Ukraine’s State Service on Ethnic Policy and Freedom of Conscience (DESS) has issued Metropolitan Onufriy an ultimatum: prove your church actually left Moscow or face dissolution.

The directive gives the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC MP) until 18 August 2025 to produce formal documents severing ties with Russia’s Orthodox Church. Three years after claiming independence, Ukrainian investigators found the church remains canonically subordinate to Moscow through multiple mechanisms—governing documents, institutional structure, and liturgical requirements.

The timing? Two weeks after Ukraine stripped Onufriy’s citizenship for allegedly hiding his Russian passport since 2002, and one week after DESS found that his church is still affiliated with Moscow.

What Ukraine actually wants

The State Service (DESS) isn’t asking for vague promises. They want Metropolitan Onufriy to provide decisions from the UOC MP’s highest governing bodies confirming the church’s exit from Russian structures. He must publicly reject any appointments to Russian church bodies and prepare an official statement terminating all connections with Moscow.

Can he do it? That depends on whether the UOC MP’s governing documents actually allow such independence—something the recent state investigation suggests they don’t.

The DESS investigation found multiple indicators of continued Russian control. The UOC MP still cites the 1990 Gramota (Charter) from then-Patriarch Alexy II as its constitutional foundation, which explicitly states the church is “connected through our Russian Orthodox Church.” The church must still commemorate the Moscow Patriarch in liturgy, have its statutes approved by Moscow, receive holy chrism from Russia, and ensure Ukrainian bishops participate in Russian church councils as obligated members.

Each requirement demonstrates canonical subordination that contradicts independence claims.

What the commission found

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church says it left Moscow. Documents say otherwise.

The Moscow test: when push comes to shove

Want to know if the UOC MP really left Moscow? Look at what happened when Russia started grabbing Ukrainian dioceses.

Since 2022, Russian authorities unilaterally transferred three UOC MP dioceses in occupied territories to direct Moscow control—Crimea, Rovenky, and Berdiansk. The UOC MP leadership’s response? Silence.

When 33 UOC MP bishops condemned these seizures in October 2024, did their church’s governing bodies support them? No. Complete silence again.

This stands in stark contrast to protests and condemnation when UOC MP parishes defect to join the rival Orthodox Church of Ukraine.

It shows that the UOC MP can resist when it chooses to. It just doesn’t choose to resist Moscow.

Legal machinery grinding forward

This ultimatum represents the practical implementation of Ukraine’s August 2024 law banning Russian-affiliated religious organizations. The legislation gave religious groups nine months to sever Russian connections—a deadline that’s already expired.

Theologian Cyril Hovorun, who has closely followed the law’s development, argued it’s “not primarily about the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, nor is it about banning it outright” but rather about forcing the UOC MP to “get out of this deadlock it’s put itself in” with Moscow.

DESS will now compile a list of religious organizations connected to the banned Russian Orthodox Church structure. That potentially affects the UOC MP’s approximately 8,000 parishes serving millions of faithful.

Religious scholar Yuriy Chornomorets, who participated in earlier expert evaluations, told Euromaidan Press that “the conclusions use only facts; therefore, its findings are impossible to counter.”

The UOC MP has filed a lawsuit against Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers over the investigation. They consistently maintain they severed ties with Moscow after Russia’s February 2022 invasion. Ukrainian investigators? They concluded these claims lack any documentary foundation.

Explore further

“Not about banning.” Theologian unpacks Ukraine’s new anti-Russian church law

What’s Moscow’s stake?

The UOC MP represents 23% of the Russian Orthodox Church’s parishes worldwide—the largest concentration outside Russia itself. It remains Moscow’s sole surviving pillar of influence in a Ukraine that has otherwise severed all connections to Russia since 2022.

The church’s ideological power runs deep. The fantasy of Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus as “Holy Rus” united against the “satanic West” forms the theological cornerstone of Putin’s war.

Ukraine’s Intelligence Directorate previously reported that under the guise of “religious cooperation,” the Russian Orthodox Church functions as an instrument of hybrid influence aimed at destabilizing Ukraine.

The citizenship revocation of Onufriy serves as legal theater. The real drama unfolds in courtrooms where the UOC MP’s survival hangs in the balance.

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Anatomy of treason: how the Ukrainian Orthodox Church sold its soul to the “Russian world”

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

A drone deal between Trump and Ukraine could bring Kyiv’s battlefield-proven UAVs into American hands, and more US-made weapons to Ukraine. The New York Post reports that President Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are considering what’s being called a “mega deal.” 

Kyiv offers frontline drone experience for US weapons

In an exclusive interview with the New York Post, Zelenskyy revealed that his latest discussions with Trump centered around an exchange of drone technology and weaponry. Under the proposed agreement, Ukraine would sell its combat-hardened drone systems to the United States. In return, Washington would sell Ukraine a significant array of American weapons.

“This is really a mega deal, a win-win, as they say,” Zelenskyy told the NYP. “The people of America need this technology, and you need to have it in your arsenal.”

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is ready to share its knowledge gained from over three years of fighting against Russia’s full-scale invasion. According to him, this experience could help both the US and European partners adapt to modern warfare. Zelenskyy said that parallel talks were also ongoing with Denmark, Norway, and Germany.

Ukraine’s drones reshape modern warfare

The possible drone deal between Trump and Ukraine builds on Ukraine’s rapid evolution into a drone warfare powerhouse. Ukraine was the first to start using FPV drones as precision weapons against Russian equipment and personnel. Additionally, Ukraine also developed the long-range naval kamikaze drones, which sank multiple Russian navy’s ships. Kyiv’s long-range aerial drones reach as far as 1,300 km into Russia. In May, a Ukrainian marine drone destroyed a Russian Su-30 fighter jet over the Black Sea, using onboard air-to-air missiles.

One of the most dramatic operations, dubbed “Operation Spider Web,” saw 117 Ukrainian drones launched simultaneously deep inside Russia. They took out dozens of Russian irreplaceable strategic bombers at four separate bases.

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First battlefield capitulation to robots: Ukrainian drones force Russian surrender and seize fortified position (video)

US drone tech lags behind, experts warn

While Ukraine surges ahead, US defense officials and military experts have warned that the US is falling behind in drone warfare. The New York Post notes that American troops lack the experience to effectively operate UAVs or defend against them. Trent Emeneker, a project manager at the Defense Innovation Unit, told the New York Times, 

“We all know the same thing. We aren’t giving the American war fighter what they need to survive warfare today.”

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has recently issued a new order to “cut red tape” on domestic drone production.

At least three of Russia’s largest banks are reportedly exploring bailouts from the Kremlin, Bloomberg News revealed in a report cited by The Telegraph. Borrowers across the country are increasingly unable to repay loans, exposing rising financial fragility in the war-weary economy.

The request for state support marks a new phase in Russia’s economic troubles, where years of war-related spending, sanctions, and labour shortages are colliding with falling revenues and rising inflation.

Officials have instructed banks to restructure their books to disguise the scale of bad loans, but that tactic is running out of road. As The Telegraph reports, the government may soon need to intervene more directly to stabilize the sector.

Economy strained by war, sanctions, and inflation

Though Russia’s economy officially grew 4.3% in 2024, much of that expansion was driven by military spending—one in every three roubles spent by Moscow now goes to the armed forces.

Behind the headline growth, key indicators point to a downturn. Business activity has dropped to its lowest level since the 2022 invasion began, and Goldman Sachs forecasts just 0.5% GDP growth in 2025. The private sector is weakening, labour shortages persist, and inflation has entered double-digit territory, driven by soaring food prices. Even potatoes are now in short supply, The Telegraph notes.

Oil revenues drop, currency under pressure

Russia’s critical oil revenues have plunged by a third compared to last year, with prices falling from $85 to $67 a barrel and access to international markets limited. The Bank of Russia’s 20% interest rate has failed to tame inflation, while high state payments to soldiers are further straining public finances.

Goldman Sachs also expects the rouble to depreciate by up to 30% against the US dollar this year, which would raise import costs and drive inflation higher still.

Global isolation could deepen

President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 100% tariffs on US imports from countries trading with Russia unless President Vladimir Putin agrees to a deal on Ukraine. If enacted, this could further isolate Russia’s economy from global trade networks.

As The Telegraph puts it, “The banks are quietly bracing for the worst.” With key sectors under strain and financial institutions now seeking state support, Russia’s economic resilience may be wearing thin. However, it remains unclear whether these challenges pose a critical threat to the Kremlin’s ability to sustain its war in Ukraine.

“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.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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

“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. 

Ukraine’s new Magura W6P naval drone patrols 1000 km, offering longer range and smarter sea reconnaissance, Militarnyi reports. This latest model shifts from strike operations to focus on maritime patrol and intelligence gathering. Militarnyi’s correspondent visited a closed presentation of the new maritime robotic system, recently organized by Ukraine’s HUR military intelligence agency.

Magura W6P naval drone patrols 1000 km with enhanced stability and sensors

Magura W6P replaces kamikaze capabilities with advanced reconnaissance systems and an extended operational radius from 800 km to 1000 km. Unlike its predecessor Magura v5, which reached speeds up to 50 knots, the W6P has a top speed of 36 knots and cruises at 21 knots powered by a 200-horsepower Suzuki DF200 gasoline engine. This change favors endurance over speed for longer patrols.

The drone features a unique trimaran hull with two outriggers, increasing stability at sea and reducing side rolling during waves or movement. This design also expands the deck width to 2 meters, providing space for mounting equipment such as launch containers for strike FPV drones, although the W6P itself no longer performs kamikaze attacks. The full loaded weight is 1,900 kg, including a 400 kg payload capacity.

