Ukraine Invasion: Part 57

[MagicFox]

Welcome to 57. Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦

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Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

Russia striking NATO while China invades Taiwan 'plausible' scenario, experts say (kyivindependent.com/russia-striking-nato-while-china-invades-taiwan-plausible-scenario-experts-say-06-2025/)
Such a scenario would for all intents and purposes amount to a global war between nuclear superpowers, yet many experts agree that this scenario is not too far from reality.

'They have to be able to defend themselves' — Trump confirms (kyivindependent.com/they-have-to-be-able-to-defend-themselves-trump-confirms-additional-weapons-shipments-to-ukraine-criticizes-putin-06-2025/) additional weapons shipments to Ukraine, criticizes Putin.

⚡️ Trump reportedly told Zelensky he's not responsible (kyivindependent.com/trump-reportedly-tells-zelensky-hes-not-behind-us-arms-halt-to-ukraine-06-2025/) for US arms halt to Ukraine.

⚡️Kellogg, Umerov set to meet, discuss resumption (kyivindependent.com/kellogg-umerov-set-to-meet-discuss-resumption-of-us-military-aid-to-ukraine-politico-reports-06-2025/) of US military aid to Ukraine, Politico reports.

⚡️Russian weapons contain growing number (kyivindependent.com/russian-weapons-contain-growing-number-of-cinese-components-material/) of Chinese components, Zelensky's adviser says.
Russia's growing ability to sustain weapons production despite Western sanctions is being driven by a flow of Chinese components and materials, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, the Ukrainian president's commissioner for sanctions, told journalists on July 7.

⚡️EU to impose 'toughest' sanctions (kyivindependent.com/eu-to-impose-toughest-sanctions-on-russia-in-coordination-with-us-senators-french-foreign-minister-says-06-2025/) on Russia in coordination with US senators, French foreign minister says.
The EU will introduce the "toughest sanctions... imposed (on Russia) in the last three years" in coordination with U.S. senators, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said in a television interview on July 7.

⚡️ Zelensky, Trump discussed replacement (kyivindependent.com/zelensky-trump-discussed-possible-replacement-of-ukraines-us-ambassador-source-says-06-2025/) of Ukraine's US ambassador, source says.
Oksana Markarova has held the post since April 2021, and played a central role in coordinating U.S. military and financial support during the early phases of Russia's full-scale invasion.

⚡️ Russian transport minister fired by Putin reportedly shoots himself (kyivindependent.com/russian-transport-minister-reportedly-dies-by-suicide-shortly-after-dismissal-06-2025/) dead.
Russia's former Transport Minister Roman Starovoit shot himself dead in Odintsovo following his dismissal by President Vladimir Putin on July 7, the pro-government newspaper Izvestia reported, citing unnamed sources.

⚡️EBRD to unlock (kyivindependent.com/ebrd-unlocks-over-1-billion-in-credits-to-support-ukraines-key-sectors-has-interest-in-mineral-deal/) $1 billion in credit for Ukraine's key sectors, considers mineral projects.
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development will enable Ukrainian banks to provide up to 900 million euros ($1.05 billion) in new loans by sharing credit risks.

⚡️ Crimea's Striletska Bay 'practically empty (kyivindependent.com/partisans-say-sevastopols-striletska-bay-nearly-empty-as-russia-moves-ships-06-2025/)' of Russian Black Sea Fleet ships, Ukraine's partisans say.
The remaining combat units are periodically rotated and redeployed in an apparent effort to avoid detection by Ukrainian reconnaissance, the Atesh partisan group said.

⚡️Russia jails former top general (kyivindependent.com/russia-jails-former-top-general-for-17-years-in-massive-military-graft-case-06-2025/) for 17 years in massive military graft case.
Colonel General Khalil Arslanov, a former head of the Russian military's communications unit, served as deputy chief of the army's General Staff from 2013 until his removal in 2020.

⚡️UK sanctions Russian officials and lab over chemical weapons (kyivindependent.com/uk-sanctions-russian-officials-and-lab-over-chemical-weapons-use-in-ukraine-06-2025/) use in Ukraine.
According to the updated sanctions list published on the U.K. government's official website, the new measures target Russia's Scientific Research Institute of Applied Chemistry, as well as Lieutenant General Alexei Rtishchev, head of Russia's Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defense Troops, and his deputy, Andrei Marchenko.

