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Biden allows Ukraine to hit some targets in Russia with US weapons. Updated 31 May 2024

US President Joe Biden has given Ukraine permission to use American-supplied weapons to strike targets in Russia, but only near the Kharkiv region, US officials say.

One told BBC News his team had been directed to ensure Ukraine was able to use US weapons for "counter-fire purposes" to "hit back at Russian forces hitting them or preparing to hit them".

Russian forces have made gains in the Kharkiv region in recent weeks after a surprise offensive in the area, close to the border with Russia.

On Friday, Ukrainian officials said three people had been killed and 16 injured in Russian shelling of a residential building in a suburb of Kharkiv city.

US official also told BBC: "Our policy with respect to prohibiting the use of Army Tactical Missile System [ATACMS] or long-range strikes inside of Russia has not changed.”

When asked by CBS, the BBC's US partner, whether the new policy included attacking Russian aircraft, an official said: "We’ve never told them [Ukraine] they can’t shoot down a Russian airplane over Russian soil that’s coming to attack them.”

The White House and state dept had no immediate comment. UK earlier signalled that it was open to an easing of restrictions on how Ukraine could use weapons supplied by the West.

Despite concerns that such a development could further escalate the conflict, several European leaders also recently called for restrictions on the use of such weapons to be relaxed.

But Washington, which provides the bulk of Ukraine's weaponry, had resisted easing these restrictions over fears of escalation. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken hinted at the shift during a visit to Moldova on Wednesday. "At every step along the way, we've adapted and adjusted as necessary," he said.

"And so that's exactly what we'll do going forward."

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy770l9llnzo

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Moscow warns West after Ukraine told it can hit Russia with Western weapons. Russia has accused Nato & US of "provoking a new level of tension" after US & Germany became the latest allies to let Ukraine's military to use Western-supplied weapons to strike targets inside Russia.

A Berlin spokesman said Germany was convinced Ukraine had the right to defend itself from Russia, especially from cross-border attacks on its second largest city Kharkiv.

US officials said American-supplied weapons could be used to counter Russian fire near the Kharkiv region, where Russian forces were "hitting them or preparing to hit them". Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said the decision would help protect civilians living in villages close to the Russian border.

Biden allows Ukraine to hit some targets in Russia with US weapons. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Nato countries, especially US and several European countries, had "entered a new round of escalating tension and they are doing this deliberately", in remarks quoted by the Tass news agency.

"They are in every possible way provoking Ukraine to continue this senseless war." (That mean Putin want Ukraine to surender to him.).

Russian forces have made some gains in Kharkiv region in recent weeks after a surprise offensive in the area, close to the border with Russia. So U&K France had already signalled they were open to easing restrictions on Ukraine striking military sites on Russian territory, b4 US President Joe Biden said on Thursday night that American-supplied weapons could be used.

However US official told BBC: "Our policy with respect to prohibiting the use of Army Tactical Missile System [ATACMS] or long-range strikes inside of Russia has not changed.” German govt spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said on Friday that Berlin was "jointly convinced" that Ukraine had the right to defend itself from Russian attack.

"They can use weapons supplied for this purpose in accordance with international legal obligations; including those supplied by U.S.," he said.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ceqq2zn3zw6o

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75 Ukrainian prisoners brought back from Russian captivity. President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 31, 2024. (President Volodymyr.

This includes service personnel of the Armed Forces and the National Guard, border guards, and four civilians.

The former captives were exchanged for 75 Russian soldiers, RIA Novosti claimed, citing the country's Defense Ministry.

https://kyivindependent.com/75-ukrainian...captivity/

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Biden allows Ukraine to hit some targets in Russia with US weapons. Updated 31 May 2024

US President Joe Biden has given Ukraine permission to use American-supplied weapons to strike targets in Russia, but only near the Kharkiv region, US officials say.

One told BBC News his team had been directed to ensure Ukraine was able to use US weapons for "counter-fire purposes" to "hit back at Russian forces hitting them or preparing to hit them".

Russian forces have made gains in the Kharkiv region in recent weeks after a surprise offensive in the area, close to the border with Russia.

On Friday, Ukrainian officials said three people had been killed and 16 injured in Russian shelling of a residential building in a suburb of Kharkiv city.

US official also told BBC: "Our policy with respect to prohibiting the use of Army Tactical Missile System [ATACMS] or long-range strikes inside of Russia has not changed.”

