The Slovak police sought to detain ex-Defense Minister Jaroslav Nad over alleged misconduct during the donation of ammunition to Ukraine in 2022, the Slovak newspaper Dennik N reported on June 18, citing two undisclosed sources.According to his social media, Nad is currently vacationing in Canada. The Slovak police reportedly also seek to detain a former Defense Ministry official and have detained an ex-head of the Konstrukta Defense state company in a move denounced by Nad's opposition Democrat
The Slovak police sought to detain ex-Defense Minister Jaroslav Nad over alleged misconduct during the donation of ammunition to Ukraine in 2022, the Slovak newspaper Dennik N reported on June 18, citing two undisclosed sources.
According to his social media, Nad is currently vacationing in Canada. The Slovak police reportedly also seek to detain a former Defense Ministry official and have detained an ex-head of the Konstrukta Defense state company in a move denounced by Nad's opposition Democrats party as politically motivated.
The police operation reportedly concerns 120 mm rounds that Slovakia donated to Ukraine at the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. The Slovak Defense Ministry allegedly initially sold the obsolete ammunition to a private company, only to later purchase it through Konstrukta Defense for a higher price for swift deliveries to the war-torn nation.
Nad was the defense minister between 2020 and 2023, during which time Slovakia decisively supported Ukraine against Russian aggression and provided substantial military aid.
Bratislava's foreign policy radically shifted after the election victory of left-nationalist Robert Fico in September 2023, who halted military aid from Slovak military stocks, adopted more hostile rhetoric toward Kyiv, and sought close energy ties with Russia.
Nad dismissed the allegations as a "theater," portraying it as the government's attempt to distract the public from internal problems.
"Today's theater didn't shock or upset me in the slightest," Nad said on Facebook.
"I'll keep reminding myself of how proud I am of the support we gave to Ukraine. I'd make the same decision again — without hesitation."
Fico has long criticized Western military aid to Ukraine and the defense assistance provided to Kyiv under the previous Slovak government. In a separate case last year, Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kalinak denounced last year a decision to send MiG-29 jets to Ukraine as "treason."
Ukraine's Foreign Ministry on June 18 brushed off Moscow's demands for Kyiv to destroy or dismantle Western-supplied weapons as a condition for a ceasefire, saying it shows disregard for U.S. peace efforts."Russian officials make new absurd demands almost every day. Total inadequacy," Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi said on X."Moscow shows complete disregard for the United States' efforts to end the war."Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko raised the demand i
Ukraine's Foreign Ministry on June 18 brushed off Moscow's demands for Kyiv to destroy or dismantle Western-supplied weapons as a condition for a ceasefire, saying it shows disregard for U.S. peace efforts.
"Russian officials make new absurd demands almost every day. Total inadequacy," Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi said on X.
"Moscow shows complete disregard for the United States' efforts to end the war."
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko raised the demand in an interview with the state-run newspaper Izvestia earlier this week.
"All these surpluses must be destroyed. All international algorithms are known. They must be reduced, disposed of, and guaranteed," Grushko said.
The Kremlin has previously demanded a complete halt on Western military aid to Ukraine as a key condition for a truce. Kyiv and its European partners have rejected this, instead urging increased military assistance to the war-torn country.
The demand reflects Moscow's growing list of maximalist conditions presented in its so-called "peace memorandum" during negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul on June 2.
While the recent peace talks ended with an agreement on major prisoner exchanges and repatriation of fallen soldiers, they have failed to achieve a breakthrough in the peace talks.
U.S. President Donald Trump, who initially pledged to broker peace in Ukraine within 24 hours of taking office, has become increasingly disengaged in the effort. He has also been reluctant to apply pressure on Moscow to push it to a ceasefire deal despite repeatedly threatening additional sanctions.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said on June 17 that the G7 summit had produced concrete results for Ukraine, including increased military support, new tranches of aid using frozen Russian assets, and additional sanctions targeting the sources of Russia’s war effort."It is important that our partners are ready not only to support our defense now, but also to rebuild Ukraine together after the war ends. I thank everyone who helps us fight Russian aggression and who, together with Ukraine, is buildin
President Volodymyr Zelensky said on June 17 that the G7 summit had produced concrete results for Ukraine, including increased military support, new tranches of aid using frozen Russian assets, and additional sanctions targeting the sources of Russia’s war effort.
"It is important that our partners are ready not only to support our defense now, but also to rebuild Ukraine together after the war ends. I thank everyone who helps us fight Russian aggression and who, together with Ukraine, is building a strong security architecture for the future," he added in a Telegram post.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a new support package for Ukraine earlier in the day, including two billion Canadian dollars ($1.5 billion USD) in military aid and over two billion Canadian dollars ($1.6 billion USD) loan for reconstruction. The package also includes funding for drones, ammunition, armoured vehicles, and new sanctions targeting Russia’s energy revenues and sanctions evasion.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer also announced a set of measures aimed at increasing pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, who continues to reject calls for an unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine. "The 30 targets strike across Russia’s financial, military and energy sectors in response to Putin’s continued aggression," reads the U.K. government statement. The new sanctions also "crack down further on Putin’s shadow fleet," targeting 20 of his oil tankers.
Starmer added that he "strongly" supports tightening the price cap on Russian crude oil to further cut into the Kremlin’s energy revenues.
The G7 nations, however, struggled to present a unified stance on the war in Ukraine after U.S. President Donald Trump voiced support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and called for Russia to be readmitted to the group. Russia was expelled from what was then the G8 after its 2014 invasion of Crimea.
Trump left the summit a day early to address the Israel-Iran conflict from Washington, departing without meeting Zelensky, who had hoped for a one-on-one conversation to press for stronger sanctions against Russia.
Zelensky had already cut his own visit to Canada short on June 17 and was preparing to return to Kyiv while G7 talks were still underway. He had been scheduled to travel to Calgary for events and a press conference with the Ukrainian diaspora, a source told a Kyiv Independent journalist on the ground, but those plans were canceled following a deadly Russian missile strike on Kyiv and changes to the summit agenda.
Zelensky later said he told G7 leaders that "diplomacy is now in a state of crisis" and urged allies to continue pressing Trump "to use his real influence" to help end the war.
A convoy of trucks brought food parcels into the territory, where civilians are at risk of starvation and have been suffering worsening conditions, with such aid shipments rare in recent weeks.
A convoy of trucks brought food parcels into the territory, where civilians are at risk of starvation and have been suffering worsening conditions, with such aid shipments rare in recent weeks.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a sweeping new support package for Ukraine on June 17, during a bilateral meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky on the final day of the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.The measures include two billion Canadian dollars ($1.5 billion USD) in military funding and new sanctions aimed at restricting Russia’s energy revenues and evasion tactics."To be absolutely clear, this support will be unwavering until we get a just peace for Ukraine and the Ukrai
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a sweeping new support package for Ukraine on June 17, during a bilateral meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky on the final day of the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.
The measures include two billion Canadian dollars ($1.5 billion USD) in military funding and new sanctions aimed at restricting Russia’s energy revenues and evasion tactics.
"To be absolutely clear, this support will be unwavering until we get a just peace for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people," Carney was quoted as saying.