⚡️Russia fails to meet OPEC+ oil production (kyivindependent.com/russia-fails-to-meet-opec-oil-production-target-in-june-bloomberg-reports-06-2025/) target in June, Bloomberg reports.
Historically, Russia, which co-leads the OPEC+ alliance with Saudi Arabia, has faced criticism for poor compliance with production quotas.

Exclusive: Ukraine pitches deepwater gas, oil refinery projects to US under landmark minerals deal (kyivindependent.com/exclusive-ukraine-pitches-deepwater-gas-oil-refinery-projects-to-us-under-landmark-minerals-deal-06-2025/)
Projects Kyiv has submitted to the U.S. for consideration as part of a profit-sharing deal for Ukraine's resources include a shelf and deepwater project and an oil refinery that comes under frequent attack by Russia, Ukraine's Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko told the Kyiv Independent in an interview published on July 7.

⚡️ Ukrainian drones reportedly target Russian chemical plant (https://kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drones-reportedly-target-russian-chemical-plant-near-moscow-06-2025/) near Moscow.
The Krasnozavodsk Chemical Plant is one of the city's biggest employers and an important part of Russia's defense-industrial complex.

⚡️ Ukrainian drone strike hits (https://kyivindependent.com/ukrainian-drone-strike-hits-major-oil-refinery-in-russias-krasnodar-krai-06-2025/) major oil refinery in Russia's Krasnodar Krai, HUR source claims.
Located roughly 500 kilometers (311 miles) from Ukrainian-controlled territory, the refinery is among the largest in southern Russia, producing over 6 million tons of fuel annually.

⚡️Russia strikes conscription offices in Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine says. (https://kyivindependent.com/russia-strikes-ukrainian-conscription-offices-in-kharkiv-and-zaporizhzhia-ukraine-says-06-2025/) 
Three people were reported injured in Kharkiv, while one soldier was wounded in Zaporizhzhia.

⚡️5 suspects charged (https://kyivindependent.com/five-suspects-charged-over-deadly-explosion-in-ukraines-zhytomyr-oblast-06-2025/) over deadly explosion in Ukraine's Zhytomyr Oblast.
According to prosecutors, one of the company directors had established illegal production of explosive materials and involved unqualified personnel without the necessary training or certification.

EXCLUSIVE: Ukraine economy minister breaks down US minerals deal ()
The Kyiv Independent's business editor Liliane Bivings sits down with Ukraine's Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko to discuss the U.S.-Ukraine "minerals deal" and address the myths surrounding it. Under the agreement, the two countries are supposed to launch a new joint investment fund, designed to support projects in critical minerals, oil and gas, and related infrastructure, and potentially defense in Ukraine, with returns to be shared over a 10-year period. Svyrydenko also gives her impressions of the infamous Oval Office meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky back in February, and explains why Ukraine can be "a good business case" for the U.S.

⚡️ On 1-year anniversary, Ukraine names (https://kyivindependent.com/on-1-year-anniversary-ukraine-names-russian-officer-linked-to-deadly-strike-on-kyiv-childrens-hospital-06-2025/) Russian officer linked to deadly strike on Kyiv Okhmatdyt children's hospital.
The strike, which killed two adults and injured at least 34 people, directly hit the country's largest pediatric medical center, where 627 children were receiving treatment at the time.

⚡️ 12 killed, 69 injured in Russian attacks (kyivindependent.com/12-killed-69-injured-in-russian-attacks-on-ukraine-over-past-day-06-2025/) on Ukraine [from 6 - 7 July 2025]
Ukraine's Air Force said Russia launched 101 drones, including Iranian-designed Shahed-type attack drones, as well as four S-300/400 guided missiles.

⚡️ 9 killed, 81 injured in Russian attacks (kyivindependent.com/9-killed-81-injured-in-russian-attacks-on-ukraine-over-past-day-06-2025/) on Ukraine over past day.
Ukraine's Air Force said Russia launched 54 drones overnight, including Iranian-designed Shahed-type attack drones, and fired four S-300/400 guided missiles.

