#London said the 50 new curbs — part of “coordinated action with #G7 partners” as the Western-led bloc’s leaders meet in #Italy — will hit the Russian financial system and suppliers supporting its military production. #Russia #Ukraine

UK follows #US with sanctions on #MoscowStockExchange
https://business.inquirer.net/463672/uk-follows-us-with-sanctions-on-moscow-stock-exchange

UK follows US with sanctions on Moscow stock exchange

LONDON — The UK announced Thursday dozens of new sanctions aimed at constraining Russia's war in Ukraine, including targeting Moscow's main stock exchange, a day after Washington announced

INQUIRER.net

#Germans under 25 gave the #AfD 16% of their vote in the #EuropeanElections, with particular support in the east.

All the young Germans approached by the Guardian in #Brandenburg talked about their anxiety about the war in #Ukraine, with many criticising the governing parties for weapons shipments and expressing angst that they or their peers could one day be called on to fight. #Germany #EU

Crime is out of hand’: how young people turned to far right in east German city
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jun/14/young-germans-afd-european-elections

‘Crime is out of hand’: how young people turned to far right in east German city

Germans under 25 gave the AfD 16% of their vote in the European elections, with particular support in the east

The Guardian

But one who was briefed on the outreach said #Beijing has told #DevelopingNations the meeting would prolong the war, while two diplomats with direct knowledge of the matter said #China has been telling #WesternNations that many #DevelopingCountries are aligned with its views on the conference. #Russia

Exclusive: China pushes rival #Ukraine peace plan before Swiss summit, diplomats say
https://www.reuters.com/world/china-pushes-rival-ukraine-peace-plan-before-swiss-summit-diplomats-say-2024-06-13/

On Thursday, #Latvia announced the completion of a nearly 130-kilometer fence along its border with #Russia, covering 46 percent of the total border length.

The total length of the Latvian-Russian border is 283.6 kilometers. #Ukraine #BorderFence

Latvia Builds 130 Kilometers of Fence on Border with Russia
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/latvia-builds-130-kilometers-of-fence-on-border-with-russia/ar-BB1o9YKs?ocid=emmx-mmx-feeds&PC=EMMX01

MSN

“It’s rather remarkable that there’s 100 countries showing up to a #PeaceSummit at which the main instigator of that conflict is not participating,” said #MaxBergmann, a former US state department official.

#WorldLeaders to gather in Swiss resort in attempt to forge #Ukraine #PeacePlan
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jun/15/world-leaders-to-gather-in-swiss-resort-in-attempt-to-forge-ukraine-peace-plan

World leaders to gather in Swiss resort in attempt to forge Ukraine peace plan

More than 100 leaders at two-day conference to discuss Kyiv’s proposals to end war – but Russia and China absent

The Guardian

A Russian #SU24 aircraft violated Swedish airspace east of the Baltic island of #Gotland on Friday and was met by two Swedish #Gripen fighter jets, a spokesperson for #Sweden’s armed forces has said. Gotland is located fewer than 350 kilometres (217 miles) from the Russian exclave of #Kaliningrad. #Russia #Ukraine

Russian plane violated Swedish airspace on Friday, military says
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jun/15/russia-ukraine-war-peace-summit-switzerland-vladimir-putin-volodymyr-zelenskiy?page=with:block-666d56648f08cd19f68f7798#block-666d56648f08cd19f68f7798

Image source : https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sukhoi_Su-24

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin’s peace plan ‘not serious’, says Germany as leaders gather to discuss end to war

Ahead of the peace summit in Switzerland, German chancellor Olaf Scholz said Putin’s comments were intended as a distraction

the Guardian

#SvitlanaBilous crossed half of #Europe to highlight the plight of her missing husband and other prisoners held by #Russia during an international peace summit on the #Ukraine war.

She joined scores of other relatives of #UkrainianSoldiers during a demonstration on the sidelines of the summit to draw attention to the fate of troops who have disappeared on the battlefield.

Ukrainian families cross Europe to plead for prisoners held by Russia
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/ukrainian-families-cross-europe-to-plead-for-prisoners-held-by-russia/ar-BB1ohvUt?ocid=emmx-mmx-feeds&PC=EMMX01

MSN

“This Summit was built on the previous discussions that have taken place based on Ukraine’s Peace Formula and other peace proposals which are in line with international law, including the #UnitedNationsCharter."

The full text of the #Ukraine #PeaceSummit declaration draft is here:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jun/16/russia-ukraine-war-peace-summit-enters-second-day-as-west-looks-to-put-pressure-on-russia?page=with:block-666ea42b8f08cbec311d5518#block-666ea42b8f08cbec311d5518

Russia-Ukraine war: peace summit enters second day as west looks to put pressure on Russia

Western countries and powers gather in Switzerland to pursue consensus on condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

the Guardian

While key players including #India, #SaudiArabia, #SouthAfrica and the #UnitedArabEmirates opted out of signing the final communique from this weekend’s #Ukraine #PeaceSummit 80 of the 90 or so countries in attendance did sign up to the document.