The aid package includes funding for drones, ammunition, and armoured vehicles, as well as a $2.3-billion loan to support the reconstruction of Ukrainian infrastructure damaged by Russian attacks. Zelensky, who was invited to the summit by Carney, thanked the prime minister for his support, noting that Ukraine had just endured one of the largest missile attacks since the start of the full-scale invasion, killing 14 and injuring 117 people in Kyiv.
The new sanctions target 77 individuals and 39 entities, including 15 people involved in Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” three financial firms facilitating war-related transactions, and 14 entities tied to the development of quantum technologies with possible military use. Canada also upgraded its sanctions against Russian oil and gas giant Surgutneftegas.
Canada’s announcement came alongside similar measures from the U.K., which sanctioned individuals and entities connected to Russian finance, energy, and military operations, including 20 shadow fleet vessels and two U.K.-based individuals accused of exporting high-tech electronics to Russia.
The proposal would salvage some clean-energy tax credits and phase out others more slowly, making up some of the cost by imposing deeper cuts to Medicaid than the House-passed bill would.
The proposal would salvage some clean-energy tax credits and phase out others more slowly, making up some of the cost by imposing deeper cuts to Medicaid than the House-passed bill would.
The 549-page measure, released by the Senate Finance Committee, outlines changes to Medicaid that would be far more aggressive than the version passed in the House, making millions more Americans subject to a work requirement.
In a handout image from Ukraine’s government, Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury secretary, and Yulia Svyrydenko, the Ukrainian economy minister, signed the minerals deal in Washington in April.
Insurgents are expanding from West Africa’s Sahel region toward Atlantic coastal nations such as Ivory Coast, creating new terrorism hot spots and displacing millions.
Insurgents are expanding from West Africa’s Sahel region toward Atlantic coastal nations such as Ivory Coast, creating new terrorism hot spots and displacing millions.
Moscow will insist that Ukraine dismantle and destroy all Western-supplied weapons as part of any ceasefire deal, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said in an interview with the state-run newspaper Izvestia published June 16. "All these surpluses must be destroyed. All international algorithms are known. They must be reduced, disposed of, and guaranteed," Grushko said, without offering specifics.The remarks reflect Moscow's growing list of maximalist demands presented in its so-c
Moscow will insist that Ukraine dismantle and destroy all Western-supplied weapons as part of any ceasefire deal, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said in an interview with the state-run newspaper Izvestia published June 16.
"All these surpluses must be destroyed. All international algorithms are known. They must be reduced, disposed of, and guaranteed," Grushko said, without offering specifics.
The remarks reflect Moscow's growing list of maximalist demands presented in its so-called "peace memorandum" during recent negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul on June 2.
The document calls for Ukraine to recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea and four partially occupied regions — Kherson, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Luhansk — and demands full Ukrainian troop withdrawal and demobilization.
Grushko argued that Western weapons aid threatens not only Russia but also Europe, warning that arms could end up on black markets.
"It's crazy how reckless some politicians are, still flooding the market with weapons," he said.
There is no credible evidence that Kyiv has diverted Western weapons or fueled arms trafficking — a narrative promoted by Russian propaganda to undermine support for Kyiv.
Independent oversight by partner states and institutions has consistently found that Ukraine uses Western weapons to defend itself against Russia's full-scale invasion.
Moscow's proposals would further prevent Ukraine from joining NATO or military alliances, prohibit its armed forces' redeployment, and stop all Western military aid and intelligence sharing.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected Moscow's demands, saying the Russian delegation admitted in Istanbul that their "memorandum" is an ultimatum Ukraine cannot accept.
"They even told our delegation: we know that our memorandum is an ultimatum, and you will not accept it," he said in a June 10 interview with Hungarian outlet Valasz Online.
In contrast, Ukraine's proposal focused on humanitarian measures, including a prisoner exchange, the return of abducted children, and securing the right to join the EU and NATO.
Kyiv has also called for using frozen Russian assets to pay for reconstruction and linking any sanctions relief to a verified ceasefire.
Despite two rounds of talks in May and June, no political breakthrough has been reached. Moscow continues to reject calls for an unconditional ceasefire, while Ukraine presses for an end to hostilities.
U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly shown frustration over Russia's refusal to compromise, yet he has refrained from imposing new sanctions.
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has arrested two individuals in Kyiv accused of attempting to extort $200,000 from a European defense company, potentially jeopardizing the delivery of electronic warfare (EW) systems to Ukraine's military, the SBU reported on June 14.The suspects allegedly demanded the payment in exchange for facilitating the successful testing and adoption of five radio electronic warfare systems provided to Ukraine at no cost, according to statements released by the SBU a
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has arrested two individuals in Kyiv accused of attempting to extort $200,000 from a European defense company, potentially jeopardizing the delivery of electronic warfare (EW) systems to Ukraine's military, the SBU reported on June 14.
The suspects allegedly demanded the payment in exchange for facilitating the successful testing and adoption of five radio electronic warfare systems provided to Ukraine at no cost, according to statements released by the SBU and the Prosecutor General's Office.
The devices, supplied by a private foreign manufacturer, were financed by Ukraine's international partners. The producer had already delivered five systems to Ukraine, with additional contracts possible if the equipment performed well in combat conditions, the SBU said.
According to investigators, the suspects falsely claimed to have influence within Ukraine's Defense Ministry and promised to use their connections to ensure positive evaluations of the equipment.
"Under the guise of having contacts within the ministry, the men demanded $200,000 from the company in exchange for ensuring no obstacles during official trials of the equipment," the Prosecutor General's Office said in a statement.
Both men have been formally charged under Ukraine's Criminal Code for alleged obstruction of the Armed Forces and receiving unlawful benefits through influence peddling. The charges carry a possible sentence of up to eight years in prison and asset confiscation.
The arrests were made as part of a broader investigation led by the SBU and conducted under the procedural oversight of the Specialized Defense Prosecutor's Office. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing to identify all individuals involved.
Ukraine continues to rely heavily on international military assistance as it defends against Russia's full-scale invasion, now in its fourth year. Ukraine uses EW systems during Russian attacks on its cities and on the front line.
Kyiv and its Western partners launched an electronic warfare coalition in April, which consists of 11 countries and comes on top of other eight Western coalitions to support Ukraine. Other similar initiatives include an artillery coalition, a fighter jet coalition, and a demining coalition, organized within the framework of the Ramsteinformat.
The war in the Middle East could decide the fate of Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says that Israeli “strikes have led to a sharp rise in oil prices,” which is a negative factor. According to him, “the Russians are strengthening due to higher revenues from oil exports,” UNIAN reports.
Russia has condemned the Israeli strikes on Iran, calling them “unprovoked” attacks on sleeping peaceful cities. In response, US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham s
The war in the Middle East could decide the fate of Ukraine’s fight against Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says that Israeli “strikes have led to a sharp rise in oil prices,” which is a negative factor. According to him, “the Russians are strengthening due to higher revenues from oil exports,” UNIAN reports.