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

The Netherlands will deploy its F-35 fighter jets to patrol Polish airspace this fall, specifically to help protect aid supply routes to Ukraine, Dutch Defense Minister Brekelmans announced.

U.S. to Send Additional Defensive Weapons to Ukraine at Trump’s Direction
“At President Trump’s direction, the Department of Defense is sending additional defensive weapons to Ukraine so that the Ukrainian people can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace and end the killing,” said Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell.
He added that the U.S. system for assessing military supplies globally remains in place and continues to be a key component of national defense priorities.

Ukraine has increased drone production by 900% within a year, Defense Express reports, citing the Atlantic Council and Georgetown Security Studies Review.
While around 20,000 drones were produced per month in the summer of 2024, the current figure exceeds 200,000.
At this pace, Ukraine is now producing approximately 2.4 million UAVs per year.

Spoke with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. We coordinated our joint diplomatic efforts and discussed expectations for the upcoming meeting of the coalition of the willing, which will take place in Rome in a few days. We are working to ensure the strongest possible decisions, — President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Britain Sanctions Two Over Russia’s Use of Chemical Weapons in Ukraine
The UK has imposed sanctions on the Russian Research Institute of Applied Chemistry, as well as on the head of Russia’s radiological, chemical, and biological protection forces, Alexey Rtishchev, and his deputy, Andrey Marchenko.

Europe Should Pool Military Orders and Reassess Environmental Rules — Rheinmetall CEO
European countries should pool military orders to avoid price spikes and achieve more efficient economies of scale, Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger told Euractiv following meetings with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other industry leaders from North Rhine-Westphalia.
“We need to pool [orders] to achieve fair prices,” Papperger said.
He noted that the model—where one country coordinates a large order on behalf of a broader group of buyers—has already proven effective in the procurement of munitions and air defense systems.
Both the European Commission and NATO are encouraging joint procurement to curb rising costs and offer defense manufacturers long-term predictability to invest in increased production capacity.
Papperger and other executives also criticized the EU’s REACH chemicals regulation, calling it overly restrictive. He argued that exemptions are needed to “speed up the pace,” particularly for components like lead, which is restricted under REACH but remains critical for defense applications such as ammunition.

Number of Defense Industry Enterprises in Germany Rises Sharply Since Russian Invasion — Deutsche Welle
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the number of military industry enterprises in Germany has increased significantly, leading to a sharp rise in membership of the Federal Association of Defense Industry Enterprises and Security Equipment Manufacturers, Deutsche Welle reports.
“Currently, there are 340 companies in our association—100 more than at the end of last year,” said the association’s CEO, Hans-Christoph Atzpodien, as quoted by dpa.
When Atzpodien assumed his role in 2017, the association had only 70 members.
Many of the new entrants come from the automotive sector. Amid a crisis in Germany’s auto industry, some companies are now shifting focus to defense contracts. However, the transition is complex: the Bundeswehr requires a special security clearance to access classified information before companies can be authorized to produce weapons. According to Atzpodien, this process in Germany takes considerable time.

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

Russia claims to have gained a foothold in Dnipropetrovsk (www.kyivpost.com/post/55858) again after an earlier staged stunt.

Ukraine’s new “Cherry AIR” drone just shot down Russian decoy UAVs designed to fool air defenses. (www.kyivpost.com/post/55848) These cheap Shahed clones are now being used for recon & attack – but Ukraine’s engineers are keeping up.

Despite Europe’s willingness to increase supplies and Trump confirming continued support (www.kyivpost.com/post/55833) for Ukraine, the mood regarding future American aid packages remains downbeat.

For Ukrainian children, fireworks don’t bring joy — they bring fear.
Instead of wonder and excitement, they freeze, flinch, and cover their ears. To them, the loud cracks and flashes don’t sound like a celebration — they sound like Russian bombs, missiles, and drones raining down on their homes. https://t.me/Kyivpost_official/30570 [for people who can't see the link, a 7 or 8 year old girl is frightened to the point of terrified at a normal firework going off in the sky. Her parent is trying to reassure her it's just pretty, and they had fireworks in Ukraine before the war).

