Category: War in Ukraine

Last news • War in Ukraine

  • Zelenskyy summed up his journey to Canada: Now we have concrete selections

    Zelenskyy summed up his journey to Canada: Now we have concrete selections

    Zelenskyy summed up his journey to Canada: Now we have concrete selections

    G7 international locations are prepared to extend navy help for Ukraine and rebuild the nation collectively after the conflict. There may even be new sanctions in opposition to the Russian Federation, which fuels the conflict.

  • Ukraine warfare newest: Huge Russian assault kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    Ukraine warfare newest: Huge Russian assault kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    Ukraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    Key developments on June 17:

    • 'A brutal strike' — Huge Russian missile and drone assault hits Kyiv, killing 14, injuring at the least 117
    • Zelensky arrives at G7 summit hours after Trump departs
    • US group designed to stress Russia into peace in Ukraine disbanded by Trump administration, Reuters studies
    • US reportedly considers strikes on Iran as Trump calls for' unconditional give up'
    • Russian military-industrial chemical plant halts operations after Ukrainian drone strike

    Not less than 14 individuals have been killed and at the least 117 others injured after a mass Russian missile and drone assault on Kyiv in a single day on June 17.

    Ukraine's Nationwide Police initially reported 15 useless and 124 injured within the assault, however Inside Minister Ihor Klymenko later revised the loss of life toll to 10. The State Emergency Service subsequently up to date the determine to 14.

    Klymenko stated operational knowledge might change, as physique elements discovered throughout rescue efforts can typically be mistakenly counted as a number of victims.

    Based on the State Emergency Service, one physique has been recovered from the rubble of the nine-story constructing, and rescue operations are nonetheless ongoing.

    The virtually nine-hour-long assault noticed Moscow's forces launch giant numbers of kamikaze assault drones, in addition to cruise and ballistic missiles at Ukraine's capital.

    Kyiv Impartial journalists on the bottom reported the sounds of drones, missiles, and a number of rounds of explosions all through the evening.

    The Ukrainian Air Pressure confirmed that Russia launched 472 aerial weapons in a single day, together with practically 280 Shahed-type assault drones and two Kinzhal ballistic missiles. The strike primarily focused Kyiv.

    Ukraine's air protection forces reportedly destroyed 428 air targets, together with 239 Shahed drones and 15 Kh-101 cruise missiles. Air defenses additionally intercepted one Kinzhal missile, whereas one other was reportedly misplaced from radar monitoring.

    President Volodymyr Zelensky known as the assault "one of the crucial horrifying assaults on Kyiv," saying greater than 440 drones and 32 missiles had been launched throughout Ukraine in a single day.

    "Such assaults are pure terrorism," he stated in a press release on social media. "And the entire world, the U.S., and Europe should lastly reply as civilized societies reply to terrorists."

    Zelensky confirmed that injury had been reported in eight districts of Kyiv, with emergency staff nonetheless looking for survivors beneath the rubble of a destroyed house block.

    Ukraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv
    Firefighters extinguish burning parked vehicles subsequent to a closely broken residential constructing following the Russian missile strike on Ukraine's capital of Kyiv on June 17, 2025. (Genya Savilov / AFP by way of Getty Pictures)

    In a video posted on Telegram, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated cluster munitions had been present in one space of town. He later added that June 18 can be an official day of mourning in Kyiv.

    Most of the deaths and accidents occurred when a Russian missile hit a nine-storey residential constructing within the Solomianskyi district, "fully destroying" one part, Ukraine's State Emergency Service stated.

    "I noticed the missile as a result of it was low," Olena Kushnirova, a 46-year-old nurse who lives in a neighboring constructing to the one which was hit, instructed the Kyiv Impartial.

    Throughout the assault on the capital, a 62-year-oldU.S. citizen died within the Solomianskyi district in a constructing throughout from the place medics had been helping the injured, Klitschko reported. Medical personnel confirmed organic loss of life.

    Overseas Minister Andrii Sybiha additionally condemned the assault, calling it a "large and brutal strike" timed intentionally to coincide with the G7 summit.

    "Putin does this on objective… He sends a sign of complete disrespect to the United States and different companions who’ve known as for an finish to the killing," Sybiha stated. "Solely robust steps and actual stress on Moscow can show him mistaken."

    A Russian drone additionally hit a multi-storey constructing Darnytskyi District.

    "At first there was shock," Tatiana Bratus, a 50-year-old resident of the constructing, instructed the Kyiv Impartial.

    "Folks began operating exterior, shouting, some in panic, as a result of the assault wasn't over but. They stated there have been nonetheless rockets flying. Folks ran to the bomb shelter.

    A kindergarten within the Darnytskyi district was additionally broken, Tymur Tkachenko, the pinnacle of the Kyiv Metropolis Navy Administration, stated. No casualties had been reported on the website.

    The higher flooring of residential buildings within the Solomianskyi and Shevchenkivskyi districts had been additionally broken.

