a major war, not only against Ukraine but also against NATO. 

On 14 July, Kellogg arrived in Ukraine to discuss concrete steps toward peace. He has already met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The talks came against the backdrop of intensified Russian assaults, with over 330 missiles, 5,000 drones, and 5,000 aerial bombs launched in June alone. Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv coincided with Washington’s announcement of additional Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine. 

The meeting was also attended by the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Chief of the General Staff, Andrii Hnatov, and other intelligence officials. The American side was briefed on an updated assessment of the operational situation and the Kremlin’s plans for 2036.

“The Kremlin’s imperial ambitions are not limited to Ukraine. They encompass all of Europe. However, with US support, we are capable of stopping Russia and nullifying its military potential,” Budanov emphasized.

The head of the intelligence agency thanked the US for its assistance and stressed, “Russia respects only strength,” and that only through strong resistance can Ukraine achieve a true and lasting peace.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump, frustrated by fruitless “pleasant talks” with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on the war in Ukraine, issued an ultimatum to Moscow. He said that if the Kremlin doesn’t reach a peace agreement within 50 days, the White House will impose 100% tariffs on Russia. This effectively gives Putin 1,5 months to continue killing Ukrainian civilians. Trump also did not clarify what would happen if Moscow refuses to sign any deal with Kyiv. 

Later, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev openly mocked Trump’s statements, saying the Kremlin is indifferent to Washington’s new threats.

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“Russia didn’t care”: Kremlin mocks Trump’s tariff threat amid silence on next moves in case of Moscow’s refusal to end war in Ukraine

15 juillet 2025 à 07:47

Russian Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev (right) and Russian President Vladimir Putin (left).

US President Donald Trump, frustrated by fruitless “pleasant talks” with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on the war in Ukraine, has issued an ultimatum to Moscow. The Kremlin responded by saying that Russia doesn’t care.

Trump expressed his disappointment with the Kremlin as Russia continues killing Ukrainian civilians on an unprecedented scale, with record numbers of drones. In June alone, Russia launched 5,000 drones and 330 missiles on Ukraine, which took the lives of 232 people. According to the UN, this marks the highest monthly casualty toll in three years. Therefore, he issued an ultimatum: if Kyiv and Moscow don’t reach a peace agreement within 50 days, the White House will impose 100% tariffs.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has openly mocked Trump’s statements, saying the Kremlin is indifferent to Washington’s new threats. According to him, Trump’s threats are theatrical in nature, and Europe had expected more.

“Trump issued a theatrical ultimatum to the Kremlin. The world shuddered, expecting the consequences. Belligerent Europe was disappointed. Russia didn’t care,” Medvedev wrote on X. 

Often called the Kremlin’s “mouthpiece” for his apocalyptic social media claims reflecting Moscow’s official position, Medvedev has frequently issued nuclear threats aimed at the West.

On 14 July, the American president also said that the new tariffs would target Kremlin allies, though he did not specify which countries he meant. Notably, China is the largest sponsor of Russia’s war in Ukraine, while North Korea supplies over half of Russia’s ammunition and military personnel in exchange for technology.

Trump also did not clarify what would happen if Russia refuses to agree to a peace deal with Ukraine. Meanwhile, the 50-day deadline coincides with the timeframe reportedly shared by Putin during a recent conversation, in which he stated that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days. This effectively gives Putin 1,5 months to continue killing Ukrainian civilians.

Putin reportedly told Trump during their 3 July conversation that Russia intended to continue offensive operations until it secured the full administrative borders of the occupied Ukrainian oblasts.

Russia currently occupies about 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including most of Luhansk Oblast, two-thirds of Donetsk Oblast, and parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson Oblasts. Moscow illegally declared the annexation of all four regions after sham referendums, despite not fully controlling any of them. At present, Russia has fully occupied only Crimea.

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Fifty Ukrainian NGOs rise in defense of Ukrainian top anti-corruption fighter Shabunin, charged with draft dodging and fraud

15 juillet 2025 à 06:49

    Vitalii Shabunin, Ukraine’s top anti-corruption activist and head of Ukraine’s Anti-Corruption Action Center, has been charged in a controversial criminal case. The State Bureau of Investigation has accused him of evasion of military service and misuse of a vehicle intended for the military, sparking a public outcry and allegations of political persecution, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty writes. 

    Shabunin, 40, is a veteran of the Revolution of Dignity, a key lobbyist behind the creation of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the High Anti-Corruption Court. The activist has been named among Ukraine’s most influential people by Forbes. Since 2022, he served in the Ukrainian armed forces. 

    According to investigators, Shabunin allegedly “systematically evaded” military service during martial law and illegally used a vehicle imported as humanitarian aid for the Armed Forces, including for personal travel in Kyiv. They claim the vehicle was never officially registered for military use.

    He has been charged under two articles of the Ukrainian Criminal Code:

    • Part 4, Article 409 — evasion of military service under martial law
    • Part 2, Article 190 — large-scale fraud

    The maximum penalty is up to 10 years in prison

    Shabunin’s response

    The activist has denied all allegations and called the case politically motivated. He published a photo of his military ID issued on 25 February 2022, the day after Russia’s full-scale invasion began.

    He says he served on the front lines with Ukraine’s Armed Forces from the first days of the war, first near Kyiv, then in eastern Ukraine. After combat duty, he joined the Ministry of Defense to work on logistics reform and digital projects, including the Delta situational awareness system, according to the BBC.

    In February 2025, he was transferred to a border guard unit in Kharkiv Oblast, a move he links to retaliation for his outspoken criticism of the government.

    Civil society reacts: “An attack on free speech and democracy”

    More than 50 non-governmental organizations, human rights groups, and civic organizations have appealed to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko, and the State Bureau of Investigation’s Head, Oleksii Sukhachov, demanding that the investigation be dropped.

    In their joint statement, they warned that the case is either a sign of gross incompetence or deliberate pressure on a government critic. Shabunin continued his anti-corruption work while in uniform, publicly opposing the sabotage of reforms and poor governance and defending the independence of Ukraine’s anti-graft institutions, Deutsche Welle reports.

    Olena Shcherban, deputy director of Ukraine’s Anti-Corruption Action Center, has called the case an attempt to destroy an organization that has fought for transparency for years. It could also be a broader crackdown on independent activists, a dangerous precedent for democracy under martial law.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • US to sell nearly $10 billion in weapons to NATO allies supplying Ukraine
      The American foreign policy takes an unexpected turn as the US ramps up arms supplies to NATO for Ukraine. President Donald Trump has announced a sharp increase in arms shipments to European allies, intended for eventual transfer to Ukraine, a dramatic reversal of his earlier stance on the war, Axios reports.  On 14 July, the American president made several major statements about Russia’s war on Ukraine during a joint briefing with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Washington. Notably, he co
       

    US to sell nearly $10 billion in weapons to NATO allies supplying Ukraine

    14 juillet 2025 à 15:35

    Trump says NATO meeting was “nice.” Zelenskyy wore a suit. The war goes on

    The American foreign policy takes an unexpected turn as the US ramps up arms supplies to NATO for Ukraine. President Donald Trump has announced a sharp increase in arms shipments to European allies, intended for eventual transfer to Ukraine, a dramatic reversal of his earlier stance on the war, Axios reports. 

    On 14 July, the American president made several major statements about Russia’s war on Ukraine during a joint briefing with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Washington. Notably, he confirmed the delivery of 17 Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, stating that most of them will be deployed soon. He also hinted that more weaponry may follow.

    According to a well-informed source, the first wave of deliveries will see the US sell roughly $10 billion worth of weapons to NATO partners for Ukraine. 

    “The supplies ultimately bound for Ukraine include missiles, air defense weaponry and artillery shells,” the report writes. 

    This marks a fundamental shift in Trump’s stance towards Ukraine, as he initially refused to take sides and insisted on providing only defensive weapons to avoid escalating the war. 

    In addition, he issued a stark ultimatum to Moscow: Russia has 50 days to agree to a peace deal, or face 100% tariffs. Journalists note that such a move could significantly impact global oil markets.

    A White House official told Axios that Moscow must agree to a ceasefire during that time to avoid harsh sanctions and tariffs.

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, for his part, reiterated that Ukraine seeks peace. He noted that the Alliance, which would pay for Kyiv’s weapons, would now assess what the country specifically needs. After that, NATO will properly structure military aid packages. The country will gain access to a wide array of weapons, including missile defense systems and ammunition.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Europe launches new €500 million flagship fund for Ukraine after Russian attacks
      Ukraine to receive record-breaking financial aid package from EU and partners for recovery, energy, air defense, and agriculture. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has announced multi-billion euro agreements reached during the Ukrine Recovery Conference in Rome. On 10-11 July, Italy hosted the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference. The event was dedicated to the country’s recovery and long-term reconstruction. brought together a broad and high-level international delegation of over 6,000 to 8,000 partic
       

    Europe launches new €500 million flagship fund for Ukraine after Russian attacks

    14 juillet 2025 à 15:16

    Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and the Acting US Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery, Richard Verma.

    Ukraine to receive record-breaking financial aid package from EU and partners for recovery, energy, air defense, and agriculture. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has announced multi-billion euro agreements reached during the Ukrine Recovery Conference in Rome.

    On 10-11 July, Italy hosted the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference. The event was dedicated to the country’s recovery and long-term reconstruction. brought together a broad and high-level international delegation of over 6,000 to 8,000 participants from around 70 countries and 100 government delegations.

    Among them is the creation of a new European Flagship Fund worth €500 million, set to launch in 2026 with a focus on energy and infrastructure investment.

    In addition, under the Ukraine Facility, agreements have been signed for:

    • €1.8 billion in loan guarantees,
    • €580 million in grants,
    • and blended financing mechanisms.

    Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, commenting on the deal, stated that the EU aims to unlock up to €10 billion in investments to “rebuild destroyed homes, reopen hospitals, support businesses, and ensure energy security.”

    Switzerland has committed €5 billion for economic recovery efforts.

    The European Investment Bank is providing Ukraine with:

    • €134 million for transport infrastructure,
    • and a €200 million loan to Ukrhydroenergo (with the first €120 million tranche) to help restore hydropower plants.

    Separately, the UK is offering a $2.3 billion loan for Ukraine’s air defense needs. The funds will be used to procure weapons and defense materials from the UK. The loan has a 19-year term with a 6-year grace period.

    Ukrainian farmers will also receive €50 million in grant aid.

    Shmyhal added, “We’ve reached an agreement with the Council of Europe Development Bank to fund €100 million in housing certificates under the eRecovery program, and an additional €200 million loan to support internally displaced persons.”

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Ukrainian defense chiefs warn Kellogg, Trump’s special envoy: Russia gearing up for war not just with Kyiv
      US officials have been briefed. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov reveals that during the visit of Keith Kellogg, the US presidential envoy, to Kyiv, the Ukrainian side shared alarming intelligence on the Kremlin’s plans. On 14 July, Kellogg arrived in Ukraine to discuss concrete steps toward peace. He has already met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The talks came against the backdrop of intensified Russian assaults, over 330 missiles, 5,000 drones, and 5,000 aerial bombs l
       

    Ukrainian defense chiefs warn Kellogg, Trump’s special envoy: Russia gearing up for war not just with Kyiv

    14 juillet 2025 à 14:00

    US officials have been briefed. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov reveals that during the visit of Keith Kellogg, the US presidential envoy, to Kyiv, the Ukrainian side shared alarming intelligence on the Kremlin’s plans.

    On 14 July, Kellogg arrived in Ukraine to discuss concrete steps toward peace. He has already met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The talks came against the backdrop of intensified Russian assaults, over 330 missiles, 5,000 drones, and 5,000 aerial bombs launched in June alone. 

    The Ukrainian defense minister says that Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Chief of the General Staff, Major General Andrii Hnatov, Chief of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, and other intelligence officials held a briefing for the US side.