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

🇩🇪🇨🇳 Germany has accused China of targeting its aircraft with a laser attack.
Germany’s Foreign Ministry stated that Chinese military forces used a laser against a German aircraft participating in the EU’s ASPIDES naval operation in the Red Sea.
“This threat to German personnel and disruption of the mission is absolutely unacceptable. The Chinese ambassador was summoned to the Foreign Ministry today,” the ministry emphasized.
▪️The ASPIDES mission, launched by the EU in February 2024, aims to protect commercial shipping in the Red Sea from attacks by Yemen’s Houthi militants.

42% of Russians consider Stalin the greatest person in the world.
In 1983, only 12% held this view. Putin ranks second, with 31% considering him the greatest.

🇺🇦🇺🇸 Zelensky discussed replacing Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States during his conversation with Trump, Bloomberg reports.
Potential candidates for the position include Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister for Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko.
The current ambassador is Oksana Markarova. In September 2024, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican, called on Volodymyr Zelensky to dismiss her, accusing the ambassador of being allegedly unreliable and ineffective as a diplomat.

The current ambassador is Oksana Markarova. In September 2024, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican, called on Volodymyr Zelensky to dismiss her, accusing the ambassador of being allegedly unreliable and ineffective as a diplomat.

The title of Hero of Ukraine will be posthumously awarded to three servicemen: Colonel Dmytro Fisher, Azov fighter Nazar “Hrenya” Hrynsevych, and Vitalii “Turyst” Karvatskyi of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade.f

The size of the Shahed drone is impressive
With these hundreds of drones, Russia is chaotically attacking Ukraine every day.

Any thoughts on the sudden disappearance of Xi Jinping?

https://news.sky.com/story/three-men-guilty-of-arson-attack-ordered-by-wagner-group-on-ukraine-linked-warehouse-in-london-13393489

Three men have been found guilty of an arson attack on a London warehouse linked to Ukraine on behalf of the terrorist Wagner Group.

I hadn't heard of that, what is going on?

Why small-time criminals burned a London warehouse for Russia's mercenary group Wagner
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czjkke22gv9o

Sorry, too tired to summarise this just now. Was on Ch4 News tonight as well, seemed like good coverage but I'll have to watch later.

I think it's an important story – similar to the German issue we were talking about before, of Russian warfare by hiring local underworld. But with a side order of using and radicalising disaffected locals.

So making use of all the tools: mercenary criminality, idealogical terrorism...

The blokes arrested for the arson in Britain are lucky their handlers didn't set them up as unknowing suicide bombers.

Russia pays young Ukrainians to be unwitting suicide bombers in shadow war
Oleh, 19, was offered $1,000 for a paint attack on a police station – but the bag he was given contained a crude bomb
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/30/russia-pays-ukrainians-suicide-bombers-shadow-war-you-now

This from that BBC article sums up the Russian strategy regarding the British men:

At one point Privet Bot asked Earl: "Do you have any friends among hooligans or acquaintances in the IRA?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czjkke22gv9o

What's happening?

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-july-8-2025

Key Takeaways Thread:

• US President Donald Trump announced on July 7 that the United States would resume weapons deliveries to Ukraine as discussions about provisions of additional air defense systems and interceptors are reportedly ongoing.
• The Kremlin continues to leverage Russian Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev's aggressive rhetoric to undermine support for US military aid to Ukraine, likely as part of a top-down, concerted Kremlin informational effort.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced in northern Sumy Oblast amidst a series of ongoing counterattacks.
• Russia continues to expand its domestic drone production capacity amid the ever-growing role of tactical drones in frontline combat operations and Russia's increasingly large nightly long-range strike packages against Ukraine.
• Ongoing Russian cooperation with Chinese companies is facilitating Russia's increasing domestic drone production.
• Russian milblogger complaints suggest that the Russian military command is struggling to supply frontline units with drones despite increased drone production, possibly indicating how Russia's centralization and bureaucracy are degrading the effectiveness of Russian drone operations and slowing the Russian innovation cycle.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced in Sumy Oblast, and Russian forces recently advanced near Chasiv Yar and Toretsk.

It's pretty clear there are a few groups around in UK/Europe, either motivated by criminality or their political views, who are susceptible to manipulation from Russia.