Russia has condemned the Israeli strikes on Iran, calling them “unprovoked” attacks on sleeping peaceful cities. In response, US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said that such statements are “a bit rich even for the Russians,”as Moscow continues its barbaric invasion of Ukraine, while Israel is defending its existence.
“If there are price caps, the price will be limited, so probably the risks will decrease. Although someone will circumvent even that. That is, you cannot completely avoid the risks,” the president explains.
He claims that Ukraine will increase proposals to the American side for the introduction of price caps and sanctions against Russia’s energy sector.
“I will soon be in contact with the American side, probably with the president, and we will raise this issue,” Zelenskyy states.
At the same time, he draws attention to the military aspect.
“If we say that Iran is an ally of the Russians in supplying weapons, then have serious strikes been inflicted on the production of Shaheds and rockets, and other capabilities? We hope that it will decrease,” he says.
Furthermore, he notes that the escalation in the Middle East leads to increased aid to Israel from the US.
“No one challenges the relationship between America and Israel, but we would like the aid to Ukraine not to decrease because of this,” the Ukrainian president stressed and recalled that previous tensions “slowed down aid to Ukraine.”
Earlier, expert Abbas Galliamov said that the Kremlin is losing one of its key bargaining chips in negotiations with Donald Trump amid Israel’s strikes on Iran. Up to 13 June, there was a kind of trade-off: “Ukraine in exchange for Iran.”
According to him, Trump would offer Putin not to put too much pressure on him over Ukraine for now, but in return, he counted on the Russian president’s support in negotiations with Tehran on its nuclear program.
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West African nations are struggling to track and treat infections, and experts warn the outbreak is rapidly spreading, while the United States is cutting global vaccination efforts.
West African nations are struggling to track and treat infections, and experts warn the outbreak is rapidly spreading, while the United States is cutting global vaccination efforts.
Every new Russian shelling of Kharkiv results in thousands of broken windows and damage, says Kharkiv’s mayor, Ihor Terekhov, UkrInform reports.
Russian attacks on Ukraine have intensified amid US President Donald Trump’s peace efforts, leading to a rising number of civilian casualties.
“Currently, the need for windows exceeds 50,000. Every strike increases this number by another thousand, one and a half, two. The record was more than five thousand in one attack,” the mayor r
Every new Russian shelling of Kharkiv results in thousands of broken windows and damage, says Kharkiv’s mayor, Ihor Terekhov, UkrInform reports.
Russian attacks on Ukraine have intensified amid US President Donald Trump’s peace efforts, leading to a rising number of civilian casualties.
“Currently, the need for windows exceeds 50,000. Every strike increases this number by another thousand, one and a half, two. The record was more than five thousand in one attack,” the mayor reveals.
Municipal services promptly seal off the building envelopes to preserve heat and ensure residents’ safety. Some construction materials are provided by charitable organizations, but, according to Terekhov, the volumes are significantly less than in previous years of the war.
“We are receiving very little now from the funds. The assistance is shrinking, probably due to a lack of financial resources. And it’s not getting easier for us,” the mayor continues.
Volunteers actively help municipal workers eliminate the consequences of the strikes, especially in hard-to-reach buildings.
For example, in a 24-story building in the Saltivka district damaged during the night shelling on 12 June, construction materials had to be carried up manually because the elevators were without power.
The mayor also emphasizes that after each attack, Kharkiv residents unite and support the municipal and emergency services. He recalls an incident when, during a morning shelling on Hymnaziyna Embankment, a local resident brought sandwiches to workers clearing the damage.
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Czechia plans to supply Ukraine with even more ammunition in 2025 and continue its support in 2026, UkrInform reports.
Prague is heading a coalition of countries planning to deliver more than 1.5 million artillery shells to Ukraine in 2025 under the so-called Czech Initiative. It unites about 18 countries jointly financing the purchase and delivery of large-caliber ammunition for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Czechia intends to deliver more large-caliber ammunition to Ukraine t
Czechia plans to supply Ukraine with even more ammunition in 2025 and continue its support in 2026, UkrInform reports.
Prague is heading a coalition of countries planning to deliver more than 1.5 million artillery shells to Ukraine in 2025 under the so-called Czech Initiative. It unites about 18 countries jointly financing the purchase and delivery of large-caliber ammunition for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Czechia intends to deliver more large-caliber ammunition to Ukraine this year than in 2024, said Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský after talks with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha in Prague.
“We want to supply more large-caliber ammunition this year than in 2024, and continue this initiative in 2026,” Lipavský states.
According to him, Czechia’s participation in the Coalition of the Willing and the expansion of the Ammunition Initiative demonstrate long-term solidarity. He emphasized that the intensity of contacts between Kyiv and Prague shows that Czechia is a key partner of Ukraine.
Sybiha, in turn, thanked Czechia for its systematic support, especially in defense and weapons supplies. He also highlighted humanitarian efforts, assistance to internally displaced persons, hospital reconstruction, provision of 3D printers, and drones.
“I was impressed by the volume of help provided by Czech society, volunteer and non-governmental organizations that assist Ukraine every day,” said Sybiha.
Among the projects Czechia is implementing in Ukraine is the restoration of six hospitals. Both sides also see great prospects in developing defense-industrial cooperation.
“With Czechia, we have reached the highest level of bilateral dialogue. Czechia is one of the few countries with which Ukraine has established strategic relations during the war,” emphasized Sybiha.
Meanwhile, Russia continues to receive military support from Iran and North Korea, and other states that do not support Western sanctions. Thus, while Czechia and its allies actively assist Ukraine with ammunition and equipment, Russia receives support from countries, complicating the frontline situation and prolonging the war.
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Germany will not supply Ukraine with long-range Taurus cruise missiles, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed during a visit to Kyiv on 12 June.
Previously, however, Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated that transferring Taurus missiles to Ukraine remains “within the realm of possibility” but warned that the months-long training required for Ukrainian forces would make delayed deliveries unhelpful.
Speaking at a joint briefing with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Pistorius gave a di
Germany will not supply Ukraine with long-range Taurus cruise missiles, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed during a visit to Kyiv on 12 June.
Previously, however, Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated that transferring Taurus missiles to Ukraine remains “within the realm of possibility” but warned that the months-long training required for Ukrainian forces would make delayed deliveries unhelpful.
Speaking at a joint briefing with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Pistorius gave a direct response when asked about potential missile deliveries amid intensifying Russian attacks on Ukraine.
“You asked me whether we are considering this, I answer you — no,” Pistorius stated.
Former Chancellor Olaf Scholz categorically opposed providing the cruise missiles to Ukraine, arguing that such transfers risked drawing Germany directly into the Russian-Ukrainian war. In late 2024, Scholz said that “a German missile that can reach Moscow” and this would carry unacceptable risks.
Merz, by contrast, supported supplying these weapons systems to Ukraine even before assuming the chancellorship. He defended his position claiming that this step would significantly enhance Ukraine’s ability to strike Russian military targets and supply lines up to 500 km (310 miles) away, helping it defend against Russia’s unlawful aggression.
Germany pledges €9 billion in military aid to Ukraine
Pistorius also stated that Germany plans to allocate €9 billion in military aid to Ukraine for 2025, with portions of this funding designated for long-range weapons production.