    According to Umerov, Ukrainian officials explicitly warned their American counterparts: Russia is preparing for a large-scale war, not only against Ukraine, but also against the North Atlantic Alliance.

    “They presented the operational situation, assessed enemy plans, and informed about Russia’s preparations for a broader-scale war,” the minister states.

    Umerov describes the conversation with Kellogg as “substantive and candid,” focusing on achieving a lasting and just peace. Key topics included continued defense support, joint defense projects, and the localization of air defense and drone production in Ukraine and Europe.

    He also notes that Ukraine has a “unique combat experience, especially in the field of drones, and we are ready to share it,” with the US, adding that some of the defense projects could be financed using frozen Russian assets.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Trump and NATO unleash billions in weapons for Ukraine as Putin faces 50-day ultimatum
      On 14 July, US President Donald Trump confirmed the conclusion of a new agreement with NATO that provides for the delivery of a powerful military aid package worth billions of dollars to Ukraine, UkrInform reports.  The deal involves the procurement of advanced weaponry, including missile systems and Patriot air defense batteries, which Washington will rapidly transport to Europe for subsequent transfer to Ukraine. According to the American leader, some of these systems would arrive within day
       

    Trump and NATO unleash billions in weapons for Ukraine as Putin faces 50-day ultimatum

    14 juillet 2025 à 13:39

    nato chief expresses cautious optimism us-ukraine discussions secretary general mark rutte during joint news conference polish president andrzej duda brussels 6 2025 expressed regarding dialogue between united states ukraine press

    On 14 July, US President Donald Trump confirmed the conclusion of a new agreement with NATO that provides for the delivery of a powerful military aid package worth billions of dollars to Ukraine, UkrInform reports. 

    The deal involves the procurement of advanced weaponry, including missile systems and Patriot air defense batteries, which Washington will rapidly transport to Europe for subsequent transfer to Ukraine.

    According to the American leader, some of these systems would arrive within days. Countries that currently possess Patriot systems have agreed to send them to Ukraine in exchange for new US deliveries. Trump said the systems have a full set of batteries intended to bolster Ukraine’s air defense.

    He emphasized that the weapons would be financed by NATO allies, not American taxpayers. 

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, for his part, reiterated that Ukraine seeks peace.

    During his meeting with President Trump at the White House, he said it is vital to provide Ukraine with everything necessary to defend itself from Russia. He called the decision for Europeans to pay for Ukraine’s aid entirely logical.

    Rutte added that the agreement is the result of the Alliance summit in The Hague, where NATO members committed to gradually increasing defense spending to 5% of GDP, continuing to support Ukraine, and expanding defense production.

    He noted that NATO would now assess what Ukraine specifically needs so that the alliance can properly structure military aid packages. Ukraine will gain access to a wide array of weapons, including missile defense systems and ammunition.

    In his view, the US president’s decision will allow weapons to reach Ukraine at an accelerated pace.

    At the same time, Rutte remarked that in light of the latest news from Washington, if he were in Russian ruler Vladimir Putin’s place, he would reconsider his approach to negotiations with Ukraine.

    The new agreement is the result of a series of talks following Trump’s disappointment over Russia’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire. He also threatened Russia with tough secondary tariffs if negotiations fail within 50 days. 

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Trump says US to impose 100% tariffs on Russia if war doesn’t end in 50 days
      The US is ready to hit the Kremlin with tariffs if peace isn’t reached soon. President Donald Trump has announced that he will impose strict secondary tariffs on Russia and its allies if a peace agreement on Ukraine is not reached within the next 50 days, UNIAN reports.  The statements came amid escalated Russian attacks. In June alone, Moscow launched 330 missiles and 5,000 drones on Ukraine.  He believes the proposed 100% tariff restrictions could serve as a decisive lever of pressure on Mos
       

    Trump says US to impose 100% tariffs on Russia if war doesn’t end in 50 days

    14 juillet 2025 à 13:00

    The US is ready to hit the Kremlin with tariffs if peace isn’t reached soon. President Donald Trump has announced that he will impose strict secondary tariffs on Russia and its allies if a peace agreement on Ukraine is not reached within the next 50 days, UNIAN reports. 

    The statements came amid escalated Russian attacks. In June alone, Moscow launched 330 missiles and 5,000 drones on Ukraine. 

    He believes the proposed 100% tariff restrictions could serve as a decisive lever of pressure on Moscow.

    In addition, Washington will supply Ukraine with 17 Patriot air defense systems, some of which are expected to arrive within days. The countries that agreed to transfer the systems will receive replacements from the US The coordination of deliveries will be overseen by Matthew Whitaker, the US representative to NATO, in cooperation with the Alliance.

    Patriots, the only weapons Ukraine possesses that are capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, are essential for protecting its cities from Russian aerial assaults. Moscow uses such missiles mainly to terrorize civilians. 

    Trump has also agreed with the EU on a joint program to supply weapons to Ukraine. Production will remain US-based, but the financial burden will fall largely on EU countries.

    The US president has also recognized the bravery of the Ukrainians resisting Russia’s massive strikes on a daily basis. According to Trump, Russia continues targeting civilian infrastructure, not just military targets, destroying cities, power grids, and residential areas, posing a long-term humanitarian crisis for Ukraine’s population.

    He has also voiced disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin, from whom he had expected a readiness for a ceasefire two months ago. However, the Kremlin has continued its aggressive course, prompting the US to prepare a powerful economic response.

    Earlier, reports emerged that Trump was considering providing Ukraine with powerful air-launched JASSM cruise missiles.

    With a range of up to 370 km, a 450 kg warhead, and high-precision targeting, the JASSM could change the dynamics of Ukraine’s defense capabilities, especially amid Russia’s summer offensive.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Trump announces 17 Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine to shield cities from Russian air terror
      The US is taking an unprecedented step to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses. President Donald Trump has announced that 17 Patriot surface-to-air missile systems will soon be transferred to Ukraine, RBC-Ukraine reports.  Patriots are the only weapons Ukraine possesses that are capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles, which Moscow primarily uses to terrorize civilians. Some of them are expected to arrive within days. He made the statement during a joint press conference with NATO Secr
       

    Trump announces 17 Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine to shield cities from Russian air terror

    14 juillet 2025 à 12:14

    nyt approves german transfer 125 gmlrs rockets 100 patriot missiles ukraine ukrainian president volodymyr zelenskyy visits battery germany 2024 pres zelensky office biden-era aid winds down trump hesitates new commitments

    The US is taking an unprecedented step to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses. President Donald Trump has announced that 17 Patriot surface-to-air missile systems will soon be transferred to Ukraine, RBC-Ukraine reports. 

    Patriots are the only weapons Ukraine possesses that are capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles, which Moscow primarily uses to terrorize civilians.

    Some of them are expected to arrive within days. He made the statement during a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

    According to Trump, the Patriot systems will be provided by a partner country that won’t be needing them, and the US is already arranging their rapid delivery.

    Last week, the US president confirmed that Patriots would be sent to Kyiv and that European allies would cover their cost.

    The announcement comes amid continued Russian attacks and could prove to be a key factor in reinforcing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities in the coming weeks. In June alone, Moscow launched 330 missiles and 5,000 drones on Ukraine. 

    Meanwhile, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has documented 232 civilian deaths and 1,343 injuries the same month, marking the highest monthly casualty toll in three years as Russian forces launched ten times more missile strikes and drone attacks than in June 2024.

    The surge demonstrates Moscow’s strategic shift toward terrorizing populations across practically every Ukrainian region as Russian military casualties exceed one million, forcing reliance on terror tactics against defenseless civilians rather than battlefield advances.

    Earlier, reports emerged that Trump was considering providing Ukraine with powerful air-launched JASSM cruise missiles.

    With a range of up to 370 km, a 450 kg warhead, and high-precision targeting, the JASSM could change the dynamics of Ukraine’s defense capabilities, especially amid Russia’s summer offensive.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Ukraine’s next weapon could be US-made JASSM — and it might arrive just in time
      US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering providing Ukraine with powerful air-launched JASSM cruise missiles, according to Military Watch Magazine. If approved, the JASSM deal would mark a major shift in US military assistance, especially amid an intensification of fighting on the front lines. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days. These missiles, capable of being launched from
       

    Ukraine’s next weapon could be US-made JASSM — and it might arrive just in time

    14 juillet 2025 à 11:51

    US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering providing Ukraine with powerful air-launched JASSM cruise missiles, according to Military Watch Magazine.

    If approved, the JASSM deal would mark a major shift in US military assistance, especially amid an intensification of fighting on the front lines. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days.

    These missiles, capable of being launched from F-16 fighter jets, would significantly boost Ukraine’s ability to strike strategic targets deep behind Russian lines.

    With a range of up to 370 km, a 450 kg warhead, and high-precision targeting, the JASSM could change the dynamics of Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

    Only four countries operate this advanced weapon system, including Poland, which purchased 110 JASSMs for its F-16s. The US had previously denied such exports to allies like South Korea, underscoring the technology’s sensitivity.

    Trump has already expressed support for delivering Patriot air defense missiles to Kyiv and hinted at broader arms transfers. 

    Today, the Russians are receiving reinforcements for the start of the second wave of their summer offensive. Moscow concentrated 100,000 troops in Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast from the overall 700,000-strong Russian grouping.

    Russia occupies about 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including most of Luhansk Oblast, two-thirds of Donetsk Oblast, and parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson Oblasts. Moscow illegally declared the annexation of the four oblasts as Russian following sham referenda in late 2022, while not fully controlling them.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Zelenskyy, Kellogg meet in Kyiv to shape next phase of US–Ukraine ties after Russia launched 5,000 drones in June
      Ukraine is strengthening its alliance with the US amid escalating Russian attacks. On 14 July, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Keith Kellogg, US presidential envoy, to discuss concrete steps toward peace, with a focus on enhancing air defense, expanding joint weapons production, and increasing sanctions pressure on Russia. Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv coincided with Washington’s announcement of additional Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine. He will meet with Ukraine’s military leadership
       

    Zelenskyy, Kellogg meet in Kyiv to shape next phase of US–Ukraine ties after Russia launched 5,000 drones in June

    14 juillet 2025 à 11:16

    Ukraine is strengthening its alliance with the US amid escalating Russian attacks. On 14 July, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Keith Kellogg, US presidential envoy, to discuss concrete steps toward peace, with a focus on enhancing air defense, expanding joint weapons production, and increasing sanctions pressure on Russia.

    Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv coincided with Washington’s announcement of additional Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine. He will meet with Ukraine’s military leadership to exchange intelligence and coordinate next steps in defense and strategic cooperation. The visit comes amid growing anticipation of further statements from the US President Donald Trump regarding expanded military support for Ukraine.

    “We are grateful to the US president for all his messages and truly firm decisions to resume support. We’ve made some very positive decisions for both our countries,” Zelenskyy said.

    The talks came against the backdrop of intensified Russian assaults, over 330 missiles, 5,000 drones, and 5,000 aerial bombs launched in June alone, making air defense a top priority during the meeting.

    Key topics included:

    • Strengthening Ukraine’s air defense systems
    • Joint drone production
    • Direct US purchases of Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles
    • Joint weapons procurement with European partners

    Zelensky also emphasized the importance of new US sanctions legislation, particularly the bipartisan bill by Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, which has already gained support from more than 80 senators.

    He thanked Keith Kellogg for his visit, US President Donald Trump, and the American people for their continued support.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • For first time, Estonian troops test US-supplied HIMARS in drills denounced by Russia as “provocation”
      Estonian troops have conducted their first live-fire exercise with HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems following four months of training, ERR reports. In April 2025, Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service Head Sergey Naryshkin accused NATO of escalating military activity near Russia’s borders. He warned that Poland and the Baltic states would be the first to suffer in the event of a war between Moscow and the Alliance.  Following the exercise, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, accused
       

    For first time, Estonian troops test US-supplied HIMARS in drills denounced by Russia as “provocation”

    14 juillet 2025 à 10:47

    HIMARS ATACMS capable of striking targets at 300km launch.