Hybrid warfare is already here, but I'm not sure many if any governments are willing to admit it.

@DucklingSwimmingInstructresshe missed the BRICS summit and hasn’t been seen for a while

Kyiv Independent Telegram Highlights

⚡️US confirms (kyivindependent.com/state-department-white-house-say-us-resumes-military-aid-to-ukraine-06-2025/) Trump ordered resumption of Ukraine military aid shipments.

⚡️ Overcoming Slovakia, Hungary opposition, EU set to approve (kyivindependent.com/eu-expected-to-reach-deal-on-18th-russia-sanctions-package-this-week-ukrainian-official-says-06-2025/) new Russia sanctions package this week, Ukrainian official says.
In late June, EU ambassadors did not approve the sanctions package because of objections from Budapest and Bratislava.

⚡️ Update: Russia launches (https://kyivindependent.com/7-9-attack-draft-06-2025/) record 741 missiles, drones at Ukraine [and 'targets Ukrainian cities far from front line']

⚡️EU mulls creating 100 billion euro fund (kyivindependent.com/eu-mulls-creating-100-billion-euro-fund-for-ukraine-in-next-budget-bloomberg-reports-06-2025/) for Ukraine in next budget, Bloomberg reports.
The European Union is considering establishing a fund for Ukraine worth 100 billion euros ($117 billion) in the next seven-year EU budget, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the proposal.

⚡️Russia eyes USAID-type development model to expand global influence, official says. (kyivindependent.com/russia-eyes-usaid-type-development-model-to-expand-global-influence-official-says-06-2025/)
Yevgeny Primakov, the head of Rossotrudnichestvo, Russia's foreign aid and cultural outreach arm, said Russia's Foreign Ministry is currently drafting legislation that would establish a formal framework for international development efforts.

⚡️Hegseth reportedly authorized (kyivindependent.com/hegseth-reportedly-authorized-ukraine-weapons-shipment-pause-without-informing-white-house-06-2025/) Ukraine weapons shipment pause without informing White House.
Sources told CNN that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who currently lacks a chief of staff or senior advisers, believed the move aligned with President Donald Trump's "America First" priorities.

⚡️ Diplomatic means in Russia-Ukraine war 'exhausted,' Germany's Merz warns (kyivindependent.com/diplomatic-means-in-russia-ukraine-war-have-been-exhausted-merz-06-2025/) as he pledges further aid.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz vowed to maintain backing for Ukraine "even against the pressure of the political left and the pro-Russian right in this house."

⚡️ Zelensky arrives (kyivindependent.com/zelensky-arrives-in-italy-to-meet-pope-leo-other-officials-06-2025/) in Italy to meet Pope Leo, Kellogg.

⚡️ Ukraine's ambassador to the US to be dismissed (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-ambassador-to-the-us-to-be-dismissed-source-says-06-2025/), source says.
Oksana Markarova has held the post since April 2021.

⚡️Trump reportedly pledges (kyivindependent.com/trump-merz-discuss-buying-patriot-missiles-for-ukraine-axios-reports-06-2025/) to send 10 Patriot missiles to Ukraine, asks Germany to send battery.
U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to send 10 Patriot interceptors to Ukraine - a smaller number than had been paused previously while en route to the country, Axios reported on July 8, citing its sources.
Trump has also suggested that Germany sell one of its Patriot batteries to Ukraine, according to three sources cited by Axios. They said the U.S. and European allies would split the cost of the purchase.

⚡️Trump mulls sending Kyiv another Patriot (kyivindependent.com/trump-mulls-sending-kyiv-another-patriot-air-defense-system-wsj-reports-06-2025/) air defense system, WSJ reports.
If approved, it would mark the first time Trump has sent a major military aid package to Kyiv that wasn't previously greenlighted by Joe Biden.

⚡️US only has 25% of Patriot missiles (kyivindependent.com/us-has-just-25-of-patriot-missiles-needed-the-guardian-reports-06-2025/) needed for war plans, Guardian reports.
According to officials familiar with the matter, the Pentagon's munitions tracker showed Patriot interceptor levels had dipped below acceptable levels. That prompted concerns that sending more to Ukraine could put U.S. defense readiness at risk.

