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Balloon Juice

Come for the politics, stay for the snark.

If you still can’t see these things even now, maybe politics isn’t your forte and you should stop writing about it.

The party of Reagan has become the party of Putin.

You passed on an opportunity to be offended? What are you even doing here?

The republican speaker is a slippery little devil.

Let’s not be the monsters we hate.

One way or another, he’s a liar.

“Loving your country does not mean lying about its history.”

They are lying in pursuit of an agenda.

Pessimism assures that nothing of any importance will change.

The media handbook says “controversial” is the most negative description that can be used for a Republican.

JFC, are there no editors left at that goddamn rag?

The fundamental promise of conservatism all over the world is a return to an idealized past that never existed.

Not rolling over. fuck you, make me.

It’s pointless to bring up problems that can only be solved with a time machine.

It is not hopeless, and we are not helpless.

I would try pessimism, but it probably wouldn’t work.

We can show the world that autocracy can be defeated.

Mediocre white men think RFK Jr’s pathetic midlife crisis is inspirational. The bar is set so low for them, it’s subterranean.

If you thought you’d already seen people saying the stupidest things possible on the internet, prepare yourselves.

There is no right way to do the wrong thing.

We’re watching the self-immolation of the leading world power on a level unprecedented in human history.

Republicans: The threats are dire, but my tickets are non-refundable!

A sufficient plurality of insane, greedy people can tank any democratic system ever devised, apparently.

Thanks to your bullshit, we are now under siege.

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mad magazine classic: spy vs. spy

Silverman on Security

You are here: Home / Archives for Silverman on Security

War for Ukraine Day 1,230: Another Early Morning Under Ukraine Wide Air Raid Alerts

by Adam L Silverman|  July 8, 20259:03 pm| 5 Comments

This post is in: Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Military, Open Threads, Russia, Silverman on Security, War, War in Ukraine

Painting by NEIVANMADE. It has a white background an in the center are Soldiers in green doing air defense by firing at incoming Russian missiles in the upper right. The missiles are red and yellow. In the upper left, written in green, is the text: "SAVE THE BRAVEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD!" Below the Soldiers, also written in green, is "SUPPORT FOR KHARKIV"

(Image by NEIVANMADE)

At 2:30 AM local time in Ukraine/7:30 PM EDT, all of Ukraine is under air raid alerts for drone swarms. There’s no indications of Russian ballistic missiles or strategic bombers. Yet. We’ll have to watch and wait to see if this is just drone swarms or the drone swarms are to exhaust Ukrainian air defense for the missiles and bombers.

Very large numbers of Russian/Iranian Shahed attack drones now in Ukrainian airspace. Just got an alert on my phone air raid app about increased alert in the capital. From past experience, a Russian ballistic missile attack is very likely later.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 6:03 PM

Earlier, the air raid alerts had Russian MiGs inbound from western Russia and their khinzal warnings.

MiG take off. Missiles join drones. I fucking hate russia.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 3:56 PM

❗️Right now, Ukraine is under massive russian drone attack! Additionally, Kinzhal missile launches reported!

— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 4:01 PM

Again, we watch and wait.

Here is President Zelenskyy’s address from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.

show full post on front page

It Is Important That the Bestowing of State Awards and Special Ranks on Our Warriors Be Faster and More Thorough – Address by the President

8 July 2025 – 19:53

I wish you good health, fellow Ukrainians!

Today has brought several important decisions. First of all, I have signed decrees today awarding the titles of Hero of Ukraine to Nazarii Hryntsevych and Dmytro Fisher. The nomination and all relevant documents for Vitalii Karvatskyi have also been prepared. The decree will be issued once the necessary evaluations are complete. And it is important that the bestowing of state awards and special ranks on our warriors be faster and more thorough. Unfortunately, both the warriors themselves and their families currently have to wait far too long for their well-deserved awards due to various checks and bureaucratic procedures. The responsible officials must speed up these processes.

Today, I held a meeting with our military leadership: the Commander-in-Chief, the General Staff, the Ministry of Defense, and the Security Service of Ukraine – regarding the situation at the front and our operations, including those on Russian territory. I am grateful to all units of our Defense Forces, the Security Service of Ukraine, and our intelligence agencies for their results in exerting pressure on the occupier and blocking Russian logistics. Also today, I instructed Ukraine’s Minister of Defense and the Commander-in-Chief to intensify all contacts with the American side. We now have the necessary political statements and decisions in place, and we must implement them as quickly as possible to protect our people and to defend our positions. It mainly involves air defense, as well as all other elements of supplies from the United States. These are critical supplies upon which the lives of our people and the defense of Ukrainian cities and villages depend. I expect results from these engagements in the very near future. In particular, this week we are preparing meeting formats for our teams – both military and political.

Today, the Chief of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine reported on Russia’s vulnerabilities. We also discussed the exchange process – implementation is ongoing for the agreements reached during the second meeting in Türkiye. We are working to free as many of our people from Russian captivity as possible. There was also a report from the Minister of Foreign Affairs on the upcoming meeting of all Ukrainian ambassadors, scheduled for July 21. Clear tasks have been set for the diplomats, as well as several Reform steps within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs system – these will be presented by the Minister. We are preparing to significantly expand the capabilities of Ukrainian diplomacy.

I also spoke today with the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. It is necessary to ratify the Agreement on the Establishment of a Tribunal for the Russian Aggression, to unblock the signing of the law on multiple citizenship, and to formalize Ukraine’s withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention on landmines. I am grateful to all Members of the Ukrainian Parliament who support these and other essential decisions, and it is important that votes on them take place as soon as possible.

And one more thing.

We are also continuing our sanctions work in Ukraine. Today, we have a package of sanctions against companies from China that, unfortunately, supply components for Russia’s weapons production, particularly for Shaheds. There is clear evidence of this. The details are found in the remains of downed Shaheds. We will also discuss this with our partners so they align with Ukraine’s sanctions. There is also a new decision to synchronize European sanctions within our jurisdiction – three more EU sanctions packages are now fully in force in Ukraine. We will continue to strengthen our pressure. I thank everyone who is helping us! I thank everyone who stands with Ukraine!

Glory to Ukraine!

First Lady Zelenska visited the Cosmocamp: Space for everyone inclusive summer camp, which is funded by her foundation.

Olena Zelenska Visits Inclusive Summer “Cosmocamp,” Held for the First Time With Support From Her Foundation

8 July 2025 – 21:12

The President’s wife visited the inclusive summer camp “Cosmocamp: Space for Everyone,” which this year is being held for the first time with financial support from the Olena Zelenska Foundation.

The First Lady met with the children and camp coordinators, was briefed on the program, and joined in its activities. Warm-ups, workshops, creative classes, themed games, and parties are held here.

About a hundred young Ukrainians will get to enjoy “Cosmocamp” this summer. Among them are children with disabilities, those who have lost one or both parents due to the war, children who were forced to flee their homes and relocate to safer regions, and children in guardianship care.

“A state’s capacity is measured by that of its most vulnerable citizens. We strive to provide every opportunity, protection, and support to those who face the greatest challenges – children with disabilities who require rehabilitation and special care. This is also part of the state’s barrier-free strategy,” Olena Zelenska noted.

The NGO “See With Your Heart” has been running “Cosmocamp” since 2016, creating a safe, inclusive space every summer that brings together children with different needs and experiences.

Psychosocial support for children, adolescents, and young people is one of the key priorities of the Olena Zelenska Foundation. As part of this effort, the Foundation has supported rehabilitation camps for over 700 children in different regions across Ukraine.

Georgia:

For the 223rd consecutive day, Rustaveli avenue is blocked. I can tell that more and more people are joining these everyday protests. 🇬🇪✊🇺🇦

Protests continue in 8+ cities in Georgia.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 2:10 PM

Activist Beka Papashvili has been taken from his own home by the Criminal Police to undertake a drug test. They insist that he’s under drug influence. #terrorinGeorgia

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 12:38 PM

Businessman Giorgi Ramishvili, who was detained at Tbilisi Airport on charges of illegal possession of a firearm, has been released by the court on bail set at 70,000 GEL.

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 7:47 AM

The decision was issued by Judge Nino Enukidze.

Administrative proceedings against Helen Khoshtaria were launched on June 24 in connection with an incident during the arrest of Strategy Aghmashenebeli leader Giorgi Vashadze.

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 7:57 AM

Most Georgian Dream officials sanctioned by the US or UK have been sidelined or demoted. 🇺🇸🇬🇧🇬🇪

🔹 9 total officials sanctioned
🔹 6 are now out of office
🔹 1 demoted
🔹 1 remains in post
🔹 1 promoted — Tamazashvili now head of the Adjara government.

Source: Netgazeti

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 8:22 AM

🚨 What’s Missing in the Videos Against Detained Pro-European Protesters?

A defense lawyer reviews prosecution footage and points out key details that challenge the case.

The videos, examined in court on July 4, relate to 8 of 11 detained protesters.