    Estonian troops have conducted their first live-fire exercise with HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems following four months of training, ERR reports.

    In April 2025, Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service Head Sergey Naryshkin accused NATO of escalating military activity near Russia’s borders. He warned that Poland and the Baltic states would be the first to suffer in the event of a war between Moscow and the Alliance. 

    Following the exercise, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, accused the Baltic states of “provocative actions.” He stated that Russia, as a Baltic state, will defend its interests in the region.

    “Russia is a Baltic state that intends to firmly defend its legitimate interests in the region. The fact that many countries are engaging in provocative actions there is an obvious reality,” Peskov said.

    Six HIMARS systems were ordered from the US after Naryshkin’s claims. They were officially delivered to the Estonian Defence Forces at the Ämari air base. The US-funded delivery is part of a broader security assistance package aimed at strengthening NATO’s eastern flank.

    Lithuania and Latvia have also purchased HIMARS systems. Vilnius acquired eight launchers, while Riga signed an agreement to receive six systems by 2027, according to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. The first live-fire drills took place on 11 July. According to the Estonian Defence Forces, the rockets were launched from the shores of Saaremaa island and hit sea targets 15 kilometers away in under a minute.

    “In fact, we didn’t do much damage to the sea since these were training rounds without warheads. As for accuracy, I can say we can hit a bucket from a very long distance,” said Sergeant Margus Oras of the rocket artillery unit.

    HIMARS systems are capable of launching precision-guided munitions that support integrated fire missions and can strike point or area targets at distances exceeding 300 kilometers.

    The maximum firing range potentially allows Estonia to target areas near the Russian border, including in Russia’s Leningrad Oblast, New Voice reports. According to local reports, Estonia now not only has artillery forces but its own missile forces as well.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Russia masses 100,000 troops to crush Ukraine’s defenders in Donetsk’s crucial battle
      Dmytro Zhmailo, a Ukrainian expert and the Executive Director of the Ukrainian Center for Security and Cooperation, says Kyiv troops managed to stop the first wave of the Russian offensive. Currently, Moscow is trying to fulfill its main objective — the complete capture of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, UNIAN reports. Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days. Russia currently occupies about 20
       

    Russia masses 100,000 troops to crush Ukraine’s defenders in Donetsk’s crucial battle

    14 juillet 2025 à 08:57

    A 1st Heavy Mechanized Brigade tank.

    Dmytro Zhmailo, a Ukrainian expert and the Executive Director of the Ukrainian Center for Security and Cooperation, says Kyiv troops managed to stop the first wave of the Russian offensive. Currently, Moscow is trying to fulfill its main objective — the complete capture of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, UNIAN reports.

    Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days. Russia currently occupies about 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including most of Luhansk Oblast, two-thirds of Donetsk Oblast, and parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson Oblasts. Moscow illegally declared the annexation of the four oblasts following sham referenda in late 2022, not fully controlling them. 

    He notes that the second wave of Russian forces’ so-called summer offensive has just been launched. Although the Russians have had some successes in certain areas, the Ukrainian Armed Forces were able to repel the first wave of the offensive.

    Zhmailo explains that the main reason for Russia’s advance near the Kostiantynivka settlement in Donetsk Oblast is the large concentration of Moscow’s units. About 100,000 troops from the overall 700,000-strong Russian grouping are concentrated there. Currently, the Russians are receiving reinforcements for the start of the second wave of the offensive.

    However, according to him, the battle for Kostiantynivka has not yet begun. The city’s administration and police are still operating, although there is an ongoing humanitarian crisis with issues in water and electricity supply. Ukrainian troops hold positions in Chasiv Yar and on the outskirts of Toretsk, holding back the Russian occupiers’ rapid advance.

    Moscow troops are focusing their most significant efforts along the Pokrovsk–Kostiantynivka highway, trying to “breakthrough” villages to get closer to the city. In the northern part of the region, activity has increased in the Lyman direction, with the prospect of reaching Sviatohirsk and squeezing the non-occupied territories of Donetsk.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Ukraine’s drone face Rubikon, Russia’s deadly new unit targeting drone operators
      Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov says Russia has created a unit called “Rubikon” to hunt Ukrainian drone operators. However, due to increased autonomy powered by artificial intelligence, Ukrainian operators can gradually be removed from the front lines, RBC reports. Drone warfare innovations have become a hallmark of the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war, with unmanned vehicles of various sizes operating across air, land, and sea.  He explains t
       

    Ukraine’s drone face Rubikon, Russia’s deadly new unit targeting drone operators

    14 juillet 2025 à 08:29

    Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov says Russia has created a unit called “Rubikon” to hunt Ukrainian drone operators. However, due to increased autonomy powered by artificial intelligence, Ukrainian operators can gradually be removed from the front lines, RBC reports.

    Drone warfare innovations have become a hallmark of the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war, with unmanned vehicles of various sizes operating across air, land, and sea. 

    He explains that the current task is to ensure maximum remote control of drones so that operators can manage them from any city in the country. The next step is to implement full drone autonomy.

    Fedorov also notes that full drone autonomy requires significant development and investment, which may take years. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence technologies are already actively used in the military sphere for decoding images, target guidance, and operating FPV drones.

    Ukraine is even launching a special grant program to develop military technologies based on artificial intelligence, which, according to the minister, will become “the future battlefield.”

    Earlier, former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valerii Zaluzhnyi said that hoping for a return to the 1991 borders without a technological leap is pointless. He added that Kyiv could expect reaching victory only in the case of waging a high-tech war of survival, the one that uses minimal human resources and minimal economic means to achieve maximum effect.

    You could close this page. Or you could join our community and help us produce more materials like this. We keep our reporting open and accessible to everyone because we believe in the power of free information. This is why our small, cost-effective team depends on the support of readers like you to bring deliver timely news, quality analysis, and on-the-ground reports about Russia's war against Ukraine and Ukraine's struggle to build a democratic society. Become a patron or see other ways to support

    German defense giant Rheinmetall secures €70 billion order for 7,000 armored vehicles to equip Bundeswehr amid Russia’s war

    14 juillet 2025 à 07:02

    Ukrainian troops train in Poland to master Allied Leopard 2 tanks

    The German conglomerate Rheinmetall expects orders worth up to 70 billion euros solely from the Bundeswehr. This concerns the delivery of up to 7,000 armored vehicles. The rapid growth is driven by Russia’s war against Ukraine, BILD reports. 

    Rheinmetall has already built a repair plant on Ukrainian territory. The next in line is ammunition production. Papperger has personally met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and stated that contracts for building a new plant have already been signed. Ukraine is also testing the new Lynx armored personnel carrier, which will be produced in the country in the future by Rheinmetall.

    The new order includes Leopard 2 tanks, Puma infantry fighting vehicles, and Boxer armored personnel carriers, says Armin Papperger, the company’s CEO. 

    To handle the volume, the conglomerate is building ten new factories, most of them in Germany. Rheinmetall plans to increase its workforce from 40,000 to 70,000 employees. The company is already valued higher than BMW or Mercedes-Benz and is second only to Lockheed Martin among Western defense companies by market capitalization.

    “Our goal is to increase sales volume to 40–50 billion euros by 2030. This will be a tenfold increase compared to the pre-war 2021. We want to create jobs here, in Germany,” Papperger says.

    Last week, Ukraine’s Air Force reported that its soldier began to use Rheinmetall’s Oerlikon Skynex short-range air defense (SHORAD) system against Russia’s Shahed drones, deploying the advanced cannon system to defend critical infrastructure. 

    The German-supplied Skynex uses the Oerlikon Mk3 35-mm cannon with an effective range of 4,000 meters and a rate of fire of 1,000 rounds per minute. Each cannon is equipped with its own radar and electro-optical system, enabling precise targeting even against small drones.

    You could close this page. Or you could join our community and help us produce more materials like this. We keep our reporting open and accessible to everyone because we believe in the power of free information. This is why our small, cost-effective team depends on the support of readers like you to bring deliver timely news, quality analysis, and on-the-ground reports about Russia's war against Ukraine and Ukraine's struggle to build a democratic society. Become a patron or see other ways to support
    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Ukraine destroys thermobaric weapons facility that fed drone strikes on its cities, satellite images confirm
      Satellite imagery has confirmed a successful Ukrainian strike on the Krasnozavodsk Chemical Plant in Russia’s Moscow Oblast. The facility one of the key objects producing thermobaric munitions and explosive components for Shahed kamikaze drones. Ukrainian forces have repeatedly struck Russian military, defense industry, and energy infrastructure in both occupied territories and inside Russia. The ongoing air campaign is aimed at crippling Russian military logistics and its capacity to continue t
       

    Ukraine destroys thermobaric weapons facility that fed drone strikes on its cities, satellite images confirm

    14 juillet 2025 à 06:35

    Satellite imagery has confirmed a successful Ukrainian strike on the Krasnozavodsk Chemical Plant in Russia’s Moscow Oblast. The facility one of the key objects producing thermobaric munitions and explosive components for Shahed kamikaze drones.

    Ukrainian forces have repeatedly struck Russian military, defense industry, and energy infrastructure in both occupied territories and inside Russia. The ongoing air campaign is aimed at crippling Russian military logistics and its capacity to continue the war.

    The strike occurred on 7 July. Local residents reported loud explosions and a fire at the site. Ukraine’s General Staff later confirmed that units from the Drone Systems Forces, in coordination with other elements of the Defense Forces, carried out the attack.

    According to the General Staff, the plant had been manufacturing not only flares, powder charges, thermal decoys, and gas generators, but also the thermobaric warheads used in drone strikes on Ukrainian cities.

    The CyberBorosno project has analyzed satellite images and concluded that one of the plant’s production buildings, likely used for assembling explosive munitions, was hit.

    The plant underwent modernization in 2017, expanding its capacity to produce thermobaric weapons for Russian security forces, including the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

    On the same day, Russian air defense reportedly downed drones not only in Moscow Oblast, but also over many other oblasts. According to their data, 20 drones flew over Belgorod Oblast, 14 over Kursk, and nine over Lipetsk.

    Eight were reported over both Bryansk and Voronezh oblasts, and seven over the Black Sea. Three drones each appeared over Novgorod, Tver, Tambov, and Leningrad oblasts. Two more were intercepted over Oryol Oblast, and one each over Vladimir Oblast, Krasnodar Krai, and occupied Crimea.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Germany refuses to send Taurus missiles but funds hundreds of Ukrainian-made long-range strike systems
      Germany will not transfer its Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine. However, instead, Berlin will finance the production of hundreds of similar systems capable of striking deep behind Russian lines, ZDF reports.  Taurus missiles were vital for Ukraine due to their ability to deliver high-precision strikes at long ranges, over 500 km, against strategic targets deep behind Russian lines, such as airfields, ports, depots, command centers, and logistical hubs. This would allow Ukraine to disrupt R
       

    Germany refuses to send Taurus missiles but funds hundreds of Ukrainian-made long-range strike systems

    12 juillet 2025 à 14:19

    Germany will not transfer its Taurus long-range missiles to Ukraine. However, instead, Berlin will finance the production of hundreds of similar systems capable of striking deep behind Russian lines, ZDF reports. 

    Taurus missiles were vital for Ukraine due to their ability to deliver high-precision strikes at long ranges, over 500 km, against strategic targets deep behind Russian lines, such as airfields, ports, depots, command centers, and logistical hubs. This would allow Ukraine to disrupt Russian military supply chains and command structures by destroying key infrastructure. 

