Belarus
Belarus reported a phone conversation between Macron and Lukashenko at France's initiative. The parties discussed regional issues and relations with the EU.
European Gymnastics has restored the flag and anthem for athletes from Russia and Belarus. This decision follows a similar move by the International Gymnastics Federation.
In Latvia, a drone fell into Lake Drīdzis and exploded. There were no casualties; the armed forces and police are searching for the wreckage of the device.
Zelenskyy discussed strengthening diplomacy and Russia's plans with E3 leaders. The parties agreed on a meeting of advisors and an exchange of intelligence.
The EU has rejected Belarus's role as a mediator due to its support for Russian aggression. There is zero trust in the Lukashenko regime, and new restrictions are being prepared.
The AFU have stabilized the front and are launching drone strikes deep into the Russian Federation. Putin wants to end the war by the end of the year, provided there is full control over the Donbas.
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha declared a turning point in the war and the loss of Russia's advantage. He called on NATO for investment and warned of threats from Belarus.
The Russian Federation and Belarus have completed nuclear exercises using Iskander-M systems. ISW notes the strengthening of the Kremlin's actual control over Minsk.
Zelenskyy visited Slavutych to discuss border protection and air defense in the north. In June, the government promises to resolve the issue of salaries for Chornobyl NPP workers.
Andrii Sybiha and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte discussed threats from Belarus and the PURL initiative. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of sanctions pressure and deterring the enemy.
The President announced the reinforcement of the border and fortifications in northern Ukraine. The leadership of Belarus must face consequences in the event of new aggressive actions.
Lukashenko named aggression against Belarus as the only reason for entering the war. He also stated his readiness to meet with Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Latvia has lifted an air threat alert caused by a drone that entered from Belarus. NATO fighter jets were scrambled to intercept the target.
The SBU and Defense Forces are strengthening security in five northern regions of Ukraine. Document checks, vehicle inspections, and traffic restrictions are planned.
The Russian Federation has delivered nuclear munitions to field storage points in Belarus. The military is practicing the equipping of Iskander-M missile systems.
Russia is considering scenarios for new attacks on northern Ukraine from Belarus and the Bryansk region. Zelenskyy has ordered the strengthening of defenses and diplomatic pressure on Minsk.
The US is asking Ukraine to ease sanctions against Belarusian potash to reduce Russia's influence. Experts point to threats due to Minsk's complicity in the aggression.
Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa called Russia's provocations against the Baltics unacceptable. The EU will strengthen defense and pressure on the aggressor due to these threats.
The political scientist called Belarus's entry into the war unlikely due to Lukashenko's fear of protests. The country's army has been depleted by the transfer of equipment to Russia.
The number of protection applications in Poland has fallen by 66%, a record for the EU. Meanwhile, 78% of decisions regarding Ukrainian applicants are currently negative.
The President instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to prepare diplomatic measures to influence Belarus. Intelligence received non-public tasks due to the threat of the war expanding.
Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi revealed details of the AFU corps reform. The Third Corps is the only one fighting with all its subordinate brigades in a single sector.
The US is asking Ukraine and the EU to ease sanctions on Belarusian potash to improve relations with Minsk. Lithuania is currently refusing to restore transit.
Andriy Melnyk at the UN rejected Russia's demands for surrender and called the attacks on Russia a boomerang. He urged the world to respond to Putin's nuclear blackmail.
No movement of Belarusian equipment or personnel has been recorded near the border. However, the threat remains real due to support for Russia and ongoing military exercises.
Gymnasts from Russia and Belarus have been allowed to compete with national symbols and anthems. The CCD called this decision playing into the hands of enemy propaganda.
This summer, it will be possible to fly from the Russian Federation to only 32 countries, which is three times fewer than during the Soviet era. The list includes Afghanistan, North Korea, Iran, and 29 other states.
The International Gymnastics Federation has lifted sanctions on Russians and Belarusians. Athletes will compete in competitions with national symbols and anthems.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls for new sanctions and support for Ukraine in response to the nuclear exercises of Russia and Belarus. This will help deter the aggressors on NATO's eastern flank.
Training of missile forces and aviation with nuclear weapons has started in Belarus. Together with the Russian Federation, they will practice the delivery and preparation of special munitions.