When asked by CBS, the BBC's US partner, whether the new policy included attacking Russian aircraft, an official said: "We’ve never told them [Ukraine] they can’t shoot down a Russian airplane over Russian soil that’s coming to attack them.”

The White House and state dept had no immediate comment. UK earlier signalled that it was open to an easing of restrictions on how Ukraine could use weapons supplied by the West.

Despite concerns that such a development could further escalate the conflict, several European leaders also recently called for restrictions on the use of such weapons to be relaxed.

But Washington, which provides the bulk of Ukraine's weaponry, had resisted easing these restrictions over fears of escalation. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken hinted at the shift during a visit to Moldova on Wednesday. "At every step along the way, we've adapted and adjusted as necessary," he said.

"And so that's exactly what we'll do going forward."

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy770l9llnzo

Russia launches large-scale missile attack on Ukraine, damaging energy infrastructure.

NEWS FEED, UKRAINE, RUSSIA, WAR, RUSSIAN ATTACKS, MISSILE ATTACK, DRONE ATTACK
Russia launches large-scale missile attack on Ukraine, damaging energy infrastructure

A firefighter puttnig out a fire after a large-scale Russian aerial attack against Ukraine on June 1, 2024. As Russia launched large-scale drone & missile attack on Ukraine overnight on June 1, damaging energy infrastructure in various regions across country.

At least 20 people, including children, were injured in the attacks. In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, at least four people were injured in the strikes, including a 7-year-old girl, following a strike on the city of Nikopol, Governor reported attack damaged a house & 2 other buildings & a transport bus.

In Lviv, Russian forces hit energy infrastructure facilities, injuring 4 people, State Emergency Service said, attack, regional governor Maksym Kozytskyi reported Russian missiles heading toward the town of Stryi.

Six cruise missiles hit three critical infrastructure facilities in Lviv Oblast, Kozytskyi said later in the morning. In Kharkiv Oblast, a Russian missile attack aimed at the town of Balakliia in the Izium district, hitting two houses where 12 people were present at the time, said Governor.

Twelve people were injured following the attack, and one woman suffered from shock, Olena Shapoval, the spokesperson of the Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, told the Kyiv Independent.
Victims included 8 children aged 2 - 17, all whom were hospitalized, regional officials said those injured on that day, Russia, and other countries were celebrating World Children's Day.

https://kyivindependent.com/russia-launc...-reported/

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Shangri-La Dialogue 2024. It’s about supporting the very end of war: Ukraine’s Zelensky seeks Asia’s backing for its peace plan.

SINGAPORE – Diplomacy does work, but it requires the will and backing of the global community, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Shangri-La Dialogue on June 2.
He said this as he sought international support for an upcoming peace summit to be held in Switzerland on June 15 and 16. 

The summit is intended to show that there is a common understanding within the majority of nations on next steps towards peace in Ukraine, and to convey this to Russia. That the civilised world has not allowed Ukraine to be seized by an aggressor shows that the international community puts stock in the rules-based order and respect for human life, said Mr Zelensky.

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/i...peace-plan

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Shangri-La Dialogue 2024. It’s about supporting the very end of war: Ukraine’s Zelensky seeks Asia’s backing for its peace plan.

SINGAPORE – Diplomacy does work, but it requires the will and backing of the global community, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Shangri-La Dialogue on June 2.
He said this as he sought international support for an upcoming peace summit to be held in Switzerland on June 15 and 16. 

The summit is intended to show that there is a common understanding within the majority of nations on next steps towards peace in Ukraine, and to convey this to Russia. That the civilised world has not allowed Ukraine to be seized by an aggressor shows that the international community puts stock in the rules-based order and respect for human life, said Mr Zelensky.

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/i...peace-plan

Asked how Singapore might be expected to support this process during the question-and-answer segment of the plenary, Dr Ng told the audience Singapore “strongly supports” Ukraine’s position in principle and practice. He pointed out Singapore had, in the early days of the invasion of Ukraine, condemned Russia’s actions.

“With your appearance in this Shangri-La Dialogue, President Zelensky is the epitome of what we are all hoping for: a rules-based order, one guarantees the security & survival of large nations and small,” said Dr Ng. “I speak on behalf of us that we hope that your struggles will continue to bear victory, & hope (for) significant progress, we wish for your personal safety & well-being of people of Ukraine.”