Ukraine peace summit says 'dialogue between all parties' needed to end war
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jun/16/russia-ukraine-war-peace-summit-enters-second-day-as-west-looks-to-put-pressure-on-russia?page=with:block-666ed8e48f08cd19f68f8170#block-666ed8e48f08cd19f68f8170

Russia-Ukraine war: Saudi Arabia, India and South Africa among countries opting out of Ukraine declaration

Nations also including Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico and United Arab Emirates did not sign final communique at summit on peace, says Swiss government

the Guardian

The #ASEAN members #Singapore & the #Philippines signed btw. Not surprised Thailand didn't as #China has great influence there.

As to why Indonesia declined to sign, we'll probably get to know why in the next two weeks 🤷🏻‍♂️
---
#SaudiArabia, #India, #SouthAfrica, #Thailand, #Indonesia, #Mexico and the #UnitedArabEmirates were among countries participating at a summit on peace for #Ukraine that did not sign a final communique.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jun/16/russia-ukraine-war-peace-summit-enters-second-day-as-west-looks-to-put-pressure-on-russia?page=with:block-666ed7ea8f08cd19f68f8168#block-666ed7ea8f08cd19f68f8168

Russia-Ukraine war: Saudi Arabia, India and South Africa among countries opting out of Ukraine declaration

Nations also including Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico and United Arab Emirates did not sign final communique at summit on peace, says Swiss government

the Guardian
#Ukraine has said Russian forces were intensifying their attacks and trying to gain more territory before #Kyiv’s army received more military aid from abroad, including #F16 fighter jets.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jun/17/russia-ukraine-war-live-nato-nuclear-weapons-stoltenberg-putin-zelenskiy?page=with:block-667008d88f086491512e200f#block-667008d88f086491512e200f
Russia-Ukraine war live: Moscow trying to ‘maximise depletion of our troops’ before aid arrives, Ukraine army chief says

Ukraine says Russia is intensifying attacks and trying to gain more territory before military aid, including F-16 jets, arrive

the Guardian

The inclusion of a #MutualDefence clause in their comprehensive strategic partnership, which Kim described as an “alliance”, will add to the west’s alarm over growing economic and military ties between #NorthKorea and #Russia. #Ukraine

Russia and North Korea sign #MutualDefencePact
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jun/19/russia-and-north-korea-sign-mutual-defence-pact

Russia and North Korea sign mutual defence pact

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un’s agreement raises western alarm about possible Russian help for nuclear programme

The Guardian

#RussianOfficials say #Putin’s visit will focus on #economic, #education and #energy issues. Trade between the two countries stood at just $3.5bn in 2022 – a tiny fraction of #Vietnam’s $175bn trade with #China and $123bn with the #UnitedStates. But observers say that in private, #Ukraine and #DefenceCooperation are likely to be on the table.

Putin arrives in Vietnam for state visit condemned by US
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jun/20/vladimir-putin-vietnam-state-visit

Russia and Vietnam agree to strengthen ties during Putin state visit

Vietnam’s president says two countries want to ‘push up’ defence and security cooperation as US criticises meeting

The Guardian

Gen #ArnoudStallmann, a Dutch air force commander, said the training regimen for #pilots and #ground staff to operate the aircraft was not simple. “It’s not just the pilots who need training; #technicians and #maintainers also require thorough instruction..to ensure they can effectively maintain the aircraft. So everything has to come together."

‘It is all lining up’: Plan for #Ukraine to finally start using #F16 jets this summer
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jun/20/it-is-all-lining-up-plan-for-ukraine-to-finally-start-using-f-16-jets-this-summer

‘It is all lining up’: Plan for Ukraine to finally start using F-16 jets this summer

After delays in delivery and training pilots and ground staff, Netherlands says Ukraine should get first planes in summer

The Guardian

#SouthKorea’s presidential office said South Korea will reconsider its policy of limiting its support to support to #Ukraine to #NonLethal supplies.

South Korea says it will consider supplying #arms to Ukraine after #Russia-#NorthKorea deal
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jun/20/putin-vietnam-north-korea-russia-ukraine-war-live-updates?page=with:block-667409608f083e48d0c6541d#block-667409608f083e48d0c6541d

Putin in Vietnam live: Russian president on state visit to Hanoi after signing North Korea defence pact

Visit set to focus on economy and energy but observers say Ukraine and defence likely to be discussed in private

the Guardian
Putin in Vietnam live: Russian president on state visit to Hanoi after signing North Korea defence pact

Visit set to focus on economy and energy but observers say Ukraine and defence likely to be discussed in private

the Guardian

#Russia is using cheap, highly-explosive #GlideBombs to devastating effect in #Ukraine. WSJ explains how they work and why they are so hard to counter.

