As Ukraine faces record-breaking Russian drone and missile assaults—over 5,300 Shahed drones launched in June alone—the US has paused deliveries of crucial military aid, including over two dozen Patriot and Stinger systems, Hellfire missiles, and precision-guided munitions, with the Pentagon citing concerns over dwindling stockpiles. President Trump has not approved new aid packages since taking office, and upcoming defense budgets signal a reduction in Ukraine support.
While Ukrainian and US officials continue “working-level” talks, Kyiv has requested urgent consultations, warning that any delay emboldens Russian aggression. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stressed that Ukraine “cannot do without full support,” while the Kremlin welcomed the decision as a sign the war’s end is nearing.
Ukrainian intelligence claims that North Korea is preparing to deploy up to 30,000 soldiers to Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories—nearly tripling its initial 2024 troop contribution. Satellite images and intercepted logistics hint at active troop transfers via Russian territory. Pyongyang is also reportedly sending engineers, sappers, and large quantities of artillery and missiles. These moves follow the 2024 Russia-North Korea defense treaty pledging mutual assistance in case of attack.
Ukrainian forces have rejected Russian claims of a breakthrough into central Ukraine, stating that a small reconnaissance group briefly entered the village of Dachne to take staged photos with a flag before being neutralized. Two Russian soldiers were captured during a follow-up assault and were added to Ukraine’s prisoner exchange pool. Ukrainian officials insist that Dachne remains fully under their control.
Ukraine struck deep into Russian territory with a drone attack on the Kupol military plant in Udmurt Republic, over 1,300 km from the front. The facility, key to Russia’s production of air defense systems and drones, suffered major damage, halting operations in four workshops. Three people were killed and dozens injured. Kyiv described the strike as part of its strategy to weaken Russia’s defense industry from within.
Ukrainian prosecutors have documented 273 summary executions of POWs by Russian forces—half of them in 2025 alone. Despite opening 77 criminal cases, only two convictions have been issued. Ukraine’s military intelligence and the UN have repeatedly warned that Russian soldiers may be under orders to kill surrendered troops. Investigations continue into the 2022 Olenivka prison massacre, which Kyiv and internal UN findings blame on Russia.
As Russia escalates its military campaign and deepens partnerships with authoritarian regimes, Ukraine is bracing for a long, uncertain summer—without key Western aid and under unrelenting assault.
Compiled by Ana Dumbadze