⚡️ Lithuania, Finland pivot to landmine production, (kyivindependent.com/baltic-nato-states-pivot-to-landmine-production-potentially-supplying-to-ukraine-reuters-reports-06-2025/) potentially supplying to Ukraine, Reuters reports.

⚡️ Rotterdam port prepares for NATO arms shipments (kyivindependent.com/rotterdam-port-prepares-for-nato-arms-shipments-amid-russia-threat-06-2025/) amid Russia threat.
Rotterdam has previously handled weapons shipments, but this marks the first time that it will designate a special berth for military use.

⚡️Ukraine's 2026 budget could face $19B shortfall (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-2026-budget-could-face-19b-shortfall-as-europe-weighs-how-to-fill-the-gap-ft/) as Europe weighs how to fill the gap, FT reports.
The European Commission is discussing with EU member states various options to cover Ukraine's budget deficit for next year, which could range from $8 billion to $19 billion, the Financial Times reported on July 8.

⚡️Ukraine synchronizes restrictions on Russia with EU sanctions.

⚡️ Ukraine sanctions 5 Chinese firms (kyivindependent.com/ukraine-sanctions-5-chinese-firms-for-supplying-components-used-in-russian-drones-06-2025/) for supplying components used in Russian drones.

⚡️Putin throws (kyivindependent.com/putin-throws-a-lot-of-b-llshit-trump-says-considers-new-sanctions-on-russia-06-2025/) 'a lot of bullsht', Trump says as he 'looks strongly' at sanctions bill. *
U.S. President Donald Trump also addressed U.S. legislation on sanctions, saying the Senate's Russia sanctions bill was "totally optional" for him to implement or terminate.

⚡️Ukraine's Naftogaz brings new high-yield gas well (kyivindependent.com/ukraines-naftogaz-brings-new-high-yield-gas-well-online-06-2025/) online as country reserves run low.
The 5.7-kilometer deviated well was drilled and commissioned six weeks ahead of schedule as Ukraine works to boost domestic production amid Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure, including gas storage facilities in western Ukraine.

⚡️ Putin signs decree (kyivindependent.com/putin-signs-decree-allowing-foreigners-to-serve-in-russian-army-during-mobilization/) allowing foreigners to serve in Russian army during mobilization.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's partial mobilization decree from Sept. 21, 2022, remains in force and has never been formally rescinded.

⚡️Three men convicted (kyivindependent.com/three-men-convicted-in-london-arson-plot-tied-to-russias-wagner-group-reuters-report-06-2025/) in London arson plot tied to Russia's Wagner Group.
Three men were found guilty on July 8 in connection with an arson attack on Ukraine-linked businesses in London, which British authorities say was orchestrated by Russia's Wagner mercenary group, Reuters reported.

⚡️Ukrainian businesses outraged (kyivindependent.com/government-rejects-candidate-for-anti-corruption-agency-contradicting-independent-commissions-decision/) as government blocks economic crimes bureau chief nominee.

⚡️ICC issues (kyivindependent.com/icc-issues-arrest-warrants-for-taliban-leaders-over-crimes-against-humanity-06-2025/) arrest warrants for Taliban leaders as Russia recognizes their legitimacy.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) said on July 8 that it had issued arrest warrants for two senior Taliban leaders, accusing them of crimes against humanity and gender-based persecution following the group's takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.

⚡️ Trump claims he threatened (kyivindependent.com/trump-claims-he-threatened-putin-to-bomb-moscow-if-russia-attacked-ukraine-cnn-reports-06-2025/) Putin to 'bomb the sht out of Moscow' if Russia attacked Ukraine, CNN reports.
"With Putin I said, 'If you go into Ukraine, I’m going to bomb the sht out of Moscow. I’m telling you I have no choice,'" Donald Trump told a group of donors in 2024, according to CNN.

⚡️ 'Torture was not just cruel, it was inhuman' — Ukrainian soldier dies weeks after (kyivindependent.com/torture-was-not-just-cruel-it-was-inhuman-ukrainian-soldier-dies-weeks-after-release-from-russian-captivity-06-2025/) release from Russian captivity.
Soldier Valery Zelensky had spent 39 months in Russian captivity. He was released as part of the landmark 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner deal on May 25. Just 22 days later, on June 16, his heart stopped.

