Russia's President, Putin, has stated, in essence, that Ukraine as a whole rightfully belongs to Russia.
Headline: War Tick-Tock: Putin Claims Entire Ukraine as Russian Territory; Calls Zelensky Illegitimate
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link On this dramatic day at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum, Russian President Putin made his territorial desires clear, declaring that "matter of factly, all of Ukraine belongs to us." The controversial assertion adds fuel to the ongoing conflict and reveals Putin's hardline stance regarding Ukraine's independence. Moreover, Putin refuses to recognize Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a legitimate authority, dealing a heavy blow to hopes for peace and political compromise. As the war continues to unfold, both nations struggle to find a path toward resolution, sowing further chaos in the region.
18:26 Putin on the Offensive: From "One People" to Entire Ukraine In an audacious move at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum, Putin reaffirmed Russia's claim over Ukraine by stating that "in a certain sense, all of Ukraine is ours." This bold statement echoes the Kremlin's longstanding narrative, arguing that Russians and Ukrainians share a common bond. The assertion revitalizes the dangerous notion that Russian interests in Ukraine are not confined to Crimea but expand across the entirety of the country[5].
Russia formally acknowledges Ukraine's right to sovereignty, albeit halfheartedly. However, Putin maintains that Ukraine "declared independence as a neutral state" which undermines the core principles of modern nation-states and international relations[1].
As the war continues to rage, Putin has shown no signs of quelling his aggression, much to the dismay of Kiev and the international community.
17:55 Italy's Defense Minister Casts Doubt on NATO's Survival Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto questioned NATO's relevance, proposing adaptation to address the changing world order. With his right-wing party Fratelli d'Italia sharing similar views, it raises concerns about the alliance's unity and credibility as it faces an unwelcoming geopolitical landscape[3].
17:24 German Military: No Advantage for Russia in Ukraine War Major General Christian Freuding, head of the Ukraine desk at the Defense Ministry, announced bloodshed won't lead to immediate consequences for Russia. Despite Iranian drone support, Russia now produces its own Shahed drones, becoming independent in this aspect[2].
16:58 Putin: Taking Defense Industry "Beyond Combat" Propelled by the war in Ukraine, Putin aims to expand Russia's arms industry as a linchpin of the domestic economy. By ensuring weapon technology transfers and collaborations with friendly nations, Putin seeks to modernize Russia's defensive and offensive capabilities, ensuring a substantial military edge[1].
16:22 Munz: Putin's Speech Lacks Substance Pundit Rainer Munz observed that the St. Petersburg meeting was full of grandiose declarations but lacked meaningful discussion of the economic challenges facing Russia, including the recession[4].
15:55 Europe's Military Efforts Fall Short Despite Increased Spending Despite augmented defense budgets, European militaries are still plagued with significant deficiencies. Researchers from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy and Bruegal focused on artillery, tank, and fighter jet production, identifying vital gaps that hinder the path toward increased military preparedness[3].
15:20 Government Leaves Olaf Scholz with Eight Offices The government justifies maintaining eight offices for former Chancellor Olaf Scholz, citing the Ukrainian conflict as a key work theme during his tenure[1]. The Left Party contends that such offices are outdated and advocates for their dissolution.
14:51 Putin Hopes for Speedy Meeting with US Kremlin Spokesman Dmitri Peskov expressed optimism about agreeing on a date for a meeting to address irritants in US-Russia relations soon[1]. In recent months, tensions have escalated between the two superpowers over a range of issues, including Ukraine and southeastern Europe.
14:15 Prisoner-of-War Exchange Continues A sixth exchange of prisoners of war took place at the Ukrainian-Belarusian border. Although no exact numbers were provided, Ukraine and Russia continue their commitment to exchanging prisoners, as agreed upon in their negotiations in Istanbul in June[1].
14:00 Merz Undeterred by Putin's Offer of Conversation The German federal government has declined Putin's latest peace overture. The government spokesman emphasized a lack of direct communication with Putin, stating that they regularly communicate their desires for an end to the war through political channels[1].
13:33 Russian Minister Issues Cautionary Warning About St. Petersburg Economic Forum Traditionally, the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum serves as a platform for optimistic statements from Russian officials; however, this year's event breaks with tradition as the Russian Minister of Economy delivers a warning[2].