After Mr Zelensky stated his wish for S'pore, as well as other countries in this region, to support Ukraine with their leaders’ personal participation at@peace summit. His speech at security forum was part of his mission to win global support for his vision of the terms needed to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. He disclosed at dialogue Ukraine has so far received confirmation from 106 countries that they will be sending representatives to the peace summit.

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Asked how Singapore might be expected to support this process during the question-and-answer segment of the plenary, Dr Ng told the audience Singapore “strongly supports” Ukraine’s position in principle and practice. He pointed out Singapore had, in the early days of the invasion of Ukraine, condemned Russia’s actions.

“With your appearance in this Shangri-La Dialogue, President Zelensky is the epitome of what we are all hoping for: a rules-based order, one guarantees the security & survival of large nations and small,” said Dr Ng. “I speak on behalf of us that we hope that your struggles will continue to bear victory, & hope (for) significant progress, we wish for your personal safety & well-being of people of Ukraine.”

After Mr Zelensky stated his wish for S'pore, as well as other countries in this region, to support Ukraine with their leaders’ personal participation at@peace summit. His speech at security forum was part of his mission to win global support for his vision of the terms needed to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. He disclosed at dialogue Ukraine has so far received confirmation from 106 countries that they will be sending representatives to the peace summit.

Russia has made clear. They would not be taking part in high-level conference, & China has said that it would be “difficult” for it to attend if Russia did not participate.


Even b4 he took to stage, Mr Zelensky has had a series of meetings with other leaders who are in town for security forum, which is organised by International Institute for Strategic Studies, his 1st meet June 1 w/Indonesia’s President-Elect Prabowo Subianto, whom he discussed Ukraine’s 10-point peace plan. Among other things, it calls for restoration of Ukraine’s internationally recognised borders & the withdrawal of all Russian troops from its territory.

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Asked how Singapore might be expected to support this process during the question-and-answer segment of the plenary, Dr Ng told the audience Singapore “strongly supports” Ukraine’s position in principle and practice. He pointed out Singapore had, in the early days of the invasion of Ukraine, condemned Russia’s actions.

“With your appearance in this Shangri-La Dialogue, President Zelensky is the epitome of what we are all hoping for: a rules-based order, one guarantees the security & survival of large nations and small,” said Dr Ng. “I speak on behalf of us that we hope that your struggles will continue to bear victory, & hope (for) significant progress, we wish for your personal safety & well-being of people of Ukraine.”

After Mr Zelensky stated his wish for S'pore, as well as other countries in this region, to support Ukraine with their leaders’ personal participation at@peace summit. His speech at security forum was part of his mission to win global support for his vision of the terms needed to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. He disclosed at dialogue Ukraine has so far received confirmation from 106 countries that they will be sending representatives to the peace summit.

Shangri-La Dialogue 2024
‘It’s about supporting the very end of war’: Ukraine’s Zelensky seeks Asia’s backing for its peace plan.

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/i...peace-plan

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Shangri-La Dialogue 2024
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Saturday hailed arrival of a “new convergence” in the Indo-Pacific, as US fortifies strategic & security partnerships in the region amid rising threats from China and Russia.

(Live TV) US defense chief hails security partnerships in Asia in face of Russia, China threats (Updated Sat June 1, 2024)

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin speaks at the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore June 1, 2024.

“Today, we witnessing a new convergence around nearly all aspects of security in the Indo-Pacific,” Austin said at the Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore. “This convergence is producing a stronger, more resilient, & more capable network of partnerships that is defining a new era of security in the Indo-Pacific.”

New convergence is not “a single alliance or coalition,” but instead “a set of overlapping & complementary initiatives & institutions propelled by both a shared vision, a shared sense of mutual obligation,” Austin said.

Looming large in that regional vision is a more assertive China, which Austin alluded to without mentioning it by name. Convergence, he said, is not about “imposing one country’s wil &l bullying or coercion,” but common principles & beliefs including “peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue – not coercion or conflict. And certainly not through so-called punishment.”

Remark appeared to be a thinly veiled reference to China’s military drills around Taiwan that Beijing said was a “strong punishment” for self-ruled island’s “separatist acts.” The massive show of force came days after Taiwan swore in new elected leader Lai Ching-te, who called on Beijing to cease its intimidation tactics. Austin said new convergence helped US make “historic progress” over past 3 years strengthened stability on Korean Peninsula, supported the status quo across Taiwan Strait and we’ve stood up for the rule of law in South China Sea,” he said.