“Supporting Ukraine is the task of all European peoples. We must take responsibility and recognize that this is not only Ukraine’s defense. Ukraine is fighting this war to ensure peace in Europe, so helping is our common task,” Pistorius stated.
Pistorius emphasized the effectiveness of Ukrainian drone technology and the technological expertise Ukraine has developed during its defense against Russian aggression.
“We all must learn from this. And I think that in the industrial sector we must also develop. Therefore, it’s about joint ventures that we want to build. We want more of these joint ventures both in Germany and in Ukraine in order to produce weapons faster for the common good and thus strengthen deterrence potential and defense potential,” he explained.
Zelenskyy and Pistorius discussed localizing air defense system production in Ukraine and agreed on additional investments in defense manufacturing. The leaders committed to expanding joint weapons production in both countries.
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Editor's note: This story has been updated to include Germany's announcement to supply Ukraine with $2.2 billion in additional military aid.Germany will deliver new IRIS-T air defense systems to Ukraine under a three-year supply plan, President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a joint press conference with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who added Berlin has no plans to provide Taurus long-range missiles.The announcement comes amid escalating Russian aerial assaults, including a June 10 m
Editor's note: This story has been updated to include Germany's announcement to supply Ukraine with $2.2 billion in additional military aid.
Germany will deliver new IRIS-T air defense systems to Ukraine under a three-year supply plan, President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a joint press conference with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who added Berlin has no plans to provide Taurus long-range missiles.
The announcement comes amid escalating Russian aerial assaults, including a June 10 missile and drone strike on Kyiv, one of the largest since the start of the full-scale invasion.
"We are grateful for the supply of IRIS-T air defense systems," Zelensky said on June 12. "We understand that deliveries are currently being planned... for the next three years. This is very important assistance."
The IRIS-T is a German-made medium-range surface-to-air missile system capable of intercepting drones, aircraft, and cruise missiles.
Pistorius confirmed the delivery timeline but firmly ruled out the possibility of sending Taurus missiles — weapons Kyiv has repeatedly requested to strike deep into Russian territory.
"You asked me whether we are considering this, and my answer is no," Pistorius said.
Before taking office, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz signaled openness to lifting former Chancellor Olaf Scholz's ban on the missiles. That stance has not yet resulted in a policy shift.
Ukraine has already received long-range missiles — including ATACMS from the U.S. and Storm Shadow and SCALP from the U.K. and France. Initially restricted to use within Ukrainian territory, Western allies only began easing those limitations in late 2024.
Germany is Ukraine's largest military donor in Europe. Pistorius said that Berlin will provide 9 billion euros ($10.4 billion) in aid this year, with investments in defense production being considered. The total includes an additional commitment in military aid worth 1.9 billion euros ($2.2 billion).
"Today, we discussed that this aid will continue," he said. "We agreed on additional investments in production... both in Ukraine and in Germany."
Zelensky visited Berlin on May 28 for talks with Merz, part of an ongoing effort to bolster Ukraine's defense industry amid uncertainty over U.S. support under President Donald Trump.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth officially confirmed that anti-drone weapons intended for Ukraine were redirected to American forces stationed in the Middle East. The APKWS II anti-drone rocket systems “are at least part, if not the main focus of this diversion in matériel,” TWZ reported. Meanwhile, Senator McConnell says Washington’s reputation is “on the line.”
This comes as Russia has escalated its daily long-range explosive drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, increasing civilian casualties.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth officially confirmed that anti-drone weapons intended for Ukraine were redirected to American forces stationed in the Middle East. The APKWS II anti-drone rocket systems “are at least part, if not the main focus of this diversion in matériel,” TWZ reported. Meanwhile, Senator McConnell says Washington’s reputation is “on the line.”
This comes as Russia has escalated its daily long-range explosive drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, increasing civilian casualties. For months now, US President Donald Trump has pushed for Kyiv-Moscow negotiations allegedly to end the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war, but two rounds of low-level talks have produced no results, with Russia showing no intention of stopping the war and continuing to demand Ukraine’s capitulation.
Testifying before the Senate Appropriations Committee on 11 June, Hegseth admitted for the first time that counter-UAS capabilities originally purchased for Ukraine under the Biden administration were instead prioritized for deployment in the CENTCOM area (North Africa – Middle East).
“Senator, as you know, the Middle East is and remains a very dynamic theater,” Hegseth claimed. “We’re going to surge counter UAS systems to our troops and our bases and our places first […] that has been and will continue to be a priority for us.”
Zelenskyy previously warned of looming weapon loss
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky toldABC News last week that the US had agreed to send “20,000 missiles – anti-Shahed missiles,” which are now being diverted. “Without the help of the United States, we will have more losses.”
TWZ noted that “there are no traditional missiles available anywhere near that number,” meanwhile, the APKWS system is produced in large volumes and is specifically effective against Shahed-136 suicide drones.
“APKWS gives Ukraine another proven way to defend key target areas… without blowing through prized SAMs,” TWZ wrote,
The Wall Street Journal earlier reported that the Pentagon “quietly notified Congress” that APKWS-specific proximity fuzes were reassigned to US Air Force units. These fuzes are essential to converting APKWS rockets into counter-drone weapons.
The public admission sparked renewed criticism from lawmakers. Republican Senator Mitch McConnell asked Hegseth which side he wanted to win the war, but Hegseth said the Trump administration sought an end to the killing without taking sides.
McConnell, a vocal Ukraine supporter, noted:
“It seems to me pretty obvious that America’s reputation is on the line,” McConnell said. “Will we defend Democratic allies against authoritarian aggressors?”
Later in the hearing, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham pressed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Dan Caine on whether Russian President Vladimir Putin would stop at Ukraine.
“I don’t believe he is,” Gen. Caine responded, with Hegseth adding it “remains to be seen.”
Graham, referencing his earlier comparison between Western inaction toward Putin and the appeasement of Adolf Hitler in the lead-up to World War II, quickly retorted:
“Well, he says he’s not. This is the ’30s all over. It doesn’t remain to be seen.”
APKWS
The APKWS II are laser-guided 70mm rockets previously used by Ukraine to intercept Russia’s Iranian-designed Shahed drones and low-flying missiles. pods with such missiles have been forward-deployed with US’ F-15Es in Jordan and have been used in past months by US jets to down Houthi drones in the Red Sea. The same guidance kits are also used in the VAMPIRE counter-drone system previously supplied to Ukraine.
According to TWZ, videos from Ukraine in 2023 showed APKWS being used on Humvees, but the VAMPIRE system with counter-drone fuzes became more widespread by December 2023. These systems helped Ukraine defend key targets from Iranian-made kamikaze drones without depleting expensive SAM inventories.
Unclear future for US aid for Ukraine
Hegseth declined to specify how many APKWS rockets remain in stock or were sent to Ukraine.
“We would have to review the capacity,” he said, adding that US support to Ukraine had allegedly created “some challenges in other places.”
Earlier on 10 June, Hegseth said a cut in US military aid to Ukraine is almost certain, citing the Trump administration’s “very different view” of Russia’s war compared to former President Joe Biden’s and calling an unrealistic “negotiated peaceful settlement” the best outcome for both sides and US interests.