⚡️At least 5 killed, (kyivindependent.com/russian-attacks-over-past-day-in-russias-attacks-06-2025/) 39 injured in Russian attacks against Ukraine over past day.

Ragnar Bjartur Gudmundsson 🇺🇦
‪@ragnarbjartur.bsky.social‬
⚡️ WAR IN UKRAINE & RUSSIA — JUL 8, 2025
■ Engagements remain above average; casualties slightly below
■ Equipment losses below average; solid artillery losses
■ Single-digit strike ratio & relatively few overnight attacks

Interesting, wonder if there are health issues.

Rutte's comments about China attacking Taiwan and Russia attacking NATO at the same time are very worrying.

UNITED24 Media Telegram Highlights

The bill on U.S. sanctions against Russia will be considered tomorrow, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Newt Gingrich announced.

President Zelenskyy Arrives in Rome, Meets with Italian President Sergio Mattarella
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Rome, where he met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella.
A meeting with Pope Leo XIV is also possible during the visit.
Zelenskyy will take part in the Fourth International Conference on the Restoration of Ukraine, scheduled for July 10–11.

Europe’s Largest Port Prepares for Possible Conflict with Russia — Financial Times
Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, is preparing for the possibility of conflict with Russia by reserving space for ships carrying military cargo and planning how to reroute commercial freight in the event of war, FT reports.
“If we have to transport large volumes of military equipment, we will turn to Antwerp or other ports to partially take over the capacity, and vice versa. We are increasingly seeing each other not just as competitors,” said Baudewejn Siemens, Director General of the Rotterdam Port Authority, in an interview with the publication.

🇺🇦 Ukraine Calls on OPCW to Investigate Russia’s Alleged Use of Chemical Weapons
Ukraine has appealed to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to investigate Russia’s alleged use of toxic chemicals against Ukrainian troops.
The move follows statements by Dutch and German intelligence services, which presented evidence of chemical weapons being used along the front line.
OPCW Director-General Fernando Arias announced plans to strengthen monitoring in the combat zone and proposed discussing the initiative with member states. Ukraine is requesting the creation of an independent investigative mechanism to gather evidence and identify those responsible.
In May 2024, the United States accused Russia of using chloropicrin, a toxic compound first deployed during World War I.

Drone Attack on Kharkiv Damages 17 Cultural Heritage Sites
On July 7, Russian drone strikes damaged 17 cultural heritage sites in the historic part of Kharkiv’s Kholodnohirsk district. Fifteen of them were hit for the first time since the beginning of the full-scale war.
The affected buildings, located on Kotsarska, Chobotarska, and Zbroyarska streets, are part of unique old courtyards that preserve the atmosphere of 19th-century Kharkiv.

Czech President: Economic Pressure on Russia Should Be "Very Powerful, But Not Lethal"
Czech President Petr Pavel stated that Ukraine cannot defeat Russia solely on the battlefield, even with allied support.

Russia Re-Registers Sanctioned Tanker to Landlocked Malawi; African Nation Complains to UN — Bild
The 250-meter-long tanker Sierra, formerly known as Suvorovsky Prospekt and owned by Sovcomflot, has just left the Baltic Sea after being loaded in Ust-Luga and is now en route to Egypt.
Following its inclusion on the EU sanctions list, the vessel underwent a series of flag changes—first to Liberia, then Gabon, Barbados, São Tomé and Príncipe, and most recently, to the landlocked African nation of Malawi.
Malawi’s Minister of Transport, David Mzandu, has filed a complaint with the United Nations, alleging that Sierra and other Russian ships were “registered fraudulently.” He urged the UN to take appropriate measures against the perpetrators.

Kyiv Post Telegram Highlights

Ukraine no longer counts on a quick end to the war and is preparing for a long-term fight — the war will last — The Times

With China’s help, Moscow claims it has tripled its drone production (www.kyivpost.com/post/55948) — as monthly drone attacks on Ukraine nearly doubled in June.

‘10,000 Drones a Month’: (https://www.kyivpost.com/post/55918) Russian company, aided by China, dodges sanctions to flood Ukraine with killer drones — many targeting civilians.