Under President Joe Biden, US has bolstered ties with allies like-minded partners in Asia-Pacific region to counter a rising China, which under leader Xi Jinping has become increasingly assertive & belligerent about many maritime and territorial claims in the region – from Taiwan to the East and South China Seas.

The new convergence” in Asia-Pacific appeared to have struck a raw nerve with Chinese delegation in the audience. In the Q&A session, a Chinese colonel asked Austin whether tlUS is planning to build a NATO-like alliance system in Asia-Pacific region, & blamed NATO for Ukraine war.

“The eastern border expansion of NATO has led to Ukraine crisis. What implications do you think, straightening of US alliances system in Asia-Pacific will have on this region’s security and stability?” asked Cao Yanzhong, a senior colonel, a researcher at Institute of War Studies of the Academy of Military Sciences of the Chinese military.

Shangri-La Dialogue 2024. Top Security Summit is underway is Singapore.
https://youtu.be/cA9kQsXzO_s?si=Xf6JdlmXrZhGLgPp

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Shangri-La Dialogue 2024. Top Security Summit is underway is Singapore.

https://youtu.be/cA9kQsXzO_s?si=Tq_STe25JAChcOP8

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High above the skies of Ukraine, a new chapter in aerial combat is being written. Su-35, Russia’s most powerful frontline warplane, is squaring off against a combination of robust anti-aircraft defenses & the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Russians are pitting their Su-35 fleet against hodgepodge of Western-supplied systems & Soviet-era platforms that defines Ukraine’s armed forces.

The stakes are high, and the outcome could have far-reaching implications for future of air combat.

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Su-35, developed by egendary Sukhoi Design Bureau, is a single-seat fighter jet designed as a highly maneuverable & versatile craft a significant evolution Cold War-era Su-27 “Flanker, dedicated air superiority heavy fighter. Su-35 more advanced than old Su-27. But not top-of-the-line Russian warplane. Its designers often describe it as a “Fourth Generation ++” system.I nterestingly, the Su-35 is merely a placeholder warplane until the true 5th-generation warbird, the Su-57, can meet production demands. 

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Su-35, developed by egendary Sukhoi Design Bureau, is a single-seat fighter jet designed as a highly maneuverable & versatile craft a significant evolution Cold War-era Su-27 “Flanker, dedicated air superiority heavy fighter. Su-35 more advanced than old Su-27. But not top-of-the-line Russian warplane. Its designers often describe it as a “Fourth Generation ++” system.I nterestingly, the Su-35 is merely a placeholder warplane until the true 5th-generation warbird, the Su-57, can meet production demands. 

After all, it doesn’t matter how ugly or old your systems are. If you can defeat a modern military, that’s the main point.

Just ask the Taliban.

https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/r...nce-211263

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Greek pilot-instructor in F-16 operational use arrived in Kyiv. (June 2, 2024)

According to Greek resource Defense-Point,  Greek officer from Hellenic Air Force [HAF] has already arrived in Kyiv. Greek source claimed he was an instructor pilot specializing in operational use of F-16 fighter jet. 

For first time, NATO hosts first flight officer from Hellenic Air Force, they were train trainer f-16 pilot
serving as a trainer for Ukrainians in operational use of F-16 fighter jets provided by various NATO member countries, according to exclusive info from Defense-Point,” the resource reported.

Thet are in “Kyiv, Ukraine, presence of a Greek instructor, is part of the “F-16 coalition” initiative—an alliance of Western countries that retrain Ukrainian pilots & support personnel to fly F-16s. 

Greece joined this coalition following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Athens on August 21 last year. The Greek side has amassed considerable experience in using Western combat aircraft, particularly during conflicts with Turkey. Their expertise includes close air combat & operational use of fighters in air-to-air missions, as noted in the Defense-Point publication.

First trained group
Including those from Ukraine & China, have confirmed that first group of Ukrainian F-16 pilots has successfully completed their training in the USA. Although exact number of pilots trained remains undisclosed, milestone marks a significant step forward. Details on similar training programs in Europe are still unclear.

Earlier this year, U.S. defense official revealed to Air & Space Forces Magazine. Four Ukrainian pilots were training with 162nd Wing at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson, Arizona. Addition, to 20 support personnel were receiving training at Joint Base San Antonio in Texas.