    A dormitory on the Kyiv Aviation Institute was hit by drones through the assault, the information outlet Suspilne reported. Drones struck the institute's tenth ground and broke home windows on three different flooring.

    Outdoors the capital, the assaults additionally triggered injury and injured civilians in Kyiv Oblast cities. Not less than one lady was injured and a number of houses had been broken, in response to the regional administration.

    Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us Ukraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    The Russian strike broken the manufacturing facility of Fahrenheit, a Ukrainian clothes producer that provides attire and undergarments for each civilians and the army. The corporate introduced it was pressured to cancel all present orders and droop new ones indefinitely following the destruction of its Kyiv website.

    Russian forces additionally hit a Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) freight practice carrying grain. A number of railcars overturned, briefly halting operations and spilling grain from the broken wagons. Ukrzaliznytsia stated the injury can be "promptly repaired" and practice visitors wouldn’t be affected.

    Ukrposhta, Ukraine's nationwide postal service, reported the destruction of two of its branches in Kyiv through the assault, in response to CEO Ihor Smiliansky. The corporate's staff is working to "rapidly restore companies," he stated.

    The assault adopted a sequence of drone strikes in a single day on June 16 concentrating on Kyiv Oblast, together with each the capital and surrounding settlements. Within the Obukhiv district, a 60-year-old man was injured, in response to regional authorities.

    Russian assaults in opposition to Ukraine have intensified in Might and June, with Moscow launching a number of record-breaking mass strikes in opposition to Kyiv and different cities.

    ‘He said he wasn’t going anywhere’ — Russian strikes kill 14 in Kyiv as survivors search for missingSitting a few meters from the rubble of what used to be a nondescript nine-story residential building in Kyiv, Lilia rises to her feet every time another pile of debris is cleared from the site targeted by Russia during a mass overnight attack on June 17. “We are waiting (asUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in KyivThe Kyiv IndependentKateryna DenisovaUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    Zelensky arrives at G7 summit hours after Trump departs

    President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived on the G7 Leaders' Summit in Canada on June 17 forward of the ultimate day of the G7 Leaders' summit, in response to a Kyiv Impartial journalist on the bottom.

    Zelensky was greeted by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Kananaskis, Alberta, the place the summit is being held.

    "We’d like extra from our allies… We’re prepared for peace negotiations… However for this, we want stress," the Ukrainian president stated.

    The Ukrainian president was anticipated to fulfill U.S. President Donald Trump on the summit. Nevertheless, it isn’t clear if the assembly will happen as a result of Trump left the summit early attributable to escalating tensions within the Center East.

    White Home spokesperson Caroline Leavitt confirmed Trump's early departure from the summit, citing the continued escalation between Israel and Iran.

    Zelensky was to carry his third in-person assembly with Trump, which can sign the way forward for Trump and Zelensky's relationship, in addition to supply perception into the US' dedication to supporting Ukraine.

    In February, Zelensky and Trump held their first assembly, which escalated right into a heated argument, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance lambasting the Ukrainian chief over what they described as "a scarcity of gratitude for U.S. help."

    The second assembly between Trump and Zelensky within the Vatican in April led to the U.S. president reiterating requires a ceasefire in Ukraine and even threatening to impose sanctions on Russia.

    Within the month since their final in-person assembly, tensions between Trump and Zelensky have risen once more. Regardless of issuing a number of threats, Trump has not adopted by way of on implementing further financial stress on Moscow.

    Ukraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv
    Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomes President Volodymyr Zelensky through the Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada on June 17, 2025. (Dmytro Basmat / The Kyiv Impartial)

    Forward of the summit, European leaders urged G7 nations to impose harsher sanctions on Moscow with the intention to safe a ceasefire within the warfare in opposition to Ukraine.

    "To realize peace by way of power, we should put extra stress on Russia to safe an actual ceasefire, to convey Russia to the negotiating desk, and to finish this warfare. Sanctions are important to that finish," European Fee President Ursula von der Leyen stated on June 15 at a press briefing attended by a Kyiv Impartial journalist.

    Zelensky remains to be anticipated to attend the scheduled conferences with different G7 leaders.

    Zelensky stated in a closed-door assembly attended by the Kyiv Impartial on June 13 that his precedence is to talk with Trump about sanctions in opposition to Russia, peace talks, weapons purchases, and U.S.-Ukraine financial cooperation.

    "There are steps ahead we will take — however we want the political will of the U.S. president, if he needs," Zelensky stated on June 13.

    Amid elevated anxiousness round Trump's dedication to ending the warfare, U.S. Protection Secretary Pete Hegseth just lately introduced that the Pentagon would cut back funding allotted for army help to Ukraine in its 2026 protection price range.

    Canada, which holds the G7 presidency in 2025, invited Zelensky to take part in summit, marking the Ukrainian president's fourth G7 assembly because the outbreak of the full-scale invasion in 2022.