Since Trump assumed office in January, the US has neither approved any new aid for Ukraine, nor replied to Kyiv’s requests to buy aid defenses.
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Kyiv urgently needs weapons amid the summer offensive, while Canada is still counting the guns, CBC reports. The Canadian federal government has yet to fulfill its commitment to transfer firearms seized through the government’s banned weapons buyback program to Ukraine, despite promises made last year.
As of 12 June, Russian and Ukrainian forces were engaged in offensive actions in Sumy Oblast, with Russian troops making some tactical gains northeast of Sumy City. Russian forces are also advan
Kyiv urgently needs weapons amid the summer offensive, while Canada is still counting the guns, CBC reports. The Canadian federal government has yet to fulfill its commitment to transfer firearms seized through the government’s banned weapons buyback program to Ukraine, despite promises made last year.
As of 12 June, Russian and Ukrainian forces were engaged in offensive actions in Sumy Oblast, with Russian troops making some tactical gains northeast of Sumy City. Russian forces are also advancing from the border to bring Kharkiv City within tube artillery range.
Although Canada pledged in December 2024 to deliver some of the assault rifles confiscated from civilians to Ukraine, not a single weapon has been sent for military use so far.
During the first phase of the buyback program, over 12,000 banned firearms were purchased from businesses. However, the government has yet to determine how many of these could be transferred to Ukraine.
“The Government of Canada continues to work with businesses to identify prohibited firearms in their inventory of NATO calibre that could be donated to Ukraine,” said Max Watson, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Safety.
When the program was announced in December, the government stated it was working with Ukraine to identify which specific weapon models could be used in the conflict.
The banned weapons buyback program expanded the list of prohibited firearms from around 1,500 to over 2,000 models. The weapons purchased from businesses are to be destroyed, except for those planned for shipment to Ukraine.
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German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius arrived in Kyiv on June 12 to meet Ukrainian leaders and discuss future defense support for Ukraine, DPA news agency reported."We are doing everything we can to support Ukraine so that it can defend itself and get into a position where Russia is prepared to enter into serious negotiations," Pistorius said ahead of the departure, according to Reuters.The visit marks Pistorius's first official trip to Ukraine as a minister in Chancellor Friedrich Merz's new
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius arrived in Kyiv on June 12 to meet Ukrainian leaders and discuss future defense support for Ukraine, DPA news agency reported.
"We are doing everything we can to support Ukraine so that it can defend itself and get into a position where Russia is prepared to enter into serious negotiations," Pistorius said ahead of the departure, according to Reuters.
The visit marks Pistorius's first official trip to Ukraine as a minister in Chancellor Friedrich Merz's new German government.
During former Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s tenure, Defense Minister Pistorius made several visits to the war-torn country and played a key role in establishing Germany as Ukraine’s top European military donor.
Amid President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Berlin on May 28, Pistorius and his Ukrainian counterpart, Rustem Umerov, signed an agreement allocating 5 billion euros ($5.76 billion) in military support to Ukraine.
Under the deal, Berlin agreed to help fund the production of long-range drones in Ukraine, tapping into the country's existing industrial capacities and technical expertise.
Berlin also reaffirmed its commitment to supply Ukraine with critical ammunition and weapons. The arms heading Kyiv's way include air defense systems, artillery, land weapons systems, and handguns.
Taurus cruise missiles, a much-coveted long-range weapon capable of striking targets 500 kilometers (300 miles) away, were not announced as part of the package.
Merz has pledged to maintain Germany's steadfast support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Berlin's role is even more crucial now as the U.S. Trump administration signaled its intent to cut down military assistance for Kyiv.
Since the outbreak of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Germany has provided Ukraine with almost 44 billion euros (around $50 billion) in various forms of support, the German government said.
A testy exchange between a senator who strongly supports Ukraine aid and the defense secretary revealed a deepening split among G.O.P. officials on the war.
A testy exchange between a senator who strongly supports Ukraine aid and the defense secretary revealed a deepening split among G.O.P. officials on the war.
Ukraine is expected to get nearly 1.7 billion pounds ($2.26 billion) from the U.K. to buy air defense systems and missiles, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on June 11, citng a decision by Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers. The new funding will be used to buy Rapid Ranger air defense systems and Martlet lightweight multirole missiles, Shmyhal said, describing the deal as a "significant strengthening" of Ukraine's air defense capacity amid intensifying Russian air assaults.Rapid Ranger is a mobile,
Ukraine is expected to get nearly 1.7 billion pounds ($2.26 billion) from the U.K. to buy air defense systems and missiles, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on June 11, citng a decision by Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers.
The new funding will be used to buy Rapid Ranger air defense systems and Martlet lightweight multirole missiles, Shmyhal said, describing the deal as a "significant strengthening" of Ukraine's air defense capacity amid intensifying Russian air assaults.
Rapid Ranger is a mobile, laser-guided air defense system built for rapid deployment and effective against low-flying threats, including drones and helicopters. It is typically paired with the Martlet missile, which is designed for use against drones and light aircraft.
"This month, the U.K. also announced record aid for the supply of drones. We are talking about 350 million pounds ($473 million), which will allow 100,000 drones to be transferred to Ukraine this year," Shmyhal wrote on Telegram.
The announcement follows Russia's June 10 aerial attack on Kyiv, one of the largest during the full-scale war. The night before, Ukrainian air defense shot down 479 Russian drones and missiles in a record air assault, according to the country's Air Force.
This year, the U.K. has allocated 4.5 billion pounds ($5.8 billion) for military assistance to Ukraine, marking its largest annual commitment so far.
London remains one of Kyiv's most steadfast military partners, providing long-range missiles, armored vehicles, training, and political support against Russian aggression.
Norway has transferred or planned to transfer 14 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine — over double the six publicly declared — according to its annual arms export report.
Russia continues its deliberate daily air attacks on residential areas and civilian infrastructure, particularly targeting energy infrastructure and apartment buildings, aiming to disrupt civilian life. Such attacks involve missiles, and dozens to hundreds of explosive drones. Fighter jets, such as F-16, are instrumental as the la
Norway has transferred or planned to transfer 14 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine — over double the six publicly declared — according to its annual arms export report.
Russia continues its deliberate daily air attacks on residential areas and civilian infrastructure, particularly targeting energy infrastructure and apartment buildings, aiming to disrupt civilian life. Such attacks involve missiles, and dozens to hundreds of explosive drones. Fighter jets, such as F-16, are instrumental as the last line of air defense against the missiles and drones.
According to Militarnyi, the official report on Norway’s conventional arms exports suggests that the country has planned to send 14 F-16s to Ukraine, despite only announcing six publicly. The status of the eight unannounced aircraft is not specified.
Condition of additional Norwegian F-16s unclear
It is likely, based on the report’s context, that these jets are not flight-capable and are intended for technical staff training, spare parts, or use as decoys, Militarnyi notes, adding that the possibility that some of the additional jets could be restored and made operational is not ruled out.
Norway previously stated that it would only provide operational aircraft that were withdrawn from service in 2021.