Advanced radar, optical systems, and satellite communications enhance reconnaissance

Magura W6P is equipped with a gyro-stabilized optical station featuring day and thermal imaging channels. The drone’s onboard Furuno radar detects ships up to 30 kilometers away and large tankers up to 60 kilometers, though the low antenna height may reduce this range. Smaller boats can be detected within 7 kilometers.

Additionally, the drone uses a multichannel satellite communication system to maintain control despite enemy electronic warfare attempts.

Magura W6P part of Ukraine’s growing naval drone defense system

Ukraine’s naval forces and developers are working to integrate unmanned systems like Magura W6P into a comprehensive maritime defense network. These drones will patrol, locate, and help neutralize threats in Ukraine’s waters.

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.

“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.

Ukraine is deploying a new generation of air-defense drones—fast, lightweight, and highly maneuverable—designed specifically to intercept and destroy Russia’s Iranian-designed Shahed attack drones.

With peace negotiations stalled and Russian aerial attacks intensifying, Kyiv is turning to homegrown technology to fill a critical defense gap. Massive waves of Shahed drones have made traditional missile systems economically unsustainable, prompting the rapid deployment of tens of thousands of compact, low-cost interceptors.

What these interceptor drones are

According to Forbes tech correspondent David Hambling, Ukraine’s interceptors mark a technical leap in drone warfare, prioritizing speed, scalability, and affordability:

• Lightweight and aerodynamic: Designs include bullet-shaped quadcopters (like Wild Hornets’ Sting) and delta-wing drones, built for high-speed, high-altitude engagement.
• Vertical engagement capability: These drones can climb to intercept Shaheds flying at over 10,000 feet (≈3 kilometers)—well above the reach of ground-based machine guns.
• Radar and visual guidance: Integrated into a nationwide sensor and command system, they are coordinated to track and strike slow-moving aerial threats.
• Low cost: Priced at just $1,000 to $5,000 per unit, they’re dramatically cheaper than the $3.3 million US Patriot missiles used to counter other threats.

What Russia is saying

Even figures within Russia’s defense-industrial elite have acknowledged the growing impact of Ukraine’s interceptor efforts. Alexey Rogozin—former CEO of Ilyushin and a senior figure in Russia’s military aviation sector—wrote on Telegram that Ukraine had effectively constructed a local anti-drone network over Kyiv:

“In fact, we are talking about an urban anti-drone dome built on the mass use of small-sized interceptors,” he said, referring to the Clear Sky initiative.

Rogozin claimed that more than 500 Shaheds had been intercepted under this system. While he maintained that large drone waves could still overwhelm defenses, he conceded that the cost dynamic has shifted:

“Now it is more expensive to attack than to defend.”

However, the system is not foolproof. Despite the deployment of interceptors, Kyiv continues to experience Shahed strikes, and explosions remain a frequent occurrence. Interception rates have reportedly improved, but with systems still scaling up, real-world effectiveness remains incomplete.

Why Ukraine is using them

Russia’s Shahed drones are slow, cheap, and launched in overwhelming numbers. In June alone, Russia launched over 5,000 Shahed-type drones, including as many as 728 in a single night—far more than traditional systems like Patriots can handle.

Ukraine’s interceptors offer a cost-effective, scalable response to this flood of threats. Small, fast, and increasingly numerous, they are designed to match Russia’s production tempo.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently praised the system, stating that “hundreds of Russian-Iranian Shahed drones have been shot down this week” alone. Officials say interception rates, which had dropped due to higher-altitude attacks, are now back above 86%.

Moment a Russian Shahed drone is shot down over Odesa on Sunday morning. Some reports suggest it was intercepted by another drone. pic.twitter.com/qF5dYySMVC

— WarTranslated (@wartranslated) July 11, 2025

How many are coming

According to Arsen Zhumadilov, head of Ukraine’s Defense Procurement Agency, the country has already signed contracts for tens of thousands of interceptor drones.

“This is what we have already contracted and will continue to contract,” Zhumadilov said in a 14 July interview with Babel. “We will definitely contract everything that the state budget can afford.”

He added that if domestic production capacity exceeds state funding, allied nations may help finance additional units to expand coverage.

Strategic impact

Ukraine’s interceptor drone program is emerging as a flexible, affordable answer to Russia’s drone warfare campaign—and potentially a model for other nations facing similar threats.

“Ukraine is massively scaling up its production of low-cost interceptor drones to stop Russia’s growing barrages of Shahed attack drones,” wrote David Hambling.

At the recent G7 summit, Zelenskyy emphasized that this technology could serve as a global solution for defending against mass drone attacks—an increasingly relevant challenge in modern warfare.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told ministers to boost local arms from 40% to 50% within six months as part of a wartime strategy to strengthen Ukraine’s military self-reliance. He outlined the directive during a major speech before parliament, following the formal approval of a reshuffled Cabinet of Ministers on 17 July.

Zelenskyy tasks new cabinet with weapons overhaul

Addressing lawmakers and the new Cabinet, Zelenskyy noted:

“We are transforming the management of the defense sector and weapons production in such a way that, in six months, the share of specifically Ukrainian-made weapons available to our soldiers will significantly increase. Currently, about 40% of all weapons in the hands of our soldiers are made in Ukraine. In six months, it must be no less than 50%,” Zelenskyy said. 

He emphasized that boosting domestic arms production was essential in a global environment where attention to Russia-Ukraine’s war is being diluted by other crises.

Ministers told to audit defense deals

Zelenskyy also instructed the reshuffled cabinet to carry out a full audit of all existing defense-related agreements and commitments. These include international partnerships, production deals, memorandums, and resilience programs.

The president stressed that these agreements must be implemented “100% in the interests of Ukraine.” 

New prime minister confirmed

During the 17 July parliamentary session, lawmakers approved Zelenskyy’s nominee for prime minister, Yuliia Svyrydenko. Before the reshuffle, she served as Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Trade.

Most ministers either retained their roles or were reassigned to new posts. The president called for immediate implementation of the new government program and said results must be delivered “daily.”

Moscow’s recycled lies and nuclear bluster aim to fracture NATO and halt US aid for Ukraine, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported on 16 July. The Kremlin is reviving old narratives, including nuclear threats and faux diplomacy, in a coordinated information campaign targeting the United States’ renewed commitment to Ukraine and NATO.

Kremlin revives nuclear threats to pressure NATO

ISW says that the Kremlin is “recycling several longstanding informational narratives, including nuclear threats, in a renewed effort to break the United States away from Ukraine and the NATO alliance.” 

On 16 July, Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that all provisions of Russia’s nuclear doctrine remain active. He emphasized that nuclear powers must not “incite” non-nuclear states and warned that nuclear countries must “answer” for such incitement.

Russia had updated its nuclear doctrine in fall 2024, introducing a clause suggesting that aggression by a non-nuclear country backed by a nuclear power may be treated as a joint attack on Russia.

Blaming the West for Moscow’s war

Responding to a question about Trump’s push for increased NATO military aid to Ukraine, Peskov claimed that “Europeans maintain a rabid militaristic attitude towards Moscow.“

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov echoed this approach, stating on 15 July that Moscow’s illegal invasion of Ukraine aims to eliminate “the threats that NATO has created” on Russia’s borders.

ISW highlights that these narratives have remained constant throughout the war and are being revived to undermine unity between the United States and Europe.

Russia casts itself as the peacemaker

Amid the Western calls to force Moscow into meaningful negotiations to end the war, Peskov  urged the international community to pressure Ukraine—not Russia, the aggressor country—into bilateral negotiations. ISW assesses this move as an effort to “falsely portray Russia as willing to negotiate while undermining Ukraine’s credibility.”

Strategy targets transatlantic unity

ISW notes that Russia is using the same “rhetorical line” that it has used throughout the war “to deter Western support for Ukraine, but has shifted its objective from preventing new support for Ukraine to reversing recent support” and to break the US from its NATO allies.

“The Kremlin is prioritizing informational campaigns aimed at undermining NATO unity and stoking discontent between the United States and its European allies in order to degrade Ukraine’s defense capabilities and achieve its longstanding war aims that amount to Ukraine’s capitulation,” ISW wrote.

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.

“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.

Ukraine’s parliament has confirmed Yulia Svyrydenko as Prime Minister, with 262 lawmakers voting in favor on Thursday. At 39, she becomes the first woman to lead Ukraine’s government in 15 years—and only the second in the country’s history after Yulia Tymoshenko.

But while the face has changed, the power structure remains the same. With elections suspended under martial law and political life shaped by Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine’s governance remains highly centralized. Svyrydenko’s appointment is seen as reinforcing the wartime system—where real decisions are made inside the Presidential Office, not by parliament or Cabinet.

Centralized power under martial law

Svyrydenko’s elevation underscores Ukraine’s current political reality: executive power concentrated in President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s circle, limited institutional checks, and governance by loyal proxies.

She is viewed as a close ally of Presidential Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak, widely considered one of the most powerful figures in the country.

“We don’t have a proper functioning Cabinet of ministers. Instead, we have some quasi-Cabinet of ministers headed by Yermak, who controls access to the president’s agenda and to the president himself,” said anti-corruption activist Daria Kaleniuk in Politico earlier this year.

Strong support from ruling party, opposition pushback

Svyrydenko was backed almost unanimously by Zelenskyy’s Servant of the People party and several independents. Opposition factions—including European Solidarity, Batkivshchyna, and Holos—voted against or abstained, warning that the reshuffle deepens executive control.

Former President Petro Poroshenko summed up their position:

“Replacing Shmyhal, who was ‘Yermak in a shirt,’ with Svyrydenko, who will be ‘Yermak in a skirt,’ changes nothing.”

From regional official to Presidential insider

A native of Chernihiv, Svyrydenko began in regional government before rising to key roles in Kyiv. She joined the Presidential Office in 2020, and later served as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy.

She has led international negotiations on peace efforts, EU accession, and postwar recovery. In May 2025, she co-signed a US–Ukraine reconstruction agreement with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, signaling her role in Ukraine’s international outreach.