Russian Glide Bombs: Cheap, Deadly and Almost Unstoppable [VIDEO]
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/russian-glide-bombs-cheap-deadly-and-almost-unstoppable/vi-BB1oz35H?ocid=emmx-mmx-feeds&PC=EMMX01

MSN

He just guaranteed that South Korea will 🙄

I recommend their #FA50 light combat aircraft for starters. They'll complement the incoming #F16's very well 👍
---
His comments come after #SouthKorea says it will consider supplying arms to #Ukraine after #Russia and #NorthKorea signed a #MutualDefenceDeal.

Putin says Russia may send weapons to North Korea
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/6/20/putin-says-russia-may-send-weapons-to-north-korea

Putin says Russia may send weapons to North Korea

His comments come after South Korea says will consider supplying arms to Ukraine after Russia and North Korea sign deal.

Al Jazeera

The #Biden administration announced #sanctions against 12 executives and senior leaders of #KasperskyLab, a #Russia-based #cybersecurity company, on Friday.

The announcement comes on the heels of the #CommerceDepartment’s ban on the sale of Kaspersky’s #AntivirusSoftware in the #US, citing #NationalSecurity concerns. #Ukraine

US sanctions Kaspersky Lab executives, board members over ‘cooperation’ with Russia
https://www.theverge.com/2024/6/21/24183274/kaspersky-lab-sanctions-treasury-department-russia

US sanctions Kaspersky Lab executives over ‘cooperation’ with Russian intelligence

Kaspersky’s founder and CEO is not on the list of sanctioned individuals, nor is the company itself.

The Verge

Putin is further linking the war in #Ukraine and the tensions in the #SouthChinaSea - the last thing #China wants.
---
The trip was both defiant and disruptive. It showed that the jockeying for power sometimes framed as a new #ColdWar between the #UnitedStates and #China is less binary than it might seem, and many countries in the region seemed to emerge from the week with a deeper sense of unease.

#Putin came to #Asia to disrupt, and he succeeded
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/06/23/asia-pacific/putin-disrupt-asia/

Putin came to Asia to disrupt, and he succeeded

After stops in Pyongyang, North Korea, and Hanoi, Vietnam, last week that were draped in communist red, Putin left behind a redrawn map of risk in Asia.

The Japan Times

The #RussianFederation is starting to fray at the edges.
---
Gunmen opened fire at a #synagogue, an #OrthodoxChurch, and a #PolicePost in attacks across two cities in #Russia’s #NorthCaucasus region of #Dagestan on Sunday, June 23, killing an Orthodox priest and at least 15 police officers, the region’s head said. #Ukraine

Orthodox priest, at least 15 police killed in gunmen attack in Russia’s North Caucasus, officials say
https://www.rappler.com/world/europe/russia-north-caucasus-attack-june-23-2024/

Orthodox priest, at least 15 police killed in gunmen attack in Russia's North Caucasus, officials say

'This is a day of tragedy for Dagestan and the whole country," Sergei Melikov, governor of the Dagestan region, says

RAPPLER

The #T64 is a #ColdWar classic—a 42-ton, diesel-fueled tank with hundreds of millimeters of armor, three crew and an automatic loader for its 125-millimeter main gun.

When the #SovietArmy left #Ukraine starting in 1991, it left behind thousands of T-64s—as many as 3,000, by one estimate.

Ukraine Isn’t Anywhere Close To Running Out Of T-64 Tanks | David Axe
https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2024/06/23/ukraine-isnt-anywhere-close-to-running-out-of-t-64-tanks/

Ukraine Isn’t Anywhere Close To Running Out Of T-64 Tanks

Like Russia, Ukraine has enough old tanks for several more years of hard fighting.

Forbes

The #EuropeanUnion has developed a legal workaround to bypass #Hungary's #veto on the purchase of weapons for #Ukraine using profits obtained from frozen #RussianAssets this year, which could also clear the path for the #G7 to disburse US$50 billion to #Kyiv

#EU creates loophole to circumvent Hungary's veto on support for Ukraine – the FT
https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2024/06/24/7462232/

EU creates loophole to circumvent Hungary's veto on support for Ukraine – the FT

Ukrainska Pravda

#Russians have criticized #RussianAuthorities for not using #AirRaid sirens to warn #civilians of the danger.