Ukraine is reinforcing its positions and continues to hold parts of Russia’s Kursk and Belgorod regions — Ukraine’s commander-in-chief Syrsky

Ukraine’s drone production has soared 900% in a year, (www.kyivpost.com/post/55897) from 20K to over 200K UAVs per month. But think tanks say it’s time to invest in quality, innovation, and long-term planning.

Russia recruited (www.kyivpost.com/post/55925) a Ukrainian woman on a dating site in an attempt to blow up a hotel in western Ukraine’s Rivne.

Live: Ukraine Telegram Highlights

🇪🇺🇺🇦 The EU is exploring options to cover Ukraine’s budget deficit, reports the Financial Times.
Among the options being discussed are off-budget grants for Ukraine, loans from G7 countries, and the use of frozen Russian assets held in the EU.
Brussels is urgently examining the issue ahead of the International Conference on Ukraine’s Recovery, scheduled for July 10–11 in Rome. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to attend.
The goal is to ensure Ukraine’s financial needs are met well before winter — particularly important given the uncertain outlook for continued U.S. military support.
Without a ceasefire agreement, Ukraine is facing a projected budget shortfall of at least $8 billion in 2026, even if some of the pledged funds are frontloaded. If not, the funding gap could grow to $19 billion.

🇬🇧🇺🇦 In London, men sentenced for arson attack ordered by Wagner PMC on a warehouse linked to Starlink supplies for Ukraine
The incident took place at an industrial site in the Leyton area of East London in March 2024. Twenty-three-year-old Nii Mensah, acting alongside his peer Jakim Rose, livestreamed the arson. A third accomplice, 20-year-old Ugnius Asmena, waited for them in the car.
The fire caused nearly £1 million in damages and required eight fire crews and 60 firefighters to extinguish. The Old Bailey court found Mensah, Rose, and Asmena guilty of arson with intent to endanger life.
The group had also planned to set fire to a restaurant and wine shop in Mayfair and kidnap its owner — Russian exile Yevgeny Chichvarkin — but those plans failed. Sentencing is expected this autumn.

❗️ Ukrainian air defense forces intercepted a record number of enemy aerial targets overnight — 718 out of 728 drones, all 7 cruise missiles, and none of the 6 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles.

I know it's bad form to quote oneself but while I wasn't paying attention a commitee at Westminster actually posted a report on rhe issue.

ukdefencejournal.org.uk/mps-warn-grey-zone-attacks-now-threaten-all-uk-citizens/

With China’s help, Moscow claims it has tripled its drone production (www.kyivpost.com/post/55948) — as monthly drone attacks on Ukraine nearly doubled in June.

‘10,000 Drones a Month’: (www.kyivpost.com/post/55918) Russian company, aided by China, dodges sanctions to flood Ukraine with killer drones — many targeting civilians.

It's about time that the world considers sanctions on China.

Not bad form at all, @notimagain : saves us all scrolling back. <lazy>

Thanks for that report.

The Pentagon is pushing back on the claim in the Guardian that the US has only 25% of the Patriot missiles it needs. This is a good deep dive into the demand for the missiles, what is known about the stockpile and what the supply chain for them looks like.

Patriot Missile Stockpile Concerns Grow, Pentagon Claims It Has Enough - After years of intercepting Russian weapons in Ukraine and recently engaging Iranian missiles, the Pentagon's supply of Patriots is a hot-button issue.

If Trump does send another Patriot battery (the whole circus of radars, launchers, power generator, command vehicles, etc.) he may move one that's currently in Israel.

https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-july-9-2025

Key Takeaways:

• Russian forces conducted the largest combined drone and missile strike of the war so far on the night of July 8 to 9 with 741 total drones and missiles — an about 34 percent increase from the previous record high of 550 Russian drones and missiles launched on the night of July 3 to 4.
• The continued increase in the size of strike packages is likely intended to support Russian efforts to degrade Ukrainian morale in the face of constant Russian aggression.
• The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) found that Russian forces and pro-Russian separatists engaged in illegal military activity in Ukraine between 2014 and 2022.
• Ukrainian forces recently advanced near Borova and Toretsk, and Russian forces recently advanced near Toretsk, Novopavlivka, and Velyka Novosilka.