#TerrorinGeorgia

🧵1/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

2/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

3/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

4/ “Evidences” against Andro Chichinadze:

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

5/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

6/ “Evidences” against Onise Tskhadadze:

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

7/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

8/ “Evidences” against Luka Jabua:

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

9/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

10/ “Evidences” against Jano Archaya:

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

11/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

12/ “Evidences” against Ruslan Sivakov:

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

13/ “Evidences” against Guram Mirtskhulava:

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

14/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

15/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

16/ “Evidences” against Valeri Tetrashvili:

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

17/

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

18/ “Evidences” against Giorgi Terishvili:

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 11:09 AM

6 more people have been taken to undergo drug tests in a coordinated city-wide operation.

Three of them are high-ranking managers of Lelo party: Oto Parulava, Levan Jorbenadze, and Beka Beridzishvili.

Further reports might be incoming.

The regime has already been weaponizing their new drug laws.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 1:55 PM

Musician Kordz was assaulted near his grandmother’s home.

He is also known for making anti-regime songs/mixes.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 3:02 PM

One of the most touching stories in the entire liberation struggle.

Tsaro assumed the role of regime prisoner Archil Museliantsi’s “mother” because they happened to protest together and Archil shared that he had nobody who’d worry about him.

Archil is passing university entrance exams from prison.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 5:52 PM

The US:

COLLINS: Did you approve of the pause of weapons shipments to Ukraine?

TRUMP: We want to put defensive weapons because Putin is not treating human beings right

COLLINS: So who ordered the pause?

TRUMP: I don’t know. Why don’t you tell me?

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— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) July 8, 2025 at 12:53 PM

Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell: At President Trump’s direction, the Department of Defense is sending additional defensive weapons to Ukraine to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace and ensure the killing stops.

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 11:56 PM

Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell: At President Trump’s direction, the Department of Defense is sending additional defensive weapons to Ukraine to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace and ensure the killing stops.

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 11:56 PM

REPORTER: Ukraine has asked the international court to go after Russia for using toxic chemicals in the fight

TRUMP WHISPERING TO HEGSETH: What do you know about this?

HEGSETH WHISPERING: John might know

TRUMP: Well, I’d ask John to discuss it

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— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) July 8, 2025 at 1:06 PM

He deduced it! Unbelievable! Real Sherlock, no less 😒 and hey, only a handful of us had to die in russian bombings for him to have time to finally figure that out.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 12:35 PM

Additional? Additional to what was already sent or to what was planned? 🤔

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 7:42 AM

⚡️Trump reportedly pledges to send 10 Patriot missiles to Ukraine, asks Germany to send battery.

U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to send 10 Patriot interceptors to Ukraine, Axios reported on July 8, citing its sources.

kyivindependent.com/trump-merz-d…

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— The Kyiv Independent (@kyivindependent.com) July 8, 2025 at 10:23 AM

From The Kyiv Independent:

U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to send 10 Patriot interceptors to Ukraine – a smaller number than had been paused previously while en route to the country, Axios reported on July 8, citing its sources.

Trump has also suggested that Germany sell one of its Patriot batteries to Ukraine, according to three sources cited by Axios. They said the U.S. and European allies would split the cost of the purchase.

The discussion comes as Ukraine is calling upon its allies, particularly the United States, to support Ukrainian air defense by supplying “life-saving” Patriot systems and relevant missiles.

The Pentagon said on July 2 that some military assistance to Ukraine had been halted as the U.S. Defense Department conducts a review of foreign aid deliveries.

On July 7, the Pentagon said it would renew shipments, saying the additional defensive weapons were intended to help Ukraine protect itself while the U.S. works toward “a lasting peace.”

Merz called Trump to request the release of the paused interceptors, according to Axios. During the call, Trump proposed that Germany sell one of its own Patriot batteries to Ukraine.

While no agreement has been reached, officials on both sides say negotiations are ongoing. German officials maintain that Berlin has already sent a higher share of its available Patriot systems to Ukraine than any other NATO country, including the U.S.

Russia has escalated its aerial campaign against Ukraine in recent weeks, launching large-scale missile and drone attacks that have killed and injured hundreds of civilians across multiple cities.

The suspension of U.S. arms deliveries, which include Patriots and precision-guided munitions, drew criticism from Kyiv. During a July 4 phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump said he was not responsible for halting the aid, according to the Wall Street Journal.

He reportedly told Zelensky that a review of U.S. munitions stockpiles was initiated after last month’s U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, but denied ordering a full pause in shipments.

NBC News reported that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth halted the shipments unilaterally on July 2, despite internal Pentagon assessments that the move would not jeopardize U.S. military readiness.

Special Envoy Keith Kellogg and Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov are set to meet in Rome later this week to discuss resuming the stalled military aid, Politico reported on July 7.

A black and white picture of the Three Stooges. They are wearing hats, seated at a table, and all 3 are face palming themselves so that you cannot see their faces. The caption says: Triple Face Palm Because Even the Three Stooges Can See That You Fail.

The EU:

EU plans ways to fill Ukraine’s budget gap in 2026 as Kyiv grapples with continued Russian attacks that dashed hopes of a ceasefire. With @henryjfoy.ft.com on.ft.com/45T0uAF

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— Paola Tamma (@paolatamma.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 12:37 AM

From The Financial Times:

Brussels is urgently exploring ways to cover a shortfall of up to $19bn in Ukraine’s budget next year, as Kyiv grapples with diminishing US support and receding prospects for a ceasefire with Russia.

The European Commission is discussing options with EU member countries, including channelling military support to Ukraine as off-budget grants, frontloading loans from an existing $50bn G7 support scheme for Kyiv, and further leveraging Russian state assets immobilised in the bloc, said multiple people familiar with the discussions.

Ukraine’s projected budget gap next year is not yet covered by external financing.

A senior EU official involved in talks with Kyiv said: “There’s growing concern about next year and many stakeholders that were banking on a ceasefire deal this year [to ease Ukraine’s fiscal strains] are having to recalculate their outlays and realising that there’s a [financing] hole whichever way they to try to slice it.”

The commission has had to adjust outlays from Ukraine-related funding streams during 2025, officials told the Financial Times, in response to the extended conflict and lack of confidence in an imminent ceasefire with Moscow.

The urgency in Brussels to rustle up fresh funding comes ahead of a summit focused on funding Ukraine’s reconstruction needs in Rome later this week, which commission president Ursula von der Leyen will attend.

The IMF estimates Ukraine’s financing needs for next year are covered, but that is premised on the war ending this year or in the middle of 2026 — a scenario which Ukraine and the EU do not share.

IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva last month said the fund “will assess whether this financing gap is going to increase and will require further financing on the external aid”.

The goal is to ensure Kyiv’s needs are covered well in advance of the winter, especially given the uncertain prospects for further US military support, said one EU diplomat.

One proposal, shared by Kyiv with G7 countries and under consideration by the commission, is to channel military support to Ukraine as bilateral grants that would be accounted for separately as an “off-budget external transfer”, while at the same time counting towards national defence spending targets.

This would serve the double goal of contributing to Nato pledges to increase national defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP while providing support to Ukraine. “Instead of duplicating capabilities, European allies could co-finance Ukrainian forces — treating it as a service Ukraine provides to enhance continental security,” Kyiv wrote in a paper shared with G7 allies and seen by the Financial Times.

The commission was set to discuss this and other options with EU finance ministers on Monday evening, two people familiar with the matter said.

One senior EU diplomat said: “Clearly the military support for Ukraine that member states are giving are not only funds for the defence of Ukraine but for the defence of Europe, and some of that of course will count as defence spending.”

Another option is to anticipate disbursements from an existing $50bn G7 scheme that issues loans to Kyiv on the back of profits from Russian state assets immobilised in the West.

More at the link.

Back to Ukraine.

Syrskyi reports a 1.6-fold rise in Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukraine over the past month. He adds that Russia is boosting troop numbers and accelerating missile and drone production to support its ongoing war efforts.

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 12:25 PM

“The enemy will find no peace in Belgorod and Kursk regions.” – Syrskyi.
www.facebook.com/CinCAFofUkra…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 5:40 AM

Somewhere on the front line, a Ukrainian soldier downs a Russian FPV drone with a shotgun.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 2:31 AM

Kyiv:

Really fucking loud in Kyiv like really loud even by local standards

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 5:54 PM

The German air defense system that sounds like aliens arriving is active and also someone is yelling slurs at the drones

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 5:59 PM

So 2 air defense systems

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 6:00 PM

Exactly one year ago today, Russia struck Ohmatdyt, Ukraine’s largest children’s oncology hospital.

The international response was weak to nonexistent, allowing Russia to continue its attacks on civilians, including children, with increasing brutality.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 9:32 AM

A year ago today, russia deliberately hit the Okhmatdyt children’s hospital with a cruise missile. They murdered a young doctor, a grandpa caring for his little grandchild, and 31 others in various locations in Kyiv. They bombed the most vulnerable & completely got away with it.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 5:07 AM

During the same massive missile attack a year ago, russia erased an entire residential block in Kyiv — 14 people were buried under the rubble. A medical center was also hit. Pure, despicable terrorism.