Several Russian military bloggers have also criticized their authorities for failing to detect and destroy all the missiles before they approached #Sevastopol, and for failing to build shelters near the beach. #Crimea #Ukraine

Russians criticize Russian #DefenseMinistry for #AirDefense operations in Crimea - ISW
https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/russians-criticize-russian-defense-ministry-1719243097.html

Russians criticize Russian Defense Ministry for air defense operations in Crimea - ISW

Russian military bloggers widely criticize the Russian Ministry of Defense and the Russian occupation authorities in Crimea for failing to prevent the June 23 attack on Sevastopol and properly protect civilians, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

RBC-Ukraine

Western supplies of #ArtilleryShells, slowed by months of political wrangling in #Washington before finally being released, have started to reach #UkrainianUnits on the front lines, relieving pressure on forces outnumbered by the #Russians.

Western arms reach #Ukraine front lines, relieving some pressure
https://www.rappler.com/world/europe/western-arms-reach-ukraine-front-lines-relieving-some-pressure/

Western arms reach Ukraine front lines, relieving some pressure

'There was 'shell hunger'. Ammunition was rationed quite severely. It had an impact on infantry. They (the Russians) crept from all sides, it hurt the infantry men,' says a Ukrainian unit commander

RAPPLER

The #InternationalCriminalCourt issued arrest warrants Tuesday for #Russia’s former defense minister and its military chief of staff for attacking civilian targets in #Ukraine. #TheHague #WarCrimes

#ICC issues arrest warrants for Russian officials over attacks on civilian targets
https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20240625-icc-issues-arrest-warrants-for-russian-officials-over-attacks-on-civilian-targets

#NATO tapped outgoing Dutch Prime Minister #MarkRutte Wednesday to become the bloc’s next #SecretaryGeneral who will replace #Norway’s #JensStoltenberg from October 1. Stoltenberg led NATO for more than a decade during which his mandate was extended due to the war in #Ukraine. #Russia

NATO appoints Dutch PM Rutte as next secretary general
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20240626-%F0%9F%94%B4-nato-appoints-dutch-pm-rutte-as-next-secretary-general

NATO appoints Dutch PM Rutte as next secretary general

NATO tapped outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte Wednesday to become the bloc’s next secretary-general who will replace Norway’s Jens Stoltenberg from October 1. Stoltenberg led NATO for more than a decade during which his mandate was extended due to the war in Ukraine.

FRANCE 24

It's a strategy meant to incite support for a key #TransitDeal between #Russia and #TheWest, the think tank explained. In under six months, the contract on a major pipeline will expire, ending a historic trade corridor that runs through #Ukraine — it's in #Kyiv's hands to renew it.

Russia is flooding #Europe with #DiscountedGas to win back Western buyers
https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/commodities/russia-gas-supply-discount-prices-europe-energy-crisis-ukraine-war-2024-6

Europe still seeing Russian gas discounts as Kremlin shores up buyers

Gas markdowns of at least 10% are being seen in Central and Eastern Europe, the Center for European Policy Analysis said. 

Markets Insider

#JonahLeff, executive director of #ConflictArmamentResearch, gave the council a detailed analysis of the remnants of the missile that struck #Ukraine’s second-largest city, #Kharkiv, on Jan. 2. It determined the missile was either a #KN23 or #KN24 manufactured in 2023 in the #Dprk. #NorthKorea

Research expert tells UN it has ‘irrefutably’ established missile debris in Ukraine is North Korean
https://apnews.com/article/united-nations-north-korea-russia-ukraine-weapons-f4b9342c31b345641e058f38485478e7

Research expert tells UN it has 'irrefutably' established missile debris in Ukraine is North Korean

A research expert has told the United Nations Security Council that ballistic missile remnants found in Ukraine came from North Korea. Jonah Leff is executive director of Conflict Armament Research, an organization that has been tracing weapons used in attacks in Ukraine since 2018. Leff gave the council a detailed analysis of the remnants of the missile that struck Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, on Jan. 2. The United States and its Western allies clashed with Russia and North Korea at Friday's Security Council meeting. They said North Korea and Russia had violated a U.N. embargo on arms exports from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, the country’s official name. Russia dismissed the “baseless accusations,” and the DPRK dismissed the meeting.

AP News
France election live: first-round results give far-right alliance 33% of vote, as PM warns Le Pen at ‘gates of power’

Gabriel Attal urges tactical voting in second round to keep party from forming country’s first far-right government

the Guardian

The first of the #US-made #FighterJets are due to arrive this summer, at a time when they could be particularly impactful in the fight against #Russia, experts told Business Insider.

That's because #Ukraine now has permission to use weaponry given by its allies to hit targets on Russian soil.

