As Ukraine moves closer to becoming a NATO member, tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate. Russia has launched massive naval exercises involving the majority of its fleet and personnel after being forced to withdraw resources from the Black Sea and Sea of Azov due to Ukrainian strikes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the frontline to honor special forces engaged in fighting with Putin’s forces.
Meanwhile, Germany has criticized Vladimir Putin for warning of a potential Cold War-style missile crisis in Europe, stating that they will not be intimidated. Italy also seized assets worth around 41 million euros from a Russian businessman under investigation in Ukraine for alleged corruption, fraud, and money laundering.
Australia’s foreign minister expressed concern over the recent defense deal between North Korea and Russia, calling it destabilizing and risky for the world. Poland and Hungary engaged in a diplomatic spat over Russia’s war with Ukraine, with Poland denying doing business with Russia unlike Hungary.
On the military front, the US announced a new security assistance package for Ukraine valued at up to $200 million, including air defenses and anti-tank weapons. However, it was reported that only six Ukrainian pilots are trained to fly the F-16 fighter jets set to be delivered next month, highlighting delays in the training program. Italy’s Prime Minister also expressed concerns about China’s economic support of Russia’s war efforts during her visit to Beijing.
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