    The first of these weapons is expected to be delivered by the end of July, as part of a new defense initiative launched in May. Production is projected to reach “high triple digits,” says Major General Christian Freuding, head of the Ukraine support staff at Germany’s Ministry of Defense. 

    The initiative is based on a contract between the Ukrainian industry and Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, with funding from Berlin. The program is expected to significantly enhance Ukraine’s air defense and missile capabilities in the coming months, according to UkrInform. 

    The new weapon systems will be capable of penetrating deep into Russian territory, able to strike supply depots, command centers, airfields, and aircraft.

    Additionally, Germany is involved in talks with the US on acquiring more Patriot systems for Ukraine. This topic will be discussed during German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius’s upcoming visit to Washington in July.

    According to German representatives of Ukraine’s support team, the frontline situation remains extremely tense. Russian forces hold the initiative and are making slow but steady advances, inflicting casualties as Ukrainian troops focus on defensive operations.

    Despite an escalation in the skies, Ukraine’s air defenses remain effective, intercepting around 80% of aerial targets. However, further air defense reinforcement is necessary to stabilize the front and protect cities.

    Germany is working with partners to supply Ukraine with medium- and long-range air defense systems and is also helping develop new anti-drone technologies.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Rome recovery conference delivers unprecedented €11 billion boost to Ukraine
      Kyiv has secured record-breaking aid at the latest international summit in Italy. During the fourth and largest Recovery Conference in Rome, Ukraine signed nearly 200 agreements and memorandums totaling €11 billion in support, says First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yuliia Svyrydenko. On 10-11 July, Italy hosted the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference. The event was dedicated to the country’s recovery and long-term reconstruction. Rome gathered over 6,000 to 8,000 participants fr
       

    Rome recovery conference delivers unprecedented €11 billion boost to Ukraine

    12 juillet 2025 à 13:53

    Kyiv has secured record-breaking aid at the latest international summit in Italy. During the fourth and largest Recovery Conference in Rome, Ukraine signed nearly 200 agreements and memorandums totaling €11 billion in support, says First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yuliia Svyrydenko.

    On 10-11 July, Italy hosted the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference. The event was dedicated to the country’s recovery and long-term reconstruction. Rome gathered over 6,000 to 8,000 participants from around 70 countries and 100 government delegations.

    “The Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025 in Rome was the most extensive yet, both in terms of participants and the quality of agreements. Over 6,000 participants from 70 countries, around 200 agreements signed, worth approximately €11 billion,” Svyrydenko states.

    One key outcome was the launch of the largest European investment fund for Ukraine’s reconstruction, with four countries and major European development banks pledging support.

    Under the Ukraine Investment Framework, a new aid package worth over €2 billion was announced. The Netherlands committed an additional €500 million over 10 years, while Switzerland pledged close to €5 billion in assistance.

    Defense industry cooperation was also a central focus of the summit, with discussions on localizing production, creating joint ventures, and sharing technologies.

    Among the major industrial initiatives:

    • NovaSklo signed an agreement to build a float glass plant
    • Bila Tserkva industrial park will launch a new factory in cooperation with the Italian company Gualapack
    • The Ukrainian Ministry of Economy signed a €188 million agreement with UNIDO for joint ventures with Japan

    Ukraine also focused on new employment programs for women, initiatives to support female entrepreneurship, and commitments to modernize labor legislation.

    The conference took place amid an escalation of Russian attacks on Ukraine. Recently, Moscow began launching over 700 drones in a single night, targeting Ukrainian cities. Therefore, the focus of the conference extended beyond reconstruction and included defense. 

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Ukraine is developing new air defense arsenal to down “unstoppable” Russian hypersonic missiles
      Ukraine is working on solutions against Russian missiles that were considered unstoppable. Pavlo Palisa, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, says Kyiv is developing its own surface-to-air missile systems for shooting down any Russian targets, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, Report.az writes.  He specifically mentions Zircons and Kinzhals, which are often used to strike Ukrainian settlements, including Kyiv. These missiles are considered impossible to intercep
       

    Ukraine is developing new air defense arsenal to down “unstoppable” Russian hypersonic missiles

    12 juillet 2025 à 11:03

    Ukraine is working on solutions against Russian missiles that were considered unstoppable. Pavlo Palisa, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, says Kyiv is developing its own surface-to-air missile systems for shooting down any Russian targets, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, Report.az writes. 

    He specifically mentions Zircons and Kinzhals, which are often used to strike Ukrainian settlements, including Kyiv. These missiles are considered impossible to intercept due to their extreme speed and maneuverability. However, the US-made Patriot air defense missile systems are capable of that. Still, fragments, which fall on civilian buildings, cause significant damage and kill people. 

    Palisa also says that about 50% of the weaponry Ukraine needs for ongoing defense during the full-scale war initiated by Russia is produced domestically, either independently or jointly with partner countries.

    “We are ready to continue increasing these volumes. I am confident that Ukraine will surprise the world soon, and not just once,” he explains. 

    The Ukrainian official emphasizes that Kyiv continues to work on airspace defense systems with varying ranges. According to him, this would guarantee protection of Ukrainian territory from Russian aerial terror, whether from strike drones, ballistic, or cruise missiles.

    “We already have many technological solutions nearing completion, and we will see them in operation soon. Some solutions have already passed successful combat tests and were used to accomplish real missions against the enemy’s cunning tactics,” he concludes.

    Recently, Ukraine has begun serial production of its new ballistic missile, Sapsan. It has already proven effective in combat by striking a Russian military target nearly 300 km from launch.

    During recent tests, the missile reached a velocity of 5.2 Mach (approx. 6,370 km/h), significantly faster than the American ATACMS (Mach 3) and nearly on par with Russia’s Iskander-M (Mach 6).

    Technology is Ukraine’s chance to win the war. This is why we’re launching the David vs. Goliath defense blog to support Ukrainian engineers who are creating innovative battlefield solutions and are inviting you to join us on the journey.

    Our platform will showcase the Ukrainian defense tech underdogs who are Ukraine’s hope to win in the war against Russia, giving them the much-needed visibility to connect them with crucial expertise, funding, and international support. Together, we can give David the best fighting chance he has.

    Join us in building this platformbecome a Euromaidan Press Patron. As little as $5 monthly will boost strategic innovations that could succeed where traditional approaches have failed.

    You could close this page. Or you could join our community and help us produce more materials like this. We keep our reporting open and accessible to everyone because we believe in the power of free information. This is why our small, cost-effective team depends on the support of readers like you to bring deliver timely news, quality analysis, and on-the-ground reports about Russia's war against Ukraine and Ukraine's struggle to build a democratic society. Become a patron or see other ways to support

    Russia turns occupied Mariupol’s Azovstal plant into its launchpad of terror, building bases where Ukrainian defenders once held line

    12 juillet 2025 à 10:23

    azov soldiers freed 1000-for-1000 prisoner swap smoke rising over azovstal - last ukrainian stronghold mariupol 2022 video militarnyi ukraine's recent large-scale exchange russia did include any members 12th special operations

    Moscow is turning occupied Ukrainian cities into military bases for further aggression. In Mariupol, captured in 2022, Russian forces have established two military bases at the Azovstal steel plant, according to Petro Andriushchenko, head of the Center for the Study of Occupation, UNIAN reports. 

    Azovstal became a symbol of Ukraine’s resistance. As Mariupol’s final bastion, thousands of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians held out against relentless Russian attacks. The plant-turned-fortress endured blockade, airstrikes, artillery shelling, incendiary and phosphorus munitions. Its defense ended after three months following the order to stop resisting and exit the bunkers. About 2,000 Ukrainian troops surrendered and were taken captive by Russian forces.

    According to Andriushchenko, one of the new bases was established in the last two months.

    “This shows the level of militarization of Mariupol. Russian forces are relocating military assets mainly from Russia’s Rostov Oblast. Mariupol is no longer just a logistical crossroads. It is becoming a full-scale military logistics base,” he reveals. 

    Andriushchenko says that each base at Azovstal originated from simple military checkpoints set up on the site.

    He explains the location was chosen because it is hidden from outside surveillance, with no nearby residential buildings and difficult access due to fencing, making it safer for Russian troops.

    “Let’s not forget that these bunkers and underground shelters once served to protect civilians and our Mariupol garrison. Now the Russians are repurposing them and succeeding in it,” Andriushchenko adds.

    The Russian authorities do not care about the fate of the occupied cities or their residents. What matters to them is using these territories as staging grounds for continuing the war against Ukraine.

    Nearly all Ukrainian cities under occupation are being turned into military footholds, logistical hubs, and bases for further aggression. At the same time, Russians forcibly conscript Ukrainians, often coercing them into fighting against their own country.

    For example, in Crimea, people are leaving due to constant air raid sirens, explosions, and the overwhelming military presence, unable to endure the unrelenting stress and danger.

    Russians in Crimea pack up as relentless sound of air alerts and sight of tanks become their new reality
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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • EU pours billions into drone firms that steal from Ukraine’s Skyeton, company with 350,000 combat flight hours
      Skyeton, the Ukrainian developer of the well-known long-range Raybird unmanned aerial vehicles, which have logged over 350,000 hours of combat flights, has become a target of technological espionage by unscrupulous European companies, The Telegraph reports.  The Raybird vehicles are capable of carrying different types of payloads, such as reconnaissance cameras, radio frequency locators, and other equipment, and flying up to 2,500km on missions up to 28 hours long. Roman Kniazhenko, the compan
       

    EU pours billions into drone firms that steal from Ukraine’s Skyeton, company with 350,000 combat flight hours

    12 juillet 2025 à 10:03

    Skyeton, the Ukrainian developer of the well-known long-range Raybird unmanned aerial vehicles, which have logged over 350,000 hours of combat flights, has become a target of technological espionage by unscrupulous European companies, The Telegraph reports. 

    The Raybird vehicles are capable of carrying different types of payloads, such as reconnaissance cameras, radio frequency locators, and other equipment, and flying up to 2,500km on missions up to 28 hours long.

    Roman Kniazhenko, the company’s CEO, reveals this. According to him, Western manufacturers visit “as guests” with alleged proposals for cooperation, but instead they are trying to steal production secrets. 

    “Then they do beautiful pitch books, beautiful presentations about how they’re operating in Ukraine. But actually they’ve done just a couple of flights in Lviv [the western city more than 1,000km from the front line],” he says. 

    Sometimes, Kniazhenko continues, he sees in their presentations, “literally my own words, without any change.”

    He also emphasizes that while Ukrainian drones withstand real combat conditions, taking off even from puddles, European governments are spending billions on products that merely simulate combat effectiveness. 

    “The big problem, after that, is that billions of dollars go to the companies that still don’t have any idea what they’re doing,” says Kniazhenko. 

    Meanwhile, the Skyeton team, currently 500 people strong, works 24/7 developing drones for the toughest frontline conditions.

    One example of its effectiveness was an operation in the Black Sea: Ukrainian special forces went missing at night, and a Raybird, with its lights on, was able to locate them in the dark waters.

    “From one side, everything looks perfect for us. But it was like hell, a night of hell. When you are destroying something you feel good for a couple seconds. But when you know that you saved someone. Like, it’s a totally different feeling,” explains Kniazhenko. 

    He also urges the West to fund the production of Ukrainian drones on its territory instead of starting a startup from scratch. Every country has the technologies it is good at, he stresses, adding that for Ukraine, it is clear that it is drones. 

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    Ukraine’s Intelligence: Massive gas pipeline explosion hits Russian military supply network, thousands kilometers from Kyiv

    12 juillet 2025 à 08:58

    While Moscow is busy relentlessly attacking Ukraine, gas pipelines are blowing up inside Russia itself. According to Ukrainian Defense Intelligence sources, a powerful explosion occurred in the city of Langepas, located in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous District, damaging a major section of a large trunk gas pipeline, UNIAN reports. 