Changed rules for Ukraine mean its F-16s will arrive when they can make a far bigger impact, experts say
https://www.businessinsider.com/new-rules-mean-ukraine-f-16s-more-impactful-russia-experts-2024-7

Ability to strike Russia means Ukraine F-16s will be more impactful: experts

Ukraine's F-16s are set to arrive when it's allowed to use allied weapons to hit targets in Russia — making the jets far more effective, experts say.

Insider

The necessary permits to deliver the jets to #Ukraine have been granted, Defence Minister #KajsaOllongren said in a letter to parliament ahead of a #GovernmentTransition on July 2.

The #Netherlands has been one of the driving forces behind an international coalition to supply Ukraine with #F16s to strengthen its air defences against #Russia. #F16

Netherlands to start F-16 deliveries to Ukraine soon, government says
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/netherlands-to-start-f-16-deliveries-to-ukraine-soon-government-says

Netherlands to start F-16 deliveries to Ukraine soon, government says

The Hague has been keen to help Ukraine strengthen its air defences against Russia. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Straits Times

#STAROKOSTIANTYNIV, #Ukraine, July 2 (Reuters)

Explosions reverberated across the pre-dawn sky as Ukrainian air defences fended off a #RussianAttack on this small city in #WesternUkraine, home to an important #AirBase and a frequent target of #Moscow's strikes.

Ukrainian air base under frequent fire as #Russia aims at #F16 arrivals
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukrainian-air-base-under-fire-russia-aims-f-16-arrivals-2024-07-02/

#Russia's #Ukraine invasion has eaten up the #Kremlin's resources, money, and energy, while countries trading with Russia run the risk of incurring #WesternSanctions.

Meanwhile, #Beijing has been quietly seizing advantage, brokering #TradeDeals, and building political influence in the region. #CentralAsia #Kazakhstan #SCO #XiJinPing

Russia's frenemy #China is quietly trying to dampen #Putin's influence
https://www.businessinsider.com/xi-china-putin-russia-frenemies-limits-power-sphere-influence-2024-7?op=1

Russia's frenemy China is quietly trying to dampen Putin's influence

China has massively boosted its economic and political influence in Central Asia while Russia's been distracted in Ukraine.

Insider

#Russia has had strong ties with #India since the #ColdWar, and #Delhi’s importance as a key trading partner for #Moscow has grown since #Russia invaded #Ukraine in February 2022.

The partnership between Moscow and Delhi has become fraught, however, since Russia started developing closer ties with India’s main rival, #China, because of the hostilities in Ukraine.

#India PM #Modi to meet Putin in first trip to Russia since Ukraine war began
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/05/india-pm-narendra-modi-vladimir-putin-russia-meeting

India PM Modi to meet Putin in first trip to Russia since Ukraine war began

Trip scheduled for Monday, with Delhi a key trading partner for Putin since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine

The Guardian

#Zelenskiy said he had wished the new PM success in fulfilling the expectations of the #BritishPeople. Zelenskiy also thanked the outgoing Conservative PM, #RishiSunak, for his steadfast support.

He also said that he and #Starmer had “coordinated our positions” ahead of next week’s #Nato summit at which #Ukraine hopes to hear of possible steps to membership. #UK

Ukraine war briefing: Starmer assures Zelenskiy of ‘unwavering’ support
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/06/ukraine-war-briefing-starmer-assures-zelenskiy-of-unwavering-support

Ukraine war briefing: More Russian oil depots burn in drone attacks

New UK PM Starmer promises Zelenskiy ‘unwavering’ support; EU leadership condemns Orbán’s visit to Moscow. What we know on day 864

The Guardian

"I’m not exaggerating by saying the very foundation of our Republic is on very shaky ground. The #FarRight is not a normal party. When you give power to the far right, you never know when they will give it back." - Rim-Sarah Alouane, researcher in comparative law at the #UniversityToulouseCapitole. #France #FranceElections2024 #EU #Ukraine

#France braces for ‘high drama’ run-offs as #LePen’s far right eyes power
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/7/6/france-braces-for-high-drama-run-offs-as-le-pens-far-right-eyes-power

France braces for ‘high drama’ run-offs as Le Pen’s far right eyes power

With the far right seemingly headed for victory, voters on the left and in the centre feel on edge.