Ethics questions over teaching income

Her appointment triggered scrutiny over her income. In 2024, she reported earning over 3 million UAH (about $75,000) in six months of teaching at the Kyiv School of Economics (KSE)—more than her government salary.

Ukraine’s anti-corruption agency launched a probe into a possible conflict of interest, since KSE received international grants overseen by her ministry.

Svyrydenko said she taught multiple courses under separate contracts and worked outside government hours.

End of Shmyhal’s record-long tenure

Svyrydenko replaces Denys Shmyhal, who resigned after over five years—the longest serving Ukrainian PM. Sources say he has now been nominated as Defence Minister—a major shift amid war.

At the same time, it’s unclear who will replace Oksana Markarova as Ukraine’s ambassador to the US Reports suggest current Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and presidential adviser Ihor Zhovkva are among the frontrunners; no official successor has yet been confirmed.

Lithuania protests to Belarus over a Russian drone that entered from its territory and crashed just inside NATO airspace. The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry called the incursion a serious violation in an official statement on Facebook and demanded urgent explanations from Minsk.

Lithuania cites airspace violation in formal protest to Belarus

On 16 July, Lithuania summoned the acting chargé d’affaires of Belarus and handed over a diplomatic note of protest. The protest came after a Russian-made Gerbera drone illegally entered Lithuania and crashed roughly one kilometer from the border.

In a post published on its official Facebook page, the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry wrote that the drone had crossed from Belarusian territory into Lithuanian airspace on 10 July and demanded a prompt explanation from Minsk. It described the incident as an illegal intrusion by a Russian-made, multifunctional unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

The Ministry called on Belarus to take “all necessary measures” to ensure that similar incidents do not happen again.

Explore further

Lithuania tracks fake Russian Shahed from Belarus—NATO jets scrambled

Belarus held responsible for Russian drone’s NATO incursion

Lithuania’s Secretary of National Security Kęstutis Budrys, quoted by Delfi, said Belarus is fully responsible for allowing the drone to cross into Lithuania. “This is a serious violation,” Budrys stated. He noted that the object could have been part of a UAV group used in Ukraine.

“It’s likely this drone was used in the war,” he said, suggesting the Gerbera UAV might have been part of Russia’s combat operation before it reached NATO airspace.

The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry emphasized that Belarus must explain the incident immediately and prevent any future drone violations from its territory.

Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė told LRT that authorities are still investigating the intent behind the drone’s entry.

“We can confirm it was a Gerbera,” she said. “Its use could vary — we are trying to establish why it was flown here.”

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.

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.

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.

 
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.

Russia’s chemical attacks in Ukraine have exceeded 10,000 incidents since February 2023, according to Anton Honchar, chief specialist of the Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defense Directorate of Ukraine’s Armed Forces Support Command. Honchar told Ukrainska Pravda that Russian forces began using chemical weapons against Ukrainians as early as 2014–2015.

Ukrainian mobile teams specializing in chemical detection are now deployed across the front, collecting samples of grenades, contaminated gear, and aerosols. These groups work in close coordination with the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and Special Operations Forces. Honchar noted that over the past month alone, Ukrainian teams recorded about 760 instances of chemical weapons use by Russian troops.

Banned toxic grenades lead Russia’s battlefield arsenal

According to Honchar, 88% of Russia’s chemical attacks involve hand grenades such as the RG-Vo and K-51, both of which are banned for combat use under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). These grenades are intended for riot control, not military operations, yet Russia reportedly uses them to flush Ukrainian troops out of trenches and bunkers. Kyiv accuses Moscow of violating Article 1, Clause 5 of the CWC, which prohibits the use of toxic chemicals as weapons against enemy forces.

Another widely documented agent is chloropicrin, once used to test gas masks. Now, it’s being weaponized in improvised explosive devices or loaded into containers and dropped from drones.

Evidence collected for international prosecution

Honchar stressed that Ukraine now has the technical ability to gather battlefield samples according to international forensic standards. The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) requires strict procedures to validate evidence in court. Ukraine’s field units adhere to these rules, enabling the country to pursue accountability at both the national and international level.

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Russian forces drop banned chemical irritants from drones on Ukraine

Moscow’s chemical warfare infrastructure exposed

Ukraine accuses Russia of continuing to research, produce, and distribute chemical weapons despite claiming to have destroyed its stockpiles in 2018. The OPCW had been told by Moscow that its inventory was eliminated, yet Ukraine says banned agents are being actively used. One case cited by Honchar involved Russian General Kirillov, head of the Russian Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Defense Troops. According to the SBU, he was responsible for supplying banned grenades to frontline units before being eliminated in December 2024.

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Russia’s chemical weapons use in Ukraine now “large-scale,” intelligence shows

Russian units repeatedly implicated in toxic attacks

Russia’s 155th Naval Infantry Brigade has been identified as one of the units most often using chemical weapons. Kyiv says these attacks are concentrated in combat-heavy directions such as Pokrovsk, Kupiansk, and Lyman, where Russian forces attempt to force Ukrainian troops out of fortified positions.

Honchar said Russian forces prefer to use chemical weapons during spring, summer, and autumn due to better evaporation conditions, and mainly during daylight assaults when their ground offensives are most active.

Germany’s Defense Ministry has denied knowledge of any Patriot systems for Ukraine currently leaving German territory, rejecting US President Donald Trump’s public claim. SRF reports that German officials say no such delivery is underway.

Germany contradicts Trump on Patriot system shipments

A spokesperson for Germany’s Defense Ministry said they could not confirm that any Patriot systems were presently on the way to Ukraine.

“That is not known to me,” the spokesperson stated, as cited by SRF.

Explore further

Reuters: Trump promised Patriots for Ukraine—Europe got the invoice

Trump, speaking to journalists in Washington on 15 July, claimed that the first Patriot systems were already being delivered,

“They are coming from Germany,” he added without providing any further details.

Berlin’s response directly contradicts this assertion.

NATO confirms plans for rapid Patriot delivery

Meanwhile, NATO is preparing to speed up deployment of additional Patriot systems to Ukraine, SRF says. The announcement comes as the country faces some of the heaviest Russian air attacks of the war.

NATO Air Commander Alexus Grynkewich said preparations were ongoing and involved close cooperation with Germany. Speaking at a conference in Wiesbaden, he stated,

“Preparations are underway, we are working very closely with the Germans on the Patriot relocation.” He added, “The instruction I received is to withdraw them as quickly as possible.”

Allies to discuss unresolved issues in upcoming meeting

The German Defense Ministry also noted that a virtual meeting of Ukraine’s supporting nations — the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) — would be held on 21 July. The goal of the meeting is to resolve remaining questions and implement the delivery of Patriot systems to Ukraine as swiftly as possible.

US President Donald Trump promised Patriot missile systems for Ukraine—but it is Europe that must now provide them, Reuters reports. NATO allies are scrambling to decide who will donate the weapons and how soon they can be delivered.

Allies caught off guard by Trump’s Patriot deal

Trump announced on 14 July that some Patriot missile systems for Ukraine should arrive “within days.” But while Kyiv prepares to receive them, European governments are facing unexpected pressure to give up their own systems, Reuters says. Meanwhile, Trump claimed that the first Patriots allegedly already were “on the way” to Ukraine.

During a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump claimed that Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, and Canada had agreed to participate. However, high-ranking officials in at least two of those countries told Reuters they only learned of the plan when Trump made it public.

“It is my clear sense that nobody has been briefed about the exact details in advance,” one European ambassador said.

NATO to coordinate shipments under US-led framework

A NATO official said the alliance will oversee deliveries through its Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine mission in Germany. The official listed Germany, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Finland as committed to the effort. But the exact numbers and timeline remain under discussion.

Europe pays for Trump’s pledge

While Trump takes credit for the deal, European leaders are voicing frustration.

“If we pay for these weapons, it’s our support,” said EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. “If you promise to give the weapons, but say somebody else is going to pay for it, it’s not really given by you, is it?”

Germany’s defense minister said no Patriot system would arrive in Kyiv before the summer ends. Other countries—including Greece and Spain—have previously refused to part with their Patriots, calling them essential for national defense.

Logistics unclear

A US official said the Trump administration is now reviewing NATO inventories to identify potential trades. In some cases, allies might give up Patriots in exchange for earlier deliveries of other weapons or cancel pending orders under the Foreign Military Sales program.

Drone strikes hit Tula and Voronezh overnight, and reached Moscow Oblast, piercing Russian air defenses in an alleged Ukrainian UAV raids. Russia claimed to intercept 122 drones. The extent of the damage from the attack remains unclear.

Ukraine targets military infrastructure in Tula

Russian news Telegram channel Astra reports that in the early hours of 17 July, drones targeted Russian facilities in Tula Oblast. Explosions thundered in Novomoskovsk, where key military-industrial sites are located, Liga reported. In Shchyokino, Tula Oblast, local residents reported a fire breaking out after a drone attack.

According to Ukrainian Telegram channel Supernova+, the Azot chemical plant in Shchyokino was hit directly during the attack. The M-500 methanol production unit was reportedly damaged. The plant carried out emergency technical procedures in response. Azot is one of Tula Oblast’s key chemical industry sites, producing ammonia, methanol, and other nitrogen-based compounds used in explosives and defense-related manufacturing.

Tula Oblast head Dmitri Milyaev said that as of 06:00, the threat of more drone attacks remained active in the oblast. Later, he claimed that drone “debris” fell on the premises of an unnamed enterprise.

Ukraine pierces Russian air defenses: drone strikes hit Tula, Voronezh

Russia claims it downed 122 Ukrainian drones last night.https://t.co/LHXY6IM02z
#1-3 Tula, #4 Roslavl, by TG/Supernova+ pic.twitter.com/VBE27i8sPd

— Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) July 17, 2025

Drone strikes hit Voronezh

Drone strikes hit Tula and Voronezh nearly simultaneously. In Voronezh, drones reached deep into the city, with one, possible shot down by Russia’s air defenses, reportedly striking two floors of a high-rise residential building in the city’s left-bank area.