In mid-May, the Norwegian government reported that all promised F-16s would be delivered to Ukraine by the end of the current year. However, delivery dates for the eight unannounced jets remain unclear.
As of May, the last Dutch F-16 fighters designated for Ukraine reportedly left the Netherlands. Despite completing the physical transfer of its pledged 24 jets, the Dutch Defense Ministry emphasized that its support continues, including training personnel and providing spare parts, ammunition, and fuel.
Denmark’s delivery is ongoing in three phases, as previously agreed. By February, Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen confirmed that Ukraine had already received 12 out of 19 promised fighters.
Additionally, Belgium is expected to send two F-16s to Ukraine in 2025, with one aircraft designated for dismantling and use as a source of spare parts.
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Republicans targeting safety net programs once invoked women they claimed were living lavishly on government funds. Now as they seek to pare back Medicaid, the imagery has changed — but not the argument.
Republicans targeting safety net programs once invoked women they claimed were living lavishly on government funds. Now as they seek to pare back Medicaid, the imagery has changed — but not the argument.
The United States will reduce funding allocated for military assistance to Ukraine in its upcoming defense budget, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a congressional hearing on June 10. "It is a reduction in this budget," Hegseth told lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives. "This administration takes a very different view of that conflict. We believe that a negotiated peaceful settlement is in the best interest of both parties and our nation's interests, especially with all the
The United States will reduce funding allocated for military assistance to Ukraine in its upcoming defense budget, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a congressional hearing on June 10.
"It is a reduction in this budget," Hegseth told lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives.
"This administration takes a very different view of that conflict. We believe that a negotiated peaceful settlement is in the best interest of both parties and our nation's interests, especially with all the competing interests around the globe."
The Pentagon has not yet released the full documentation regarding its 2026 budget. According to Hegseth, the pending budget "provides a historic level of funding for military readiness, putting (U.S.) warfighters and their needs first."
Hegseth did not disclose details as to the extent of the funding cuts to Ukraine.
The Pentagon's announcement follows weeks of intense Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities, including record-breaking drone strikes against Kyiv. Amid the escalating aerial assaults, President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the U.S. to support Ukraine with critical air defense systems.
Ukraine has offered to buy these systems outright rather than requesting military aid.
Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. has provided Kyiv with over $66 billion in defense support. But U.S. President Donald Trump halted the approval of new military aid packages to Kyiv when he began his second term in January.
Under Trump's leadership, Washington's policy towards Ukraine shifted dramatically. Calls to support Ukraine's independence and sovereignty have been replaced with demands that Ukraine make a deal with Russia, and Trump has at times lashed out at Zelensky.
After the leaders' infamous clash during an Oval Office meeting in February, the U.S. temporarily suspended all military aid to Ukraine. Hegseth, who ordered the temporary halt, also did not attend the most recent Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting on June 4 — the first such absence by a U.S. defense chief since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
Zelensky confirmed in a recent interview that the U.S. diverted 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally intended for Ukraine to American forces in the Middle East.
The Ukrainian National Police’s assault unit, the Lyut’ (“Fury”) Brigade, has received Spanish Pegaso BMR M-600 armored personnel carriers, Militarnyi reported. The deployment was confirmed by a military-focused Telegram channel, Tysk, which shared a photo showing the vehicle equipped with a specially crafted anti-drone grill structure featuring doors for both crew and troops.
Since Russia started its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Spain has provided Kyiv with critical defense systems,
The Ukrainian National Police’s assault unit, the Lyut’ (“Fury”) Brigade, has received Spanish Pegaso BMR M-600 armored personnel carriers, Militarnyi reported. The deployment was confirmed by a military-focused Telegram channel, Tysk, which shared a photo showing the vehicle equipped with a specially crafted anti-drone grill structure featuring doors for both crew and troops.
Since Russia started its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Spain has provided Kyiv with critical defense systems, armored vehicles, generators, and signed a ten-year bilateral security cooperation agreement to strengthen Ukraine’s long-term resilience.
Militarnyi noted that the angle of the released photo makes it difficult to identify the exact configuration of the vehicle. However, it suggests that the vehicle could be a BMR-600 VRAC variant used for chemical reconnaissance, previously seen in Ukraine. In January 2024, Militarnyi had also reported Spain’s delivery of two medical BMR M-600 units to Ukraine, refurbished by the company TECNOVE:
No official announcements have been made about the delivery of standard troop transport versions of the BMR-600, but the presence of such a vehicle suggests it may be part of military aid from Spain, Militarnyi suggests.
BMR-600
The BMR-600 is a Spanish 6×6 wheeled armored personnel carrier developed in the early 1970s and mass-produced from 1979. This amphibious APC serves as a mainstay of Spanish ground forces and has been exported internationally.
This amphibious vehicle accommodates 11 troops plus driver and gunner in an aluminum-armored hull. Key features include front-left driver position, right-side engine bay, rear troop compartment with ramp access and dual roof hatches. The 310-hp Pegaso diesel delivers 100 km/h maximum speed via automatic transmission and dual-steered front axles. Amphibious capability relies on wheel propulsion or optional water jets (9 km/h).
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the US is diverting 20,000 missiles previously promised to Ukraine toward the Middle East, a move he warns will increase casualties as Russia intensifies its aerial attacks.
This comes as US President Donald Trump has been stalling new sanctions against Russia, while pushing for Kyiv-Moscow talks, allegedly to end the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war. While two rounds of such talks failed to bring a ceasefire, with Russia effectively demanding Ukraine’s ca
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the US is diverting 20,000 missiles previously promised to Ukraine toward the Middle East, a move he warns will increase casualties as Russia intensifies its aerial attacks.
This comes as US President Donald Trump has been stalling new sanctions against Russia, while pushing for Kyiv-Moscow talks, allegedly to end the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war. While two rounds of such talks failed to bring a ceasefire, with Russia effectively demanding Ukraine’s capitulation, Moscow has escalated its air attacks against Ukrainian cities using hundreds of Iranian-designed Shahed drones every night.
Speaking to ABC News, Zelenskyy stated that his defense minister informed him on 6 June that the US was reassigning anti-drone weapons meant for Ukraine. According to him, these assets—originally part of an agreement with the Biden administration—would now support US force protection efforts in the Middle East.
“We counted on [them] to defend against Russian attacks,” Zelenskyy told ABC. “Without the help of the United States, we will have more losses.”
The Ukrainian president said the diverted items were “not expensive, but [a] special technology” designed specifically to combat Shahed drones, which Russia now produces domestically in thousands after importing them from Iran.
This development comes amid a significant escalation in Russian air attacks. Overnight on 9 June, Russia launched a record number of aerial weapons – a total of 479 drones and 20 missiles across Ukraine. The next day, Russia launched 315 more drones and seven missiles, targeting Kyiv and Odesa.
Pentagon avoids confirming missile redirection
ABC News says the Pentagon declined to confirm whether the anti-drone systems intended for Ukraine were now being sent to the Middle East. However, a report by the Wall Street Journal last week revealed that the Pentagon had authorized the transfer of such technology.
“The Pentagon quietly notified Congress last week that special fuzes for rockets that Ukraine uses to shoot down Russian drones are now being allocated to US Air Force units in the Middle East,” WSJ wrote on 4 June.