Al Jazeera

Mr #RaphaelGlucksmann, a member of the #EuropeanParliament who led #France’s leftist ticket in last month’s European vote, said he viewed the run-off as a simple referendum on whether “the #LePen family takes over this country”. #FranceElections2024 #Ukraine

#FarRight bids for power as #France holds parliamentary election
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/far-right-bids-for-power-as-france-holds-parliamentary-election

Far right bids for power as France holds parliamentary election

Polls forecast the National Rally will win the most votes but likely fall short of a majority. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Straits Times
On Thursday, 30,000 extra police were deployed across the country in anticipation of civil disorder in the wake of the elections. There has also been much talk in the media of what comes after the election. The consensus seems to be chaos. #FranceElections2024 #Ukraine #EU

#France no longer resembles a divided but tolerant family. It is catastrophically fractured
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/jul/07/france-elections-far-right
France no longer resembles a divided but tolerant family. It is catastrophically fractured

As voters decide in the second round of elections today, the far right’s shock success last week has left many asking what the future holds for the republic

The Guardian

No one around the new #UK #PrimeMinister would claim his victory on Thursday came as a surprise. But the fact that he’s going to show up at the annual summit of the #NATO just days later as the strongest leader in the room owes partly to the pace of events beyond his control. #Biden #US #Macron #France #Scholz #Germany #Ukraine

Untested #Starmer is suddenly #TheWest’s last man standing tall
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/07/07/world/politics/untested-starmer-west-last-man/

Untested Starmer is suddenly the West’s last man standing tall

Keir Starmer — who’s spent the last six weeks campaigning under the one-word banner of ‘change’ — is about to discover how in politics, it can come at you fast.

The Japan Times
I guess this answers the question of how assertive the new #Labour government will be on the international front.
---
The new #UK foreign secretary, #DavidLammy, sent out a warning to #China not to become embroiled in #Russia’s attempt to undermine #Ukraine
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2024/jul/07/keir-starmer-labour-uk-general-election-scotland-wales-northern-ireland-visit-latest-news?page=with:block-668a96178f08b8c654ee72f9#block-668a96178f08b8c654ee72f9
Starmer promises ‘immediate reset’ of relations with devolved governments as he starts four-nations tour – UK politics live

Prime minister says he wants to establish new way of working that is ‘different and better’ than under previous governments

the Guardian

Turnout at 5pm was sharply higher than for the 2022 elections at nearly 58%, according to the interior ministry, and – very unusually – also slightly up on the first round vote last Sunday, suggesting the final figure could be the highest for 50 years. #FranceElections2024 #EU #Ukraine

#France on course for highest turnout in decades at pivotal election
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/07/french-election-national-rally-marine-le-pen

France on course for highest turnout in decades at pivotal election

Far-right National Rally of Marine Le Pen poised to become dominant force in country’s national assembly

The Guardian
Keir Starmer says Palestinian state is an ‘undeniable right’ as part of Gaza peace process – UK politics live

Labour’s election manifesto committed party to recognising Palestinian state as part of a process that results in a two-state solution with Israel

the Guardian

And #Macron's party is in 2nd place. Guess who's 3rd 😁
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Here is the first projected #SeatDistribution, from #Ipsos. It shows the #Left in the lead, in a major shift compared to opinion polls during the campaign. #FranceElections2024 #EU #Ukraine

The polls are closed in #France and the first projections have been published.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jul/07/french-election-2024-results-latest-france-news-marine-le-pen-national-rally-emmanuel-macron?page=with:block-668ac2c68f08a83a9aece57b#block-668ac2c68f08a83a9aece57b

French election 2024 live: exit poll shows shock win for left-green alliance as far right falls to third

New Popular Front predicted to get 172-192 seats, with Marine Le Pen’s far-right RN and allies down in third

the Guardian

And now the final results have arrived with the #LeftWing #NFP alliance on 182, #Macron’s centrists on 163 and the #FarRight #RN and its allies on 143:

The results mean no bloc has an outright majority in parliament – 289 out of the 577 seats are needed for that – meaning there are tumultuous days ahead for #France. #FranceElections2024 #EU #Ukraine

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jul/07/french-election-2024-results-latest-france-news-marine-le-pen-national-rally-emmanuel-macron?page=with:block-668b2a368f08115751de57ff#block-668b2a368f08115751de57ff

French election 2024 live: PM Gabriel Attal to offer resignation after left-wing coalition wins most seats

Finals results give New Popular Front 182 seats, while Marine Le Pen’s far-right RN and allies sink to third place

the Guardian

Officials who normally focused on #SecurityPolicy said they would pay close attention to #Biden’s behaviour during his public appearances at the #Nato summit, including a speech in the #MellonAuditorium on Tuesday and then meetings with the other member and partner countries on Wednesday. #Ukraine #Russia

Biden’s health and threat of a second #Trump term loom over #NATOSummit
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/08/nato-summit-biden-trump

Biden’s health and threat of a second Trump term loom over Nato summit

European leaders turn eyes to president as they meet next week and as concerns build for US, their ‘unpredictable ally’

The Guardian

#MartinSebena, a lecturer at the University Hong Kong who specialises in #China-#Europe relations, said the timing and location of the drills mean they are likely to be seen as further signaling of #ChineseSupport for #Russia and its allies in #Europe.