Governor Aleksandr Gusev claimed that air defenses had destroyed at least five UAVs over Voronezh Oblast, yet later acknowledged that fragments had struck a residential tower. The authorities claim four civilians were injured.

Moscow also under threat amid massive drone wave

Mayor Sergei Sobianin claimed that three drones were allegedly intercepted while attempting to enter Moscow’s airspace. Loud blasts were reported in Zelenograd. Residents described multiple explosion-like sounds during the night. The drone assault affected aviation. Departures and arrivals at Vnukovo Airport were delayed as a precaution during the strikes.

In Smolensk Oblast, local residents reported a strike on the town of Roslavl, home to a key aviation support plant under the Rostec conglomerate, according to Astra.

Russia claims 122 drones downed across 13 oblasts

Russia’s Ministry of Defense alleged that Ukrainian drones targeted at least 13 oblasts overnight, claiming 122 UAVs were shot down. According to the ministry, most drones were intercepted over Bryansk, Kursk, and Oryol oblasts. Additional UAVs were allegedly downed over Voronezh, Tula, Moscow Oblast, occupied Crimea, and several others.

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.

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.

Russia’s manpower crisis is forcing the Kremlin to rely on covert recruiting networks, where volunteer fighters in mercenary structures are seen as “expendable manpower,” according to leaked recordings cited by RFE/RL.

“Second-rate infantry” in Russia’s strategy

In a conversation leaked late last year, Russian lawmaker Aleksandr Borodai described non-army recruits as “second-rate infantry.” He said their task is to exhaust Ukrainian troops before regular Russian forces attack. In the same recording, he referred to them as “expendable manpower.”

The statement highlights how Russia increasingly treats irregular fighters — often recruited through unregulated or covert systems — as disposable assets in a war now approaching 1 million Russian casualties, according to estimates.

With the memory of the September 2022 “partial mobilization” still fresh, and public opposition strong, the Kremlin is avoiding new mandatory call-ups. Instead, it relies on shadow recruitment structures to sustain frontline numbers without triggering mass unrest.

GRU-controlled Redut and Dobrokor feed the front with mercenaries

Systema, RFE/RL’s Russian investigative unit, reveals that both the Redut and Dobrokor networks are controlled by the GRU, Russia’s main military intelligence agency. The structures are designed to enlist men and women under the guise of “volunteer formations” — but operate effectively as mercenary pipelines.

Unlike Russia’s Defense Ministry contracts, which extend until Russia ends its war in Ukraine, mercenary contracts through Redut or Dobrokor have fixed terms — usually six to twelve months — and do not renew automatically.

Recruits through Dobrokor sign formal contracts and receive legal military status. Monthly pay starts at $2,600. In exchange, they cannot leave before their contract ends without risking prosecution for desertion. Mediazona reported that over 20,000 desertion cases had already reached Russian courts as of May.

Redut: cash, secrecy, and no legal existence

Redut, by contrast, operates in a legal gray zone. It does not require fitness screening, accepts people with criminal records, and allows early departure. It attracts recruits by offering cash payments, which can be hidden from creditors, courts, or ex-spouses.

However, Redut mercenaries are not legally considered military personnel. They are ineligible for state compensation, hospital treatment, or veteran status.

“From a legal point of view, you don’t exist,” a recruiter for the Nevsky unit told Systema, adding: “There’s no service, nothing: No hospitals, no rehabilitation, nothing.”

Redut also provides no gear or uniforms up front. One recruiter told RFE/RL that new fighters are given 50,000 rubles ($640) only with their third paycheck — assuming they survive that long.

Small bonuses, big risks

The Russian Defense Ministry offers up to $46,000 in signing bonuses for official contracts. Dobrokor pays far less — often $640–$1,280. Redut mercenaries get no regional bonus at all.

Despite these risks and limitations, thousands continue to join. Deputy Security Council Chairman Dmitry Medvedev claimed over 210,000 people signed military contracts in the first half of 2025. Another 18,000 joined so-called “volunteer” formations — a term now widely used to mask informal, often unregulated mercenary service.

Janis Kluge of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs estimates the actual number of contract soldiers may be closer to 190,000.

Last night, Russia’s drones killed a civilian in Dnipro, and injured five others in another round of daily long-range drone attacks against Ukrainian residential areas, local authorities reported.

Civilian killed and five injured as Dnipro hit by Shahed drones

Russia’s Iranian-designed Shahed long-range explosive drones conducted a massive attack on Dnipro city in the middle of Ukraine after midnight on 17 July. According to Dnipropetrovsk Oblast head Serhii Lysak, the attack triggered multiple fires and caused damage to both industrial and residential infrastructure.

Public broadcaster Suspilne reported several explosions in the city throughout the night. The first were heard in Dnipro and its suburb, Samar, around 00:10, followed by repeated blasts at 00:12 and a further series at 00:23. Lysak confirmed the situation in Dnipro was “loud.” Ukrainian air defense shot down 22 drones, but some reached their targets, according to the region’s chief.

Explosions and fires were reported not only in Dnipro itself but also in the surrounding Solone and Slobozhanske communities. A private residence, greenhouse, and utility structure were damaged. Industrial enterprises also caught fire.

Nikopol and Marhanets attacked with drones and rocket artillery

Lysak says the Russian military also struck the Nikopol and Marhanets in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast communities using FPV drones, Grad multiple-launch rocket systems, and air-dropped explosives. The attacks destroyed a civilian vehicle and damaged a single-family home and a farm structure. 

Zaporizhzhia hit with bombs, drones, artillery across nine settlements

While the Dnipro strike caused civilian casualties, Zaporizhzhia Oblast endured extensive bombardment throughout the past 24 hours. According to oblast head Ivan Fedorov, Russian forces carried out six bomb attacks on Plavni, Huliaypole, Uspenivka, Novoandriivka, and Bilohiria.

In total, Russian forces launched 420 drones—mostly small FPVs—targeting nine settlements across the oblast. Five Grad rocket attacks struck Huliaypole and Novodanylivka. Russian artillery shelled seven frontline settlements 171 times. Fedorov noted that no civilians were injured in these strikes.

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Vacancies: News reporter, Defense tech reporter, Head of SMM. Euromaidan Press is expanding and searching for professional soulmates who believe in independent journalism.

Russia drops 250 bombs on Ukraine’s forest—then gets crushed by Bradleys and good old-fashioned flanking. Russia fired hundreds of KAB glide bombs at a single treeline—then retreated from Sumy anyway.

Can Ukraine’s $ 1,000 drones really beat Russia’s $ 35,000 Shaheds?. The missiles are too expensive. The interceptors are unproven. But Ukraine is betting on the math of survival.

Military

Frontline report: Trump restarts Ukraine aid after Russia’s massive 700-drone attack backfires. Ukrainian air defenses shot down over 500 incoming projectiles during Russia’s largest aerial bombardment of the war, yet the attack’s timing—during a US aid pause—may have delivered Moscow’s biggest strategic defeat.

Frontline report: Ukrainian brigade captures Russian positions after drone-only assault leaves enemy defenseless

. The Third Assault Brigade guided captured Russian soldiers directly to Ukrainian lines using an aerial drone, with no Ukrainian infantry present during the entire operation.

As of 16 JUL 2025, the approximate losses of weapons and military equipment of the Russian Armed Forces from the beginning of the invasion to the present day:

• • • Personnel: 1037460 (+1170)
    • Tanks: 11025 (+3)
    • APV: 22995 (+2)
    • Artillery systems: 30395 (+49)
    • MLRS: 1440
    • Anti-aircraft systems: 1196
    • Aircraft: 421
    • Helicopters: 340
    • UAV: 46164 (+284)
    • Cruise missiles : 3491
    • Warships/boats: 28
    • Submarines: 1
    • Vehicles and fuel tanks: 55229 (+82)

Intelligence and technology

Guardian: Ukrainian military intelligence exposes flaw in Trump’s Tomahawk missile offer. The cruise missiles require strategic bombers as launch platforms, which Ukraine lacks, according to HUR deputy chief.

Forbes: Ukraine’s new rifle ammo explodes mid-air to kill drones—and might blow up Russia’s whole strategy. Ukraine is developing a mid-air fragmenting rifle round that could make Russian drone strikes far less effective—forcing a return to costly artillery attacks.

International

First Patriot missiles for Ukraine are being shipped from Germany – Trump

. Up to 17 Patriot air defense systems are heading to Ukraine as President Trump announced a policy shift toward providing offensive weapons, including potential authorization for long-range strikes deep inside Russia.

Germany, Denmark, Netherlands plan to buy US-made Patriots, capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles, for Ukraine. With Russia escalating airstrikes, European allies move to purchase US air defense systems for urgent delivery to Kyiv.

Kellogg attends Ukrainian National Guard training in Kyiv. US President’s Special Representative Keith Kellogg observed tank crew training and drone demonstrations at Ukrainian National Guard facilities on 16 July, marking his third day of high-level meetings in Kyiv aimed at advancing defense cooperation between the two countries.

Politico: France will not buy American weapons for Ukraine, citing need for Europe defense independence . Paris will not abandon President Macron’s years-long push for Europeans to strengthen their own defense manufacturing base rather than increasing reliance on American suppliers.

The Telegraph: Trump’s Ukraine strategy could work—if Europe sent more than statements. Former UK Colonel Richard Kemp says Trump’s plan to arm Ukraine and pressure Russia is falling short as Europe holds back on weapons and funding.