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The Swedish activist Greta Thunberg arriving in her home country after she was deported from Israel. “On international waters, we were illegally attacked and kidnapped by Israel,” she said.
The Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation said the threats had made it “impossible to proceed” with food distribution. Hamas denied the accusation and accused the group of lacking neutrality.
The Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation said the threats had made it “impossible to proceed” with food distribution. Hamas denied the accusation and accused the group of lacking neutrality.
Israel had vowed to prevent the vessel from reaching Gaza, saying its military would use “any means necessary” to stop it from breaching a naval blockade.
Israel had vowed to prevent the vessel from reaching Gaza, saying its military would use “any means necessary” to stop it from breaching a naval blockade.
Israel had vowed to prevent the vessel from reaching Gaza, saying its military would use “any means necessary” to stop it from breaching a naval blockade.
Israel had vowed to prevent the vessel from reaching Gaza, saying its military would use “any means necessary” to stop it from breaching a naval blockade.
President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump's administration diverted 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally intended for Ukraine to American forces in the Middle East, in an interview with ABC News published on June 8.Zelensky said Ukraine had counted on the missiles to help counter relentless Russian drone attacks, which include swarms of Iranian-designed Shahed-type drones. On June 1, Russia launched a record 472 drones in a single night."We have big problems with S
President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump's administration diverted 20,000 anti-drone missiles originally intended for Ukraine to American forces in the Middle East, in an interview with ABC News published on June 8.
Zelensky said Ukraine had counted on the missiles to help counter relentless Russian drone attacks, which include swarms of Iranian-designed Shahed-type drones. On June 1, Russia launched a record 472 drones in a single night.
"We have big problems with Shaheds… we will find all the tools to destroy them," Zelensky said. "We counted on this project — 20,000 missiles. Anti-Shahed missiles. It was not expensive, but it's a special technology."
Zelensky said the plan had been agreed upon with then-U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and was launched under President Joe Biden's administration.
The Wall Street Journal reported on June 4 that the Trump administration had redirected the munitions, which include special fuzes used in advanced rocket systems to intercept drones, toward U.S. forces stationed in the Middle East.
The Pentagon reportedly informed Congress in a classified message that the reallocation of the fuzes for the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System was deemed an "urgent issue" by current Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
A Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) source told the Kyiv Independent on June 4 that Russia is preparing to launch more than 500 long-range drones per night in future attacks, as Moscow rapidly scales up drone production and constructs new launch sites.
The Trump administration has halted the approval of new military aid packages to Ukraine since the start of his second term in January.
Trump has repeatedly expressed skepticism about continued assistance to Kyiv and temporarily suspended military shipments earlier this year, only resuming them after Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire framework during peace talks in Jeddah on March 11.
Hegseth, who ordered the temporary halt, did not attend the most recent Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting on June 4 — the first such absence by a U.S. defense chief since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
Ukraine has urgently called on Western partners to expand investments in domestic arms production and deliver more air defense systems, including U.S.-made Patriots, to counter intensifying Russian airstrikes.
Despite growing international appeals and Kyiv's offer of a 30-day ceasefire as the basis for peace talks, Moscow continues to reject the proposal.
Trump, who spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 4, has refused to impose new sanctions on Russia, saying he is focused on pursuing a negotiated ceasefire.
Ukraine is still waiting for the United States to respond to its request to purchase air defense systems, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on 7 June. This followed a major Russian air assault on Kharkiv city the same day, as Russia reportedly targeted the city with 67 explosive drones, nine aerial bombs, and a missile.
Ukraine seeks to acquire American-made Patriot systems, which are among the few Western air defense platforms capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. These missiles are regu
Ukraine is still waiting for the United States to respond to its request to purchase air defense systems, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on 7 June. This followed a major Russian air assault on Kharkiv city the same day, as Russia reportedly targeted the city with 67 explosive drones, nine aerial bombs, and a missile.
Ukraine seeks to acquire American-made Patriot systems, which are among the few Western air defense platforms capable of intercepting ballistic missiles. These missiles are regularly used by Russia to target Ukrainian cities. Moscow conducts daily attacks on residential neighborhoods far from the frontline, using long-range explosive drones and sometimes adding missiles to the assaults. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump pushes for Kyiv-Moscow talks, allegedly to end the ongoing war, in order to restore relations with Russia.
Zelenskyy calls for urgent US support
In his evening address on 7 June, Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine urgently needs “positive signals” from the US — not just words, but concrete decisions.
“We are working to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense. We urgently need positive signals from the United States – concrete signals regarding air defense systems,” he said. “We are still waiting for a response to our request to purchase systems that can help — concrete signals, not words.”
He also thanked European nations for their support and emphasized the importance of joint production efforts.
“We must also achieve results in the joint production of air defense systems and missiles for them – this is absolutely essential for our whole Europe,” Zelenskyy noted, adding that “only time separates us from that result, and what matters most is shortening that time.”
The statement came after a Ukrainian delegation visited Washington on 6 June. According to the head of the Office of the President, Andrii Yermak, Ukraine expressed its readiness to buy weapons from the US. However, Yermak stated that members of Congress believe Washington can continue supplying arms directly to Ukraine instead.
On 6 June, Russia attacked Kyiv, Lutsk, and Ternopil with hundreds of drones and 45 missiles, leading to heavy casualties among civilians. That day, US President Donald Trump appeared to defend Russia’s massive airstrike on Ukrainian cities the night before, claiming that Ukraine’s Operation Spiderweb had given Vladimir Putin “a reason to go in and bomb the hell out of them last night.” Earlier, after a phone call with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, he said Russia’s reaction would “not be pretty.”
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Canada will provide Ukraine with over $25.5 million in military equipment, the Canadian Defense Ministry said in a statement on June 6. The country pledged to provide Ukraine with almost $22 million worth of Coyote and Bison armored vehicles, as well as new equipment and ammunition supplied by Canadian companies.It adds to Canada’s earlier delivery of 64 Coyote armored vehicles, which were sent to Ukraine in December 2024. Apart from that, Canada will provide Ukraine with around $3.6 million for
Canada will provide Ukraine with over $25.5 million in military equipment, the Canadian Defense Ministry said in a statement on June 6.
The country pledged to provide Ukraine with almost $22 million worth of Coyote and Bison armored vehicles, as well as new equipment and ammunition supplied by Canadian companies.
It adds to Canada’s earlier delivery of 64 Coyote armored vehicles, which were sent to Ukraine in December 2024.
Apart from that, Canada will provide Ukraine with around $3.6 million for electronic warfare anti-jammer kits from Canada’s defence industry, reads the statement.
The decision was announced by Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty during the 28th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format in Brussels on June 6.
“As a founding member of NATO, Canada believes that the alliance is the cornerstone of transatlantic security and we are moving quickly to accelerate our defense spending and increase our contributions to NATO,” McGuinty said, as quoted in the statement.
“During the meeting of NATO defense ministers, Canada reaffirmed unwavering support to Ukraine as its citizens fight for their freedom, and we look forward to working closely with allies to strengthen our collective security.”