Economy New Tone from St. Petersburg: Russian Minister Issues Warning In a departure from years of good news from Russian officials, the Minister of Economy at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum sets a cautious tone, emphasizing the nation's economic survival depends on the Central Bank's choices[2].
12:49 Russian Woman Convicted of High Treason and Terrorist Activities - Jailed for 22 Years A pro-Ukrainian activist was sentenced to 22 years in prison in Russia, following accusations of calling for donations for humanitarian aid to Ukraine and helping Ukrainians flee conflict zones[1]. Officials claim the woman, known as Nadin Geisler, is guilty of high treason and terrorist activities based on a social media post.
12:26 Russian Advance in Kharkiv Region According to military expert Andrei Marochko, Russian troops have captured the town of Myrne in the Kharkiv region and are driving Ukrainian forces from urban areas along Pushkin Street[2]. Despite staunch resistance from the Ukrainian military, the Kremlin appears to maintain a strategic advantage.
Politics New Tone from St. Petersburg: Russian Minister Issues Warning Economy Escalating Threats: Russia is "Existential Risk" for Germany The German military essay outlines the Russian armed forces as an "existential threat" to Germany and Europe and forecasts military action by Russia against NATO within the next decade[4].
Kremlin Attacks Ukrainian Drone Production Facility The Russian military targeted a Ukrainian drone production facility in Sofijiwka near Saporischschja with a Geran-2 aircraft, according to the Kremlin[2].
10:42 Intelligence: Russian Soldier Reportedly Ate Comrade The Ukrainian military intelligence service shares recorded radio communications purporting to show a Russian soldier confessing to eating his comrade, who initially went missing[2]. The footage captures the commander of a unit of the separate reconnaissance battalion stating that his soldier "ate his partner, that's all"[2].
10:15 Wadephul Urges firm Response to Putin's War* Deputy Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul calls on the federal government and the ruling coalition to be more vocal about the new course in German defense policies, emphasizing the urgent need for increased military spending and civil defense in light of ongoing threats from Russia[4].
09:52 Estonia Prepares for Russian Attacks - Trenches and Bunkers Built at the Border The Estonian military is constructing trenches and bunkers along the southern border with Russia, likely in anticipation of a potential invasion by Russian forces[2].
09:27 Kremlin Attacks Ukrainian City of Kherson The Kremlin has targeted the Ukrainian city of Kherson with missile and drone strikes. This latest aggression follows a pattern of Russian attacks on civilian areas in Afghanistan and highlight the Kremlin's disregard for the lives and wellbeing of innocent people[1].
08:40 Moscow on Alert - Two Drone Attacks Foiled The Russian capital city was alerted to a possible drone attack after air defense forces intercepted two drones heading towards Moscow, according to Mayor Sergei Sobyanin[1].
08:18 Peskov: "We Consider Everyone Should be Tolerant"* Dmitri Peskov, Putin's spokesperson, responds to Donald Trump's criticism, asserting that the Kremlin expects the international community to show tolerance and understanding in return 07:57 Wadephul Demands German Leadership Role in NATO* As NATO prepares for a summit in The Hague, German Deputy Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul calls for a significant increase in German defense spending to up to 5 percent of GDP and stronger European defense capabilities to solidify NATO's position[4].
07:17 Ukrainian Army Wipes out Key Russian Weapons Supplies* Ukrainian forces successfully destroyed a significant portion of the Russian military's Sun Chain (Solntsepok) flamethrower system and its supporting vehicles, scoring a valuable victory in the ongoing conflict[1].
06:56 Germans Split on Five-Percent Defense Target A recent survey by YouGov indicates that more Germans support a 5 percent defense spending target than oppose it, with the Union, SPD, and Greens party members providing the most backing for the measure[4]. While the proposed target is expected to shape the NATO summit agenda, skepticism remains within the German public and political sphere regarding increased military spending.
06:35 Putin Set to Address St. Petersburg Forum - Focus on Ukraine and Middle East Conflicts Russian President Putin is set to address the St. Petersburg Economic Forum today, with discussions expected to revolve around the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, international politics, and economic development. The future of Russia's relationships with Ukraine and other nations hangs in the balance as Putin speaks[1].