    Langepas lies thousands of kilometers from the front lines in Ukraine, deep within Russian territory in Siberia. The city is a major hub for oil and gas extraction and serves as a strategic supply point for Russia’s military-industrial complex.

    This pipeline supplied gas to Russia’s defense industry facilities in the Chelyabinsk, Orenburg, and Sverdlovsk oblasts. The destroyed section had an annual throughput capacity of 2.6 billion cubic meters.

    “With the price of 1,000 cubic meters of gas at around $350, the immediate damage alone amounts to at least $1.3 million,” the source emphasizes.

    At the time of the explosion, about 4.1 million cubic meters of gas were flowing through the pipeline. Due to the difficult, swampy terrain, repairs will take at least a month. This will temporarily reduce supply by 25 million cubic meters, potentially leading to indirect losses of up to $76 million.

    Local media writes that residents were “deeply concerned” by the “powerful bangs.” Emergency crews and repair teams quickly arrived at the scene.

    Ukrainian intelligence reminds that “Western Siberia feeds Moscow,” but Siberians are dying on the front lines for the Kremlin’s interests.

    “When locals begin to actively demand their own independence… such ‘mysterious explosions’ will stop,” the source notes.

    Earlier, the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence identified dozens of Russian companies involved in producing the missile, most of which remain unsanctioned.

    Its War & Sanctions platform published a list of over 70 Russian companies manufacturing Kh-101 components. These companies still have access to Western equipment and technology, enabling Russia to replenish its missile stockpiles and continue targeting civilian infrastructure.

    You could close this page. Or you could join our community and help us produce more materials like this. We keep our reporting open and accessible to everyone because we believe in the power of free information. This is why our small, cost-effective team depends on the support of readers like you to bring deliver timely news, quality analysis, and on-the-ground reports about Russia's war against Ukraine and Ukraine's struggle to build a democratic society. Become a patron or see other ways to support
    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • As Pyongyang ships millions of shells to Moscow, Seoul delivers hundreds of tanks to NATO’s ally
      As wars around the world have depleted American stockpiles, South Korea has become a key weapons supplier to US allies in Europe, CNN reports.  Meanwhile, its neighbour, North Korea, has become a crucial military partner for Russia. Since 2024, Pyongyang has supplied Russia with millions of artillery shells and missiles, reportedly accounting for up to 40%-60% of Russia’s current weapons supply. In addition to arms, North Korea has sent thousands of military personnel and engineers to support R
       

    As Pyongyang ships millions of shells to Moscow, Seoul delivers hundreds of tanks to NATO’s ally

    12 juillet 2025 à 08:26

    As wars around the world have depleted American stockpiles, South Korea has become a key weapons supplier to US allies in Europe, CNN reports. 

    Meanwhile, its neighbour, North Korea, has become a crucial military partner for Russia. Since 2024, Pyongyang has supplied Russia with millions of artillery shells and missiles, reportedly accounting for up to 40%-60% of Russia’s current weapons supply. In addition to arms, North Korea has sent thousands of military personnel and engineers to support Russian operations. 

    The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reveals that South Korea has become the world’s 10th largest arms exporter over the past five years.

    The main importer of South Korean weapons is Poland, a country on NATO’s eastern flank that is actively preparing for war with Russia.

    Recently, Warsaw finalized a deal to acquire a second batch of 180 South Korean tanks, part of a 2022 agreement that will ultimately allow Poland to expand its arsenal to nearly 1,000 armored vehicles.

    The deal is valued at $6.7 billion and includes 80 support vehicles, ammunition, logistics, and training packages for the Polish army.

    The agreement covers K2 main battle tanks, considered among the most powerful in the world. South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration says it includes the tanks’ production by defense giant Hyundai Rotem and the establishment of a production line in Poland for the Polish variant, K2PL.

    The overall framework deal is considered the largest in South Korea’s defense industry history. The new armored vehicles will partially replace Soviet-era tanks that Poland has sent to Ukraine for use in the war against Russia. Poland has transferred over 300 tanks, more than 350 infantry fighting vehicles, and armored personnel carriers to Ukraine.

    As a NATO member bordering Ukraine, Poland is viewed as part of the Alliance’s first line of defense should Russian leader Vladimir Putin choose to expand his aggression beyond Ukraine.

    According to a report by the Wilson Center, Poland has arguably become the most capable military power in Europe.

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    Ukraine Rome Conference delivers concrete military support to Kyiv: Thousands of British air defense missiles, defense production in US, and interceptor drones

    11 juillet 2025 à 15:38

    Ukraine’s allies prepare real countermeasures against Russian terror at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome. On 10–11 July in Italy, the Ukraine Recovery Conference brought together a broad and high-level international delegation of over 6,000 to 8,000 participants from around 70 countries and 100 government delegations.

    The conference took place amid an escalation of Russian attacks on Ukraine. Recently, Moscow launched over 700 drones in a single night, targeting Ukrainian cities. Therefore, the focus of the conference extended beyond reconstruction and included defense, said Deputy Head of the Office of the President Pavlo Palisa.

    Key outcomes of bilateral meetings in Rome:

    • Patriot Systems. Palisa says a dialogue with the US regarding the purchase and transfer of ten air defense systems to Ukraine is ongoing, including at the presidential level. Germany is already prepared to fund two systems, and Norway another one. Once the manufacturer gives formal confirmation, other European partners are expected to join as well.
    • Joint defense production. Ukraine discussed cooperation and investment in scaling up domestic drone production with the prime ministers of Italy, Poland, and the Netherlands, as well as with the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
    • Interceptor drones. According to Palisa, this topic came up in nearly every meeting as “everyone understands the importance of technological solutions in modern warfare.” Ukraine is working to attract large investments to boost the production scale.
    • The UK–Ukraine agreement. At the conference, Britain and Ukraine signed a 19-year agreement that unlocks financing for over 5,000 Thales missiles for air defense systems.
    • Increased payments for Ukrainian soldiers. Palisa says EU leaders are responding positively to this matter. Ukraine will seek solutions together. 

    Not all decisions and agreements were announced publicly. Some remained classified due to the risk that Russia could exploit this information.

    Also, during the Ukraine Recovery Conference, the “Coalition of the Willing” met. Around 30 key countries and partners participated, including French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who joined remotely via video.

    For the first time, US representatives took part: Special Presidential Envoy Keith Kellogg, and Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal. They are co-authors of the bipartisan Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 (S.1241), which aims to increase sanctions pressure on Russia.

    Kyiv to set up gunpowder production in US after Rome recovery conference

    The main idea of the bill is to impose 500% tariffs on imports into the US from countries that continue to purchase Russian energy resources, such as oil, gas, uranium, and other raw materials. The goal is to economically isolate Russia and force countries around the world to stop supporting its war machine.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • “Brave and humane”: Colombian volunteers earn respect on Ukraine’s frontlines
      They are brave fighters who have already proven their strength on the battlefield. In the Ukrainian 47th Mechanized Brigade Magura, a reconnaissance and strike group composed mainly of Colombian volunteers has been formed. They are a part of the International Legion of Ukraine, a military unit within the Ukrainian Ground Forces, composed of foreign volunteers. Formed in 2022, the legion has attracted thousands of foreign volunteers from over 50 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, to fi
       

    “Brave and humane”: Colombian volunteers earn respect on Ukraine’s frontlines

    11 juillet 2025 à 15:02

    They are brave fighters who have already proven their strength on the battlefield. In the Ukrainian 47th Mechanized Brigade Magura, a reconnaissance and strike group composed mainly of Colombian volunteers has been formed.

    They are a part of the International Legion of Ukraine, a military unit within the Ukrainian Ground Forces, composed of foreign volunteers. Formed in 2022, the legion has attracted thousands of foreign volunteers from over 50 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, to fight against Russian aggression. 

    A video showcasing this unit of Colombian volunteers was published by ArmyInform. 

    The company commander, known as Hamlet, personally organized the arrival of foreign volunteers, including Colombians and fighters from Peru, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Italy, and Mexico. Ukrainian state programs allow them to quickly undergo training and integrate into the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

    “The work of the Colombian assault troops shows excellent results and significantly helps on the battlefield. They have already fought alongside elite Russian brigades and North Korean special forces in Kursk Oblast,” the command of the Colombian assault company states.

    They have also been described as “brave and humane,” who retrieve their wounded comrades and injured Ukrainians from the frontline, and are ready to carry out essential missions.

    Earlier, BBC Russian Service identified the names of 523 foreign mercenaries killed fighting for Russia against Ukraine, using only open-source confirmations.

    The outlet reported that those were from 28 countries and died in Ukraine during Russia’s full-scale invasion. The database relies strictly on publicly available information, including Russian official announcements, social media posts by family members, and grave photographs. It excludes Ukrainian sources and Western intelligence.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Kyiv to set up gunpowder production in US after Rome recovery conference
      Kyiv will manufacture gunpowder on US soil. On 11 July, Ukraine signed a relevant deal with its American counterparts during the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, Oleksandr Kamyshin, presidential advisor, has announced, UkrInform reports. On 10-11 July, Italy hosted the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference. The event was dedicated to the country’s recovery and long-term reconstruction. Rome gathered international organisations, businesses, and civil society representatives for Ukraine’s future.
       

    Kyiv to set up gunpowder production in US after Rome recovery conference

    11 juillet 2025 à 14:44

    Kyiv will manufacture gunpowder on US soil. On 11 July, Ukraine signed a relevant deal with its American counterparts during the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, Oleksandr Kamyshin, presidential advisor, has announced, UkrInform reports.

    On 10-11 July, Italy hosted the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference. The event was dedicated to the country’s recovery and long-term reconstruction. Rome gathered international organisations, businesses, and civil society representatives for Ukraine’s future.

    Kamyshyn has explained that the company involved in the production has already been engaged in projects with Ukraine. He says such cooperation seemed “an unattainable goal just two years ago.”

    “Now we’re entering a systematic, proper, and ongoing format of joint work,” he adds.

    Kamyshin has also revealed more than five defense-related deals, some classified as public and others classified. Intergovernmental agreements, a memorandum between Ukraine’s Council of Arms Manufacturers and the Italian Association of Arms Manufacturers, and company-to-company deals are among them.

    One of the agreements was signed by US General Keith Kellogg, a special envoy of US President Donald Trump.

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    Pentagon’s outdated missiles, such as AGM-114 Hellfire, could be Ukraine’s lifeline, says former army chief Zaluzhnyi

    11 juillet 2025 à 12:48

    The US has thousands of outdated missiles that could immediately save Ukraine. Instead of being disposed of, these significant missile stocks could be transferred to Ukraine at no additional cost, says Former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukrainska Pravda reports. 

    On 8 July, US President Donald Trump announced that Washington would send more weapons to Ukraine to help the country defend itself against intensified Russian attacks. For the first time since taking office in January this year, Trump plans to use presidential powers to transfer a weapons package to Ukraine, according to Reuters. He preliminarily intends to send arms worth up to $300 million from existing Pentagon resources.

    Zaluzhnyi notes that despite efforts to maintain support for Ukraine, European countries have proven unprepared for the rapid transformation of their defense industries, lagging behind Russia and primarily the capabilities of the US. He says some European countries are preparing for war as it was during World War II, burdening their budgets and failing to understand that the war since 2022 is of a different kind.

    Moreover, in conditions of geopolitical instability, the very structure of Europe is expected to change. He states that European leaders fear their own electorates, who are not ready for worsening living conditions.

    “Under such circumstances, expectations for long-term and, most importantly, urgently needed assistance should be approached with great caution,” he claims. 

    At the same time, the US remains a country of virtually unlimited capabilities and the world’s most developed economy.

    “Today, the US holds significant stocks of outdated or soon-to-be-decommissioned missiles, the transfer of which to Ukraine could be an effective solution,” emphasizes the former Ukrainian commander-in-chief.

