RUSSIAN WEAPONS
N. Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles, one fails
North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles, with one launch failing, South Korea's military reported Monday. The launches followed North Korea's warning of "fatal consequences" after joint military exercises by South Korea, Japan, and the US. The first missile flew 600 km, while the second traveled 120 km and seemed to explode mid-air. The launches come amid tensions over accusations that North Korea supplied weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine and ongoing military activities in both Koreas.
Zelenskyy appeals to West to relax targeting limits for Ukraine as glide bombs hammer front line
Recent drone footage released by Ukraine's military shows bodies in the civilian area of Toretsk amid heavy Russian bombardment. Ukrainian rescue services have scaled up evacuation efforts as Russian glide bombs devastate the town. President Zelenskyy reported over 800 glide bomb attacks in the past week and called for increased military aid to counter Russian aircraft. Russian bombs recently struck a postal warehouse in Kharkiv, killing one and injuring nine, while another attack in Vilniansk killed seven civilians and wounded dozens. Russian officials reported Ukrainian shelling injuries and downed drones in various regions.
North Korea says it tested a new multiwarhead missile. South Korea says it's covering up a failure
North Korea announced a successful test of a multiwarhead missile aimed at enhancing its capability to overcome US and South Korean defenses. However, South Korea disputed this claim, asserting the missile launch had actually failed. North Korea's state media reported the test involved separating and guiding warheads accurately, showcasing progress in its missile development despite technical challenges. Analysts anticipate further tests to refine this technology, which includes decoys to evade missile defenses. The test coincides with heightened regional tensions, including North Korea's objections to US military presence and provocative actions toward South Korea.
North Korea says it tested a multiwarhead missile. Kim Jong Un covets the weapon to overwhelm US defenses
North Korea announced it successfully tested a multiwarhead missile, aiming to enhance its capability to overwhelm U.S. missile defenses. The launch tested separation and guidance control of individual warheads, which were accurately directed to targets and verified by radar. This test, North Korea's first known attempt at developing a multiwarhead missile, was seen as a significant step in Kim Jong Un's weapons modernization program. While South Korea initially assessed the launch as a failed hypersonic missile test, analysts suggest it was a preliminary evaluation of key MIRV subsystems. This development intensifies regional security concerns.
Manta Ray: US Navy's secret undersea drone spotted, then disappeared from Google Maps
The US Navy's Manta Ray submarine, a prototype underwater drone developed by Northrop Grumman, was recently spotted at the Port Hueneme naval base in California. Named after the sea creature, the Manta Ray can operate deep underwater in low-power mode for extended periods without refueling. This advanced submarine, designed with modular features for easy transport, is part of the US's strategic efforts to counter submarine threats from Russia and China. Its recent sighting and disappearance have sparked widespread interest and speculation.
Russian lawmaker warns Moscow may change timing for use of nuclear weapons
Moscow may change timing for nuclear weapons use if threats increase, says Russian official cited by RIA news agency on Sunday.
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Ukraine can hit Russian forces 'anywhere' using US-supplied arms
In a significant shift, the United States authorizes Ukraine to use American-supplied weapons to target Russian forces anywhere, not just near Kharkiv. This adjustment, not a policy change per officials, follows recent cross-border assaults. US National Security Adviser clarifies the agreement includes responding to Russian forces moving towards Ukrainian territory.
Vladimir Putin says freezing of Russian assets in West is 'theft'
Russian President Vladimir Putin criticised the freezing of Russian assets abroad as "theft" and vowed to retaliate. G7 leaders agreed on a $50 billion loan for Ukraine using profits from frozen Russian assets, prompting US President Joe Biden to emphasize resolve against Russia. Putin accused Western countries of justifying their actions and warned of severe consequences, stating the nuclear standoff is nearing a critical point.
What are tactical nuclear weapons and why is Russia holding drills?
Russia and Belarus are conducting exercises to practice the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons. These weapons are intended for battlefield use and rely on nuclear fission and fusion reactions to release energy. The drills involve missiles like Kinzhal and Iskander, with Russia using non-strategic nuclear warheads. The exercises are seen as a response to perceived hostile actions by the United States and its allies.
Ukraine says it struck one of Russia's most advanced warplanes
Ukraine hit a modern Russian warplane at an air base far from the front lines, using Western-supplied weapons. Satellite photos confirm the strike on a Su-57 fighter plane at the Akhtubinsk base.
NATO chief dismisses Russian warnings after arms restrictions lifted
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Friday dismissed warnings by Russian President Vladimir Putin that allowing Ukraine to use Western weapons to strike inside Russian territory might lead to an escalation. Speaking on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Prague, Stoltenberg said the alliance had heard such warnings many times before and self-defence was not escalation.
Blinken says Washington approved use of US weapons by Ukraine inside Russia
US President Joe Biden has approved Ukraine using US weapons to strike Russian targets attacking the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. This move follows Kyiv's request for authorization from Washington. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed the move, stating that it was a result of the US strategy of adjusting and adapting to the battleground. Biden has relaxed his policy on weapons supplies for Ukraine twice this year, earlier this year, he resisted calls to send long-range missiles to Kyiv.