06:14 Casualties Escalate: Massive Drone Strikes in Odessa A series of drone strikes on Odessa, Ukraine, leaves 20 people killed and 70 injured in the fiery aftermath[1]. With the war's toll on civilians mounting, international condemnation remains strong, and efforts to bring about peace continue.
05:43 Zelenskyy Responds to Putin's Insults Amid renewed Russian aggression and insults from Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy persists in seeking compromise through negotiations. Though Putin has questioned Zelenskyy's legitimacy, the Ukrainian leader remains committed to diplomacy[1]. Zelenskyy has plans to meet with Putin, provided that Putin agrees to recognition of existing Ukrainian authorities.
04:48 Ukraine's Invitation to EU Roaming Area* Ukraine is on track to join the European Union's mobile roaming area, offering Ukrainian citizens the freedom to call, text, and use data in EU countries without extra charges[1].
03:53 Left and AfD Push for Dialogue with Putin* Left and AfD party leaders urge Chancellor Friedrich Merz to pursue dialogue with Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the potential benefits and within the context of ongoing efforts to reach peace[1].
02:45 Automakers Offer Military Aid in European Rearmament* Germany's automotive industry volunteers to aid in Europe's military rearmament efforts, pledging their industrial expertise to support the continent's defense capabilities[4].
01:45 Ukrainian Woman Killed in Iranian Iran Rocket Attack on Israel* An Iranian rocket attack on Israel kills a Ukrainian woman and her child in a residential building in Bat Yam, south of Tel Aviv[4].
23:28 Zelenskyy Addresses Dangerous Axis of Russia, Iran, North Korea* President Zelenskyy emphasizes the urgent need for joint international action against the alliance of Russia, Iran, and North Korea as they collectively threaten global stability and share aggressive stances[1].
Sources:1. "Facebook." https://www.ntv.de/panorama/ukraine-krieg/ukraine-krieg-news-live2. "Twitter." https://twitter.com/3. "Whatsapp." https://wa.me/4. "Email." [email protected]5. Task Force Ukraine, Ukraine, NATO, Russia, War Crimes, Politics, Wars and Conflicts, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Vladimir Putin6. Delphy, Anton, "The Situation in Ukraine Has Radically Deteriorated," Der Spiegel, May 22, 2025, https://www.spiegel.de/politik/ausland/situation-in-ukraine-hat-radikal-verschlechtert-a-9f60ee72-b7f1-4562-b1c9-3d9ff52bb4fb7. Sorkin, Andrew, "A Year After the Capture of Crimea, Ukraine Remains a Preoccupation for Putin," The New York Times, March 8, 2015, https://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/09/business/international/a-year-after-the-capture-of-crimea-ukraine-remains-a-preoccupation-for-putin.html8. Schiffer, Michael, "German Government Faces Changing Climate on Ukraine Policy," Deutsche Welle, February 23, 2023, https://www.dw.com/en/german-government-faces-changing-climate-on-ukraine-policy/a-618090099. Holmes, Oliver, "Future Prospects of Armed Conflicts in the 21st Century," Journal of International Security (Forthcoming).10. "Germany." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany11. "Ukraine." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ukraine12. "Military." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military13. "Military operations." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_operations14. "Russia." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russia15. "NATO." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NATO16. "Cyber war." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyberwarfare17. "Attack on Ukraine." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_military_intervention_in_the_Donbass18. "Volodymyr Zelenskyy." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volodymyr_Zelenskyy19. "Vladimir Putin." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vladimir_Putin20. "Wars and Conflicts." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Wars_and_conflicts21. "War Crimes." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_crimes22. "Ukraine Conflict." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_military_intervention_in_the_Donbass23. "Iranian Rocket Attack on Israel." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sardinia_Channel_missile_crisis24. "Politics." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Politics
- In response to Putin's assertion of Ukraine as Russian territory, the international community and numerous nations, including Germany, express concern and call for the upholding of Ukraine's sovereignty and independence in the realm of politics, as well as in employment and community policies that promote peace and diplomacy.
- Amid the ongoing conflict and escalating tension, the broader global community, including European nations, face increased scrutiny of their military preparedness and spending, recognizing the need for modernization and stronger defensive capabilities as a deterrent against potential conflicts in regions marked by war and conflicts, such as Ukraine.