Never forgive. Never forget.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 5:17 AM

Kharkiv:

4th explosion in Kharkiv ‼️ Close. Fuck.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 7:07 PM

This coffee shop in Kharkiv was bombed at 6 AM, yet it was cleaned up and reopened by the afternoon.

When people claim Kharkiv survives because Russia doesn’t want to destroy us, don’t believe them. They destroy everything. But we wake up, clean up, patch things up, and live on 💪

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 9:48 AM

Kherson:

Russia keeps hunting people in Kherson with drones. This time, they attacked a bus stop and a food store for no military reason whatsoever.

Bastards. Monsters.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 8:13 AM

Kramatorsk:

🎥🇺🇦 Six months of war on GoPro: a documentary by the mortar gunners of “Pomsta”.
Back in winter, when they took up their positions in the Kramatorsk area, border guards carried out combat missions and recorded everything that was happening around them on video.

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— Vitalis Viva (@vitalisviva.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 1:09 PM

Russian occupied Crimea:

The 37-year-old Russian-appointed deputy head of the city of Yevpatoriya (Crimea), Mikhail Ivanovich Kolganov, died unexpectedly. The causes and circumstances of death are not specified.

Some kind of season of sudden deaths among Russian businessmen and politicians has begun.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 9:29 AM

Russian occupied Luhansk Oblast:

A Ukrainian Su-27 of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine carried out a strike on a gathering site of enemy UAVs and personnel in Luhansk region.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 10:53 AM

Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russia:

⚠️/1. Breaking: Russian Altius (Altair) combat drone crashes near Kazan during test flight

A Russian Sokol Altius (Altair) unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) crashed today during a test flight near Kazan. The drone came down near the Borisoglebskoye military airfield.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 4:47 AM

/2. Residents of Kazan published footage of the Sokol Altius drone flying over the city, escorted by a Cessna 337 Skymaster, shortly before the crash.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 4:49 AM

/3. Sokol Altius drone flying extremely low over residential houses in Kazan before the crash

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 4:51 AM

/4. Footages from the crash cite of Russian Altius drone. A wing in military camouflage is visible on the footage

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 4:52 AM

/5. Comparison of photographs taken by Kazan residents shows that the drone flying over the city before the crash closely matches the design of the Sokol Altius.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 4:53 AM

/6. The Sokol Altius (Altair) is a Russian medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) combat drone prototype under development since 2011. Publicly, only three prototypes are known to exist. It has a wingspan of about 28.5 meters, a length of 11.6 meters, and a max takeoff weight around 6,000 kg.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 4:53 AM

/7. Footage from the crash site of the Russian Altius drone

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 8, 2025 at 5:02 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

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🐶🌊 The dog paddles with its paws, sticking out its tongue with pleasure and enjoying the cool sea air. Its tail sticks out of the water like a submarine periscope, and its face glows with happiness.
How dogs are walked in Odesa in the summer heat 🌞

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— Vitalis Viva (@vitalisviva.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 2:37 PM

Open thread!

War for Ukraine Day 1,230: Another Early Morning Under Ukraine Wide Air Raid AlertsPost + Comments (5)

War for Ukraine Day 1,229: Russia Strikes Kharkiv Twice Today

by Adam L Silverman|  July 7, 20259:31 pm| 10 Comments

This post is in: Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Military, Open Threads, Russia, Silverman on Security, War, War in Ukraine

Painting by NEIVANMADE. It has a white background an in the center are Soldiers in green doing air defense by firing at incoming Russian missiles in the upper right. The missiles are red and yellow. In the upper left, written in green, is the text: "SAVE THE BRAVEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD!" Below the Soldiers, also written in green, is "SUPPORT FOR KHARKIV"

(Image by NEIVANMADE)

I’ll get into all the details after the jump, but Russia struck civilian targets twice today in Kharkiv.

The interiors of the Kharkiv apartments that Russia attacked and burnt today without a single military justification.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 11:04 AM

❗️A 34-year-old woman has died in the hospital from injuries sustained in russia’s drone attack on Kharkiv.

The number of injured has risen to 71, including seven children.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 9:39 AM

71 injured. 1 killed.
russia’s latest terrorist attack on Kharkiv.
I’m running out of words to keep describing this ruthless, despicable violence which goes on unchecked against a peaceful nation.
russia is a hazard to humanity.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 11:50 AM

Shot:

🇺🇸❗️🇺🇦 The White House said the decision to suspend arms sales to Ukraine was made by Pentagon with the approval of President Trump.

🤔 According to Leavitt, the suspension is not specific to Ukraine, but review of military aid to ensure that such supplies are in the national interest of the US.

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— Savchenko Volodymyr (@savchenkoua.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 2:19 PM

Chaser:

‼️‼️‼️

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 8:45 PM

Big if true!

Here is President Zelenskyy’s address from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.

show full post on front page

Step by Step, We Are Closing the Funding Gap for the Production of Drones, Filling Ukrainian Production Lines with Specific Orders – Address by the President

7 July 2025 – 20:53

I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!

I held a Staff meeting today. Reports on the front – primarily the Pokrovsk and Novopavlivka directions, as well as the Orikhiv direction, the Sumy region, and separately – our actions on Russian territory near the border, in the Kursk and Belgorod regions. The occupiers will not feel safe there. We had a very detailed discussion about drones – we must significantly increase the use of all types of drones that help directly on the front lines. We will increasingly rely on drones and technological solutions to hold back Russian assaults and enable our active operations. I am grateful to everyone advancing this field and developing the necessary solutions. We are also continuing our work to counter air strikes. Everything related to air defense is today our top priority – air defense systems, missiles for them, and drone-based air defense. We are also preparing new agreements with partners and expect to formalize them in the coming weeks. Step by step, we are closing the funding gap for the production of drones and interceptor drones, and filling Ukrainian production lines with specific orders. At the same time, we are working with partners to ensure that production in their countries operates at full capacity as well – both for our shared defense today and for partners’ arsenals after the war. We are engaging with all leaders and countries that can help – through investment, components, or manufacturing. This week, we are preparing a meeting with members of the Coalition of the Willing. As part of the Recovery Conference to be held in Italy, Ukrainian representatives will have a concrete set of tasks focused on immediate defense – the defense of our cities and our communities. Everyone in the world can see how much Russia is relying on the use of “Shahed” drones. They have few options left to prolong the war, and Russian-Iranian drones are one of those few. I thank everyone who is helping us counter these attacks.

And, of course, I thank everyone supporting our defense against Russian missiles. We are working, in particular, with the American side on the relevant decisions regarding Patriots and missiles for them. We are also preparing relevant meetings this week in Italy. I instructed Ukraine’s Minister of Defense to prepare the next Ramstein meetings in various formats, and today I’ve already discussed several options with UK Prime Minister Starmer. The UK, along with Germany and other partners, is currently keeping Ramstein operational, and in August–September we expect – very much expect – the format to deliver new steps for our Ukrainian resilience.

I spoke with Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs about a special meeting with Ukrainian ambassadors – this meeting will take place in just two weeks. I expect absolutely concrete results for each region – first and foremost regarding sanctions against Russia, support for Ukraine’s defense, and drawing our partners’ attention to recovery projects in Ukraine.

I spoke with the President of the National Council of the Federal Assembly of Switzerland – she was on a visit to Ukraine today. It is important that Switzerland supports sanctions pressure on Russia for the war – and we must continue to enhance everything that limits Russia’s ability to wage war. We discussed with the Swiss representative the return of Ukrainians from Russian captivity – in particular, our Ukrainian children who are currently being held by the Russian system. Ukraine counts on Switzerland joining the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children and engaging in joint efforts with Ukraine and the coalition members.

I also want to recognize today Ukrainian law enforcement officers – the National Police of Ukraine, as well as the Prosecutor’s Office. They promptly investigated the circumstances of the explosion in the Zhytomyr region – in the Hlybochytsia community. Sadly, two people were killed. My condolences to their families. More than 80 people were injured, and many houses were destroyed or damaged. Procedural steps are already underway – formal suspicions have been issued. The perpetrators must be held accountable – severely, and rightly so.

And one more thing.

We do not forget our fallen warriors. We honor their memory and award them with state decorations. I’ve just spoken about three such men – Ukrainian warriors. Military pilot Colonel Dmytro Fisher, Azov fighter Nazarii Hryntsevych, and warrior of the 3rd Assault Brigade Vitalii Karvatskyi. The documents are being prepared to confer the title of Hero of Ukraine – sadly, posthumously. Glory to all our warriors!

Glory to Ukraine!

Georgia:

For the 222nd day, Rustaveli avenue is blocked in Tbilisi. ✊🇬🇪

Daily protests continue in 8+ cities.

60+ political prisoners. Six out of nine key opposition leaders in jail.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 1:52 PM

Day 222 of #GeorgiaProtests

Things are beginning to move at an accelerated pace. The regime is at each other’s throats, democratic forces are being filtered fast, and the consolidation of non-cooperation forces (8 parties, activists, civil society, regime prisoner families) also happens fast. 1/2

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 1:57 PM

More targeted sanctions now could put a nail in their coffin.