Ukraine is set to receive several 4th-generation fighter jets from Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, & Norway. Contributions are part of a coalition fighter framework, which includes commitments from the U.S. to train Ukrainian airmen. While specifics remain under wraps “to ensure their safety,” Air National Guard spokeswoman Erin Hannigan confirmed that the number of initial graduates and their exact graduation date is still not disclosed. However, unnamed sources hint these airmen are on their way to Europe for further training. 

As more pilots are receiving training in Denmark, and Romania who has set up an F-16 training base for Ukrainian pilots. Earlier this week, the Dutch Defense proudly announced it first 10 Ukrainian servicemen have successfully completed F-16 maintenance training in the Netherlands. on Belgian Folks.

Belgium’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs later announced a significant decision be providing Ukraine with 30 F-16 fighter jets, the first planes are anticipated to arrive this year, coinciding with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Belgium. The full delivery is expected to be completed by 2028.

With these 30 new F-16s, the total number of American aircraft pledged to Ukraine rises to 85. Additionally, ten more jets will be allocated for spare parts. This addition complements at least 24 F-16A/Bs from the Netherlands, 19 F-16AM/BMs from Denmark, and 22 F-16AM/BMs from Norway.

https://bulgarianmilitary.com/amp/2024/0...d-in-kyiv/

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Netherlands would not object to Ukraine using Dutch-supplied F-16 fighter jets to strike targets inside Russia in self-defence, Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot said on May 31."If you have the right to self-defence, there are no borders for the use of weapons. This is a general principle," she said at an informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Prague in comments reported by RFE/RL.Bruins Slot's.

Comments come a day after Denmark said Ukraine may use Danish-supplied F-16 jets strike military targets in Russian territory, this would be "within the rules of war."Over recent weeks, Ukraine has called for its partners to allow strikes on Russian territory with Western weapons.

The Pentagon on May 30 insisted there has been no change in policy after several U.S. news outlets reported White House has secretly partially lifted ban on Ukraine striking Russian territory with American weapons. Citing unnamed American officials. Politico reported on May 30 that President Joe Biden's admin had given the go-ahead for Kyiv to attack targets inside Russia but "solely near area of Kharkiv."

The Netherlands plans to start delivering its F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine this autumn after Denmark begins transferring its aircraft already in the summer, Dutch Defense said during a press briefing in Vilnius, Delfi reported on May 6.Previously, Netherlands has pledged to deliver 24 of its 4th-generation U.S.-made jets to Ukraine as Kyiv seeks to bolster its Air Force.

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'Abused, starved…': Ukraine officer returns home after 2 years in Russian captivity, refuses Russia's ‘sweet promises’. A 24-year-old Ukrainian police officer named Mariana Checheliuk, abducted by the Russian forces and held in captivity for two years, has now returned home. This comes as the Ukraine and Russia exchanged prisoners of war on Friday, each sending back 75 POWs in the first such swap in the past three months.

Yuliia Pryimak, the Head of the Central Regional Centre of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, posted a video on Instagram showing Checheliuk breaking down in tears upon her release and being hugged by another Ukraine woman officer.

In January 2024, Mariana's mother, Nataliia had told ZMINA news that her daughter faced abuses and was beaten which she she got to know from her letters. “They were trying to lure my daughter to the Russian side with both sweet promises of a big salary and intimidation. But she refused," the mother said.

Her mother also revealed Mariana suffered severe torture during captivity, starvation, & beatings and various abuses, severely impacted her health, leading to chronic bronchitis. Speaking more on her daughter's condition, mother said, “Mariana lost a lot of weight, her immune system weaken  her weak & hair began to fall out, & her periods disappeared," as quoted by media reports.

Despite her mother's efforts to communicate with her, received no letters, remained unaware of her family's condition or whereabouts, dicovered was a Ukrainian police officer, they transferred her to Donetsk pre-trial detention center & later held in POW camp Olenivka & subsequently moved to prisons in Taganrog and Mariupol.

Details: how her captivity enfolded report, both Mariana & her younger sister were hiding from Russian bombardments within Azovstal steelworks, the civilians were evacuated, sisters were separated in Russian filtration camp.

https://www.livemint.com/news/world/abus...63476.html

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97 Countries Prepare To Attend BRICS 2024 in June in Russia. Confirming their participation,” said Russia’s Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko. The added the BRICS 2024 Games are an integral part of development of country. “BRICS Games 2024, were ordered to be organized following decree from President Putin, are an important part of our country’s chairmanship in this organization,” he said.