Berlin lets Ukraine use German weapons against targets in Russia after the US also eases its stance
Germany and the United States have authorized Ukraine to target some Russian positions on Russian soil with long-range weapons supplied by the West, marking a significant policy shift amid the ongoing conflict. This decision, aimed at defending the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, comes as Ukrainian forces face challenges from Russian attacks in the region. The move has drawn strong reactions from Moscow, with warnings of potential NATO involvement in the conflict. Western leaders have been cautious about easing restrictions on weapons due to fears of provoking Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Russian missiles kill 4 people in Kharkiv after Biden OKs a Ukrainian response using US weapons
Ukrainian officials have previously accused Russia of targeting rescue workers by hitting residential buildings with two consecutive missiles - the first one to draw emergency crews to the scene and the second one to wound or kill them. The tactic is called a "double tap" in military jargon. Russia used the same method in Syria's civil war.
'Risk averse' West torn over Ukraine push to strike Russia: analysts
Amid rising calls for Ukraine to strike inside Russia using Western-supplied long-range weapons, allies remain cautious due to fears of escalation and nuclear threats from Moscow. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg urged lifting restrictions to aid Ukraine's defense, but the US and Germany hesitate. Despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's criticism, divisions persist among Western leaders. Some, like French President Emmanuel Macron, suggest deploying Western troops, challenging traditional stances and highlighting deepening debates on the conflict's next steps.
Putin warns Western weapons striking Russia would have 'serious consequences'
Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of "serious consequences" if Western countries allow Ukraine to use their weapons to strike Russia. He emphasized the importance of considering the small territory and dense population of European countries before discussing strikes deep into Russian territory.
US to provide Ukraine with USD275mn more in military aid amid Russian advances
Amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the United States is set to provide Ukraine with an additional USD 275 million in military aid, marking the fourth installment since a foreign aid bill was passed last month. The aid package includes weaponry and munitions vital for Ukraine's defence, such as rocket systems, artillery rounds, anti-tank systems, tactical vehicles, and small arms. The move underscores America's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, with nearly USD 1.7 billion already dispatched and more aid expected in the future.
South Korea imposes sanctions on North Koreans, two Russian vessels
On Friday, South Korea imposed sanctions on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels for violating U.N. Security Council resolutions through weapons trade and related activities between Pyongyang and Moscow. The vessels transported military supplies, while the sanctioned individuals facilitated arms negotiations and supported North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. Accusations of North Korea supplying weapons to Russia for the Ukraine war have been denied by both countries. Russia condemned the sanctions and vowed to respond.
Seven dead in Russian strikes on Kharkiv as Kyiv pleads for weapons
On Thursday, Russia launched missile strikes on Kharkiv, killing seven people at a printing house and wounding 28 others, as President Zelenskiy criticized Western allies for insufficient military support. The city, heavily bombarded for months, faced an intensified ground offensive beginning May 10, which has reportedly stalled. Around 15 missiles targeted transport infrastructure and the printing house, causing significant damage and casualties. Zelenskiy and other Ukrainian officials have called for more air defense systems, emphasizing the need for greater international assistance to counter Russian attacks effectively.
Russia starts exercise with tactical nuclear weapons
Russia's Foreign Ministry has cited comments by French President Emmanuel Macron, who floated the possibility of sending European troops to fight Russia in Ukraine, and British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, who said Ukraine had the right to use weapons provided by London to strike targets inside Russia.
EU signs off on using Russian asset profits for Ukraine
The European Union on Tuesday formally approved using the profits from frozen Russian central bank assets to arm Ukraine, as the United States presses for a more ambitious plan. The final approval of the EU scheme, after months of legal wrangling, comes as the United States and Britain are pushing for a more far-reaching plan at the G7.
Pentagon vows to keep arming Kyiv amid fresh Russian assault
The US announced no new aid packages Monday, but has now provided about $50.6 billion in military assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in 2022. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials said Kyiv's troops still control nearly 60% of Vovchansk and are fighting house-to-house to defend the border town in northeastern Kharkiv region from Russian attacks.
New star wars plan: US rushes to counter Chinese and Russian threats in orbit
US Defense Department is looking to acquire a new generation of ground- and space-based tools that will allow it to defend its satellite network from attack and, if necessary, to disrupt or disable enemy spacecraft in orbit, Pentagon officials have said in a series of interviews, speeches and recent statements.
Why is Russia holding nuclear exercises - and what to watch for?
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his military to conduct drills involving the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons, citing perceived threats from France, Britain, and the United States. The drills will include missile forces, aviation, and the navy from the Southern Military District, near Ukraine, as well as Belarus. Russia linked the drills to what it called "militant statements" by Western officials. While nuclear powers routinely conduct nuclear exercises, it is rare to explicitly link such drills to ongoing conflicts.
Ukraine wages difficult border campaign even after securing more military aid
Ukraine faces Russian bombardment in Kharkiv region post $60B U.S. aid. Oleksander Syrskyi leads defense. Russia targets Vovchansk, Lyptsi. Belgorod incident unfolds. Putin proposes buffer zone. Reports by Hnydyi, Hunder, Popeski. Editors: Lawson, Harvey.
Russia says it will target French troops if they are sent to Ukraine
Russia issued a stark warning to France, stating that if President Macron were to send troops to Ukraine, they would be considered legitimate targets by the Russian military. This comes after Macron's remarks in February, where he didn't rule out the deployment of ground troops in Ukraine. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova emphasized that any French presence in the conflict zone would make them targets. Russia's announcement of practicing the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons follows perceived threats from France, Britain, and the United States.
Grit, humor, grief and gloom mix as Ukrainians face a dangerous new phase in the war
Kyiv, Ukraine’s beautiful capital, is once again a bustling European city with modern conveniences from craft beer bars and hip coffee shops to ride-hailing apps and McDonald’s. Residents have adapted to war, and nowadays, few head for the shelter of the subway when air alarms sound.
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