We have also announced a large rally on July 19.

Non-cooperation, protest intensification, and international pressure will be the winning combination.

We shall push through and watch them crush! ✊🏻 2/2.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 1:57 PM

This 26-year-old faces 7 years in a Georgian prison for throwing a tissue. Seriously.

This is the only piece of evidence against Rezo Kiknadze. They’re accusing him of group violence towards the police.

The cases of the other 60+ political prisoners are just as absurd.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 2:59 PM

1/2
🔴 Ex-Adjara Govt head Tornike Rizhvadze has been hospitalized with a gunshot wound. GD propaganda media claim he attempted suicide and left a letter, allegedly found by medics. However, the clinic treating him and a trusted source deny sharing any such letter with journalists.
#Georgia

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 7, 2025 at 4:47 AM

2/2
⭕️ The reported letter claims Rizhvadze and his father were falsely accused of protecting drug dealers, and that his staff acted on his orders. He allegedly asked Bidzina Ivanishvili and Irakli Kobakhidze to protect his family and apologized for leaving them (the family) without “millions.”

— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 7, 2025 at 4:47 AM

Reportedly, the regime demanded USD 300 million from Tornike Rizhvadze.

From some other people, there are rumours of up to a billion and more.

The regime is extracting money from their own – virtually everyone except Kobakhidze’s clan.

JUST IMAGINE THE SCALES OF CORRUPTION!

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 6:09 AM

1/ According to participants of the protest rally in Tbilisi, a man attacked them with a stun gun on July 6. They say the unidentified individual first blended into the crowd, began insulting people, and then used a stun gun to injure several demonstrators.

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 3:32 AM

2/ Police removed the man from the scene, but it is currently unknown whether he has been detained. According to the MIA, the investigation was initiated under Article 126 of the Criminal Code, which refers to violence.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 3:32 AM

3/ “He pressed it against one guy — I was wearing a thicker shirt, so it didn’t penetrate as much, but that guy had a thin, sweaty shirt, and it conducted like through water. He was shocked,” Activist Mariam Mekantsishvli said.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 3:32 AM

Justice in Georgia: Yesterday, a police officer who beat up his 18-year-old wife was released on bail.

Mzia Amaghlobeli—a journalist who slapped a disgraced police officer who spat at her and verbally and physically abused her—was denied bail. She faces 7 years in prison.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 5:44 AM

🚨For 24 years, we have stood by those in need

Now we need you – to keep up the fight.

With Mzia Amaglobeli jailed, laws weaponized, and journalists attacked, Georgia’s free press is being strangled.
We’re risking everything to keep going – but we can’t do it alone.

🛑 Donate. Defend press freedom!

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 7, 2025 at 6:15 AM

The US:

Im going to end the war! >> pressures Ukraine to surrender >> fails >> “Biden’s war!”

Rinse and repeat.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 8:15 PM

Back to Ukraine.

It’s been an open secret for months that Zelensky was going to swap out Ukrainian ambassador in DC Oksana Markarova. But he vowed to Trump in their call last week that he’d replace her soon and work with Trump’s team to agree on a suitable replacement.
www.ft.com/content/d20e…

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— Christopher Miller (@christopherjm.ft.com) July 7, 2025 at 11:49 AM

Zelensky is looking to appoint a “good dealmaker’’ as ambassador in Washington who is ‘‘understandable to the White House and at the same time to the Congress”, according to a senior Ukrainian official involved in the process.
www.ft.com/content/d20e…

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— Christopher Miller (@christopherjm.ft.com) July 7, 2025 at 11:49 AM

“a renewed attempt was made to remove Ukraine’s fiercely independent spy chief, Kyrylo Budanov—though it ended in failure, at least for now. Multiple sources identify the shadowy hand of Andriy Yermak” www.economist.com/europe/2025/…

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— Shashank Joshi (@shashj.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 6:20 AM

“With his customary mix of coercion and guile, General Budanov secured another stay of execution. The Economist understands repeated White House warnings not to fire him may have helped, at least for now.” www.economist.com/europe/2025/…

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— Shashank Joshi (@shashj.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 6:21 AM

This is what the russian “Shahed” looks like compared to our warrior!
For those who thought that UAVs are small and pose no threat. Imagine when such an object flies into a house.

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— Vitalis Viva (@vitalisviva.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 2:25 PM

Their size in 2023 and 2025, they used to be mainly air defense distractors but now they’re actual killer machines

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 7:12 PM

They also put cluster munitions with a several hour long delay in these things to kill first responders and clean up crews

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— Sam (ABeardedPanda) (@abeardedpanda.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 7:33 PM

Kharkiv:

❗️Six drones struck Kharkiv in the second russian attack on the city this morning. At least seven people are reported injured, two of them seriously.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 4:05 AM

Russian drone attack on Kharkiv this morning ‼️

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 7:46 AM

Russian drone strike on residential building in Kharkiv this morning ‼️🤬

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 7:43 AM

Kharkiv this morning.
Kholodnohirskyi district was hit with 6 drones, which injured at least 33 people and ignited several fires, including in a residential 9-story building.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 7:37 AM

Zaporizhzhia:

Russia targeted a university in Zaporizhzhia. Six drones hit the city, leaving at least ten people injured.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 4:14 AM

Kherson:

I… I don’t even know what to say. How the hell are we,humanity, just allowing this? Drones hunting down families working in fields. This isn’t just cruel. It’s monstrous. Irrational.

And yet we’ve been watching it unfold for years, doing absolutely fucking nothing.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 10:51 AM

Not a whisper loud enough. Not a line drawn. Just passive, shameful silence from governments able to stop it.

Kherson. Today. Russian “human safari”.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 10:51 AM

Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast:

❗️Russia may break through Ukraine’s defenses in Donbas and come close to capturing Donetsk region, — NYT

AFU are in dangerous situation on the approaches to Kostiantynivka, and the city is southern gateway to the chain of cities that form Ukraine’s last major defensive belt in the Donetsk region.

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— MAKS 25 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 2:24 PM

Kherson Oblast:

In Kherson region, Ukraine’s Southern Defense Forces destroyed a Russian boat equipped with a “Kapushon” EW system.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 12:07 PM

Kramatorsk, Donetsk Oblast:

Russian Z-channels claim that Russian forces launched a Tornado-S MLRS strike on Kramatorsk.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 7:29 AM

Novorossyisk, Krasnador Krai, Russia:

Latest satellite imagery analysis (2025-07-06)

Borisoglebsk Air Base – the area used for gear (drop tanks/armament parts) has burn marks, indicating a successful hit. Two scorch spots are visible on the airfield, though the targets are unclear

Novorossiysk Naval Base – no visible damage to ships

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 10:23 PM

2/ As of July 5, four Kilo-class diesel-electric submarines were present at the Novorossiysk naval base – which is nearly the entire remaining operational submarine force of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. These submarines are equipped to launch Kalibr cruise missiles.

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:49 PM

3/ Valuable naval assets, including an Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates, minesweepers, patrol boats, and corvettes, were anchored in the bay at the time of the attack. The strike occurred overnight, and by late morning, local authorities declared the situation to be safe

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:49 PM

4/ So far, there is no evidence indicating damage to any vessels. Videos verified and geolocated by our team show smoke rising from the water, suggesting that sea-surface drones were likely intercepted before reaching their targets. No large ships were spotted nearby.

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:49 PM

5/ Striking vessels in Russian bays remains a difficult task, as Russians have improve their defensive measures – this is not the first unsuccessful attempt in Novorossiysk. The bay is one of the few relatively secure locations for the fleet, effectively limiting its mobility

— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:49 PM

6/ If significant evidence or new imagery confirming damage emerges, we will share it. In the meantime, consider liking and sharing the initial message in the post, and follow us to stay informed on key updates from our team.

— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:49 PM

7/ Consider reading this as well:

bsky.app/profile/tata…

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:49 PM

Krasnodar Oblast, Russia:

Long-range drones operated by HUR struck the Ilsky oil refinery in Russia’s Krasnodar region on July 7, sources told RBC-Ukraine. A production unit was hit. Local Russian media also confirm the incident.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 7:36 AM

Moscow:

⚡️Just now: Another Russian Transport Ministry Official Found Dead at Moscow Headquarters

42-year-old Korneichuk, deputy head of the Department for Regulatory Support and Land Relations at Russia’s Ministry of Transport, died during a working meeting today in the ministry’s headquarters in Moscow.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 10:40 AM

Moscow Oblast:

Ukrainian drones struck the Krasnozavodsk Chemical Plant in Russia’s Moscow region early this morning, the General Staff reports. The facility is involved in producing explosives and thermobaric warheads for Shahed drones.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 7, 2025 at 9:49 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today. Here is some adjacent material.

😼🦾 Under reliable protection and attentive guidance!

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— Vitalis Viva (@vitalisviva.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 9:03 AM

Open thread!