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Russia Destroys Over Half of Ukraine’s Power Generation – FT Reports

The prospect of Ukraine suffering severe power cuts this winter is looming over the whole country in the wake of a Russian campaign to target thermal and hydroelectric plants.

Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leading to the destruction or seizure of over half of Ukraine’s power generation capacity along with widespread blackouts and concerns about future energy supplies, Financial Times (FT) reported today.

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OPINION: Zelensky Criticizes Beijing – What’s the Deal?. He accusations Beijing was disrupting the Swiss peace summit seem to deviate from Kyiv’s earlier official stance. There might be multiple reasons for the change.

During his recent visit to Southeast Asia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly accused China of aiding Russia’s effort to disrupt the June 15-16 Swiss Peace Conference.

“Russia, using Chinese influence in the region, using Chinese diplomats also, does everything to disrupt the peace summit,” said Zelensky, before adding that China supplied many of the components Russia has been using in its weapons against Ukraine.

China responded, without directly addressing the criticisms, by saying it never “fanned fire or fueled the flames” – a phrase commonly used by Beijing to describe its stance on the war in Ukraine – and that Beijing’s position on the peace conference has been “open and transparent.”

China’s commercial supply of dual-use components to Russia is common knowledge, Zelensky’s tone and criticism nonetheless indicate a potential shift in Kyiv’s approach to China.

So, what has changed?. Kyiv’s past attitude toward Beijing. For a long time, Kyiv has worked hard to secure Beijing’s support, careful not to harshly criticize China’s friendship with Russia also worked hard to get China on board with he peace plan, in general, Swiss conference, in particular.

https://www.kyivpost.com/opinion/33806

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Ukraine reported its first kill inside Russia using Western-supplied weapons. Deputy PM Iryna Vereshchuk revealed on social, Kyiv’s forces were able to neutralize a Russian S-300 missile system in an unspecified Russian territory. She said the historic strike was achieved on the first day of being allowed to use donated weapons to strike deep into Russia. “It burns well. This is a Russian S-300. On Russian territory,” she wrote.

Ukraine Deputy Prime Minister Reports First Kill Inside Russia Using Western Weapons. Ukraine reported its first ever kill inside Russia using Western-supplied weapons. Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk revealed on social media that Kyiv’s forces were able to neutralize a Russian S-300 missile system in an unspecified Russian territory. She said a historic strike was achieved on the first day of being allowed to use donated weapons to strike deep into Russia. “It burns well, a Russian S-300 on Russian territory,” she wrote.

Vereshchuk, who also serves as the Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine, did not say which Western weapon was responsible for the kill.

Long Overdue?
The milestone was reported amid an increasing number of countries allowing Ukraine to use their donated weapons for strikes deep into Russia.
Kyiv previously claimed, it could not strike Russian troops massing near their border b'cos of restrictions on the long-range weapons supplied by West. However, Ukraine’s allies have slowly lifted their policies, with Germany, Sweden, Poland, Canada, & Denmark now supporting Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory.

“It is completely within the rules of war that a country that is attacked must be able to answer for itself,” Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said. US has recently given Kyiv some considerations, including granting broader use of its supplied weapons but only to defend the embattled Kharkiv region.

About the S-300
S-300 is a Soviet-era surface-to-air missile system in service with both Russian & Ukrainian military, designed to shoot down hostile aircraft, drones, incoming cruise & ballistic missiles at a maximum range of 150 k/m (93 miles).

https://www.thedefensepost.com/2024/06/0...n-weapons/

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Bosnia’s arms exports nearly doubled 1st 4-mths of the year compared to same period in 2023, data showed Monday, US is top destination. Shipments amounted to 133mil convertible marks ($74m) or about 98% more compared with same period in 2023, national statistics agency figures.

Bosnian Defense praised called it “expansion of weapons industry” in the country, local factories manufactured ammunition including “rockets & shells” are exported “across to the world, US to the Middle East & countries in European Union.”
Local media reported increase related notably to ammunition exports to US & Slovakia, but also to Bulgaria and neighboring Serbia. In 2023, Bosnia’s weapons and ammunition exports totaled 163 million euros ($178 million), a 26& increase from the previous year.