    Tired of military aid delays, Ukraine has designed its own ballistic missile — and it’s already in mass-productionUkraine announced on June 13 that its short-range Sapsan ballistic missile would go into mass production, a major development in Kyiv’s ongoing efforts to domestically produce the weapons it needs to fight Russia’s full-scale invasion. As Ukraine faces growing challenges in securing weapons from Western partners, and Russia continues launchingUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in KyivThe Kyiv IndependentYuliia TaradiukUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    US group designed to stress Russia disbanded by Trump administration, Reuters studies

    A U.S. authorities working group that formulated methods for pressuring Russia into peace talks and ending the warfare in Ukraine has been disbanded by the White Home, Reuters reported on June 17.

    Officers cited by the information outlet stated it was established this spring however turned more and more irrelevant because it turned clear U.S. President Donald Trump wasn't prepared to use any concrete stress on Moscow throughout peace talks.

    "It misplaced steam towards the top as a result of the president wasn't there. As an alternative of doing extra, perhaps he wished to do much less," an nameless official stated.

    As Ukraine and the U.S. proceed to push for an unconditional ceasefire, Russia has maintained maximalist calls for and rejected all such proposals.

    On the similar time, it has escalated assaults on Ukrainian civilians, killing at the least 15 individuals and injuring scores of others within the newest assault on Kyiv in a single day on June 17.

    Trump has expressed frustration with Moscow's intransigence and rising violence however has but to impose any new sanctions on Russia.

    On June 1,6 whereas talking in Canada forward of a G7 summit, Trump stated barring Russia from the G8 for its invasion of Ukraine in 2017 had been a "mistake."

    Based on Reuters, the working group, staffed by officers from the Nationwide Safety Council, State Division, Treasury Division, the Pentagon and intelligence group, was decimated in a purge of personnel round three weeks in the past.

    Trump pledged to "cease the wars" when he was elected U.S. president for the second time, however after simply 5 months in workplace, the world is a much more violent place.

    In addition to Russia escalating assaults on Ukraine, Israel and Iran at the moment are locked in a battle that additional threatens stability within the Center East.

    ‘Beyond cynical’ – Russian doctor carved ‘Glory to Russia’ scar on POW during operation, Ukraine saysAfter more than three years of Russia’s full-scale invasion, each new revelation of cruel treatment of Ukrainians in Russian captivity hardly surprises anyone. But when a photo recently emerged online, showing a “Glory to Russia” scar on the body of a Ukrainian prisoner of war (POW), it sent shockwavesUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in KyivThe Kyiv IndependentDaria ShulzhenkoUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    US reportedly considers strikes on Iran as Trump calls for 'unconditional give up'

    U.S. President Donald Trump is weighing direct army motion in opposition to Iran, together with potential strikes on its nuclear amenities, Axios reported on June 17, citing unnamed U.S. officers.

    Trump demanded Iran's "unconditional give up" on Fact Social on June 17 and threatened Supreme Chief Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, boasting about U.S. air superiority.

    The U.S. president is predicted to fulfill along with his nationwide safety staff later within the day to find out the scope of involvement within the escalating battle between Israel and Iran, in response to Axios.

    The assembly comes after his early departure from the G7 Leaders' Summit on June 16, the place he had been scheduled to fulfill with President Volodymyr Zelensky the next day.

    "We now have full and complete management of the skies over Iran," Trump wrote on Fact Social.

    He added that "we all know precisely the place the so-called 'Supreme Chief' is hiding."

    "He’s a simple goal, however is secure there – We’re not going to take him out (kill!), at the least not for now," Trump continued. "However we don't need missiles shot at civilians, or American troopers. Our persistence is carrying skinny."

    The U.S. president is more and more leaning towards utilizing army power to focus on Iran's nuclear amenities, shifting away from a diplomatic decision, CNN reported, citing two unnamed U.S. officers.

    Though Trump continues to be receptive to negotiations, CNN sources indicated that any settlement would require important concessions from Tehran.

    German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated on June 17 that U.S. involvement in Israel's army marketing campaign is underneath critical consideration, and a call may very well be "made within the close to future," Politico reported.

    Merz stated the choice is determined by whether or not the Iranian regime "is ready to return" to the negotiating desk.

    Israel-Iran war could provide economic boost Russia needs to continue fight against UkraineIsrael’s “preemptive” strikes against Iran targeting the country’s nuclear program and killing top military officials could have far-reaching implications for Ukraine and could boost Russia’s ability to continue its full-scale invasion, experts have told the Kyiv Independent. Iran has been one of Russia’s staunchest allies throughout the war, providing thousandsUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in KyivThe Kyiv IndependentChris YorkUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    Israel launched a sequence of large air strikes on Iran beginning June 13, concentrating on nuclear amenities and senior army figures. The Israeli authorities claimed Tehran was nearing nuclear weapons functionality.

    Iran responded with missile strikes on Tel Aviv and different Israeli cities, which resulted in civilian casualties, together with 5 Ukrainian residents, on June 14.