War for Ukraine Day 1,229: Russia Strikes Kharkiv Twice TodayPost + Comments (10)

War for Ukraine Day 1,128: The Cost

by Adam L Silverman|  July 6, 20257:41 pm| 9 Comments

This post is in: Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Military, Open Threads, Russia, Silverman on Security, War, War in Ukraine

A painting by NEIVANMADE> In the center of the painting is a green swing set. It is over a targeting reticle with the red dot dirctly under the swing. Behind it on both the left and right are residential apartment buildings and trees. Above the swing set is an incoming Russian missile. It is red with a yellow "Z" symbol on it. To it's left if the caption "Russian "Ceasefire" in red. Below the reticle, in black, is Stop Child Killers!

(Image by NEIVANMADE)

This is 8-year-old Oleh Antonov. russia killed him yesterday near the village of Odnorobivka in the Kharkiv region.

He was returning home with his mother, father, and 4-year-old brother when a russian kamikaze drone struck their car. Oleh died instantly.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 10:22 AM

His younger, 4-year-old brother is currently in critical condition in the hospital. Their father sustained injuries, and their mother is suffering from severe shock.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 10:22 AM

I am so tired like you don’t understand I’m tired did I mention that I’m tired

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 1:42 AM

Here is President Zelenskyy’s address from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.

show full post on front page

I Have Just Signed a New Sanctions Package – Special Sanctions Targeting Numerous Russian Financial Schemes – Address by the President

6 July 2025 – 16:00

I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!

I have just signed a new sanctions package – and these are special sanctions targeting numerous Russian financial schemes, particularly cryptocurrency-related ones. The sanctions were introduced at the initiative of the National Bank of Ukraine. This is both a synchronization with our partners and our own initiative. Just through one single company, now included in the sanctions list, and only since the beginning of this year, that is, prior to the sanctions being imposed, the Russians funneled several billion dollars, primarily for the needs of their military-industrial complex. Of course, we will shut down all such schemes. Right now, with many of Russia’s traditional financial channels blocked, they are increasingly shifting to cryptocurrency transactions. Today’s package includes sanctions against 60 legal entities, and for each of them, we will work with our partners to synchronize sanctions – Ukrainian and European, Ukrainian and from other key global jurisdictions. The package also includes 73 individuals – all citizens of Russia. We will also synchronize sanctions against them. It’s a challenging task – sanctioning regulations vary around the world – but we all share a common goal: to compel Russia to stop the war and to severely restrict its capabilities. Sanctions are already depriving Russia of its future, and they must significantly complicate the daily functioning of the Russian system. Next week, we are also preparing new Ukrainian decisions on synchronization with EU sanctions – every European sanctions package against Russia must be implemented in Ukrainian jurisdiction. Just as our Ukrainian sanctions must be implemented in EU jurisdiction. One more important point. Today’s reports – primarily from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi – on the frontlines. The Pokrovsk direction, where the highest number of assaults took place over the past 24 hours, along with other areas in the Donetsk region, Sumy and Kharkiv regions. Defense against Russian long-range strikes, and our own long-range operations. I am grateful to every Ukrainian warrior for their precision and for the ability to reach even very remote areas in Russia. The joint efforts of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the Security Service of Ukraine, and our intelligence agencies – everything that enhances Ukraine’s long-range capabilities – helps us bring this war closer to an end. This week, I want to give special recognition to the brigades that have delivered the most significant results on the frontlines. The Pokrovsk direction – first and foremost, the 38th Marine Brigade and the 14th Operational Brigade of the National Guard. Thank you! The Kupyansk direction – the 3rd Assault Brigade. Well done, warriors. In the Kharkiv region – the Southern Slobozhanskyi direction – the warriors of the 92nd Assault Brigade distinguished themselves. The Sumy region – my thanks to all the warriors of the 225th Assault Regiment and the 95th Air Assault Brigade. The Novopavlivka direction – the 37th Marine Brigade and the paratroopers of the 79th. Thank you! And special thanks for their results to the 1st and 425th Assault Regiments. Thank you to everyone who defends our state and works to make Ukraine’s defense possible.

Today, on Ukrainian Navy Day, I also met with our Navy warriors and presented state awards to the best among them. We are proud of our people! We are also preparing new decisions and new agreements with partners that will make Ukraine stronger – both in defense and in recovery. Much of the coming week will be dedicated to Ukraine’s recovery – to new agreements with partners, and, in many ways, to restoring justice.

Glory to Ukraine!

Georgia:

A rally was held today in Rustavi to support prisoner of conscience Giorgi Mindadze, who turns 22 today.

Family members and other participants marched to Giorgi’s house to mark his birthday.

On July 3, Tbilisi City Court sentenced him to 5 years in prison.

📷 Mindia Gabadze/Publika

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 11:21 AM

“Freedom! Freedom!” – passerby children chant during today’s march in Rustavi, Georgia. #GeorgiaProtests

📷 @laszlorobertmezes.bsky.social

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 4:54 PM

For the 221st consecutive day, the main avenue in Tbilisi is blocked. Protests continue in 8+ cities across Georgia. 🇬🇪

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 2:02 PM

Today, July 6, businessman Giorgi Ramishvili (“Zarala”), owner of Silknet and other major businesses, was arrested.

According to the MIA, he is under investigation for alleged illegal possession and use of firearms, ammunition, explosives, or explosive devices.

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 12:19 PM

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 12:15 PM

Famous actor Vano Tarkhnishvili was physically assaulted by regime thugs near his home. #terrorinGeorgia #GeorgiaProtests

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 11:48 AM

Oh, would you look at that 🍿

Internal pressure and international sanctions force the regime to go after their own.

I hope it’s total, chaotic, and finally out of control.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 3:36 PM

Giga Lemonjava member of the Droa party commented on that their party’s leader Elene Khoshtaria started a hunger strike and a continuous outstaying in front of the parliament, further messaged Western partners when opposition leaders getting imprisoned and making such decisions.

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— EEBC (@eebc.bsky.social) June 28, 2025 at 1:30 PM

🧵 1/ In an exclusive interview with Radio Liberty, U.S. Ambassador to Georgia Robin Dunnigan said that the non-public letter from the Georgian Dream leadership to President Donald Trump was “threatening, offensive, frivolous, and extremely poorly received in Washington.”

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 12:03 PM

2/ Ambassador Dunnigan also said she had wanted to meet with Bidzina Ivanishvili in person because she had a response to the letter from Secretary of State Rubio, who requested that it be delivered to Ivanishvili personally, but Ivanishvili refused.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 12:03 PM

3/ Dunnigan noted that she had traveled to Washington in the early days of Donald Trump’s inauguration to meet with senior officials of the new administration.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 12:03 PM

4/ “I came back from these meetings and met with the Foreign Minister [Maka Bochorishvili] and presented very clearly two or three steps that Georgian Dream could take to help get the relationship back on track”

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 12:03 PM

5/ „Three days later, and I emphasize, I don’t usually talk about this, but the Prime Minister himself mentioned it, the leadership of Georgian Dream sent me a letter addressed to the Trump administration, a private letter”

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 12:03 PM

6/ „This was not a public letter, and frankly, it was threatening, offensive, frivolous, and received extremely poorly in Washington. Extremely poorly,” Ambassador Dunnigan said.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 12:03 PM

Laos:

The war will continue to rise in intensity and expand in geography until the West provides democratic Ukraine with sufficient military and economic support to defeat fascist Russia.
kyivindependent.com/russia-seeks…

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 3:03 AM

From The Kyiv Independent:

Russia is seeking to involve Laos in its war against Ukraine under the pretense of humanitarian cooperation, Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) claimed on July 5.

According to the agency, Moscow is organizing the deployment of a combined unit of military engineers from the Lao People’s Armed Forces to Russia’s Kursk Oblast, allegedly to help with demining operations.

Ukraine initially captured 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of Russian territory during a cross-border offensive to Kursk Oblast but lost most of it during a Russian counteroffensive this year, which was supported by North Korean troops.

Laotian authorities have reportedly agreed to send up to 50 engineers to support Russian efforts. In addition, Laos is said to be offering free rehabilitation services to wounded Russian soldiers.

“Russia, under the guise of humanitarian rhetoric, is trying to legalize the presence of foreign military contingents on its territory, effectively using them to wage war against Ukraine,” HUR said.

This comes amid broader efforts by the Kremlin to recruit foreign personnel. Russia has drawn heavily on fighters from Asia and Africa, as well as North Korea.

Ukraine has captured multiple foreigners fighting for Russian forces. an April investigation by Russian independent outlet Important Stories identified more than 1,500 foreign fighters from 48 countries who had joined Russia’s war.

Laos, a landlocked Southeast Asian country bordering China, Vietnam, and Thailand, has not commented on HUR’s claim. The country maintains close ties with both Moscow and its ally Beijing.

The US:

Booo get better material

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 5:59 PM

Just how many times has he said this exact sentence in the past 6 months

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 6:01 PM

A black and white picture of the Three Stooges. They are wearing hats, seated at a table, and all 3 are face palming themselves so that you cannot see their faces. The caption says: Triple Face Palm Because Even the Three Stooges Can See That You Fail.