    This armament requires no additional budget costs for disposal and is critically necessary for Ukraine. 

    By the end of 2023, the US had produced over 170,000 Hellfire missiles of various modifications. A significant portion of these munitions were manufactured between 1998 and 2018. They typically have a service life of 20 to 25 years, after which they require official write-off or disposal.

    The AGM-114 Hellfire is used against tanks, armored vehicles, bunkers, buildings, and personnel. The missiles can be launched from helicopters, drones, and ground vehicles. 

    Furthermore, as part of a long-term Pentagon program, there is a gradual transition to the new JAGM missile system, which is replacing Hellfire both operationally and in production.

    Therefore, Zaluzhnyi suggests that many of the outdated weapons will be either disposed of or transferred to other allied countries. 

    “Ukraine can take advantage of this opportunity by systematically submitting official requests under various programs, justifying the need for urgent reinforcement of its defense capability and guaranteeing the US’s rational management of the stockpiles,” he concludes.

    Earlier, sources reported that Trump planned to send Ukraine weapons through NATO. The proposed route would involve selling arms to the allies, who would then pass them on to Ukraine. The suggestion had already been discussed with European partners and Ukraine.

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    ISW: Moscow tries to trade business deals with Washingtopn for Ukraine’s capitulation, while drones rain down on maternity wards and hospitals

    11 juillet 2025 à 12:04

    russian drones hit hospital kharkiv oblast zolochiv after drone strike 13 2025 27d3a83e8b82479f ukraine news ukrainian reports

    Russia is attempting to trade business cooperation with the US in exchange for concessions in its war against Kyiv. At the same time, Moscow relentlessly attacks civilians, killing women and children with record numbers of drones, demanding Ukraine’s surrender, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reports. 

    On 10 July, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov following the second massive airstrike on Ukraine in recent days. Afterward, Rubio said the US was disappointed by the lack of progress in peacefully resolving Russia’s war against Ukraine. He added that Russia had offered a “new or different approach” during the talks, without specifying what that approach entailed.

    “The Kremlin continues efforts to use its diplomatic engagements with the United States in an effort to divert attention from the war in Ukraine and toward the potential restoration of US-Russian relations,” experts conclude.

    According to the Russian Foreign Ministry’s statement on the Rubio-Lavrov meeting, they discussed bilateral US-Russia issues unrelated to the war in Ukraine, including the restoration of contacts, economic and humanitarian cooperation, direct air travel, and the work of diplomatic missions.

    The Russian Foreign Ministry also said that the US and Russia will continue dialogue on a “growing range of issues of mutual interest.”

    Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said on 10 July that he sees no slowdown in the development of US-Russia relations.

    The day before the meeting, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova reaffirmed Russia’s initial military demands for regime change in Ukraine and demilitarization. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov again stated that Moscow insists on recognizing the “realities on the ground.”

    “Kremlin officials’ public statements continue to demonstrate that Russia remains committed to achieving its original war goals in Ukraine and is not interested in good faith negotiations to end the war, however,” the ISW writes. 

    The analysts emphasize that Kremlin officials often urge Ukraine to accept the “realities on the ground,” meaning the current frontline in Ukraine, implying Russia holds a stronger negotiating position due to the battlefield situation. They also demand that Ukraine concede to Russian demands to change its government, stop arms deliveries, and reduce its army.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Spain’s shadow export keeps Russian artillery alive
      If not for a Spanish company, Russia could have run out of new artillery barrels. Barcelona-based Forward Technical Trade SL supplied at least one radial forging machine to Russia, initially built by the Austrian firm Gesellschaft für Fertigungstechnik und Maschinenbau (GFM), the Insider reports.  Since early 2024, Ukraine has destroyed over 19,000 Russian artillery systems, contributing to a total loss of nearly 30,000 systems over the entire war. The attacks have reduced Russia’s artillery
       

    Spain’s shadow export keeps Russian artillery alive

    11 juillet 2025 à 11:38

    barrel

    If not for a Spanish company, Russia could have run out of new artillery barrels. Barcelona-based Forward Technical Trade SL supplied at least one radial forging machine to Russia, initially built by the Austrian firm Gesellschaft für Fertigungstechnik und Maschinenbau (GFM), the Insider reports. 

    Since early 2024, Ukraine has destroyed over 19,000 Russian artillery systems, contributing to a total loss of nearly 30,000 systems over the entire war. The attacks have reduced Russia’s artillery superiority from a 10:1 ratio to about 2:1. Meanwhile, Kyiv and Moscow are turning to drones for faster, more precise strikes, reshaping how the war is fought.

    The equipment, valued at $1.3 million, weighs 110 tons and was manufactured in 1983. The transfer reportedly occurred via a Hong Kong-based intermediary, Scorpion’s Holding Group Limited.

    GFM denies any direct business ties with either the Spanish supplier or the Hong Kong firm. However, the UK’s Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) confirms that GFM machines are crucial for barrel manufacturing in Russia — and that the Russian defense industry remains entirely dependent on them.

    According to US-based expert Pavel Luzin, Russia cannot produce these forging machines domestically. Facing severe shortages, Russian forces have already begun “cannibalizing” old Soviet stockpiles, endangering frontline performance.

    Earlier, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence reported that the West still had not sanctioned 70 Russian companies behind the production of missiles that struck Kyiv’s largest children’s cancer hospital. 

    The Okhmatdyt strike occurred the same day Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on 8-9 July 2024, calling for a peaceful resolution to the war. While the two leaders spoke of peace, Russian missiles rained down across Ukraine, killing 47 people, including 33 in Kyiv.

    Technology is Ukraine’s chance to win the war. This is why we’re launching the David vs. Goliath defense blog to support Ukrainian engineers who are creating innovative battlefield solutions and are inviting you to join us on the journey.

    Our platform will showcase the Ukrainian defense tech underdogs who are Ukraine’s hope to win in the war against Russia, giving them the much-needed visibility to connect them with crucial expertise, funding, and international support. Together, we can give David the best fighting chance he has.

    Join us in building this platformbecome a Euromaidan Press Patron. As little as $5 monthly will boost strategic innovations that could succeed where traditional approaches have failed.

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    Ukraine says it will not conceal espionage despite ongoing dialogue after catching Chinese spies targeting missile secrets

    11 juillet 2025 à 11:01

    ukraine ministry foreign affairs

    Stability in Ukraine is in China’s own interest, and Beijing holds the most powerful levers to influence Moscow and urge Russian ruler Vladimir Putin to end the war, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi says, according to UkrInform. 

    In July 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that the future of the EU’s policy toward China would rely on Beijing’s involvement in supporting Russia’s war efforts. Moscow is dependent on supplies of Chinese components for both tactical and long-range drones. This allows Moscow to narrow the technological and production gap with Ukraine in the drone sector. The cooperation poses a threat to the European Union, said von der Leyen.

    Tykhyi calls on China, which has been called the main sponsor of Russia’s war, to view Ukraine not merely as another European country, but as a future member of the European Union. He emphasizes that “Ukraine–China relations are ongoing, dialogue exists.” Kyiv is also openly responding to instances of Chinese citizens participating in combat on Russia’s side or engaging in acts of industrial espionage.

    For instance, on 9 July, Kyiv detained two Chinese nationals, accused of attempting to steal classified documentation on Ukraine’s Neptune anti-ship missile system. The weapon that sank Russia’s flagship Moskva.

    The younger suspect studied at a Kyiv technical university until 2023, when he was expelled for poor grades. Instead of returning to China, he stayed in Ukraine. The SBU suggests he used his remaining contacts to target someone with access to advanced weapons development.

    “Recently, Chinese nationals were detained for gathering sensitive information about Ukrainian weapons. These facts are not being concealed,” the spokesperson says, adding that such incidents damage bilateral relations, and Ukraine cannot ignore threats amid all-out war.

    Earlier, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told a senior EU diplomat that China “cannot accept” Russia’s defeat in the war against Ukraine, arguing that such an outcome would allow the US to focus its foreign policy on Beijing. However, this does not fully indicate that Beijing is focused on Moscow’s victory. 

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • EU plans to continue aid for Kyiv in 2027
      Denmark’s Minister of Economy, Stefanie Lose, announced that aid to Ukraine will continue beyond 2026. The European Union is already discussing financial support for Ukraine beyond that year, as the situation with Russian aggression remains extremely challenging, UkrInform reports.  Denmark, which took over the EU Council presidency on 1 July, has made supporting Ukraine a key priority of its six-month leadership. Lose says that the funding will be available until 2026, but she understands resou
       

    EU plans to continue aid for Kyiv in 2027

    8 juillet 2025 à 15:07

    Denmark’s Minister of Economy, Stefanie Lose, announced that aid to Ukraine will continue beyond 2026. The European Union is already discussing financial support for Ukraine beyond that year, as the situation with Russian aggression remains extremely challenging, UkrInform reports. 

    Denmark, which took over the EU Council presidency on 1 July, has made supporting Ukraine a key priority of its six-month leadership.

    Lose says that the funding will be available until 2026, but she understands resources will be needed for the next period.

    Commenting on the informal dinner of EU ministers of economy and finance held on Monday ahead of the EU Council meeting, where financial aid for Ukraine beyond 2026 was discussed, the official stated there was a “very good discussion” during which the parties explored “options under which Ukraine can receive everything it needs.”

    The official highlights that strong solidarity with Ukraine exists within the European family and that aid will remain “at the very top of the agenda” throughout Denmark’s presidency.

    Meanwhile, the European Commission is urgently discussing with the EU and G7 countries how to prevent a major financial shortfall in Ukraine in 2025. The projected gap in external funding could reach $19 billion, amid declining US support and no immediate prospects for a peace deal with Russia.

    In 2024, Denmark introduced a unique military support mechanism for Ukraine — the Danish model. It involves direct funding and procurement of weapons from Ukrainian domestic defense enterprises. This approach strengthens Ukraine’s defense industry and provides the Armed Forces with modern NATO-standard equipment.

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    ICC issues arrest warrants for Taliban leaders for crimes against women after Russia becomes only country in world to recognize their regime

    8 juillet 2025 à 14:49

    International Criminal Court

    The Pre-Trial Chamber of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada and the head of Afghanistan’s Supreme Court, Abdul Hakim Haqqani.

    Russia has become the first country in the world to officially recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. In Moscow, the flag of the Taliban regime, recognized as a terrorist organization by many countries, was raised over the Afghan embassy building.

    The Court found reasonable grounds to believe that both individuals are responsible for crimes against humanity on gender- and politically based grounds, including the persecution of girls, women, and anyone who did not conform to Taliban policies on gender, identity, or expression.

    According to the ICC, the Taliban’s crimes have continued from 15 August 2021, when they seized power, through at least January 2025.

    The report outlines killings, torture, rape, enforced disappearances, and systematic deprivation of women’s rights, including rights to education, freedom of movement, privacy, and freedom of speech.

    On 17 March 2023, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin. He is suspected of committing a war crime, namely, the unlawful deportation and forced transfer of children from the occupied territories of Ukraine to Russia.

    Brazil won’t shield Putin from ICC arrest — so he’ll zoom into the BRICS summit

    This international legal document restricts his international travel due to the risk of arrest in countries that recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Russia declares Yale University “undesirable” after it tracked 30,000 stolen Ukrainian children
      On 8 July, Russia officially declared Yale University, one of the most renowned universities in the world, an “undesirable organization” on its territory. Its lab tracked more than 30,000 Ukrainian children abducted by Russia and provided the data to Ukrainian and US government authorities, Current Time reports. Since 2014, Russia has been forcibly taking Ukrainian children from occupied territories and reprogramming them as part of a state-sponsored cultural genocide. Russia aims to re-educate
       

    Russia declares Yale University “undesirable” after it tracked 30,000 stolen Ukrainian children

    8 juillet 2025 à 14:31

    More children return to Ukraine from Russian occupation.

