Moscow sees “poor prospects” for EU relations under new leadership
The Kremlin has expressed doubt about improved Russia-EU relations following the appointment of Kaja Kallas as the EU's top diplomat, citing her past "Russophobic statements."
Ukraine’s National Guard destroys Russian Su-25 attack aircraft in Donetsk Oblast
The National Guard of Ukraine reports a successful interception of a Russian "Grach" aircraft during a combat mission over Donetsk Oblast.
ISW: Cutting off the Ukrainian salient is the goal of Russia’s offensive on Toretsk in Donetsk Oblast
The Institute for the Study of War assesses that Russia's Toretsk offensive is unlikely to result in rapid gains due to limited force commitment.
Zelenskyy arrives in Brussels to sign EU-Ukraine security agreement
Zelenskyy set to sign security agreements, including landmark deal with EU committing all 27 members to support Ukraine
ISW: Ukraine lacks air defense systems to protect repaired energy facilities
The Institute for the Study of War reports that a lack of Western-provided air defense systems has allowed Russia to maximize damage to Ukraine's energy capacity in 2024.
Reuters: Poland, Baltics call for “defense line” along Europe’s Eastern border
Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are calling for EU-wide financial support to build a defence infrastructure system along the bloc's eastern border.
South Korean media: North Korea might send military construction and engineering forces to occupied Donetsk in July
South Korean media reports North Korea could send military engineering forces to occupied Donetsk as early as July, potentially earning millions from Russia.
British Defense Ministry: Russia continues to recruit prisoners for war, despite risks to communities upon their return
Russian lawmakers are sounding the alarm over potential increases in crime as ex-prisoners recruited to fight in Ukraine return to their communities.
Spain delivers Patriot missiles and Leopard tanks in latest aid to Ukraine
Spain has shipped a comprehensive military aid package to Ukraine, including Patriot missiles and Leopard tanks, as part of a billion-euro commitment for 2024.
Ukraine and Canada strengthen economic ties with updated trade agreement
The updated Free Trade Agreement between Ukraine and Canada, effective 1 July, aims to bolster economic cooperation while addressing unique regional concerns.
Estonian PM Kallas will take over as next EU foreign policy head
In a major reshuffle of EU leadership, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas is to become the EU's foreign policy chief, replacing Josep Borrell.
Conscripting the critics: Ukrainian authorities accused of using draft as political weapon
Ukrainian investigative journalist Yevhenii Shulhat claims he was targeted with a draft notice after pursuing a corruption story involving the Security Service of Ukraine.
ISW: Russian forces capture positions along Ocheretyne-Pokrovske Road and near Siversk
Meanwhile, the ISW also reported that Ukrainian forces had made marginal advances in central Vovchansk, northeast of Kharkiv City.
Pentagon monitors potential North Korean troop involvement in Russia-Ukraine War
Pentagon spokesman Patrick Ryder cautions North Korea against becoming "cannon fodder" in Russia's war against Ukraine.