Moldova:

🇲🇩 As of 4th of July 2025, Moldova has opened access to all archival records of Soviet-era repressions. Over 50,000 case files—affecting nearly 100,000 victims of the Soviet regime—are now available for public viewing. nokta.md/100-tysyach-…

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 1:40 AM

The Baltic states:

Baltic states sending 1/3rd of their defense budget to Ukraine for yet another year

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 1:37 AM

Back to Ukraine.

AASM Hammer air strike on the Russian base

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 1:05 PM

Azov fighters shot down 24 Russian Molniya drones using their “Wild Hornet” air defense drones. Each Molniya carries up to 5 kg of explosives, posing a serious threat.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 6:24 AM

Kharkiv:

Last night, russian forces attacked Kharkiv with eight Shahed drones, using a double-tap tactic to deliberately target rescuers at the scene.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 2:56 AM

In Kharkiv, first responders work under constant threat of double taps. Terrorist tactics aimed to kill them.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:12 AM

Kostiantynivka, Donetsk Oblast:

4 people were killed in today’s russian strike on Kostiantynivka, Donetsk region.
1 more person was injured.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 3:18 PM

Kupyansk, Kharkiv Oblast:

Russia struck Kupyansk in the Kharkiv region again, injuring an elderly woman.

When Ukrainian forces liberated Kupyansk two years ago, they did it without bombings. The city was 90% intact. Russia has been relentlessly bombing it ever since, and will likely destroy what’s left.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 3:10 PM

Kherson:

Russians shamelessly sharing an attack on firefighters in Kherson in their tg channels.

A blatant war crime, just like everything the bastards do in this life.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:55 AM

Kyiv:

Bit late today aren’t we

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 6:43 PM

The explosion near Kyiv’s CHP-6 was caused by an electrical short circuit, according to district head Maksym Bakhmatov. A fire broke out in a guard’s trailer and spread to an oil tank, which later exploded, producing heavy smoke.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 1:01 PM

The Kursk cross border offensive:

Russian 152mm Malva self-propelled gun hit by FPV drones in Kursk region

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 3:38 PM

Pokrovsk, Donestk Oblast:

A video reportedly shows the first confirmed shootdown of a Ukrainian RAM-2X kamikaze drone — a Lancet-type loitering munition — by an FPV drone used in an anti-air role, near Pokrovske in the Donetsk region.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 11:48 AM

Sumy Oblast:

Russia is moving over 20 trucks with personnel, likely to reinforce forces near the Sumy direction, says Petro Andriushchenko, advisor to the mayor of Mariupol. The convoy is moving from the Zaporizhzhia front through Mariupol to Taganrog, with Rosgvardia, Gazelles, and buses.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 7:04 AM

And yes, this is the long way around because Russia only occupies a portion of Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk Oblasts and none of Kharkiv, Poltava, or Sumy Oblasts.

The northern Slobozhanshchyna front:

Ukrainian drone operators from the Steel Border unit destroyed a Russian electronic warfare station and an SUV carrying personnel on the Northern Slobozhanshchyna front.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 6:13 AM

Toretsk:

UPD: A Ukrainian HIMARS strike hit a Russian position in Toretsk after milblogger “Walk and Talk” carelessly revealed the location in a video showing troops inside a hangar.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 5:39 AM

Kremenchuk, Poltava Oblast:

Russia launched a massive drone attack on Kremenchuk, Poltava region, early this morning. Local media report explosions, direct hits, and smoke. Overnight, Russian drones also targeted Mykolaiv, damaging port infrastructure, warehouses, and power lines.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 3:19 AM

Russia hit a Territorial Recruitment Center in Kremenchuk. Third one targeted recently.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 5:04 AM

Leningrad Oblast:

/1. An explosion occurred on the ammonia tanker Eco Wizard at the port of Ust-Luga in Russia’s Leningrad Region: «The incident reportedly took place during ammonia loading operations. As a result of the blasts, the vessel’s hull sustained breaches, allowing significant amounts of seawater to enter.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 7:16 AM

/2. This caused the ship to begin sinking and list to port. The 20-member crew was promptly evacuated to shore, and no injuries have been reported. At this time, the vessel continues to sink.»

— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 7:17 AM

Moscow:

Russia’s aviation agency says 171 flights have been canceled at Sheremetyevo Airport, with 56 more delayed by over two hours. Due to the “Kover” airspace lockdown, five Russian airports are currently not operating flights.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 1:03 PM

Novorossiysk, Krasnodar Oblast:

Reports say drones and uncrewed surface vessels attacked Novorossiysk in Russia’s Krasnodar region overnight.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 2:45 AM

Russian sources claim footage shows a Ukrainian uncrewed surface vessel allegedly destroyed during the attack on Novorossiysk. They also report around 120 Ukrainian drones were shot down.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 2:49 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today. Here is some adjacent material.

This brave guy lives in Chuhuiv, Kharkiv region. He lost part of his paw in a Russian strike some time ago, and yesterday, he was attacked again.

He survived, and somehow, he’s very chill about it. I’m jealous.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 6, 2025 at 8:33 AM

Open thread!

War for Ukraine Day 1,128: The CostPost + Comments (9)

War for Ukraine Day 1,227: A Brief(ish) Saturday Night Update

by Adam L Silverman|  July 5, 20259:01 pm| 9 Comments

This post is in: Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Military, Open Threads, Russia, Silverman on Security, War, War in Ukraine

Russia decided to switch things up a bit and all of Ukraine wound up under air raid alert during the day.

Unexpectedly, during broad daylight, Ukraine is under russian missile attack.

Alert everywhere. Missiles in our airspace.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 10:44 AM

Right now at 2;55 AM local time/7:55 PM EDT, Kharkiv is under threat of ballistic missile attack, as is Sumy.

Here’s last night’s Ukrainian air defense tally:

Fascist Russia has escalated the war so much in the six months since Trump came to the White House that 322 drones (and no missiles) seems like a not very large overnight attack on Ukraine.

So much for “ending the war in a day.”

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:10 AM

Here is President Zelenskyy’s address from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.

show full post on front page

The World Is Helping Ukraine Because It Believes in Ukrainians – And Our People Truly Deserve The World’s Trust – Address by the President

5 July 2025 – 20:57

I wish you good health, fellow Ukrainians!

A brief summary of what we have accomplished during the week with our friends, the friends of Ukraine.

With Denmark, we now have new agreements on coproduction of weapons. An agreement was concluded; it was signed yesterday between Ukraine’s Ministry of Strategic Industries and Denmark’s Ministry of Industry. We will work on Denmark’s territory, and this is our joint project – the first substantial capabilities of our Ukrainian production abroad. And that’s not all. More such agreements will follow. The Danish model of investing in Ukraine’s own DIB here, on our soil, has proven its effectiveness. Joint work on the territory of Denmark, and soon in other key partner countries, is allowing us to scale up even more. This applies to drones and many other types of urgently needed weapons.

As per drones, we have also reached an agreement with the American side to significantly increase our joint efforts. This week, an agreement was signed between Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense and one of the leading U.S. companies. It will provide Ukraine with hundreds of thousands of drones as early as this year, on special terms, and even significantly more drones the following year. This includes interceptor drones, which are clearly our priority.

The task for our entire state, for Ukraine’s Defense Forces, and for all businesses working specifically in this field is to deliver more results literally every week, more results particularly in drones, especially interceptors. This means producing more of such drones, training more drone operators, and significantly increasing efficiency in deploying interceptors. Responsibility for this area of security is personal for everyone involved in making and implementing respective decisions. The interceptors must work.

As for the call with the President of the United States of America, which took place yesterday, I’d say it was probably the best conversation we’ve had so far, extremely fruitful. We discussed air defense among other things. I’m grateful for the readiness to assist. Patriot systems are the key to defending against ballistic threats. We also discussed several other topical issues, which our teams will follow up on in detail at upcoming meetings.

Today, I also received a report from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha, regarding his communications with our European partners. We have a list of clear goals in preparation for the upcoming heating season. There are issues I raised personally with European leaders at the highest political level. Now, at the level of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Energy, and Naftogaz, our agreements are being prepared for implementation. We expect that next week, as part of the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Italy, our government officials will be able to sign the relevant agreements with our partners to secure energy resources for Ukraine. We will continue this work, and I am grateful to all our partners who are consistently helping and ready to scale up their support in the energy sector. Energy resilience is the foundation of our country’s overall resilience.

I also want to praise Sweden today: there is a decision on a new defense support package. Thank you, Sweden! We are actively working with Germany to speed up decisions on air defense. Latvia has also decided to provide a new defense package – thank you for that. And I thank everyone standing with us, and with our nation, with Ukraine, and with our people. I am proud of our people. The world is helping Ukraine because it believes in us, in Ukrainians – and our people truly deserve the world’s trust.