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Canada has pledged over $19.5 billion in overall aid to Ukraine, with $4.5 billion allocated for military support, including multi-purpose drones, armored support vehicles, anti-tank weapons, small arms, M777 howitzers with ammunition.
A New York Times article last year described two families struggling to keep their malnourished children alive in Gaza. Now, as Israeli restrictions keep out most aid, that’s even harder.
A New York Times article last year described two families struggling to keep their malnourished children alive in Gaza. Now, as Israeli restrictions keep out most aid, that’s even harder.
U.S. President Donald Trump offered to increase supplies of American energy exports to Berlin but did not pledge additional military support to Ukraine or sanctions on Russia in a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on June 5. The meeting was Merz's first visit to the White House since becoming chancellor. When asked whether Trump would impose additional sanctions on Russia, the president dodged the question by boasting that he "ended Nord Stream 2" and hinting at future energy deals w
U.S. President Donald Trump offered to increase supplies of American energy exports to Berlin but did not pledge additional military support to Ukraine or sanctions on Russia in a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on June 5.
The meeting was Merz's first visit to the White House since becoming chancellor.
When asked whether Trump would impose additional sanctions on Russia, the president dodged the question by boasting that he "ended Nord Stream 2" and hinting at future energy deals with Germany.
"We have so much oil and gas, you will not be able to buy it all. ... I hope we'll be able to make that part of our trade deal," Trump said during a joint press conference with Merz.
While Merz spoke of a "duty" to assist Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, Trump did not make any commitments to further military aid for Kyiv. In the same press conference, he compared Russia and Ukraine to fighting children and refused to name a deadline for imposing sanctions on Moscow.
Merz nonetheless praised Trump's role as a peacemaker between the two nations.
"I told the president before we came in: He is the key person in the world who can really (end the war) by putting pressure on Russia."
Trump has frequently brought up Europe's reliance on Russian energy when questioned about Washington's role in pressuring the Kremlin or supporting Ukraine.
Nord Stream 1 and 2 are gas pipelines running between Russia and Germany under the Baltic Sea. Nord Stream 2 has never been activated, and the pipes shut down after suspected sabotage in 2022.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claimed in March that discussions were underway with the U.S. to resume gas flows through the pipelines. Trump has pursued warmer relations and stronger economic ties with Moscow since his inauguration in January 2025.
Merz said on May 28 that the German government will "do everything to ensure that Nord Stream 2 cannot be put back into operation," German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on May 28.
The leaders' discussion on June 6 focused primarily on Russia's war against Ukraine, NATO, and trade policy, Merz said in Berlin the day after the meeting. Merz insisted that Trump remains committed to NATO, despite the U.S. president's history of disparaging the alliance.
Nearly 50 people have been reported killed and 300 others wounded in incidents near the Israeli-backed distribution center, which was designed to keep food out of the hands of Hamas.
Nearly 50 people have been reported killed and 300 others wounded in incidents near the Israeli-backed distribution center, which was designed to keep food out of the hands of Hamas.
Danger and desperation are clear in imagery near the aid sites. Dozens of Palestinians were killed in at least two instances after Israeli troops opened fire near the sites.
Danger and desperation are clear in imagery near the aid sites. Dozens of Palestinians were killed in at least two instances after Israeli troops opened fire near the sites.
The Trump administration has eviscerated the expert class that generated alternative views in its best moments, and engaged in groupthink at its worst.
The Trump administration has eviscerated the expert class that generated alternative views in its best moments, and engaged in groupthink at its worst.
The old structure of the National Security Council did not fit the “top-down approach” of President Trump, according to Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary.
Europe was preparing a protective shield for Ukraine after the war, but Washington refuses to support the air cover needed for such an operation, Bloomberg reports, citing sources familiar with the situation.
According to the report, European allies, after consultations with their American counterparts, concluded that President Donald Trump would not offer the guarantees they were seeking to back a Europe-led Coalition of the willing. This casts doubt on the feasibility of the
Europe was preparing a protective shield for Ukraine after the war, but Washington refuses to support the air cover needed for such an operation, Bloomberg reports, citing sources familiar with the situation.
According to the report, European allies, after consultations with their American counterparts, concluded that President Donald Trump would not offer the guarantees they were seeking to back a Europe-led Coalition of the willing. This casts doubt on the feasibility of the initiative.
The US has declined to provide air defense assets to support the “deterrence forces” that the United Kingdom and France planned to deploy in postwar Ukraine.
The US’s unwillingness to provide the requested support highlights divisions among Western allies on how to respond to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
“European officials had said the US guarantee was needed alongside a strong Ukrainian force supported by allied training and troops, in order to deter Russia,” reads the report.
Earlier, the UK and France finalized plans for the deployment and operations of these forces but have paused implementation until ceasefire negotiations resume.
The allied forces, which were expected to help secure Ukraine’s airspace, coastline, and territory, stationing European troops far from the front lines at key ports and infrastructure sites, are dependent on a peace settlement that, in the view of European officials, is becoming increasingly unlikely.
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Johnnie Moore, a former Trump campaign adviser, was appointed to the board of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation after the aid rollout was hit by chaos and the deadly shootings of Palestinians.
Johnnie Moore, a former Trump campaign adviser, was appointed to the board of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation after the aid rollout was hit by chaos and the deadly shootings of Palestinians.
The U.S. administration has not yet made any new decisions on military assistance for Kyiv as it remains focused on ending the Russia-Ukraine war, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker told journalists on June 4.Whitaker stressed that Washington counts on European leadership in providing Ukraine with the resources needed to achieve a lasting peace, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported.The envoy made the comments as Kyiv's partners gathered in Brussels for a Ramstein-format summit of the U
The U.S. administration has not yet made any new decisions on military assistance for Kyiv as it remains focused on ending the Russia-Ukraine war, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker told journalists on June 4.
Whitaker stressed that Washington counts on European leadership in providing Ukraine with the resources needed to achieve a lasting peace, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported.
The envoy made the comments as Kyiv's partners gathered in Brussels for a Ramstein-format summit of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG).
The UDCG was initially launched by former U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in 2022 to coordinate assistance for Ukraine among some 50 countries.
Pete Hegseth, the current Pentagon chief, relinquished chairmanship of the group to the U.K. and Germany and opted out of the June 4 meeting, leaving Whitaker to represent the U.S.
Since taking office in January, U.S. President Donald Trump has not approved any new defense aid for Ukraine, vowing instead to broker a swift peace deal between Kyiv and Moscow.
The assistance approved under the previous Biden administration continues to flow, but is expected to run out in the coming months. Washington also provides Ukraine with crucial intelligence assistance.
As peace talks stall, Trump has signaled the U.S. might abandon its involvement in the effort, raising fears among European partners that he might also cut off all remaining support for Ukraine.
The U.S. president has repeatedly urged Europe to take up responsibility for backing Ukraine and for its own security as his strategic focus shifts away from the continent.
Under former President Joe Biden, the U.S. has been the leader in military donations to Ukraine, supplying some weapons that European allies struggle to replace, including air defense interceptors.
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The Kyiv IndependentYuliia Taradiuk