Europe seeks genuine US burden-sharing of arming Ukraine amid Trump’s weapons promise. Kaja Kallas argued that Washington should share financial responsibility rather than expecting European allies to fund American weapons purchases entirely.

Poland says let Russia pay for US weapons to Ukraine, not European taxpayers. Minister Sikorski backs Trump’s ultimatum and urges use of frozen Russian assets to fund Kyiv’s defense.

ISW: Putin remains silent, but Kremlin mouthpieces reject Trump’s latest war ultimatum

. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov called Trump’s 50-day ceasefire deadline “”unacceptable”” while Putin has yet to officially respond to the ultimatum.

UN diplomat: Russia’s war is global catastrophe, not regional conflict. Bob Rae says Moscow’s war fueled chaos far beyond Ukraine.

Danish company reportedly helps Russians export Ukrainian grain from occupied Berdiansk. A subsidiary of Danish inspection company Baltic Control helped Russian firms export at least 172,000 tons of grain from occupied Berdiansk between March 2024 and May 2025, leaked documents obtained by Ukrainian investigators show.

Humanitarian and social impact

Italy invites Russian conductor to perform. He supports war against Ukraine while Italy declares “art above politics”. Putin’s close ally Valery Gergiev will perform at the Royal Palace of Caserta on 27 July as he was personally invited by Campania region president.

Russia drops 500-kg bomb on city center in Donetsk Oblast, kills two civilians heading home from work. The city is located close to the front line in Donetsk Oblast and suffers daily attacks.

EU says Trump’s Russia ultimatum too long as civilians die daily. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas criticized Trump’s 50-day Russia ultimatum for being too lengthy while Ukrainian civilians face daily bombardment from Putin’s forces.

Russia launches 400 drones at Ukraine: 12 people injured across Kryvyi Rih, Vinnytsia and Kharkiv

. Ukrainian air defenses destroyed 198 Russian attack drones and suppressed 145 decoys.

Political and legal developments

The Telegraph: Europe plans to use frozen Russian assets to pay for Donald Trump’s $10 billion weapons package for Ukraine. Poland’s foreign minister suggested using seized Russian asset profits for Ukraine arms funding, asking EU colleagues whether it “”should be a burden shouldered by our taxpayers or the Russians.”

New developments

Texas man joins Russian army to “earn respect,” gets lied to as he is sent to front line instead of welding job. Derek Huffman’s wife is now appealing on social media for his reassignment and asking for prayers, saying he “”feels like he is being thrown to the wolves.””

Ukraine jokes about giving US envoy “Ukrainian passport” as Russia stops bombing Kyiv when Americans visit. President Zelenskyy told Newsmax that typically Russia attacks Kyiv almost every night but there was a two-night pause as Keith Kellogg had arrived, a pattern Zelenskyy attributes to Putin’s fear of America.

Read our earlier daily review here.

Italy faces internal division over an upcoming performance by Russian conductor Valery Gergiev at a state-backed music festival, with critics arguing the event risks legitimizing Kremlin propaganda while supporters defend artistic freedom.

Now, Gergiev, who has maintained close ties to Vladimir Putin since the early 1990s, is scheduled to perform at the Un’Estate da Re festival at the Royal Palace of Caserta on 27 July, according to reports from The Guardian.

The performance marks his first European appearance since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.

He was dismissed from several European concerts, festivals and theaters, including Milan’s La Scala, for refusing to condemn Putin’s actions. His last Italian performance was at La Scala on 23 February 2022, hours before the invasion began.

Italy, however, just broke a continent-wide boycott of pro-Kremlin artists.

How did this happen? Vincenzo De Luca, president of Italy’s Campania region, invited Gergiev personally. De Luca argues culture “must not be influenced by politics and political logic.”

Opposition to the concert has been led by Yulia Navalnaya, widow of deceased Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died in Russian prison. 

“How is it possible that in the summer of 2025, three years after the start of the conflict in Ukraine, Valery Gergiev, Putin’s accomplice and a person included on the sanctions lists of several countries, was suddenly invited to Italy?” Yulia Navalnaya wrote in La Repubblica on 15 July.

The venue matters too. Gergiev will perform at the Royal Palace of Caserta—a UNESCO World Heritage site and former Bourbon palace. The festival bills his appearance as a summer season highlight.

Ruslan Shaveddinov, longtime Navalny aide, told The Guardian the performance “would serve to normalise Putin’s regime in the eyes of the civilised world.”

He argued that providing a platform for Kremlin figures at prestigious European festivals constitutes “a huge gift to Moscow.”

What’s Italy’s defense? Cultural Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano insists “art must remain free” while simultaneously warning the concert risks “sending the wrong message” amid current tensions.

The concert remains scheduled despite the controversy, with Italian authorities yet to announce any changes to the festival program.

Explore further

From blacklist to spotlight: Russian opera stars return to European stages despite Ukraine war boycott

France will not participate in a new initiative allowing European countries to purchase American weapons for Ukraine, according to French officials familiar with the matter, Politico reports.

The decision reflects Paris’s long-standing position that Europeans should strengthen their own defense industrial base through domestic procurement rather than relying on US suppliers.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz positioned his country as a central player in the initiative, with Rutte noting that Germany is “massively” invested in the plan, according to Politico. German officials privately claim the initiative originated as a German idea, driven by their assessment that Trump’s stated “disappointment” with Russian President Vladimir Putin created an opportunity for enhanced cooperation.

The procurement arrangement represents what German officials describe as a strategic workaround designed to address Trump’s hesitation about directly increasing military aid to Ukraine.

A German government adviser told Politico the strategy “would enable the US administration to increase the pressure on Russia and strengthen its support for Ukraine, while at the same time allowing it to remain one step behind the Europeans.”

European leaders calculated that Trump, who views international relations through the lens of financial transactions, would be more receptive to weapons transfers if Europeans purchased them, allowing the US to profit from the sales. The approach also provides Trump political cover with isolationist elements within his movement who oppose direct American involvement in Ukraine’s defense.

On 15 July, President Trump announced that the first Patriot air defense missiles destined for Ukraine are already being shipped from Germany with an aim to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities amid intense Russian missile and drone attacks on civilians. 

Meanwhile, Rutte identified four Nordic countries along with the United Kingdom and Netherlands as supporting the weapons purchase plan. However, France’s absence from this list reflects broader European divisions over defense procurement strategy.

Two French officials confirmed to Politico that Paris will not join the US weapons buying initiative, citing President Emmanuel Macron’s consistent advocacy for building European defense industrial capacity through local procurement. France’s position is further complicated by budgetary constraints as the government attempts to reduce spending and address its significant deficit.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded positively to the announcement, writing on social media platform X that “we appreciate the readiness to provide additional Patriots, and the US, Germany, and Norway are already working together on this.”

Earlier, European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized the need for the United States to share the financial burden of supplying weapons to Ukraine, pointing out that promising weapons while shifting the cost to others is not true support.

Explore further

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

Donald Trump’s new Ukraine strategy—arming Kyiv while demanding Europe fund it—is drawing sharp debate. But according to former British Army Colonel Richard Kemp, it’s exactly the right move.

Writing in The Telegraph, Kemp says Trump has “correctly adjusted his policy” in response to Vladimir Putin’s refusal to negotiate. His critics, particularly in Europe, “would be more convincing if they had their own realistic proposals, but they do not,” Kemp argues.

“Put their money where their mouth is”

At the heart of Trump’s plan is a demand: the US will send weapons, but Europe must pay.

Kemp calls this “sheer genius, at least as a concept,” adding that it “forces the EU countries and Britain to put their money where their mouth is.”

The move also taps into American frustration over continued US funding of the war. “It ought to play well to American voters,” Kemp writes.

Patriots and priorities

Trump’s plan includes sending Patriot missile systems to shield Ukrainian cities from increased Russian attacks. These may come from US stockpiles or NATO reserves.

But Germany is hesitating. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said delivery could take months—a delay Kemp sees as telling.

“Despite the continent’s supposed insistence that it is prepared to do whatever it takes to help Ukraine win,” Kemp writes, Europe is still slow to act.

Zelenskyy to Trump: “Give us the tools”

In a recent call, Trump reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy whether Ukraine could hit Moscow and St. Petersburg. Kemp likens Zelensky’s response to Churchill: “Give us the tools and we will finish the job.”

Kemp stresses that while air defenses are important, long-range weapons and the freedom to use them would have a far greater effect on Putin.

“Smouldering military bases… might well” force a rethink in Moscow, he argues.

Targeting Russia’s economy

Trump has also proposed secondary tariffs on countries doing business with Russia. Kemp believes this economic pressure could be effective, but says EU leaders are reluctant.

When EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called Trump’s 50-day peace deadline “very long,” Kemp responded bluntly:

“Perhaps Kallas… should immediately impose EU secondary tariffs, rather than shouting criticism from the sidelines?”

“A chance of success” – if Europe steps up

Kemp concludes that Trump’s new strategy has “a chance of success”, but only if Europe gets serious. Otherwise, he warns, it will remain a US-led effort.

“Do they really want to help Ukraine win its war, or do they just want America to do it for them?”

A 500-kilogram aerial bomb crashed into Dobropillia’s busiest commercial area in frontline Donetsk Oblast on the evening of 16 July. Two people died. Twenty-seven others were wounded.

The bomb struck near the store precisely when workers were heading home, according to Ukrainian human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets. The timing and location suggest the strike was designed to maximize civilian casualties in a crowded area.

“Russians again deliberately struck where it’s always crowded—at a shopping center in the city center,” said Vadym Filashkin, head of Donetsk Regional Military Administration.

The pattern is clear: maximum civilian casualties in minimum time.

Russian strike damages stores and apartments

The blast shredded 54 commercial establishments and damaged 304 apartments across 13 residential buildings. Eight cars were destroyed. A two-story store burst into flames, covering 250 square meters before emergency crews extinguished it.