We’re also already preparing new steps that will make Russia truly feel that it will pay for this war. There must be accountability for the aggressor. And there will be – entirely just and keenly felt.

Glory to Ukraine!

Georgia:

#GeorgiaProtests
Day 220

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 12:58 PM

Day 220 of #GeorgiaProtests

Some people filled shopping malls in Tbilisi and Batumi with flyers calling for boycotts of regime businesses.

Economic boycotts and strikes are very new to Georgia but we’ve been through major new stages of civic engagement already, so who knows.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 1:13 PM

It’s regime prisoner Giorgi Mindadze’s birthday.

His mother Nani Tsulaia greets him from beyond the walls of prison.

📷 @mariamnikuradze.bsky.social
#GeorgiaProtests

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 5:06 PM

Wishing a bittersweet 22nd birthday to a medical student sentenced to 5 years in a Georgian prison — for firing a firework that hit no one.

🎥 Mo Se

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 4:24 PM

1/ The GD president Mikheil Kavelashvili offered pardon to imprisoned opposition leaders on condition of participation in municipal elections.

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 2:02 AM

2/ If such a request is submitted, I will immediately issue an act of pardon for the respective convicted individuals” – says Mikheil Kavelashvili.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 2:02 AM

3/ In the past few weeks, 8 opposition leaders were sentenced to 7 or 8 months in prison for not attending the Georgian Dream investigative commission, as they do not recognise the legitimacy of the Georgian Dream parliament.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 2:02 AM

4/ All are expected to remain behind bars during the upcoming local elections scheduled for October 4.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 2:02 AM

“Lelo – Strong Georgia” will participate in the local elections scheduled for October 4. The announcement was made at a briefing held today. 8 opposition political parties are boycotting the elections. Two of Lelo’s leaders have been imprisoned by Georgian Dream.

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 6:01 AM

Another high-ranking Lelo member, Dea Metreveli, quits the party’s Political Council and the position of the Executive Secretary.

Lelo was already alone in participation in the locals. 1/

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 9:44 AM

In addition to other parties and public polls decisively favoring boycott, Lelo had no support by Strong Georgia coalition partners Freedom Square and For the People either (Freedom Square is outright in the boycott camp).

And now the party is seeing resignations too. 2/2.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 9:44 AM

Eventually, it seems like the Georgian scenario of liberation will have a lot in common with the Anti-Apartheid Movement.

If only the regime doesn’t again resort to mass crackdowns that will spiral out of control, of course.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 4:03 PM

Germany:

Germany is engaging in “intensive efforts” to procure Patriots from the US on behalf of Ukraine, a government spokesman said on Friday. Chancellor Merz also spoke by phone with Trump on Thursday as part of this effort, according to a person familiar with the situation. www.ft.com/content/3a1e…

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— Christopher Miller (@christopherjm.ft.com) July 4, 2025 at 11:26 AM

The Financial Times brings some clarification and updates on Germany’s attempts to secure additional Patriot batteries and interceptors for Ukraine.

While the Trump administration is growing more sceptical of sending aid to Ukraine, the country’s European allies have sought to buy weapons for Kyiv. Germany is engaging in “intensive efforts” to procure Patriots from the US on behalf of Ukraine, a government spokesman said on Friday.

German chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has vowed to be a staunch supporter of Kyiv, also spoke by phone with Trump on Thursday as part of this effort, according to a person familiar with the situation.

German defence minister Boris Pistorius plans to travel to Washington this month to lobby his counterpart Pete Hegseth on the issue.

Germany, the second largest supplier of military support to Ukraine after the US, has sent three Patriot systems to Kyiv from its own stocks.

The US:

Former CIA officer Dan Hoffman said on Fox News that the massive strike on Kyiv right after Putin’s call with Trump was no coincidence. Putin wants to show strength. The US must expose his bluff, boost support for Ukraine, increase sanctions, and provide all necessary weapons.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 1:57 PM

Trump says he’s not sure he can end the war in Ukraine, Politico reports.
www.politico.com/news/2025/07…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 11:38 AM

I wonder what was his first clue?

Back to Ukraine.

Monitoring channels explaining in drawings that if you hear the missile that means it’s not headed towards you

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 2:48 PM

On 5 July, Ukrainian forces carried out a strike on the Borisoglebsk airfield in Russia. Reports indicate that a depot with glide bombs, a trainer aircraft, and possibly other aircraft were hit. Our team has conducted a brief analysis of imagery a fire map – here’s what we found:

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:50 AM

2/ NASA’s Fire Information for Resource Management System detected at least three thermal anomalies at the Air Base. While it’s not very precise or comprehensive, the heat sources appear to be located in 2 areas: the central part of the airfield and the logistical section

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:50 AM

3/ While not conclusive, this serves as a credible independent indicator suggesting a possible strike on the logistical area – where Russian forces may have stored ammo, or fuel. The fire in the central part of the airfield appears to be near the Radar Landing System

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:50 AM

4/ Analysis of high-resolution satellite imagery from yesterday, unavailable for publication due to licensing limits, confirms the presence of at least 16 jets and 1 helicopter at the airfield. The actual number is likely higher, but thick fog blocked the observation

— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:50 AM

5/ The lack of visible fire in the main jet storage area suggests a limited number of affected jets. Nonetheless, one smaller section used by jets appears to have been impacted, indicating a possibility of damage. This closely aligns with the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s report

— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:50 AM

6/ This preliminary report aims to establish general facts. A more detailed assessment would require post-strike satellite imagery or verified footage of the strike. Based on current evidence, there is a high likelihood that the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s statement is truthful

— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:50 AM

Thanks for reading! If you found this analysis valuable, please consider liking and sharing the first message in the thread. Don’t forget to follow, so you won’t miss updates

We also appreciate any other ways you choose to support our work:

bsky.app/profile/tata…

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— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:50 AM

Footage shows Ukrainian drones intercepting Russian Shahed-136s in mid-air.

Ukraine will jointly produce drones and weapons with the US and Denmark, including interceptive drones to boost air defense, Zelenskyy says.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 11:56 AM

Chuhuiv, Kharkiv Oblast:

93 firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire caused by a Russian attack on Chuhuiv, in Kharkiv region, last night.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 8:13 AM

In the early hours of July 5th, an attack on Chuhuiv in Kharkiv region resulted in significant damage, Mayor Halyna Minayeva reported.

The attack damaged 12 private homes, 35 dormitory rooms, 3 commercial properties, and 1 educational institution.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 8:09 AM

There is absolutely no military reason for these daily attacks except simple terrorism.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 8:09 AM

Kharkiv:

Kharkiv had a little cosplay fest (which I somehow missed). Wedged between air raid alerts and bombings. A cosplay fest in between bombings! Honestly, these people never cease to amaze me.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 2:34 PM

Explosion in Kharkiv ‼️ our city is under russian drone attack right now ‼️

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 6:12 PM

Second explosion in Kharkiv ‼️
FUCK RUSSIA

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 6:14 PM

More explosions in Kharkiv ‼️ Russian drones again.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 6:57 PM

Explosions nonstop. And more drones are buzzing in the air‼️

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 7:00 PM

There were about 7 explosions in Kharkiv already, and they don’t stop‼️

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 7:06 PM

The attack seems over. There are fires in the city

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 8:05 PM

Russia attacked Kharkiv region with a Shahed drone carrying fragmentation munitions that kept exploding for up to 20 hours. EOD teams say the elements detonated one by one every few hours, with the last going off nearly a day after impact.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 6:09 AM

Kyiv:

Thank you, New York Post.
Typing this message from a metro station — the latest russian Kinzhal attack caught me there on my way to have some Saturday time out.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 10:51 AM

You probably have the impression that I’m currently living in the metro. Well, I have such an impression too, to be honest.

— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 10:53 AM

The Chuvash Republic, Russia:

Ukraine’s Defense Forces have successfully targeted a factory producing components for Shahed drones and Iskander missiles, according to the General Staff 👀

Russian military-industrial complex facility that manufactures “Kometa” adaptive antenna arrays was hit according to report.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 10:00 AM

These critical components are used in Shahed drones, Iskander-K missiles, guided bombs, and other high-precision weaponry that Russia uses to attack Ukrainian cities.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 10:00 AM

Ukrainian drones attacked the VNIIR-Progress military-industrial facility in Cheboksary overnight. The enterprise produces Kometa antennas designed to protect Russian aerial targets from electronic warfare. The regional governor confirmed the UAV strike.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:22 AM

Voronezh Oblast, Russia:

❗️On July 5, Ukrainian Special Operations Forces carried out a strike on the Borisoglebsk airfield in Voronezh region. The airbase hosts Russian Su-34, Su-35S, and Su-30SM.

The attack reportedly hit a stockpile of guided aerial bombs, a combat trainer aircraft, and possibly additional aircraft.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 1:47 AM

Moscow:

Meanwhile, reports say Moscow airports have activated the “Kover” security protocol. Air traffic was suspended due to a possible aerial threat.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 1:19 PM

Lipetsk Oblast, Russia:

Last night, a Russian military convoy caught fire on a highway near Yelets, Lipetsk region, after a collision with an Ozon truck. Seven vehicles burned, including Akhmat trucks and five UAZs. One person was injured, eyewitnesses say.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 3:27 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today. Here is some adjacent material.