#Ukraine war: Why China is conducting military exercises in #Belarus
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/china-belarus-military-exercises-ukraine-war-b2575798.html

Ukraine war: Why China is conducting military exercises in Belarus

Belarus has played a vital role in Russia’s war against Ukraine

The Independent

I believe in bad karma and that pretty terrible things happen to people (or countries) who accumulate a lot of it .

Russia is long overdue.
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#JoeBiden has called one of the heaviest Russian airstrikes on #Ukraine since the war began “a horrific reminder of #Russia’s brutality”, amid widespread international revulsion at Monday’s attacks.

Biden decries Russian ‘brutality’ over deadly Ukraine strikes as #Nato leaders gather
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/09/biden-russia-strikes-ukraine-kyiv-nato-leaders

Biden decries Russian ‘brutality’ over deadly Ukraine strikes as Nato leaders gather

US president pledges to boost air defences on eve of Nato summit, at which Volodymyr Zelenskiy will request more military aid

The Guardian
Russia-Ukraine war live: Kyiv children’s hospital likely took direct hit from Russian missile, UN says

UN analysis of video footage of scene of deadly strike on Ohmatdyt children’s hospital suggests ‘high likelihood’ it took direct hit from Russian missile

the Guardian

Just a few hours before #Modi touched down in #Moscow, Russian air missiles struck #Ukraine’s largest #ChildrensHospital, among other #CivilianTargets, killing dozens and prompting global condemnation. #India

Modi and #Putin cement ‘bonds of friendship’ despite Ukraine tensions
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/09/modi-putin-summit-bonds-of-friendship-ukraine-tensions

Modi and Putin cement ‘bonds of friendship’ despite Ukraine tensions

Indian prime minister travelled to Moscow for two-day summit and ‘chit-chat’ amid diplomatic complexities

The Guardian

#RussianCompanies are increasingly unable to make payments for goods slated to be imported from #China by #rail as #ChineseLenders take extra precautions to avoid running afoul of #sanctions over #Moscow's war against #Ukraine.

China Stops Paying Russia for Cargo #TrainShipments
https://www.newsweek.com/china-stops-paying-russia-cargo-train-shipments-1922673

China Stops Paying Russia for Cargo Train Shipments

Chinese banks have ramped up scrutiny of Russia-bound goods to avoid falling afoul of sanctions.

Newsweek

A court in #Moscow has issued an arrest warrant for the widow of #RussianOpposition leader #AlexeiNavalny on charges of #extremism, according to state media.

The charges brought against #YuliaNavalnaya, who lives outside #Russia, in absentia are to do with her alleged "participation in an extremist society", Tass news agency said. #Ukraine

#RussianCourt orders arrest of Yulia Navalnaya
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg3mjzyp40go?utm_source=press.coop

Russian court orders arrest of Yulia Navalnaya

A Moscow court issues an arrest warrant in absentia for the widow of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Mr #Zelenskiy is due to meet Mr #Biden at the #WhiteHouse on July 11 and is scheduled to deliver an address on the evening of July 10.

After rebuffing calls from some fellow #Democrats for Mr Biden to step down, the White House hopes to turn the focus back to his ability to govern normally.

#Nato boosts #Ukraine’s air defences as Biden makes forceful speech amid cloud over his future
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/ukraine-will-stop-putin-biden-tells-nato-in-forceful-speech

Nato boosts Ukraine’s air defences as Biden makes forceful speech amid cloud over his future

The embattled president was closely watched by allies at home and abroad for proof he can still lead. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Straits Times

Delegations from across #Europe were quietly slotting in meetings with advisers and others with links to #DonaldTrump as they grapple with the possibility — some say likelihood — that he will reclaim the #OvalOffice.

They were hoping to get a clearer sense of just what a #TrumpVictory might mean for an alliance he regularly targets for criticism. #Ukraine

#NATO Allies Gloomy on #Biden’s Prospects Seek Out #Trump Circle
https://www.yahoo.com/news/nato-allies-gloomy-biden-prospects-190410054.html

NATO Allies Gloomy on Biden’s Prospects Seek Out Trump Circle

(Bloomberg) -- Joe Biden managed to reassure NATO leaders about his fitness for office with a strong speech at the opening of the alliance’s 75th anniversary...

Yahoo News

All member states of the #UN were required to repatriate any #NorthKoreans earning income in their jurisdiction by the end of 2019 under #UNSC #Resolution2397, adopted in 2017.

Experts said #China may be trying to increase its leverage on #NorthKorea at a time when #Pyongyang has been bolstering military and other cooperation with #Russia. #Ukraine

China believed to demand N. Korea bring back all of its workers: source
https://m.koreatimes.co.kr/pages/article.asp?newsIdx=378328

China believed to demand N. Korea bring back all of its workers: source

The Chinese government is believed to have demanded North Korea bring back all of its workers in China, a source said Tuesday, a move that would squeeze Pyongyang's hard currency earnings.