Rescuers pulled a dead woman from the rubble hours after the initial strike. Search teams believe more bodies remain buried.

Civilians flee Donetsk Oblast amid escalating attacks

About 22,600 people remain in Dobropillia despite the escalating attacks. But 980 residents fled the city this month alone, Filashkin reported.

How many attacks have they endured? Thirty-eight separate bombardments since July began. That’s more than one attack per day.

Ukraine also banned civilian traffic between Kramatorsk and Dobropillia just one day before the bombing. The reason: Russia increased FPV drone attacks along that route, making travel too dangerous for civilians.

US President’s Special Representative Keith Kellogg visited training facilities of Ukraine’s National Guard on 16 July, according to the National Guard’s press service.

The American delegation, accompanied by National Guard Commander Brigadier General Oleksandr Pivnenko, observed the preparation of Ukrainian guardsmen, their equipment, and modern battlefield technologies. The delegation was presented with tank and combat vehicle crew training, simulator work, as well as drones and robotic systems.

According to National Guard officials, Kellogg noted the courage of Ukrainian fighters and high quality of training, emphasizing that Ukraine’s experience is valuable for armies of other countries.

The visit represents the third day of Kellogg’s mission to Kyiv, following meetings with top Ukrainian officials on 14-15 July. During his previous days in the capital, Kellogg met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss pathways to peace between Ukraine and Russia, as well as ways to bring the war to a conclusion.

The special representative also held discussions with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov about joint projects for localizing production of air defense systems and other weapons in Ukraine and Europe. Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky, Chief of Main Intelligence Directorate Kyrylo Budanov, and Chief of General Staff Andriy Hnatov briefed Kellogg on Russia’s plans and preparations for a more large-scale war with NATO.

Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha discussed with Kellogg ways to expand defense cooperation between Ukraine and the United States. “Despite what Russian propaganda claims, Russia is not winning, and Ukraine is not losing this war,” Sybiha noted during their meeting.

Kellogg also met with British Armed Forces Commander Admiral Tony Radakin during his Kyiv visit. The American official stated that America and European allies continue working toward achieving lasting peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine.

The special representative’s visit coincided with several large-scale air raid alerts on July 14 and 15, related to Russian MiG-31K aircraft that can carry hypersonic Kinzhal missiles.

A Danish company’s Russian subsidiary is facilitating grain exports through the occupied Berdiansk port, helping ship at least 172,000 tons of grain between March 2024 and May 2025, according to an investigation by Slidstvo.Info and KibOrg.

The investigation reveals that “Baltic Control Novorossiysk,” registered in Russia, provides cargo hold inspection and draft survey services at Berdiansk port, which Russia has controlled since March 2022. The company’s parent organization, Baltic Control, operates from Denmark and positions itself as a leading global inspection and certification firm established in 1980 with over 50 offices worldwide.

IT specialists from KibOrg obtained documentation related to the occupied Berdiansk port’s operations. Analysis by Slidstvo.Info journalists found Baltic Control mentioned dozens of times in correspondence between Russian companies regarding grain shipment preparations.

After Russia’s full-scale invasion began, information about Baltic Control’s Russian operations disappeared from the Danish company’s website. However, when journalists contacted the central office in Denmark seeking contact details for the Russian branch, they received the phone number of “Baltic Control Novorossiysk” director Alexander Shalimov.

Speaking to a journalist who presented herself as a manager from a Polish company, Shalimov confirmed his firm’s inspection services in Berdiansk port.

“I’ll tell you this – we are the only ones located in Berdiansk. All the rest are visitors. This is a very significant nuance. So you will see quality throughout the entire loading process, operatively,” Shalimov said during the call.

When a Slidstvo.Info journalist called Shalimov and identified himself as Ukrainian media, Shalimov denied working in Berdiansk and refused to answer follow-up questions.

Neither the Danish Baltic Control nor the Russian “Baltic Control Novorossiysk” responded to written inquiries from journalists.

International law attorney Kateryna Rashevska told Slidstvo.Info that the Danish Baltic Control’s involvement in grain exports from occupied Zaporizhzhia region territories could be considered complicity in Russian crimes.

The investigation documents Russian companies’ systematic use of the occupied port for grain shipments, with Baltic Control’s subsidiary providing crucial inspection services that enable these operations to proceed.

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said that Washington should “share the burden” of arms deliveries to Ukraine rather than expecting European allies to fund American weapons purchases.

“We welcome President Trump’s announcement to send more weapons to Ukraine, although we would like to see US to share the burden. America and Europe are working together,” Kallas said after a Brussels meeting of EU foreign ministers on 15 July.

NATO maintains that Europe now contributes the majority of weapons flowing to Ukraine, countering Trump’s characterization of burden distribution. 

According to Kallas, “If you promise to provide weapons but say someone else will pay for them, then you’re not actually providing them.”

Trump also offered to supply Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk missiles as part of a broader $10 billion NATO-backed military aid package.

However, Ukrainian military intelligence noted that Ukraine lacks the necessary launch platforms such as strategic bombers or combat ships to effectively deploy these missiles. 

Previously, Trump had emphasized supplying only defensive weapons and was cautious about escalating the conflict with Russia. However, growing frustration with Russian President Putin’s rejection of peace efforts and intensifying Russian attacks on civilians appears to have changed his stance.

American Derek Huffman thought he’d found the perfect solution. Move his family from Texas to Russia for “traditional values.” Join the military for fast-track citizenship. Work as a welder, not a fighter.

Instead, he’s heading to Ukraine’s front lines after three weeks of training despite assurances he would serve in a non-combat role.

American wanted to earn respect in Russia via military service

The 46-year-old father of three joined what’s called Tim Kirby’s “American Village” project earlier this year. Kirby, an American media personality living in Russia since 2006, promotes Putin’s agenda to disaffected Americans. The Huffmans documented their journey on social media, appearing in Russian propaganda videos while crowdfunding their new life.

In May, Derek joined the Russian military without prior military experience, expecting to work as a welder. His wife DeAnna explained that Derek was “told he would not be training for two weeks and going straight to the front lines. But it seems as though he is getting one more week of training, closer to the front lines, and then they are going to put him on the front lines.”

Derek’s motivation for enlisting was primarily to secure expedited citizenship for his family, rather than the longer traditional migration process. He also cited the signing bonus and his desire to earn respect in his new country.

“I don’t want anyone here in Russia to say that we don’t belong here, so if I go put my body on the line for Russia, I defend the country, our new country, I’ve earned our place here,” Derek stated in a video filmed last month.

Now his family asks for prayers as he’s being sent to frontlines

Russian recruiters made specific promises. First, Derek would work as a war correspondent. Then as a mechanic in a repair battalion, using his welding skills. No combat role.

Here’s what actually happened: Derek joined a unit of foreigners getting rushed training in Russian before deployment to Ukraine’s front lines.

DeAnna described the situation in her social media appeal, saying Derek “feels like he is being thrown to the wolves right now, and he is kind of having to lean on faith.”

She added that the family is “hoping that he can be utilized for his skills and not be used just as a fighter.”

The deployment also created financial strain for the family. Derek and his unit members were reportedly required to “donate” 10,000 rubles for their own supplies, consuming a substantial portion of his paycheck. DeAnna reported receiving no pay or bonus after one month of Derek’s service.

Can the family reverse this? DeAnna is petitioning unnamed public figures and asking for prayers to get Derek reassigned to a non-combat role.

How many foreign nationals died fighting for Russia? 

Derek isn’t the first American to discover Russia’s military promises don’t match reality. In April 2024, Michael Gloss, the 21-year-old son of a CIA executive, was killed fighting for Moscow in Ukraine.

Despite his American intelligence family background and past idealism focused on humanitarian goals, Michael had become deeply disillusioned with the US and sought to “fight against America,” embodying a radical anti-establishment mindset.

Explore further

The CIA official’s son hated America so much he died for Putin. Meet the man who tracked down Michael Gloss

His recruitment exposed glaring security failures in the Russian military, which neglected to thoroughly vet family ties even for high-profile figures. 

The BBC Russian Service and Mediazona conducted a joint investigation, confirming the deaths of 523 foreign nationals from 28 countries who fought for Russia in Ukraine.

A significant portion of these foreign fighters were Central Asians, with Tajikistan (72 deaths) and Uzbekistan (66 deaths) having the highest numbers, many of whom were recruited from Russian penal colonies by groups like Wagner in exchange for sentence cancellation.

Nepal also saw high casualties, with 70 confirmed deaths and about 50 more missing. Other countries with reported casualties include Egypt, Sri Lanka, and the United States.

Around 1,000 North Korean soldiers have also been killed, with additional wounded and missing, fighting alongside Russian forces primarily in the Kursk border region.

Explore further

Ukrainian forces capture two Cameroonians who say Russia tricked them into fighting. They signed for 1 million rubles

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy observed that Russia has refrained from bombing Kyiv during the recent visit of Trump’s Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg, interpreting this pattern as evidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin fears America.

Kellogg arrived in Kyiv on 14 July for a week-long visit, during which he met with the Ukrainian president. Zelenskyy noted that the capital experienced no massive bombings for two consecutive nights following the envoy’s arrival.

“This is a very interesting example: there were no heavy attacks this night and the previous night, too,” Zelenskyy told Newsmax correspondent Shelby Wilder in an exclusive interview.

He suggested this absence of strikes demonstrates that Russia deliberately targets civilians under normal circumstances but refrains when American officials are present.

The Ukrainian leader said citizens have begun joking about the phenomenon, suggesting they should give Kellogg a Ukrainian passport to keep him in the country permanently and encourage more frequent American visits to reduce Russian bombing.

Zelenskyy argued this behavior pattern reveals Putin’s calculations regarding escalation with the United States.

“He intimidates, blackmails, creates tension, but does not go for a full escalation” when Americans are present, according to the president’s assessment.

