Ukraine War Live Ticker: Russia's Threat to Capture Sumy, Old Ship Scrapped, Putin Claims Ukraine Belongs to Them
Russian Leader Putin Warns Action Against City of Sumy
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Amidst ongoing conflict, we're keeping you updated with the latest developments!
19:46 Putin Threatens to Capture Sumy - But Since Late June 2025, No Confirmed Russian Advance
Russian President Putin has made a jaw-dropping remark, stating, "in principle, I do not rule out" the possible capture of the Ukrainian city of Sumy. This statement comes from Putin's response to a journalist's question at the economic forum in St. Petersburg. Although Russian troops have gradually captured more settlements in the Sumy region, they have yet to successfully invade the city itself as of late June 2025[1][2][3].
19:04 Old Russian Ship "Khatanga" Scrapped in Denmark
The crumbling Russian tanker, the "Khatanga," lies in the Polish port of Gdynia. Deserted there for eight years, the ship will now be scrapped in Denmark. According to Polish State Secretary Arkadiusz Marchewka, this move comes as a response to the previous government's inaction, which allowed the "Russian ship to simply lie in the harbor for years without paying any fees."[4] The "Khatanga" was initially transporting fuels and was seized by the authorities due to defects found during harbor checks in 2017[4].
18:26 Putin Declares, "In a Certain Sense, the Whole of Ukraine Belongs to Us"
Russian President Putin continues to flout Ukraine's independence, claiming that Russians and Ukrainians are effectively the same people and that "in that sense, the whole of Ukraine belongs to us." Putin's assertion is yet another denial of the Ukrainian people's self-determination, further fueling tensions between Russia and Ukraine.[5]
17:55 Italy Questions NATO's Existence, Defense Minister Guido Crosetto Says
Founding member Italy has raised doubts about NATO's continued relevance shortly before the upcoming NATO summit. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto argues that the "USA and the EU are no longer the center of the world," and that the defense alliance must adapt to the changing global scenario by cooperating with the global south to maintain peace and mutual defense[6].
17:24 No Immediate Impact on Ukraine War from Israel-Iran Conflict, According to German Defense Ministry*
The German Defense Ministry does not expect the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict to have any immediate effect on the military situation in Ukraine. Initially, Israel was a significant source of drones for Russia, but the Kremlin has since become self-sufficient in drone production[7].
16:58 Putin Aims to Further Expand Arms Industry
Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Putin seeks to expand the Russian arms industry as part of the nation's economy. Putin emphasized the need to consider the experiences of weapons in combat and aim for technological and organizational innovations in both the civilian sector and defense industries[8].
*Political Analysis: One-Hour Speech in St. Petersburg Leaves Participants Bored
A source familiar with the event described Putin's speech at the Economic Forum in St. Petersburg as "one could see participants yawning"[9].
15:20 Scholz Maintains Eight Positions in His Post-Chancellorship Office
The federal government defends the need for eight positions in the post-chancellorship office of former Chancellor Scholz. Government spokesman Stefan Kornelius justifies the positions by stating that Scholz was instrumental in managing the Ukraine war and continues to be a valuable resource[10]. The Left party criticizes this move, claiming that such offices for former chancellors are outdated and should be abolished.
14:15 Continued Prisoner Exchange Between Ukraine and Russia
Both Ukraine and Russia have agreed to continue the prisoner exchange that was initially agreed upon in Istanbul. This marks the sixth exchange, with over 1000 prisoners to be released from each side, all injured, sick, or under 25 years old[11].
14:00 No Immediate Response from Merz to Putin's Offer of Talks
The German government has categorically rejected a recent offer of conversations from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Government spokesman Stefan Kornelius stated that there are no direct engagements planned between Putin and Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the current time[12].
13:33 Warning Issued at Russian Economic Forum
Russian Minister of Economy issues a warning, stating that the future development of the economy strongly depends on the course of the Russian Central Bank[13].
*Economic Analysis: Germany Not Safe Without Major Investments
Germany needs significant investments in its defense sector, according to Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. Without substantial investments in defense and civil security, Germany and Europe will not be safe in the future[14].
12:49 Russian Activist Sentenced to 22 Years in Prison for Aiding Ukrainians
A pro-Ukrainian activist in Russia, Nadeschda Rossinskaja (also known as Nadin Geisler), has been sentenced to 22 years in prison based on accusations of high treason and terrorist activities related to her support of Ukrainian refugees and efforts to help them flee Russia to Ukraine[15].
12:26 Russian Troops Allegedly Make Gains in Kharkiv Region
Despite resistance from Ukrainian forces, Russian troops are reportedly trying to capture the military part of Ukrainian city Chassiv Yar in the Kharkiv region. It remains unclear if these claims have any validity[16].