The increase coincides with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, although the Balkan nation does not have a sales contract with Ukraine. However, several local media recently reported, some of the ammunition is ending up on the Ukrainian front. On Sunday, Bosnian Serb political leader Milorad Dodik, a Kremlin ally, was quoted by RTRS television as saying that his entity was preventing “direct exports” of weapons and ammunition to Ukraine.

During a summit in Feb in Albanian capital, Ukrainian President Zelensky called for urgent delivery of arms & ammunition to his country & spoke of his govt’s wish to organize Ukrainian Balkan forum on defense industry. Bosnia’s arms & ammunition factories were founded when the country was part of communist Yugoslavia.
According to experts.

Bosnia supplied half of the former federation’s military capacities.

https://www.thedefensepost.com/2024/06/0...xports-us/

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Production of new PzH 2000 was launched in Germany. ACS Artillery Europe Germany PzH 2000 World for 4th time in its history, Panzerhaubitze 2000 self-propelled howitzer has returned to the production line in Germany. First deliveries of the new Panzerhaubitze 2000s to the German army are due in mid-2025.

The new PzH 2000s will replace 14 units supplied to Ukraine from German army’s stock, although the Royal Netherlands Army also supplied eight of these vehicles. Germany has financed the initial 18 new PzH 2000s for Ukraine, & added contracts are expected to be placed in the future for a total of 100 units.

Ukraine approached Germany about purchase of PzH 2000 in April last year & received approval from German govt in July for the potential sale of 100 self-propelled howitzers, estimated value of a potential deal for 100 Panzerhaubitze 2000 at €1.7 billion. However, no info about the contract has been released yet.

At the same time, an unnamed customer recently ordered a large batch of barrels for Rheinmetall’s PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer.

https://mil.in.ua/en/news/production-of-...n-germany/

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Germany has financed the initial 18 new PzH 2000s for Ukraine, & added contracts are expected to be placed in the future for a total of 100 units. As the war is and talk peace in Year 2027.

At the same time, an unnamed customer recently ordered a large batch of barrels for Rheinmetall’s PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer.

https://mil.in.ua/en/news/production-of-...n-germany/

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Now!.What is France’s doing?. With their Mirage 2000-5 jets, and how can Ukraine use them?.

A Mirage 2000-5F jet fighter takes off from the Luxeuil-Saint-Sauveur Air Base in Saint-Sauveur, France, on March 13, 2022. (Getty Images)

WAR ANALYSIS, UKRAINE, FRANCE, EMMANUEL MACRON. During the D-Day commemorations in Normandy June 6, French President Emmanuel Macron declared Paris would give Kyiv an unspecified number of Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets alongside the required training.

This announcement sets stage for Ukrainian pilots potentially deploy those versatile aircraft in striking deep into Russian territory with Storm Shadow & SCALP missiles or defending Ukrainian airspace from Russian drones & missiles.

"Tomorrow we will launch a new cooperation & announce the transfer of Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine made by French manufacturer Dassault & train their Ukrainian pilots in France," Macron revealed during a live interview.

However, a but this matter 1st. Ukraine may have to exercise patience b4 those planes take flight. Macron noted LOL , “You need normally between 6 to 8 mths (for training). So by the end of the year, there will be pilots. Pilots will be trained in France,” refraining from specifying any concrete deadline for planes’ b4 delivery.

Nonetheless, this commitment signifies an expansion of Ukraine’s air fleet with another Western aircraft system, complementing the U.S.made F-16s already pledged to Ukraine by the Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, and Denmark.

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Ukraine war latest: US announces $225 million aid package; France looks for partners to send military instructors. U.S. Biden announces $225 million aid package. While France to finalize coalition to send military instructors.

The producer of Caesar howitzers to set up branch in Ukraine.

Netherlands to invest $436 million to make armored vehicles for Ukraine. Meanwhile
Russia hit 2 oil depots overnight, Ukraine's company says

Joe Biden latest aid package for Ukraine US$225 million, he has a meeting with Ukrainian counterpart, Zelensky, in Paris on June 7. He thanked Biden for newly pledged assistance during the talks, which were also attended by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken & Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin too..

"Since (April), including today, I've announced six packages of significant funding. Today I'm also signing an additional package for $225 million to help you reconstruct the electric grid," Biden said is for reconstruct.