    Iranian officers claimed 224 individuals have been killed in Israeli assaults to this point, most of them civilians. The figures haven’t been independently verified.

    As tensions develop, Trump has floated the thought of Russian President Vladimir Putin serving as a mediator between Israel and Iran. Putin spoke with each Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on June 13, providing mediation and condemning Israeli strikes.

    Israel has not publicly responded to Russia's proposal, however Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on June 17 that Tel Aviv appeared unwilling to simply accept Russian mediation.

    French President Emmanuel Macron dismissed the suggestion completely, saying on June 15 that Moscow, given its warfare in Ukraine and disrespect for the UN Constitution, "can’t be a mediator."

    Tehran has turn into one in all Russia's closest army companions throughout its warfare in opposition to Ukraine, supplying 1000’s of Shahed drones and ballistic missiles utilized in each day strikes on Ukrainian cities.

    Israel, which has traditionally maintained cautious relations with Russia and is dwelling to a considerable Russian-speaking inhabitants, has not joined in Western sanctions in opposition to Moscow.

    On June 13, Kyiv expressed its help for Israel, describing Iran as a "supply of instability within the area and past," citing Tehran's in depth army cooperation with Russia.

    Israel reluctant to accept Russia’s mediation in war with Iran, Kremlin says“At the moment, we see reluctance — at least on Israel’s part — to resort to mediation or pursue a peaceful resolution,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed.Ukraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in KyivThe Kyiv IndependentTim ZadorozhnyyUkraine war latest: Massive Russian attack kills 14, injures 117 in Kyiv

    Russian chemical plant halts operations after Ukrainian drone strike

    The Nevinnomyssk Azot chemical plant — one in all Russia's largest producers of nitrogen fertilizer and ammonia and a key provider to the Kremlin's military-industrial advanced — has suspended manufacturing, Russian impartial media outlet Astra reported on June 16.

    Based on Astra, the chemical plant suspended manufacturing as a direct results of Ukrainian drone strikes. The strike — which was confirmed by Ukraine's Common Workers on June 14 — focused two main military-industrial amenities in Russia, together with the Nevinnomyssk Azot plant in Stavropol Krai. The power reportedly equipped uncooked supplies and parts for Russia's weapons and gas manufacturing.

    Nevinnomyssk Azot is amongst Russia's prime producers of ammonia and nitrogen fertilizers and hosts the nation's solely manufacturing strains for methyl acetate and high-purity acetic acid. It additionally operates Russia's first melamine manufacturing facility, in response to open-source knowledge.

    Based on Andrii Kovalenko, head of Ukraine's Heart for Countering Disinformation on the Nationwide Safety and Protection Council, the plant produces as much as a million tons of ammonia and over a million tons of ammonium nitrate yearly, and is "a important component of Russia's military-industrial advanced."

    Kovalenko famous that ammonium nitrate is a key part for explosives and artillery shells. He added that the plant additionally synthesizes dual-use chemical substances comparable to melamine, acetic acid, methanol, and potassium nitrate — all often used within the manufacturing of grenade launchers, mines, and rocket expenses.

    Since 2024, the plant has additionally been producing water-soluble fertilizers, which he stated have been tailored to serve army chemical wants as a part of Russia's warfare in Ukraine.

    The chemical plant is a part of the EuroChem Group, owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko, who’s at present sanctioned by Canada, the European Union, Japan, and the UK.

    Notice from the creator:

    Ukraine Warfare Newest is put collectively by the Kyiv Impartial information desk staff, who maintain you knowledgeable 24 hours a day, seven days per week. When you worth our work and need to guarantee we have now the sources to proceed, join the Kyiv Independent community.

  • Zelenskyy mentioned with the Prime Minister of Japan help to Ukraine and countering the widespread risk from the Russian Federation, North Korea, and Iran

    Zelenskyy mentioned with the Prime Minister of Japan help to Ukraine and countering the widespread risk from the Russian Federation, North Korea, and Iran

    Zelenskyy mentioned with the Prime Minister of Japan help to Ukraine and countering the widespread risk from the Russian Federation, North Korea, and Iran

    Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Shigeru Ishiba, thanking him for his help and discussing cooperation within the protection trade. Japan has already supplied Ukraine with help price over 12 billion {dollars}.

  • Ukrainian drone brigade distances itself from ex-volunteer commander’s criticism

    Ukrainian drone brigade distances itself from ex-volunteer commander’s criticism

    Ukrainian drone brigade distances itself from ex-volunteer commander's criticism

    Ukraine's 59th Brigade of the Unmanned Techniques Forces mentioned on June 17 that former fighter Ryan O'Leary not has entry to present details about the unit's operations and can’t communicate on its behalf.

    The assertion follows public criticism from O'Leary, an American volunteer and former commander of the Chosen Firm, who alleged widespread management failures inside Ukraine's Armed Forces.