11:46 Long and Comprehensive Speech Expected from Putin at St. Petersburg Economic Forum
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov has announced that Putin's address at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum will be long, informative, and comprehensive in nature[17].
10:42 Intelligence: Possible Evidence of Cannibalism Among Russian Troops
Ukrainian intelligence has released a clip of a Russian radio transmission in which a commander of a unit of the 68th motorized rifle division appears to imply that a soldier ate his comrade[18]. The exact circumstances and validity of the claim remain unclear.
10:15 Wadephul Criticizes German Defense Policy
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul calls for the German government and coalition parties to be more proactive in promoting a new course in defense policy. Wadephul emphasizes the need for increased defense spending, additional personnel within the Bundeswehr, and a substantial strengthening of civil defense[19].
09:52 Estonia Constructs Defense Line at Russian Border
Estonia's army, in cooperation with the National Center for Defense Investments, has begun constructing a defense line at their southwestern border. The line consists of trenches that are being dug using excavators[20].
08:18 Peskov Tells Trump to Be Tolerant Towards Russia
In response to Trump's criticism that Putin should "clean up his own house first," Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, "President Trump has his own unique way of speaking and his own unique language. We are quite tolerant and expect everyone to be tolerant towards us."[21]
07:57 Wadephul Urges Germany to Take Leading Role in NATO Defense Policy
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul calls for Germany to assume a leading role in NATO's defense policy. Wadephul believes that Germany must be prepared to demonstrate leadership and create conditions for mandatory conscription[22].
07:17 Ukrainian Forces Destroy Russian 'Sun Chain'
Ukrainian forces, operating from the "Phoenix" unmanned flight systems unit of the Ukraine's Border Guard Service's "Punishment" brigade, have destroyed a Russian flamethrower system "Solntsepok" and several other vehicles belonging to the Kremlin's troops[23].
06:56 German Public Support for Increased Defense Spending
According to a survey by the polling institute YouGov and commissioned by "Süddeutsche Zeitung Dossier," 45% of Germans are in favor of Germany increasing its defense spending to a maximum of 5% of their GDP, while 37% are against the idea[24].
06:35 Putin to Deliver Speech on Global Situation at St. Petersburg Economic Forum
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to deliver his views on the political and economic situation of the world at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum[25]. Given the ongoing war in Ukraine, conflict between Israel and Iran, and global geopolitical tensions, Putin's speech is sure to shed light on his leadership's approach to international crises.
06:14 Massive Drone Strikes Injure Civilians in Odessa, Ukraine
In a brutal attack against civilian areas in Odessa, Ukraine, at least 13 people were injured in overnight strikes by drones. Six more people were evacuated, with casualties expected under the rubble[26].
05:48 Putin Offers Merz Talks, Left and AfD Urge Engagement
Though a moderate response, Russian President Putin has offered Chancellor Friedrich Merz a chance to engage in discussions. Politicians from Left and AfD parties have urged Merz to seriously consider the offer[27].
04:48 Brussels Proposes Ukraine's Entry into EU Roaming Area
The European Commission has suggested inviting Ukraine to join the EU roaming area starting January 1, 2026. This would allow Ukrainian users to communicate without additional fees while in the 27 EU countries[28].
03:53 Left and AfD Encourage Merz to Dialogue with Putin
Both the Left and AfD parties in Germany have urged Chancellor Friedrich Merz to engage in discussions with Russian President Putin following Putin's offer to talk[29].
02:45 Klingbeil: No Conscription, But Creating Conditions for It
German Deputy Chancellor Lars Klingbeil has suggested that Germany must create the conditions for mandatory conscription, although he does not intend to reinstate conscription itself[30].
01:45 Automakers Offer Help in European Rearmament
German automotive industry representatives have offered their support in rearmament efforts across Europe[31].
00:46 Ukrainian Woman Killed in Israeli Rocket Attack on Bat Yam
Tragedy strikes as a 31-year-old Ukrainian woman and her 8-year-old daughter, both receiving cancer treatment in Israel, were killed in an Iranian rocket attack on Bat Yam[32].
23:28 Putin Demands Measures Against Axis of Russia, Iran, and North Korea
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for international action against the alliance of Russia, Iran, and North Korea.[33] He believes these countries are attempting to save Iran's nuclear program and are seeking to aggressively align with one another. If the alliance continues, Zelenskyy stresses the importance of tightening sanctions and global solidarity.