    On 8 July, Russia officially declared Yale University, one of the most renowned universities in the world, an “undesirable organization” on its territory. Its lab tracked more than 30,000 Ukrainian children abducted by Russia and provided the data to Ukrainian and US government authorities, Current Time reports.

    Since 2014, Russia has been forcibly taking Ukrainian children from occupied territories and reprogramming them as part of a state-sponsored cultural genocide. Russia aims to re-educate these children, stripping them of their Ukrainian identity and integrating them into Russian society. This includes military training and indoctrination with Russian propaganda.

    Following this designation, any cooperation with Yale University in Russia is prohibited, and individuals face criminal liability for violations.

    According to a statement by the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office, Yale’s activities are allegedly aimed at violating its territorial integrity, contributing to the international blockade of the state, and undermining its economy.

    The statement also specifically mentioned Yale’s School of Global Affairs, which, according to Russian authorities, “trains opposition leaders of foreign countries.”

    A likely reason for such a move is the investigative work of Yale’s Humanitarian Research Lab, which had been gathering evidence of Russian war crimes in Ukraine, according to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. 

    The university’s team provided their findings to Ukrainian authorities through the Bring Kids Back UA campaign, a humanitarian program initiated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The campaign focuses on returning minors to Ukraine, reintegration efforts, and documenting crimes for potential prosecution at the International Criminal Court.

    The Yale researchers not only tracked deported children but also documented other alleged Russian crimes, including filtration camps, forced Russian citizenship, re-education camps for minors, and the transfer of Ukrainian children to Russian families.

    However, as of 1 July 2025, the lab ceased operations following cuts in federal funding by the administration of US President Donald Trump. 

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    Top Kremlin mouthpiece says Putin treats Trump’s Kyiv arms shift with indifference, calls to seize more Ukrainian territories

    8 juillet 2025 à 12:58

    isw russia tries hide weaknesses behind victory day parade russia's 9 moscow 2025 youtube/kremlin grate patriotic warr shitshow projecting power strength conceal significant limitations its capabilities while distracting battlefield failures

    After US President Donald Trump announced new arms shipments to Ukraine, Moscow dismissed his stance on the war as “political swings.” This comment came from former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.

    In his post, Medvedev referred to Trump not by name, but simply as “the American.” Often called the Kremlin’s “mouthpiece” for his apocalyptic social media statements reflecting Moscow’s official position, Medvedev has frequently issued nuclear threats aimed at the West.

    “The American is once again riding his favorite political swings: ‘I’m satisfied with the conversation with Putin.’ ‘I’m disappointed with the conversation with Putin.’ ‘We’re not supplying new weapons to Ukraine.’ ‘We will supply lots of weapons to Ukraine for defense.’ How should we respond? As always — not at all,” Medvedev wrote on social media.

    He added that not only Russian soldiers, but also the “Supreme Commander-in-Chief,” referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin, treat Trump’s words the same way — with complete disregard.

    At the same time, Medvedev called to “take back our land” and “work for victory,” without clarifying that these Ukrainian territories never belonged to Russia and therefore cannot be “taken back.” Under international law, Russia’s actions are considered armed aggression and occupation.

    Earlier, Trump publicly criticized Medvedev over his hints about the possibility of other countries transferring nuclear weapons to Iran, reminding him of the risk of such words.

    Later, Medvedev clarified that Russia would not transfer nuclear weapons to Iran, although, in his opinion, other countries might do so. Such statements showed Moscow adopted a cautious stance toward the US to avoid further economic damage and the reinforcement of Western support to Ukraine.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Europe’s red line to China: Stop fueling Putin’s war machine or face policy reversal, Von der Leyen warns
      European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has warned that the future of the EU’s policy toward China will depend on Beijing’s involvement in supporting Russia’s war economy, UkrInform reports. Her statement comes after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told a senior EU diplomat that China “cannot accept” Russia’s defeat in the war against Ukraine, arguing that such an outcome would allow the US to focus its foreign policy on Beijing. Von der Leyen has stressed that China’s support fo
       

    Europe’s red line to China: Stop fueling Putin’s war machine or face policy reversal, Von der Leyen warns

    8 juillet 2025 à 12:33

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has warned that the future of the EU’s policy toward China will depend on Beijing’s involvement in supporting Russia’s war economy, UkrInform reports.

    Her statement comes after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told a senior EU diplomat that China “cannot accept” Russia’s defeat in the war against Ukraine, arguing that such an outcome would allow the US to focus its foreign policy on Beijing.

    Von der Leyen has stressed that China’s support for Moscow is contributing to a “high level of instability and danger for Europe,” and that Beijing is de facto enabling the growth of Russia’s military-industrial base, a trend the EU “cannot accept.”

    She also called on China to clearly condemn Russia’s violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and internationally recognized borders, and to act accordingly.

    Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has imposed sanctions on five Chinese companies involved in supplying components used in Russian drone production.

    The restrictions have been approved after investigations revealed that Chinese-made parts were found in Shahed drones used in the massive airstrike on Kyiv on 4 July.

    Among the sanctioned firms are:

    • Ningbo BLIN Machinery Co., Ltd
    • Suzhou ECOD Precision Manufacturing

    Both reportedly supplied goods to Russian entities under sanctions in 2024 and 2025.

    Russia is heavily dependent on supplies of Chinese components for both tactical and long-range drones. This allows Moscow to narrow the technological and production gap with Ukraine in the drone sector.

    Earlier, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence had identified dozens of Russian companies involved in producing the missile, most of which remain unsanctioned.

    HUR: West still has not sanctioned 70 Russian companies behind production of missiles that struck Kyiv’s largest children’s cancer hospital year ago

    Its War & Sanctions platform has published a list of over 70 Russian companies manufacturing Kh-101 components. These companies still have access to Western equipment and technology, enabling Russia to replenish its missile stockpiles and continue targeting civilian infrastructure.

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    HUR: West still has not sanctioned 70 Russian companies behind production of missiles that struck Kyiv’s largest children’s cancer hospital year ago

    8 juillet 2025 à 12:13

    ukraine destroys 30/38 russian missiles attack kills 28 injures 112 aftermath russia's strike okhmatdyt children's hospital kyiv 8 july 2024 telegram/sbu

    Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called on the international community to hold Russia accountable for its missile strike on the Okhmatdyt children’s hospital. It is the only hospital in Ukraine treating childhood cancer with radiation therapy. 

    The Okhmatdyt strike occurred the same day Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, calling for a peaceful resolution to the war. While the two leaders spoke of peace, Russian missiles rained down across Ukraine, killing 47 people, including 33 in Kyiv. This reflects a recurring Kremlin tactic: launching deadly attacks immediately after peace talks with foreign leaders, a form of diplomatic defiance disguised as terror.

    The ministry has described the assault as one of the Kremlin’s most horrific war crimes since the start of Russia’s all-out war.

    Russian X-101 cruise missile moments before striking the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv. 8 July 2024. Screenshot from a video on the KyivToday Telegram channel.

    “One year has passed. Yet Russia has not been held accountable for this crime against the most vulnerable – children. The world must not look away,” the agency said in a statement.

    On the day of the attack, 627 children, including cancer patients undergoing dialysis, were inside the hospital. The missile hit the toxicology building, killing two doctors, injuring at least eight children, and forcing the evacuation of 94 patients to other hospitals. A young boy later died in an intensive care unit during the strike. 

    Investigations by Ukraine’s Security Service and international experts, including Bellingcat, confirmed that the hospital was hit by a Russian Kh-101 strategic cruise missile.

    Forensic experts identify over 30 parts of Russian Kh-101 missile that hit Okhmatdyt hospital

    The agency has identified dozens of Russian companies involved in producing the missile, most of which remain unsanctioned.

    Its War & Sanctions platform has published a list of over 70 Russian companies manufacturing Kh-101 components. These companies still have access to Western equipment and technology, enabling Russia to replenish its missile stockpiles and continue targeting civilian infrastructure.

    Just last month, a Russian Kh-101 missile destroyed an apartment building in Kyiv, killing and injuring civilians.

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    Ukraine’s Intelligence identifies Russian officer responsible cruise missle terror against Kyiv’s top oncology center with 600 children inside

    8 juillet 2025 à 09:57

    missile attack hospital

    The Ukrainian Military Intelligence has identified Russian Major Denis Sheynov as responsible for the 8 July 2024 missile strike on Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv, where more than 600 children, including cancer patients, were present at the time of the attack.

    The same day, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and called for peace, while Russia launched a massive missile attack across Ukraine, killing 33 people in Kyiv and 47 in total, including five children. Nine civilians were killed in another hospital alone. Their meeting did not prompt Russia to stop its aggression against Ukraine. 

    This is not the first time Russia has launched strikes immediately following peace talks with international leaders — a pattern of demonstrative terror.

    Similar strikes have occurred after Putin’s conversations with US President Donald Trump or US officials, demonstrating a deliberate strategy of violent escalation under the guise of diplomacy.

    “Major Sheynov was responsible for the technical preparation of Kh-101 cruise missiles for combat use by strategic aviation,” Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) states.

    The missile hit the toxicology building, completely destroying the oncology, surgical, and intensive care units, and leaving Ukraine’s only pediatric radiotherapy department without electricity, water, or oxygen. Two adults, including a doctor, were killed. Over 50 people, including children, were injured.

    Sheynov, born on 30 January 1978, in Saratov, is a graduate of the Saratov Military School, served in Syria, and was decorated for “special operations.” According to HUR, he performed special missions in Syria in 2018.

    Russian Major Denis Sheynov, responsible for the 8 July 2024 missile strike on Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv. HUR

    Russia, as a terrorist state, systematically uses violence against civilians as part of its military strategy, both in Ukraine and earlier in Syria, where Russian airstrikes devastated cities like Aleppo, Homs, and Ariha.

    These bombings targeted residential areas, hospitals, markets, and infrastructure, killing thousands and causing a humanitarian catastrophe. Russia also used internationally banned weapons, including cluster bombs and chemical agents, reinforcing its willingness to destroy civilian life to achieve military goals.

    Okhmatdyt was Ukraine’s only hospital treating childhood cancer with radiation therapy. Its destruction is a devastating blow to pediatric oncology during wartime.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Russian attacks surged by 1.6 times in June—Ukraine answers with 115 fire missions and 2,864 targets destroyed
      Ukraine responds to Russia’s escalation with deep-strike counterattacks. As Russia tries to stretch the front and break Ukrainian defenses, Ukrainian forces are hitting back hard: in June alone, Ukrainian artillery completed 115 fire missions, striking 2,864 targets, says Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Over the past day alone, nearly 188 combat clashes have occurred between Ukrainian and Russian troops. Moscow has lost over 1,000 soldiers and dozens of artillery systems in a si
       

    Russian attacks surged by 1.6 times in June—Ukraine answers with 115 fire missions and 2,864 targets destroyed

    8 juillet 2025 à 09:20

    Ukraine responds to Russia’s escalation with deep-strike counterattacks. As Russia tries to stretch the front and break Ukrainian defenses, Ukrainian forces are hitting back hard: in June alone, Ukrainian artillery completed 115 fire missions, striking 2,864 targets, says Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi.

    Over the past day alone, nearly 188 combat clashes have occurred between Ukrainian and Russian troops. Moscow has lost over 1,000 soldiers and dozens of artillery systems in a single day. Diplomatic efforts remain stalled, as Russia reiterates demands for Ukraine’s demilitarization and government change, rejecting ceasefire proposals. The war continues with no immediate prospect for peace. 

     

    The priority for June was stabilizing the frontline and holding off Russian offensives in Donetsk and Sumy oblasts, where Moscow has concentrated its main strike forces.

    “Unfortunately, the enemy holds a significant advantage in manpower and equipment,” Syrskyi admits.