    On June 14, O'Leary mentioned mismanagement inside the navy, relatively than Russia's motion, was answerable for "extra deaths," accusing commanders of prioritizing private energy over troop welfare.

    "The officer corps behaves like a caste system of untouchables or 'military lords,'" he wrote on X.

    Chosen Firm, initially shaped because the 312 Swedish Volunteer Firm initially of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, has drawn members from greater than 31 international locations.

    Its first commander, Swedish veteran Edvard Selander Patrignani, was killed in motion in July 2022. O'Leary took command afterward, and the unit was built-in into the 59th Brigade in early 2023.

    O'Leary accused the previous commander of the 59th Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Bohdan Shevchuk, of sending intelligence officers into reckless assaults, leading to avoidable casualties. Shevchuk was lately faraway from command after being accused of submitting false studies.

    "Within the first two months of his command, he despatched troopers into unattainable positions with no hope of reinforcement or survival," O'Leary claimed.

    In response, the 59th Brigade, deployed within the Pokrovsk sector in Donetsk Oblast, mentioned O'Leary voluntarily resigned from service on Feb. 8, 2024, and has not taken half in any operations or inside choices since.

    "He doesn’t have up-to-date data on the state of affairs within the unit and can’t touch upon it," the brigade mentioned. "The dissemination of unfounded accusations and misinformation undermines morale and negatively impacts the unit's fight readiness."

    The 59th Brigade emphasised that its troopers proceed to carry out fight missions underneath difficult situations and "preserve excessive effectivity and effectiveness."

    O'Leary had introduced the disbandment of the Chosen Firm on Might 26, however mentioned he would wait to debate particulars till his contract formally ended.

    ‘A brutal strike’ — Massive Russian missile and drone attack hits Kyiv, killing 10, injuring at least 124Russian drones and ballistic missiles targeted the capital overnight, killing 15 people and injuring at least 114, local authorities reported. Damage to civilian infrastructure has also been reported throughout the city.Ukrainian drone brigade distances itself from ex-volunteer commander's criticismThe Kyiv IndependentOlena GoncharovaUkrainian drone brigade distances itself from ex-volunteer commander's criticism
  • Zelensky mentioned strengthening sanctions towards the Russian Federation with Keir Starmer

    Zelensky mentioned strengthening sanctions towards the Russian Federation with Keir Starmer

    Zelensky mentioned strengthening sanctions towards the Russian Federation with Keir Starmer

    The President of Ukraine met with the Prime Minister of Britain, discussing sanctions towards Russia and strengthening Ukraine's air protection. He thanked Britain for its help in ending the warfare.

  • US reportedly considers strikes on Iran as Trump calls for ‘unconditional give up’

    US reportedly considers strikes on Iran as Trump calls for ‘unconditional give up’

    US reportedly considers strikes on Iran as Trump demands 'unconditional surrender'

    U.S. President Donald Trump is weighing direct navy motion towards Iran, together with potential strikes on its nuclear amenities, Axios reported on June 17, citing unnamed U.S. officers.

    Trump demanded Iran's "unconditional give up" on Reality Social on June 17 and threatened Supreme Chief Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, boasting about U.S. air superiority.

    The U.S. president is predicted to satisfy along with his nationwide safety staff later within the day to find out the scope of involvement within the escalating battle between Israel and Iran, in response to Axios.

    The assembly comes after his early departure from the G7 Leaders' Summit on June 16, the place he had been scheduled to satisfy with President Volodymyr Zelensky the next day.

    "We now have full and complete management of the skies over Iran," Trump wrote on Reality Social.

    He added that "we all know precisely the place the so-called 'Supreme Chief' is hiding."

    "He’s a straightforward goal, however is protected there – We aren’t going to take him out (kill!), at the very least not for now," Trump continued. "However we don't need missiles shot at civilians, or American troopers. Our persistence is carrying skinny."

    The U.S. president is more and more leaning towards utilizing navy drive to focus on Iran's nuclear amenities, shifting away from a diplomatic decision, CNN reported, citing two unnamed U.S. officers.

    Though Trump continues to be receptive to negotiations, CNN sources indicated that any settlement would require vital concessions from Tehran.

    German Chancellor Friedrich Merz mentioned on June 17 that U.S. involvement in Israel's navy marketing campaign is beneath severe consideration, and a call may very well be "made within the close to future," Politico reported.

    Merz mentioned the choice relies on whether or not the Iranian regime "is ready to return" to the negotiating desk.

    Israel launched a sequence of huge air strikes on Iran beginning June 13, focusing on nuclear amenities and senior navy figures. The Israeli authorities claimed Tehran was nearing nuclear weapons functionality.

    Iran responded with missile strikes on Tel Aviv and different Israeli cities, which resulted in civilian casualties, together with 5 Ukrainian residents on June 14.

    Iranian officers claimed 224 individuals have been killed in Israeli assaults to this point, most of them civilians. The figures haven’t been independently verified.

    Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us US reportedly considers strikes on Iran as Trump demands 'unconditional surrender'

    As tensions develop, Trump has floated the concept of Russian President Vladimir Putin serving as a mediator between Israel and Iran. Putin spoke with each Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on June 13, providing mediation and condemning Israeli strikes.

    Israel has not publicly responded to Russia's proposal, however Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov mentioned on June 17 that Tel Aviv appeared unwilling to just accept Russian mediation.

    French President Emmanuel Macron dismissed the suggestion completely, saying on June 15 that Moscow, given its battle in Ukraine and disrespect for the UN Constitution, "can’t be a mediator."

    Tehran has develop into certainly one of Russia's closest navy companions throughout its battle towards Ukraine, supplying 1000’s of Shahed drones and ballistic missiles utilized in day by day strikes on Ukrainian cities.

    Israel, which has traditionally maintained cautious relations with Russia and is house to a considerable Russian-speaking inhabitants, has not joined in Western sanctions towards Moscow.

    On June 13, Kyiv expressed its help for Israel, describing Iran as a "supply of instability within the area and past," citing Tehran's in depth navy cooperation with Russia.

    Zelensky arrives at G7 summit hours after Trump departsZelensky was expected to meet U.S. President Donald Trump at the summit. However, it is not clear if the meeting will take place because Trump left the summit early due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.US reportedly considers strikes on Iran as Trump demands 'unconditional surrender'The Kyiv IndependentDmytro BasmatUS reportedly considers strikes on Iran as Trump demands 'unconditional surrender'
  • Solely in Kyiv, about 30 hits have been recorded: Zelenskyy on one of many largest mixed assaults by the Russian Federation on Ukraine

    Solely in Kyiv, about 30 hits have been recorded: Zelenskyy on one of many largest mixed assaults by the Russian Federation on Ukraine

    Solely in Kyiv, about 30 hits have been recorded: Zelenskyy on one of many largest mixed assaults by the Russian Federation on Ukraine

    The Russian Federation carried out one of many largest mixed assaults on Ukraine, launching 440 drones and 32 missiles. About 30 hits have been recorded in Kyiv, 150 homes have been broken, and 15 individuals died.

  • Ukraine is mass-producing its personal ballistic missile — right here’s how it may be used to strike Russia

    Ukraine is mass-producing its personal ballistic missile — right here’s how it may be used to strike Russia

    Ukraine is mass-producing its own ballistic missile — here’s how it can be used to strike Russia

    Ukraine introduced on June 13 that it's short-range Sapsan ballistic missile would go into mass manufacturing, a serious growth in Kyiv's ongoing efforts to domestically produce the weapons it must struggle Russia's full-scale invasion.

    As Ukraine faces rising challenges in securing weapons from Western companions, and Russia continues launching drone and missile strikes on civilians, the event of Ukraine’s missile manufacturing is seen as a crucial step towards strengthening its protection capabilities.

    "The very emergence of home ballistic missiles is a daring political assertion — a giant, fats center finger to the Kremlin’s claims that Ukraine should be demilitarized," Protection Categorical navy professional, Ivan Kyrychevsky, advised the Kyiv Impartial.

    What's a ballisitic missile?

    In contrast to cruise missiles that are jet engine powered and fly in a comparatively flat trajectory, ballistic missiles are rocket-powered and launched excessive into the ambiance earlier than arcing again down onto their goal.

    They're solely guided throughout the preliminary phases of launch, to allow them to be much less correct than cruise missiles, however have the benefit of reaching extremely excessive speeds — typically greater than 3,200 kilometers per hour — as they method their targets.

    "There aren’t any pink strains of escalation if the Russians themselves are placing with ballistic missiles immediately and constantly at residential buildings."

    As such, they’re tougher to intercept — solely probably the most superior air protection methods are able to capturing them down, the U.S.-made Patriot system being certainly one of them.

    Russia makes use of them to devastating impact in Ukraine — throughout the newest mass assault on Kyiv on June 17, at the very least 10 folks have been killed and scores extra injured, a lot of them when a ballistic missile partially destroyed a residential constructing.

    Ukraine is mass-producing its own ballistic missile — here’s how it can be used to strike Russia
    Individuals stroll close to a residential constructing broken by a Russian assault in Kyiv, Ukraine, on June 17, 2025. (Danylo Antoniuk / Anadolu / Getty Photographs)
    Ukraine is mass-producing its own ballistic missile — here’s how it can be used to strike Russia
    Mother and father wait as rescuers seek for their lacking son within the rubble of a collapsed constructing after a Russian assault in Kyiv, Ukraine, on June 17, 2025. (Oleksandr Magula / Suspilne Ukraine / JSC “UA:PBC” / World Photographs Ukraine through Getty Photographs)

    What do we all know in regards to the Sapsan ballistic missile?

    The newest growth is that it has efficiently accomplished fight testing and is within the means of serial manufacturing, however it isn’t identified when the missiles can be seen in common use on the battlefield.