The Korea Times

The #ChineseMilitary exercises coincide with a #NATO summit in #Washington where a draft communique says #China has become a decisive enabler of #Russia's war effort in #Ukraine and #Beijing continues to pose systemic challenges to #Europe and to #security.

#Taiwan monitors Chinese military surge, calls China a threat to stability
https://www.rappler.com/world/asia-pacific/taiwan-monitors-surge-chinese-military-activity-pacific-exercises/

Taiwan monitors Chinese military surge, calls China a threat to stability

(1st UPDATE) The Chinese military exercises coincide with a NATO summit in Washington where a draft communique says China has become a decisive enabler of Russia's war effort in Ukraine and Beijing continues to pose systemic challenges to Europe and to security

RAPPLER

#NATO hyping up #China’s responsibility on the #Ukraine issue is unreasonable and has sinister motives,” spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily briefing.

China has also expressed concern about Nato’s budding relationships with countries in the region. #Australia, #NewZealand, #Japan and #SouthKorea sent their leaders or deputies to the Nato summit this week.

China tells Nato not to create chaos in #Asia and rejects label of 'enabler' of #Russia's #UkraineWar
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jul/11/nato-summit-live-china-accuses-alliance-of-seeking-security-at-expense-of-others-after-ukraine-row?page=with:block-668fa8548f082cd445a10795#block-668fa8548f082cd445a10795

Nato summit live: China accuses alliance of seeking security at expense of others after Ukraine row

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson responds after Nato labels China ‘decisive enabler’ of Russia’s war against Ukraine

the Guardian

#Ukraine’s top presidential aide on Thursday called for an end to restrictions imposed on the use of allied-supplied weapons against targets deep inside #Russia, saying it would be a “gamechanger” in fighting #Moscow’s occupation, reports Reuters.

Ukraine official calls for end to limits on use of allied-supplied arms
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jul/11/nato-summit-live-china-accuses-alliance-of-seeking-security-at-expense-of-others-after-ukraine-row?page=with:block-668ff14f8f08cae75f96cc84#block-668ff14f8f08cae75f96cc84

Nato summit live: let us use weapons anywhere in Russia, Ukrainian official tells allies

Andriy Yermak, country’s top presidential aide, says ‘the enemy can attack our hospitals, schools and we have these restrictions’

the Guardian

#Ukraine probably has enough pilots but not tech & support personnel for both
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The decision was influenced by the availability of #F16 fighters, which are more commonly used by #NATO countries. #Kyiv decided that managing two different #AircraftSystems would be overly complex.

#Kyiv Declines #Gripen Warplane Offer From #Sweden – At Least For Now
https://www.kyivpost.com/post/35650

Kyiv Declines Gripen Warplane Offer From Sweden – At Least For Now

Kyiv decided that adopting and integrating two different Western airframes simultaneously would be too difficult for Ukraine to handle, but Sweden left open future options to get the nimble fighter.

Kyiv Post

Use of the weapons is currently limited to strikes on #RussianForces and positions that are launching attacks on #Ukraine, but Ukrainian officials have repeatedly called for all limitations to be lifted. #Russia

Allowing Ukraine to attack Russian territory would be 'dangerous escalation', says Kremlin
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jul/12/russia-ukraine-war-live-ukraine-downs-five-missiles-and-11-drones-overnight?page=with:block-66910ba98f08c5bdd9f24dca#block-66910ba98f08c5bdd9f24dca

Russia-Ukraine war live: allowing Kyiv to attack anywhere in Russia would be ‘dangerous escalation,’ says Kremlin

Ukraine has been pushing its western allies to allow use of their weapons further into Russia

the Guardian

The #UnitedStates and #Germany announced at a #NATO summit in #Washington on Wednesday that they would begin deploying long-range fire capabilities in Germany in 2026 to demonstrate their commitment to NATO and European defence at a time when #Russia is waging war in #Ukraine.

Russia to counter 'threatening' US deployment of long-range missiles in Germany
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-says-it-will-work-military-response-us-long-range-missiles-germany-2024-07-11/

@Norobiik Blah, blah, blah and more of it from Biden, but no change to the 100km policy. He MUST take all limits off the use of any weapons used by Ukraine.

@Norobiik When it comes to messing with other countries, there is definitely national karma. The USA has a lot saved up too.

Germany sent Lenin back to Russia to wreck the place. Got defeated by the state Lenin built.

France funded the American Revolution to spite the British. Went broke and got their heads cut off.

America did CIA coups all over the place, often winding up with anti-American terrorist states developing.

"Enemy of my enemy is my friend" always comes back to bite you.