“Putin is afraid of America. I’ve been saying this all along, and I’ve also told the president,” Zelenskyy stated, expressing confidence in this conclusion.

Russia reportedly rejected Trump’s threats with severe economic tariffs unless Moscow agrees to a cease-fire in the next 50 days, with Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov stating that “any attempts to make demands, especially ultimatums, are unacceptable to us.”

Zelenskyy also drew contrasts between the current and previous US administrations’ approaches to the war, which began full-scale in February 2022 under President Joe Biden’s tenure.

“President Biden was not able to end this war. I am confident that President Trump can do it,” he said.

Explore further

The Telegraph: Europe plans to use frozen Russian assets to pay for Donald Trump’s $10 billion weapons package for Ukraine

If the United States were to transfer long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, they would be difficult to deploy, as Ukraine does not have strategic aircraft from which to launch them, according to a Ukrainian military intelligence official.

Major General Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of Ukraine’s military intelligence agency HUR, told reporters that Tomahawk missiles are “not easy to use” and require either combat ships or strategic bombers as launch platforms.

“We don’t have any strategic bomber aircraft,” he acknowledged, according to The Guardian.

The deployment reality emerged as Ukraine waits for details about Trump’s 14 July promise of “billions of dollars” in military aid. Speaking alongside NATO’s Mark Rutte, Trump announced a “very big deal” where European allies would buy American weapons and ship them to Ukraine.

But what exactly did Trump promise? Even Ukrainian intelligence isn’t sure.

“We don’t know exactly,” Skibitskyi admitted about Trump’s offer of “17 Patriots.” The number could mean interceptor missiles, launch stations, or complete battery systems.

Ukraine currently operates six functioning Patriot batteries. Each system includes six launchers. Germany promised two systems, the Netherlands one more. That’s 18 launchers across three batteries—close to Trump’s figure of 17.

“Seventeen is a huge number if we are talking about batteries,” Skibitskyi said. “If it’s launchers, that’s possible.”

Tomahawk missiles can reach Moscow

The discussion of Tomahawk missiles stems from a 4 July phone call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during which Trump asked if Ukraine could strike Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Zelenskyy replied: “Yes, absolutely. We can if you give us the weapons.” However, Trump stated on Tuesday that Ukraine should not target Moscow.

Ukraine strikes deep inside Russia to stop the relentless bombing of its cities. By hitting airfields, weapons factories, and drone launch sites, Ukraine aims to cripple Russia’s ability to launch the massive missile and drone attacks that have killed record numbers of Ukrainian civilians.

The precision cruise missiles have a range of 1,600 kilometers (994 miles) and are capable of reaching the Russian capital. Previous Ukrainian requests for Tomahawks were rejected by the Biden administration, and the Trump administration has not agreed to provide them.

How important are these missiles to Ukraine? Important enough that Zelenskyy included them in the classified section of his Victory Plan. When media reports revealed this detail, Zelenskyy expressed frustration, stating that “this means there is nothing confidential between partners.”

The Washington Post reported earlier that Trump was considering providing long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. However, the US has decided not to do so for now.

Ukraine needs approval for deep strikes inside Russia with western weapons

Despite the deployment challenges, Skibitskyi emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s ability to conduct strikes deep inside Russia against military targets. He said discussions continue with Washington about lifting restrictions on ATACMS missiles, which have a 300-kilometer (186 miles) range and are currently limited to use in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine rather than Russian territory.

“It’s very important for us to get approval from the US to use long-range missiles,” Skibitskyi said. “We want to destroy and to disrupt, in accordance with NATO procedure.”

The Washington Post reported on 15 July that the Trump administration was likely to allow ATACMS to be used inside Russia at full range and was considering sending additional missiles.

Why does range matter? Russia moved its strategic bases beyond 500 kilometers (310 miles) from Ukraine’s border. Ukrainian kamikaze drones can reach them but carry only 50 kilograms of explosives compared to ATACMS’ 500-kilogram payload.

Following Trump’s announcement, Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands expressed interest in participating in the plan for Europe to purchase US weapons for Ukraine.

Zelenskyy also described having a “really good conversation” with Trump about achieving “lasting and just peace” and stopping Russian bombardment of Ukrainian cities.

Russia says it doesn’t care about Trump’s threats

Politicians in Kyiv have welcomed the improved relations with the US, though some expressed frustration that US tariffs and secondary sanctions on Russia have been postponed again, with Trump setting a 50-day deadline.

Meanwhile, Russian officials dismissed Trump’s threats, with former president Dmitry Medvedev writing on X that “Russia didn’t care” about what he called Trump’s “theatrical ultimatum.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin has not publicly responded, reportedly evaluating how to shape the narrative to avoid escalation in September.

Ukraine is deploying a newly developed counter-drone rifle round, designed to be fired from standard NATO 5.56 mm rifles such as the M4 and CZ Bren. As Forbes reported, the rounds break apart mid-flight into five fast-moving pellets, creating a shotgun-like spread capable of downing drones at up to 50 meters.

This innovation comes amid a major Russian summer offensive, where small, low-cost drones are central to identifying and targeting Ukrainian defensive positions.

Brave1 demonstrates the new rounds in action

On 30 June, Ukraine’s military tech initiative Brave1 released a video showing soldiers shooting down a small drone using the new ammunition. While technical details were not disclosed, Ukrainian defense outlet Militarnyi confirmed the rounds are already in limited frontline use.

When fired in rapid bursts, the rounds mimic a shotgun blast—dramatically improving the chances of hitting fast, low-flying drones.

For those wondering on how these bullets work: please check the article by United 24 Media. https://t.co/hEH0i1G40I https://t.co/YNWyENL3PD

— BRAVE1 (@BRAVE1ua) June 30, 2025

Every soldier, one magazine

Brave1 stated that production is ramping up, with the goal of supplying each soldier with one magazine of the counter-drone rounds. The design lets soldiers quickly swap magazines without switching weapons, a critical advantage under fire.

“It effectively gives each soldier the capability of a shotgun without the added burden,” writes Forbes’ tech correspondent Vikram Mittal.

Responding to Russia’s evolving drone strategy

Russia has increasingly relied on small FPV drones to scout and strike Ukrainian positions. These drones are often cheap, short-lived, and designed to evade electronic warfare systems, including fiber-optic tethered models that are immune to jamming.

Ukraine’s electronic warfare coverage is incomplete, making direct-fire solutions like the new rounds essential for soldier-level defense.

Shifting the tactical balance

According to Mittal, the rounds could disrupt Russia’s current drone-heavy tactics. If Ukrainian troops are able to shoot drones down consistently, Russian forces may have to revert to artillery strikes—which are less precise, reveal their position, and consume more resources—or risk high-casualty direct assaults without aerial support.

“These rounds may break the cat-and-mouse cycle of electronic warfare and drone evolution,” Mittal notes.

Standardized for NATO, ready for scale

The rounds have already been codified under NATO standards, signaling Ukraine’s intent to mass-produce and distribute them across the front. This marks a shift from high-tech jamming systems toward simple, kinetic, soldier-level solutions.

While success still depends on rapid visual and acoustic detection, Forbes notes that frontline footage shows soldiers often spot drones in time to react, sometimes even outrunning FPV drones.

A turning point in drone warfare

When the war began, Ukraine used large Bayraktar TB2 drones to target armored vehicles. Today, the battlefield is defined by small, inexpensive drones targeting dispersed troops. Ukraine’s new rifle rounds could force yet another evolution in drone tactics—one that returns more power to individual soldiers on the ground.

Europe is considering using profits from nearly €200 billion of frozen Russian Central Bank assets to fund President Donald Trump’s $10 billion weapons package for Ukraine, The Telegraph reported on 15 July.

Trump confirmed on 14 July a new military assistance package that would provide Ukraine with “billions of dollars” worth of weaponry, funded and distributed by European NATO allies. Trump said the package includes up to 17 Patriot air defense systems.

The proposal to use frozen Russian assets to fund President Donald Trump’s $10 billion weapons package emerged during EU foreign ministers’ discussions in Brussels on 15 July, marking the first formal talks since Trump announced the NATO-coordinated arms deal.

Diplomatic sources told The Telegraph that ministers asked how Trump’s plan would work, though detailed information had yet to be shared with European capitals.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said the deal involves NATO buying American air defence systems, missiles and ammunition before delivering them to Kyiv. At least eight member states have signed up to the scheme, announced during Trump’s Oval Office meeting with Rutte on 14 July.

“It is widely considered that NATO’s support mission for Ukraine – Nsatu – will play the lead role in coordinating purchases of American weapons and their eventual delivery to Kyiv,” a NATO official said.

The plan involves a central NATO-controlled fund topped up by European allies and Canada, which would purchase items from a Ukrainian government “shopping list” of American weapons.

Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski suggested the EU’s contribution could come from frozen Russian asset profits. “Should it be a burden shouldered by our taxpayers or the Russians,” he told colleagues, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

Brussels had been developing its own weapons purchase fund using seized assets, but directing money toward Trump’s scheme is viewed as more efficient for maintaining US support for Ukraine. Contributing to the American plan would also count toward NATO’s 3.5 percent defense spending target.

During the 14 July meeting, Trump threatened “severe tariffs” against Russia if it doesn’t make peace within 50 days. He described Putin as “a tough guy” and said he was “angry” at the Russian leader for not being “nice.”

First deliveries of Patriot air-defence batteries are expected in Ukraine within days, though details about long-range missiles remain to be finalized by the White House.

Day 1239

On 15 July, the biggest news comes from the United States.

After weeks of record-breaking Russian strikes, President Donald Trump has reversed course and resumed US military aid to Ukraine. The decision ended a three-week pause that had delayed critical defense systems just as Ukraine’s air defenses were being pushed to the limit.