    The missile accomplished testing in Might after efficiently placing a Russian navy goal at a variety of almost 300 km, Valentyn Badrak, head of the impartial Ukrainian assume tank, the Heart for Military, Conversion and Disarmament Research, advised Liga.web.

    "We must make ballistic missiles as a result of there may be nowhere else to get them."

    Kyrychevsky mentioned that the precise technical specs of Sapsan are usually not clear, as revealing this info would play into Russia's fingers, although he believes the missile can attain additional than 300 kilometers.

    The missile’s payload seems to be significantly important, with studies indicating a warhead weight of over 480 kilograms.

    Federico Borsari, a Resident Fellow with the Transatlantic Protection and Safety Program on the Heart for European Coverage Evaluation (CEPA), advised the Kyiv Impartial that "it’s a very massive warhead, which signifies that Ukraine is prioritizing strike energy over vary."

    Ukraine is mass-producing its own ballistic missile — here’s how it can be used to strike Russia
    Hrim-2 tactical missile mockup on show in Ukraine in an undated photograph. (VoidWanderer / Wikimedia)

    By way of targets, such a big warhead ought to make it efficient towards just about something inside its vary.

    "There’s at all times a trade-off in missile design. The heavier the warhead, the shorter the vary. Ukraine needs to have a really highly effective strike weapon to destroy any targets on Russian territory however inside 300—500 kilometers," he mentioned.

    Forward of the remainder of Europe

    "Ukraine is the primary European nation for the reason that Chilly Struggle that’s producing a standard ballistic missile once more," Fabian Hoffmann, a protection professional and doctoral analysis fellow on the College of Oslo, advised the Kyiv Impartial.

    In line with Hoffmann, Ukraine is "undoubtedly forward of the remainder of Europe" as no different European nation produces standard brief or medium-range ballistic missiles.

    France is the one European nation at present producing ballistic missiles, and even these are sea-launched intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) meant solely for nuclear deterrence. The UK, whereas a part of the nuclear membership, doesn’t manufacture its personal ballistic missiles.

    Hoffmann added that Western nations undoubtedly knew that Ukraine was engaged on a brand new missile, and there was some "hesitation and concern" about Kyiv acquiring this form of offensive strike potential, and Russia's potential escalation of the warfare in response to their use.

    "However I feel particularly over the past months, there’s a consensus that if it's a Ukrainian weapon that’s constructed inside Ukraine, by Ukrainian engineers, and operated by Ukrainian personnel, then it's probably not one thing that Western companions wish to get too concerned with," Hoffmann mentioned.

    Kyrychevsky sees the event of a brand new Ukrainian missile as a no brainer given the present geopolitical uncertainties dealing with Ukraine.

    "The Individuals are operating out of missiles, and they aren’t prepared to offer them to us. European companions haven’t any ballistic missiles of their very own," he mentioned, including: "We must make ballistic missiles as a result of there may be nowhere else to get them."

    Kyrychevsky dismissed any issues over Russian escalation, saying there aren’t any pink strains to cross if Russia is already "placing with ballistic missiles immediately and constantly at residential buildings."

    Breaking by Russia's air defence

    In line with Borsari, Russia's air protection efficiency towards missiles has improved since 2023, significantly in response to Ukrainian strikes with Western-supplied weapons similar to Storm Shadow and ATACMS.

    "Russia has anti-ballistic missile protection methods just like the S-300 and S-300V4, together with anti-ballistic missile capabilities. Specifically, the S-300 PM was particularly designed to intercept ballistic missiles," he mentioned.

    "Russia has the assets and the expertise to intercept the ballistic missiles just because they needed to take care of one of these potential menace throughout the Chilly Struggle," he added.

    Ukraine is mass-producing its own ballistic missile — here’s how it can be used to strike Russia
    A Ukrainian soldier stands close to the wreckage of an S-300 missile in Chasiv Yar, Ukraine, on March 6, 2023. (Diego Fedele / Getty Photographs)

    Though Russian air protection has change into more practical towards identified methods, the brand new missile could catch them off guard, at the very least briefly. Russia will want time to replace its monitoring software program and combine this new menace into its protection community.

    "That gained’t occur in a single day. Either side learns and adapts. Russia is studying, and so is Ukraine," Borsari mentioned.

    "Sapsan is an excellent growth for Ukraine," he mentioned. "Till now, Ukraine didn’t have an indigenous and home ballistic missile in its arsenal, aside from semi-ballistic ATACMS offered by the U.S. in 2023."

    Hoffmann added that the brand new missile could make a distinction, relying on how correct it’s and the way straightforward it is going to be for Russian air protection to intercept it.

    "We see within the Center East proper now that Iran has numerous ballistic missiles, however they’re inaccurate. They need to launch a large quantity of it in an effort to doubtlessly hit the targets. And nonetheless there's no assure," Hoffmann mentioned.

