[Tee tiong huat]

Russian defense spending could reach 8.7% of its GDP, Putin says. Russia’s defense & security spending could rise 8.7% or more in gross domestic product this year, Putin said Wed in a meet with military commanders, state agency RIA Novosti reported, this is a big resource we are obliged to use it very efficiently & effectively,” Google-translation of quotes published by state news agency.

Social obligations to citizens, education and healthcare must continue despite added expenses, Putin said increasing amount of funds used for defense was a key reason for he appointing Andrei Belousov as new defense minister, appointeded earlier this week, replacing former defense minister Sergei Shoigu, who has in turn been made Secretary of Russia’s security council.

War Update War, ANTONY BLINKEN, US Aid.

Ukraine war latest: Ukrainian forces stabilize situation in Kharkiv, 'partially' push Russian troops out of Vovchansk. 

6 min ago - Zelensky: Ukraine stabilizes situation in Kharkiv Oblast amid Russian offensive

General Staff: Russian forces 'partially pushed out' from Vovchansk. Ukraine deploys more forces to Kharkiv Oblast

Blinken: US giving additional $2 bil in military financing. Putin's launched a new offensive with 30,000 troops on May 10, targeting Kharkiv.