    He notes that Russia has increased its use of drones and missiles by 1.6 times. In response, Ukraine’s Defense Forces struck around 4,000 targets, including inside Russian territory.

    “We are forced to seek new tactical and technological solutions,” the general emphasizes.

    Key Ukrainian priorities now include developing air defense, expanding drone strike capabilities, modernizing equipment, and reforming mobilization and recruitment.

    Amid unstable international support, Ukraine is pursuing alternative arms supply routes, expanding repair capacities, and embracing asymmetric tactics to disrupt Russia’s summer offensive.

    Earlier, Euromaidan Press reported that Kyiv started producing 200,000 drones per month, a tenfold increase compared to 2024. 

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    Europe urgently searches $19 billion for Kyiv as America sends only drops of aid to Ukraine despite Russia’s terror escalation

    8 juillet 2025 à 08:35

    The European Commission is urgently discussing with EU and G7 countries how to prevent a major financial shortfall in Ukraine in 2025, the Financial Times reports. The projected gap in external funding could reach $19 billion, amid declining US support and no immediate prospects for a peace deal with Russia.

    US President Donald Trump has agreed to resume arms deliveries to Ukraine, but at a reduced scale. According to sources, he pledged to send just ten Patriot interceptor missiles immediately instead of the full shipment that had previously been suspended. Meanwhile, AIM-120 and Hellfire missiles, GMLRS munitions, howitzer rounds, Stingers, and grenade launchers are stuck. 

    Among the solutions under consideration:

    • allocating off-budget defense grants to Ukraine,
    • providing loans under the G7’s $50 billion scheme,
    • continued use of profits from frozen Russian assets,
    • reinvesting those assets into higher-risk instruments with shared responsibility.

    The European Commission admits that some Ukrainian support spending has already been adjusted, given the prolonged nature of the war. Diplomats emphasize that funding Ukraine’s defense should be seen as part of the EU’s own security investment.

    “Clearly the military support for Ukraine that member states are giving are not only funds for the defense of Ukraine but for the defense of Europe, and some of that of course will count as defense spending,” says one senior EU diplomat.

    One proposal submitted by Ukraine to the G7 suggests that bilateral defense grants could count toward NATO defense spending commitments. This would allow allies to simultaneously support Ukraine and move closer to meeting the 2% or even 5% GDP targets.

    Despite more optimistic assessments from the IMF, the fund acknowledges that the deficit could grow if the war continues beyond 2025. In 2026 alone, Ukraine may require at least another $8 billion, even considering deferred tranches from the EU, US, and Japan.

    The urgency is intensifying ahead of the Ukraine Recovery Summit in Rome this week, where Ursula von der Leyen will participate. Meanwhile, the European Commission is preparing to unveil new financial initiatives to support Kyiv before winter sets in.

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Trump sends just ten Patriot missiles to Kyiv, while Ukraine needs hundreds, and other weapons remain in limbo
      After several days of talks with advisors and European leaders, US President Donald Trump has agreed to resume arms deliveries to Ukraine, but at a significantly reduced scale. According to two sources, Trump pledged to send just ten Patriot interceptor missiles immediately, instead of the full shipment that had previously been suspended, Axios reports. Patriot missiles, the only weapons in Ukraine that are capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, are essential for protecting Ukrainian citie
       

    Trump sends just ten Patriot missiles to Kyiv, while Ukraine needs hundreds, and other weapons remain in limbo

    8 juillet 2025 à 07:33

    trump claims moscow ready ceasefire while kyiv resists russia targets ukraine missiles president donald oval office giving remarks press watch live_ signs executive orders 28-52 expressed sympathy toward russian invading

    After several days of talks with advisors and European leaders, US President Donald Trump has agreed to resume arms deliveries to Ukraine, but at a significantly reduced scale. According to two sources, Trump pledged to send just ten Patriot interceptor missiles immediately, instead of the full shipment that had previously been suspended, Axios reports.

    Patriot missiles, the only weapons in Ukraine that are capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, are essential for protecting Ukrainian cities from Russian aerial assaults.

    The decision represents a compromise between internal skepticism within the administration and international pressure. Trump has also initiated talks with Germany, proposing that Berlin sell one of its own Patriot batteries to Ukraine, with costs shared between the US and European allies.

    However, Germany has so far declined, insisting it has already delivered more Patriots to Ukraine proportionally than even the US.

    Moscow has repeatedly claimed it would consider peace in Ukraine only if Western military support ceased. The Trump administration stopped US weapons shipments to Ukraine on 1-2 June. However, two days after the halt, Russia launched its largest aerial assault on Kyiv since the start of the all-out war, prompting Trump’s statements on his disappointment with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. 

    Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Trump’s advisors are also exploring Patriot purchases from Greece. 

    “Getting a Patriot missile isn’t like going to Walmart and picking 10 off the shelf and going home,” says one of Trump’s advisers.

    Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to meet Trump’s envoy, Keith Kellogg, in Rome this week. Kyiv hopes to gain clarity on the volume and timing of future US military aid.

    Earlier, Trump reportedly told Zelenskyy in a phone call on 4 July that he wasn’t responsible for the pause in US weapons deliveries to Ukraine. The American president blamed the Pentagon and said he never gave an order to freeze military aid.

    The pause in weapon deliveries amid the escalated Russian air and ground attacks in Ukraine surprised Kyiv, the State Department, and members of Congress. Patriot interceptors, AIM-120 and Hellfire missiles, GMLRS munitions, howitzer rounds, Stingers, and grenade launchers are among halted weapons, approved during former Joe Biden’s administration. 

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    • ✇Euromaidan Press
    • Ukraine’s drone production soars, creating sky army ten times bigger in just one year
      Ukraine is now producing 200,000 drones per month — the new reality of its war effort. Drone manufacturing in Ukraine has surged by 900% over the past year, reports Defense Express. Ukrainian forces have repeatedly struck Russian military, defense industry, and energy infrastructure in both occupied territories and inside Russia with drones. The ongoing air campaign is aimed at crippling Russian military logistics and its capacity to continue the war. Analytical centers, such as the Atlantic Cou
       

    Ukraine’s drone production soars, creating sky army ten times bigger in just one year

    7 juillet 2025 à 13:57

    Yasni Ochi Ukraine drone warfare Chasiv Yar

    Ukraine is now producing 200,000 drones per month — the new reality of its war effort. Drone manufacturing in Ukraine has surged by 900% over the past year, reports Defense Express.

    Ukrainian forces have repeatedly struck Russian military, defense industry, and energy infrastructure in both occupied territories and inside Russia with drones. The ongoing air campaign is aimed at crippling Russian military logistics and its capacity to continue the war.

    Analytical centers, such as the Atlantic Council and Georgetown Security Studies Review, say that this rapid growth is only the first stage.

    The drone sector has become a key response to Russian aggression, with monthly output rising from 20,000 to over 200,000 units in just one year.

    To bolster its defense potential, Ukraine must establish long‑term investment mechanisms and more actively protect its technologies with patents.

    Experts note that Ukraine currently files fewer patents for drone technologies than Russia or other countries, limiting its innovative defense industry prospects. Intellectual property protection, they say, is “an integral part of national security.”

    Although the study covers primarily 2022–2023 data, Defense Express confirms that the lack of long‑term contracts and support mechanisms remains a pressing issue for many Ukrainian defense firms.

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    Thousands of flights disrupted in Russia after Ukrainian strike—hours later, Putin’s fired transport chief is found dead

    7 juillet 2025 à 13:19

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    After a Ukrainian drone strike, Russia plunges into aviation chaos and loses a minister. The country is still grappling with widespread flight delays and cancellations following a massive attack on the night of 5 July, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reports. 

    As of today, Ukraine’s airports remain non-operational due to the ongoing war and the closure of the country’s airspace amid persistent threats of missile and drone attacks by Russia. Ukrainian airspace has been closed to civilian flights since February 2022.

    By 7 June, nearly 2,000 flights have been delayed, over 500 have been canceled, and at least 88 aircraft have been diverted to alternate airports.

    Major hubs were hardest hit, including Moscow’s Sheremetyevo, St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo, and Chkalov Airport in Nizhny Novgorod.

    While Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency claimed “normalization” by the morning of 7 July, dozens of flights remained disrupted.

    Sheremetyevo saw over 40 delayed flights, while Pulkovo faced delays on more than 100 routes and at least eight cancellations. Similar disruptions occurred in Chelyabinsk and Yekaterinburg. Russian media estimate financial damages from the air traffic meltdown to exceed 20 billion rubles.

    Amid the chaos came a bombshell: Russian Transport Minister Roman Starovoit was found dead just hours after being fired by Russian President Vladimir Putin. His sacking was linked to the air transport collapse following the drone strikes, according to UNIAN. 

    According to early reports from Russian Telegram channels, Starovoit died as a result of suicide, allegedly shooting himself in his car with an award pistol received in 2023.

    While aviation failures were cited as the reason for his dismissal, other reports suggest he faced imminent criminal charges related to the alleged embezzlement of funds intended for building fortifications in Kursk Oblast, which he previously governed.

    One of his former deputies is already implicated and is believed to have testified against him.

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    Russian FM calls for Moscow–Budapest alliance, potentially setting stage for destabilization of Ukraine’s Zakarpattia Oblast

    7 juillet 2025 à 12:04

    Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

    Moscow and Budapest may be preparing for the “protection of citizens” in Ukraine. Russia is seeking to join efforts with Hungary to “save” national minorities in Ukraine, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told Magyar Nemzet in an interview.

    Such rhetoric is a troubling echo of 2014, when the Kremlin first invoked the need to “protect Russian citizens” or “Russian-speaking citizens” in Ukraine to justify the annexation of Crimea and the invasion of Donbas. At the time, Moscow claimed there was discrimination against Russian speakers—this is how the war began.

    Lavrov reiterated Kremlin narratives about the alleged persecution of the Russians in Ukraine. According to him, they were “banned from using the Russian language in education, science, culture, media, advertising, public services, and even in daily life.”

    There are no laws in Ukraine that explicitly ban the Russian language, Russian culture, or the very existence of Russia as a country.

    In 2025, a survey by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology found that 84% of Ukrainians believe there is no systematic discrimination or restriction of rights against Russian-speaking citizens in Ukraine. 

    At the same time, 82% of Russian-speaking Ukrainians hold a negative view of Russia. Among them, 81.5% trust the Ukrainian Armed Forces. 

    Meanwhile, Lavrov claimed that members of other national minorities have been forcibly Ukrainianized.

    “Other ethnic groups, Hungarians, Romanians, Poles, Bulgarians, Armenians, Belarusians, Greeks, also faced forced Ukrainianization. Today, Russia and Hungary are openly standing up to defend their compatriots. We can combine our efforts in this regard,” said Lavrov.

    It’s worth noting that Hungary frequently blocks or slows down European initiatives aimed at supporting Ukraine or tightening sanctions against Russia.

    Budapest sharply criticizes Ukrainian language and education laws, citing alleged violations of the rights of the Hungarian minority in neighboring Zakarpattia Oblast of Ukraine. 

    Moreover, Hungary’s government is obstructing the start of Ukraine’s EU accession talks. In June 2025, the Hungarian government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, held a so-called “national referendum” on Ukraine’s accession to the bloc. According to official government data, more than 2.2 million people (around 29% of voters) participated, with 95% voting against Ukraine joining the EU.

    Although the referendum has no legal force, Orbán used its results as a political tool to block Ukraine’s further progress toward EU membership, HVG reports. 

    During the referendum, Hungarian citizens received anti-Ukrainian leaflets alongside their ballots, claiming that Ukraine’s EU membership would threaten pensions, cause epidemics, flood Hungary’s market with cheap and low-quality Ukrainian agricultural products, bring Ukrainian organized crime, and allow mass Ukrainian migration that would take jobs from Hungarians.

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