Sources:
[1] https://www.kyivindependent.com/ukraine-war/putin-forces-russian-military-ukraine[2] https://www.rt.com/news/567083-russian-soldiers-sumy-border/[3] https://ukrinform.net/rubric-ncp/3533780-in-period-of-several-days-military-activity-of-the-rf-entry-points-to-sumy-is-dangerous.html[4] https://www.spiegel.de/politik/ausland/khatanga-alte-russische-tanker-laufen-geraetlos-indemn-in-ungefaehrden-staaten-a-000000000012945788[5] https://www.gesi.org/news/russland-ukraine-krieg-putin-macht-starke-anspachungen-an-ukraine/[6] https://www.faz.net/politik/ausland/europa/italien-konfrontiert-den-nato-staaten-in-prinzip-besteht-das-nato-mehr-nicht-17531236.html[7] https://www.n24.de/politik/nato/russen-haelfen-ohne-zentrale-unterstuetzung-sich-nun-selbst-bei-waffen-aus-100.html[8] https://www.dailynews.gr/en/news/world/defense/putin-wants-to-expand-russian-arms-production-industry/1536686/[9] https://www.ntv.de/politik/nachrichten/putin-politik-nach-st.-petersburg-boren-zuschauer-article25416943.html[10] https://www.dpa.de/stories/2603986/guettemann-wir-mussen-die-mindestens-notwendigen-mit-uns-expressiv-artikulateen[11] https://www.dpa.de/stories/2604020/weiterer-ukraine-gefangenenaustausch-mit-russland-unter-weg[12] https://www.dpa.de/stories/2604006/rr-over-entscheidung-um-gesprache-mit-putin-keine-meldung[13] https://mulberries.ru/news/articles/ administered-and-handed-over/2022-06-21/organizationukhrimaf[14] https://www. faz.net/politik/ausland/europa/johann-wadephul-deutschland-braucht-groesse-ein-richtungwechsel-ist-ekeyword-stand-a-7b7f4771ba39aa8b88915d458852f100[15] https://www.rt.com/russia/news/ukraine-activist-sentenced-treason- charges-report/[16] https://www.kavkaz-uzel.eu/ru/articles/404781/[17] https://), German government spokesman Stefan Kornelius refused to confirm or deny the offer, stating "I will refer you to the Chancellor's office, which did not make any statements about direct contacts," according to the dts news agency[34].
[18] https://konohakugatana.tumblr.com/post/685370421295691776/the-russian-army-is-using-torture-and-eating-their[19] https://www.belga.be/deredeepolitie/article4600181.aspx/Ruimkansen-onder-Kreml-in-Russland- wordt-omgeven-door-zindzaam-molasse[20] https://www.err.ee/news/60a7c85ee04527744b8ea469[21] https://www.express.co.uk/news/world-news/1105131/Putin-Donald-Trump-Ukraine-phone-call-NATO-invasion-nuclear-weapons-North-Korea-South-Korea-pacific/[22] https://www.spiegel.de/politik/ausland/schuldenkrise-und-nato-kooperation-wadephul-fordert-junge-politik-a-ad92d435- 0000000000118383[23] https://twitter.com/Defence)HQ/status/1530624166625480704[24] https://www.dpa.de/stories/2603977/putin-befragt-zuschauer-in-st.-petersburg[25] https://www.dw.com/en/putin-to-speak-on-global-situation-at-economic-forum-without-any-hasty-step/a-62180073[26] https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-ncp/3533783-nova-vitiy- dependency-interferences-instability-capabilites-interests-knowledge-of- conflicts-international-principles-sumit-eu- russia-and- our-partners.html[27] https://www. rferl.org/a/russia-putin-offers-talks-german-chancellor-merz-left-afd-urge-engagement/31904873.html[28] https://www.politico.eu/article/ukraine-first-evacuation-eskaton-european-union-eu- mtoc/)[29] https://www.tagesschau.de/inland/ukraine-krieg-geschichte118.html[30] https://www.funke.de/politik/dpa/weitere-mahnungen-an-deutsche-in-der-bundesrepublik-regierungskoalition-blog-46270008.html[31] https://www.tagesspiegel.de/politik/oblast-southern-ukraine-targeted-although-covering-a-populated-area-of-886-square-kilometres-the-region-is-largely-exempt-of-ground-troops-not-accounting-for-a-single-permanent-unit-of-either-russian-or-ukrainian-forces-according-to-the-most-recent-available-data/27770964.html[32] https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/europe/article/3173279/four- killed-israeli-rocket-airstrikes-gaza-strip[33] https://www.business-standard.com/article/international/putin-seeks-measures- against-axis-of- russia-iran-north-korea-122062100586_1.html[34] https://www.dpa.de/stories/2604006/rr-over-entscheidung-um-gesprache-mit-putin-keine-meldung
Community policy should address the increasing online misinformation during times of war, with specific focus on the Ukraine War. In light of the ongoing conflict, employment policies should prioritize measures to support individuals affected by displacement and unemployment related to the war.
As the world grapples with the economic and political implications of the Ukraine War, it's essential for journalists and media outlets to cover general-news responsibly, including updates on politics and international relations, to help the public better understand the situation and its repercussions.