That peak was reached just days ago, when Russia launched its largest aerial attack of the war so far. Over 700 drones and missiles were fired in a single night, primarily targeting energy facilities, airbases, and ammunition stockpiles.

Russian state media claimed the attack was a coordinated operation to dismantle Ukraine’s war effort, but most of the actual damage was inflicted on civilian infrastructure. Several Ukrainian airfields suffered minor damage, but many of the intended military targets were either missed or intercepted. Ukrainian air defense claimed to have shot down over 500 incoming projectiles, including nearly every Shahed drone. While some ballistic and cruise missiles slipped through, the scale of destruction fell far short of what the Kremlin had likely intended.

And that miscalculation may have backfired. The original reason the US paused military aid was to open space for de-escalation and preserve its own shrinking stockpile of interceptors. But Russia’s response was to escalate, not slow down. As you remember from a previous report, Russia is dramatically increasing drone and missile output, aiming to overwhelm Ukrainian defenses and outlast Western patience.

But by unleashing the biggest strike of the war just as talks stalled, the Kremlin made clear that its goal is not negotiation, it is devastation. The strategy seems to have convinced President Trump that further delay would only invite more bloodshed. Moscow’s aggression ultimately ended the pause, forcing the decision back onto the table.

What followed was a rapid green light for aid shipments, with renewed focus on US patriot systems. These systems are not designed to intercept drones; they are used against ballistic and cruise missiles, including Iskander-M, Kinzhal, Kalibr, and other high-speed threats. While Patriots are among the most capable interceptors in the world, the challenge is industrial; the US currently produces around 550 Patriot missiles per year, and is working to double that output by next year.

In recent strikes, Russia has only needed a few missiles per wave to break through. With Ukrainian air defenses already stretched thin, it is the ballistic and cruise missiles that do real damage, hitting power grids, command hubs, and airbases with precision.

That is why having enough Patriots matters, because when even one slips through, it can knock out a power station or command node. But Russia is also expanding its missile production. The real race is between how many advanced missiles Russia can fire and how many interceptors Ukraine’s allies can supply in time. If that ratio tips the wrong way, critical infrastructure will fall, and Russian air dominance will grow.

For now, the US still holds the edge in quality and output. NATO countries are scaling up their production lines, while Ukraine is adapting its defenses by blending cheaper systems like Gepards and laser-guided short-range interceptors with high-end Patriots. But the problem is volume: if the US sends 100 interceptors and Russia fires 150 cruise or ballistic missiles, Ukraine can only defend so much. The new aid package is not just about blocking the next attack; it is about buying enough time and firepower to shift the ratio before winter sets in.

Overall, Russia’s strategy is ruthless, but far from subtle: escalate pressure, trigger delays in Western support, and then exploit the gap with concentrated firepower. But this time, the sheer scale of the offensive may have backfired. By striking while the West was still hesitating, Moscow may have overplayed its hand and pushed Washington and its allies to recommit more forcefully. For Ukraine, it is a temporary lifeline, but also a warning, as long as Russia can launch, no pause in aid will ever hold for long.

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.

“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.

Kremlin officials dismissed US President Donald Trump’s 50-day ultimatum for a Ukraine ceasefire while Russian President Vladimir Putin remained silent on the demands, the Institute for the Study of War reported on 15 July, citing Russian Telegram channels, controlled by Kremlin.

During a 14 July Oval Office meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump threatened “severe tariffs” if Russia doesn’t make peace within 50 days but declined to specify how far he would escalate if Putin increases pressure. Trump also called Putin “a tough guy” and said he was “angry” at the Russian leader for not being “nice.”

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told TASS on 15 July, according to the ISW, that Russia views “especially ultimatums” as “unacceptable.” Ryabkov said Russia’s position is “unshakable” and Moscow will continue pursuing war aims militarily if the US and NATO ignore Russian demands.

Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev posted that “Russia didn’t care” about Trump’s “ultimatum.” Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed confidence Russia will cope with US tariffs, as Moscow is already “coping” with prior sanctions.

Putin has yet to officially respond and is likely attempting to identify narratives that could convince Trump not to follow through with tariffs in September 2025, according to ISW.

Trump announces $10 billion Ukraine aid

Trump announced a $10 billion military package for Ukraine including Patriot missiles and air defense weapons. NATO countries will purchase the weapons from the US and transfer them to Ukraine.

The package may authorize Ukraine to use 18 long-range ATACMS missiles at full 300-kilometer range, enabling strikes on Russian military bases and supply depots previously out of reach.

Trump considered sending Tomahawk cruise missiles – the same weapons used against Iranian targets last month. “If fired from Ukraine, these could hit Moscow and St. Petersburg,” the Washington Post reported. Tomahawks aren’t included in current deliveries but could be deployed later.

Trump’s announcement followed his disappointment with Putin’s unwillingness to pursue ceasefire talks. Putin told Trump during their 3 July call that Moscow plans to escalate operations in eastern Ukraine within 60 days, “securing the full administrative borders of occupied Ukrainian oblasts.”

“Trump is really pissed at Putin. His announcement tomorrow is going to be very aggressive,” Sen. Lindsey Graham told Axios.

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.

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.

President Donald Trump announced on 15 July that Patriot air defense missiles destined for Ukraine are already being shipped from Germany, marking a significant acceleration in military aid delivery to Ukraine.

“They’re already being shipped,” Trump told journalists at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, when asked about Patriot missiles and other weapons that NATO allies will purchase for Ukraine. The missiles are “coming in from Germany and then replaced by Germany,” he explained.

The announcement comes as part of a broader military assistance package that Trump confirmed on 14 July would provide Ukraine with “billions of dollars” worth of weaponry, funded and distributed by European NATO allies. Trump said the package includes up to 17 Patriot air defense systems.

“In all cases, the United States gets paid back in full,” Trump emphasized. “NATO’s going to pay us back for everything. In some cases, we’re going to be paid back by countries of the European Union directly. We’re always getting our money back in full.”

Ukraine needs more air defence systems to defend its citizen and infrustructure from Russian attacks that included more than 700 missile and drone strikes on some days last week.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the arrangement “completely logical” during an Oval Office meeting with Trump on 14 July. According to Rutte, Trump called  him on 10 July to say he had decided Ukraine should receive “everything necessary for self-defense,” but wanted Europeans to pay for it.

The initiative has attracted interest from Germany, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Canada, Rutte noted.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said on 14 July that Germany cannot provide Ukraine with additional Patriot air defense systems as the country has only six left from its original stock of 12. Pistorius reportedly planned to discuss US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth a proposal he made last month allowing Germany to purchase two Patriot systems from the US specifically for Ukraine

Beyond the Patriot systems, the military assistance reportedly may include authorization for Ukraine to use its 18 long-range ATACMS missiles at their full 300-kilometer range, enabling strikes on military bases, airfields, and supply depots deep inside Russia that are currently out of reach.

Trump also considered sending Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine – the same weapons used against Iranian targets last month. The Washington Post reported that “if fired from Ukraine, these could hit Moscow and St. Petersburg, and they were included in discussion as late as Friday.” However, the Tomahawks are not included in the current delivery list, though they could be deployed later if Trump seeks additional leverage.

These decisions represent a significant policy shift from Trump’s previous stance of providing only defensive equipment. The announcement followed Trump’s expressed “disappointment” with Russian President Vladimir Putin over Putin’s unwillingness to move towards a ceasefire and Russia’s escalating attacks on Kyiv and other cities.

During a phone call on 3 July, Putin reportedly told Trump that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days, “securing the full administrative borders of occupied Ukrainian oblasts.”

Trump also threatened to impose “severe tariffs” against Russia if it doesn’t make peace within 50 days. During the meeting with Rutte, Trump described Putin as “a tough guy” and said he was “angry” at the Russian leader for not being “nice.”

Trump confirmed he has not spoken to Putin since announcements made on 14 July.

Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Ukraine using an Iskander-M ballistic missile and 400 drones of various types, targeting primarily Kryvyi Rih, Kharkiv, and Vinnytsia, according to Ukraine’s Air Force Command.

Ukrainian air defenses destroyed 198 Russian drones and suppressed an additional 145 decoy drones, the Air Force reported. One ballistic missile and 57 drones struck targets in 12 locations, with debris from intercepted drones falling in two additional areas.

The attack originated from multiple Russian positions including Shatalovo, Bryansk, Kursk, Millerovo, and Primorsko-Akhtarsk in Russia, as well as Chauda in occupied Crimea. 

The Russian military regularly attacks Ukrainian oblasts with various types of weapons. Russia’s leadership denies that the Russian army has been conducting targeted attacks on the civilian infrastructure of Ukrainian cities and villages, killing civilians and destroying hospitals, schools, kindergartens, energy and water supply facilities.

Vinnytsia bears heavy casualties

Vinnytsia suffered the most significant impact, with strikes against industrial and civilian infrastructure. About eight people are injured, Nataliia Zabolotna, deputy head of the Vinnytsia Regional Military Administration, said.

The attack damaged industrial facilities, with firefighters successfully containing a blaze at one site while continuing operations at another. Four residential buildings in the Vinnytsia Oblast sustained damage, with one house receiving substantial destruction.

“In total, Vinnytsia Oblast was attacked by 28 UAVs today, of which approximately 18 targets were destroyed,” Zabolotna said.

Kryvyi Rih industrial facility destroyed

Kryvyi Rih faced a combined assault involving both the ballistic missile and 28 kamikaze drones, resulting in the destruction of an industrial enterprise and widespread power outages. A 17-year-old boy suffered severe abdominal injuries in the attack, Governor Serhii Lysak said.

Kharkiv enterprise targeted

In Kharkiv, Russian drones struck a civilian enterprise in the Kyiv district, causing a large-scale fire and injuring three people, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said. The attack also resulted in a fire at an apartment building in Kramatorsk.