    Russia additionally face an issue of geography — its huge landmass means it merely doesn't have sufficient air protection methods to cowl all of its territory so it can possible need to prioritize defending some areas over others.

    Scaling up manufacturing

    Hoffmann mentioned that Ukraine faces main challenges in scaling up missile manufacturing, as massive above-ground factories can be straightforward targets for Russian strikes.

    To guard this crucial infrastructure, Ukraine possible must construct underground amenities, which is a fancy, pricey, and time-consuming endeavour.

    Borsari added that the manufacturing will take time, but when Ukraine can handle to supply at the very least 80 to 100 missiles per yr, it could have an honest quantity to conduct strikes towards Russian targets.

    Ukraine's home weapons manufacturing

    Ukraine has continued to extend home weapon manufacturing. Zelensky mentioned on April 16 that over 40% of the weapons used on the entrance line are actually produced in Ukraine, together with over 95% of the drones used on the entrance line.

    Zelensky additionally beforehand revealed that Ukraine had developed one other domestic-made weapon, a missile-drone Palianytsia.

    Ukraine is mass-producing its own ballistic missile — here’s how it can be used to strike Russia
    A Ukrainian-made Neptune missile is fired on April 5, 2019. (The Presidential Workplace of Ukraine)

    Ukraine's Protection Minister Rustem Umerov mentioned in late 2024 that Ukraine additionally resumed and scaled up serial manufacturing of Neptune cruise missiles, modifying them to have a higher vary.

    As Ukraine makes an attempt to extend its protection manufacturing, Russia has continued to unleash large-scale assaults on Ukrainian cities, frequently launching a whole bunch of drones to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses.

    And Moscow is simply constructing an increasing number of — Ukraine's navy intelligence (HUR) advised the Kyiv Impartial earlier this month that Russia's manufacturing of ballistic missiles has elevated by at the very least 66% over the previous yr.

    Hello, that is Yuliia. Thanks for studying this text. The Kyiv Impartial doesn't have a rich proprietor or a paywall. As a substitute, we depend on readers such as you to maintain our journalism funded. For those who preferred this text, think about becoming a member of our neighborhood as we speak.

    ‘Beyond cynical’ – Russian doctor carved ‘Glory to Russia’ scar on POW during operation, Ukraine saysAfter more than three years of Russia’s full-scale invasion, each new revelation of cruel treatment of Ukrainians in Russian captivity hardly surprises anyone. But when a photo recently emerged online, showing a “Glory to Russia” scar on the body of a Ukrainian prisoner of war (POW), it sent shockwavesUkraine is mass-producing its own ballistic missile — here’s how it can be used to strike RussiaThe Kyiv IndependentDaria ShulzhenkoUkraine is mass-producing its own ballistic missile — here’s how it can be used to strike Russia
  • The Common Employees spoke about four-legged “psychologists” who encourage paratroopers on the entrance (PHOTO)

    The Common Employees spoke about four-legged “psychologists” who encourage paratroopers on the entrance (PHOTO)

    The Common Employees spoke about four-legged "psychologists" who encourage paratroopers on the entrance (PHOTO)

    The Common Employees of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed a photograph of the 82nd separate air assault brigade with their four-legged brothers, who play the position of psychologists and encourage the troopers.

  • Ukraine urges residents to depart Israel and Iran amid escalating tensions

    Ukraine urges residents to depart Israel and Iran amid escalating tensions

    Ukraine urges citizens to leave Israel and Iran amid escalating tensions

    Ukraine's Overseas Ministry has urged its residents to depart Israel and Iran "as quickly as doable" as a result of a critical deterioration in regional safety, the ministry stated in a press release on June 17.

    "In reference to a big worsening of the safety state of affairs within the Center East, the Ministry of Overseas Affairs strongly recommends that Ukrainian residents go away the territory of the State of Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran as quickly as doable, till the state of affairs stabilizes," the assertion learn.

    Ukrainians who stay in both nation are suggested to stay vigilant, monitor updates from native authorities, comply with air raid alerts, adhere to security protocols, and all the time carry legitimate identification paperwork.

    The Ukrainian embassies in Israel and Iran are compiling evacuation lists and making ready potential evacuation plans. Details about accessible evacuation routes is being printed on the official Fb pages of the Ukrainian embassies in Israel and Iran.

    The Israeli army launched a large-scale assault on Iran's nuclear and army infrastructure on June 13, which have been adopted by retaliatory ballistic missile strikes from Tehran. Israel has since struck key protection targets in Tehran, together with the headquarters of Iran's Protection Ministry.

    Iran claims new ballistic missile tactic allowed breach of Israeli air defensesIranian missiles were guided in a way that caused Israeli interceptor missiles to target each other, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said.Ukraine urges citizens to leave Israel and Iran amid escalating tensionsThe Kyiv IndependentTim ZadorozhnyyUkraine urges citizens to leave Israel and Iran amid escalating tensions