Biden did not specify how much of the package would be allocated to non-military needs, U.S. Defense Dept also unveiled a military aid package, including HAWK medium-range air defense systems, 155 mm howitzers, 81 mm mortars, artillery shells, HIMARS ammunition, Stinger missiles, Javelin and AT-4 anti-tank launchers, armored vehicles, patrol boats, and other aid as part of the $225 million package.

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The U.S. president apologized to Zelensky for the delays in $61 bil U.S. foreign aid package, when it was stalled in Congress for 6-mths due to opposition from fraction of the Republican Party.

✓"You know, you haven't bowed down, you haven't yielded at all, you continue to fight in a way that is just remarkable, is just remarkable—and we’re not going to walk away from you," Biden told Zelensky.

The two presidents met while visiting France for the 80th D-Day anniversary commemorations.

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Ukraine F-16 'Bottlenecks' Spell Bad News for Kyiv: Report  with U.S. 60 units F-16 jets. Ukraine is facing "bottlenecks" that may limit its ability to fully utilize F-16 fighter jets supplied by its Western allies, according to the Institute for the Study of War's latest update. a new report suggests they are struggling to train enough pilots to fly them.
https://www.newsweek.com/ukraine-f-16-bo...ks-1909652

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Ukraine F-16 'Bottlenecks' Spell Bad News for Kyiv: Report  with U.S. 60 units F-16 jets. Ukraine is facing "bottlenecks" that may limit its ability to fully utilize F-16 fighter jets supplied by its Western allies, according to the Institute for the Study of War's latest update. a new report suggests they are struggling to train enough pilots to fly them.
https://www.newsweek.com/ukraine-f-16-bo...ks-1909652

Ukraine F-16 'Bottlenecks' Spell Bad News for Kyiv: Report...with not enough trained pilots.

https://www.newsweek.com/ukraine-f-16-bo...ks-1909652

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Ukraine F-16 'Bottlenecks' Spell Bad News for Kyiv: Report...with not enough trained pilots.

https://www.newsweek.com/ukraine-f-16-bo...ks-1909652

‘AFU Warplane Hits Target in Russia for First Time’– Ukraine at War Update for June 10

‘AFU Warplane Hits Target in Russia for First Time’– Ukraine at War Update for June 10, the
EU elections signal an alarming shift to the far-right; First report of Ukrainian Air Force striking target in Russia; White House claims Kharkiv invasion has stalled; AFU drones hit Ossetia airbase. (2h ago)

Russians Want to Rename Temporarily Occupied Ukrainian Territories as ‘Novorossiya’
By UkrInform

FACT-CHECK
In Luhansk building in Luhansk Damaged by Falling S-300 Missile as US-Made M270 & HIMARS Hammer Targets Inside Russia, First Cross-Border Strikes Since Biden Green Light. Ukraine. While Switzerland Supporting Ukraine in Digitalization and e-Governance (SWITZERLAND). 

Meanwhile Russia’s Su-57 Stealth Fighter Confirmed Struck for 1st Time – But Not in the Sky (By Kyiv Post?.

Achieving Peace: Diplomacy vs. Military Force
WAR IN UKRAINE Achieving Peace: Diplomacy vs. Military Force. What is happening WASHINGTON OPINION: on Trium (MAGA), Putin Hates You (But He Loves them all, this Internal Problems of Ukraine: What is Most Important, Who is to Blame and What to Do with Internal Problems of Ukraine: What is The Most Important, Who is to Blame and What to Do. 

https://www.kyivpost.com/

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Comin’ Atcha! The AASM Hammer Bomb – A New Edge for the Ukrainian Air Force. The Ukrainian Air Force has been successfully using the French high precision AASM Hammer bomb since March 2024 – yielding significant benefits in certain areas of the front.

The AASM Hammer is not just a bomb, but a modular air-to-ground weapon system using high-precision aerial-guided technology.

It has been in French service since 2007, but Paris announced the transfer of these bombs to Ukraine in early 2024, with the aim to deliver about 600 over the course of the year, equating to 50 per month.

French weapons manufacturers have signaled their capability to push out higher numbers – up to 90 bombs per month – which now just depends on a green light from the French government. Negotiations are already underway to increase production rates.

Developed by the French company Safran Electronics & Defense, the AASM Hammer is based on an ordinary unguided bomb, to which a kit is added, which turns it into a smart munition.

https://www.kyivpost.com/post/33980