Locally famous stray dog got in the bomb shelter and was even provided with a bed

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 2:32 PM

His name is misha

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 5, 2025 at 2:33 PM

Open thread!

War for Ukraine Day 1,227: A Brief(ish) Saturday Night UpdatePost + Comments (9)

War for Ukraine Day 1,226: Russia Targets Kyiv Again

by Adam L Silverman|  July 4, 20259:02 pm| 12 Comments

This post is in: Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Military, Open Threads, Russia, Silverman on Security, War, War in Ukraine

Screen shot of new artwork by NEIVANMADE. The background is black. In the bottom foreground are grey Ukrainian homes and apartment buildings being bombarded by red Russian missiles with the Special Military Operation "Z" symbol on them. Above the missiles, written in red is the word "Ruzzians". Below the buildings being attacked is the statement "Turns Homes Into Graves".

(Image by NEIVANMADE)

Air raid alerts are up for almost all of northern and central Ukraine at 3;20 AM local time/8:20 PM EDT. The focus, as it was last night, seems to be Kyiv, which was hit very hard by the Russians this morning.

My city after the attack

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:51 AM

Putin and the Russians are emboldened to escalate their strikes on Ukrainian civilian targets because the US has very publicly stopped supplying weapons to Ukraine. We now know that this has been done unilaterally by Hegseth despite being informed sending the weapons would not impact US readiness. From The Kyiv Independent:

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unilaterally halted a weapons shipment to Ukraine on July 2 despite internal military assessments showing the aid would not compromise American military readiness, NBC News reported on July 4, citing three U.S. officials.

The pause in aid, which included critical air defense systems and ammunition, reportedly caught the State Department, members of Congress, Ukraine, and key European allies off guard.

Ukraine suffered one of the largest attacks on July 4, with President Volodymyr Zelensky calling for more air defense to protect civilians in the cities. The attack on Kyiv killed one person and injured 23 more.

A senior U.S. military review had concluded that while some munitions stockpiles, including precision weapons, were low, they had not fallen below critical thresholds, according to NBC. Despite this, Hegseth opted to stop the shipment. This is reportedly his third such move since February.

“We are not at any lower point, stockpile-wise, than we’ve been in the three-and-a-half years of the Ukraine conflict,” Congressman Adam Smith the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, said. Smith, who said his staff reviewed the Pentagon’s figures, called the justification “disingenuous.”

The shipment reportedly included dozens of Patriot interceptors, 155 mm artillery rounds, Hellfire missiles, guided missile systems (GMLRS), Stinger and AIM air-to-air missiles, and grenade launchers.

Two sources told NBC that some of the weapons had already been loaded onto trucks in Poland when the halt was ordered.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell described earlier the decision as part of a broader “capability review” to ensure U.S. forces remain equipped.

The halt has initiated debate over the future of U.S. support for Ukraine.

Lawmakers from both parties, including Republican Congressman  Michael McCaul, expressed frustration at the lack of advance notice. “Now is the time to show Putin we mean business,” McCaul wrote on X.

Republican Congressman Joe Wilson also reacted to the halt, warning of its consequences amid Russia’s ongoing strikes.

“As Americans begin to enjoy the sounds of fireworks in celebration of our Nation’s Independence, war criminal (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, who is losing his pathetic war, resorts to scorched earth tactics across Ukrainian cities that predate Moscow’s existence,” Wilson wrote.

Wilson said he is “confident the Department of Defense will advance President Trump’s objectives stated at The Hague to send additional air defense and approved weapons to help stop this absolute depravity, as allies have and must continue doing at a rapid pace.”

Trump has denied that the U.S. paused shipments on July 3, contradicting both Pentagon confirmation and reporting.

“We haven’t,” Trump told a reporter. “We’re giving weapons.” He also claimed the Biden administration had “emptied out our whole country” and insisted Washington must prioritize its own defense.

More at the link.

This is what Hegseth and Colby, the Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, as well as Trump, whether he is in or out of the loop, have wrought:

On the eve of America’s Independence Day, Putin unleashed over 500 drones and dozens of missiles on Kyiv.
A message, perhaps — not to Ukraine, but to Trump and his illusion of influence. To show him: dictators don’t take cues from those who seek their favor.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:25 AM

Just hell

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 3:21 AM

Morning in Kyiv. No sleep. Air quality is extremely bad. City is covered in thick smoke.

This is Russian terror, aimed at people who chose to stay, resist and fight.

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— Maria Avdeeva (@mariainkharkiv.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:31 AM

Map of routes of weapons fired at Ukraine by fascist Russia overnight. Shahed drones circled the Ukrainian capital and then converged to subject Kyiv to a massive bombardment, followed up by a missile attack in the early hours.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:39 AM

550 aerial weapons used against democratic Ukraine by fascist Russia in last night’s massive air attack – that’s a new record, up from 537 used in the Russian attack on June 29. Air alert in Kyiv still on – just got warning on my phone of increased air threat in Kyiv.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:26 AM

Here is President Zelenskyy’s address from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.

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Dozens of Shaheds Were Taken Down Specifically by Interceptor Drones Today; We Are Scaling This Up to the Hilt – Address by the President

4 July 2025 – 19:39

Dear Ukrainians!

A very brief update on today. It was a rocky start to the day, with more than 500 Russian attack drones and missiles. Difficult, but a significant number were shot down. Regrettably, some struck their targets. Interceptor drones demonstrated important performance today. Dozens of Shaheds were taken down specifically by interceptors. We are scaling this up to the hilt: increasing production of such types of drones – the interceptor ones – and expanding training and preparation for our drone operators. The mission is clear.

Today, I also spoke with President Trump. It was an important conversation. We agreed to arrange a meeting between our teams to strengthen air defense capabilities. We had an in-depth discussion about joint production – something both us and the United States need.

Today also marks an important decision in Europe, in Denmark: our first agreement on weapons production for us in Europe, coproduction between Ukraine and Denmark. This is paramount both in terms of security and investment.

Also today, I extended my greetings to our Ukrainian police officers on Ukraine’s National Police Day. I congratulated the guys and presented them with state awards, including the titles of Hero of Ukraine for four officers – sadly, one of them posthumously. Police units, alongside all our Defense Forces, are fighting on the frontlines.

And today, there was also another exchange. Our warriors returned home from Russian captivity. We are preparing further exchanges.

I thank everyone who is helping us!

Glory to Ukraine!

President Zelenskyy also spoke with Trump today. Here’s the Ukrainian side’s readout:

President of Ukraine Holds Phone Call with President of the United States

4 July 2025 – 17:39

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone call with President of the United States of America Donald Trump.

The Head of State congratulated the U.S. President and the entire American people on the U.S. Independence Day and expressed gratitude for all the assistance provided to Ukraine, which helps safeguard the country’s independence and save lives.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump discussed Russian strikes on civilians, including the consequences of the massive attack last night, during which the number of drones alone reached 539. Detailed attention was given to the frontline developments. The U.S. President is well-informed about the situation and fully understands what is happening.

The Head of State emphasized Ukraine’s need to strengthen air defense to protect Ukrainians and save lives. The leaders discussed additional practical enhancements to air defense and agreed to work on increasing the protection of Ukrainian skies, as well as holding a corresponding meeting between Ukrainian and American teams in the near future.

The Presidents paid special attention to the capabilities of Ukraine’s defense industry and prospects for joint production. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine is ready for direct projects with the U.S., primarily regarding drones and related technologies. The leaders also touched on mutual procurement and investment.

The Presidents exchanged views on diplomatic efforts and the joint work of Ukraine with the United States and other partners. The Ukrainian leader once again confirmed Ukraine’s support for American proposals aimed at restoring a sustainable and dignified peace.

Trump told Zelensky he wants to help with Ukraine’s air defense and said he’d check whether any U.S. military aid had been halted — Axios reports. He also said he was aware of recent Russian escalation, including airstrikes and increased activity on the front line.
www.axios.com/2025/07/04/t…

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 11:27 AM

From Axios:

President Trump told Ukrainian President Zelensky in a call on Friday that the U.S. wants to help Ukraine with air defense, due to escalating Russian attacks, a Ukrainian official and a source with knowledge of the call said.

Why it matters: Earlier this week the Pentagon paused a weapons shipment, including air defense interceptors and ammunition, to Ukraine’s army.

  • The decision caught Ukraine and many Trump administration officials surprise.

Behind the scenes: The two sources said the call between Trump and Zelensky lasted around 40 minutes, with a major focus on Ukraine’s air defense needs.

  • One source said Trump was aware of the recent Russia escalation, including both air strikes on Ukrainian cities and on the frontline.
  • “Trump said he wants to help with air defense and that he will check what was put on hold if anything,” the source said.
  • The Ukrainian official said Trump and Zelensky agreed that teams from the U.S. and Ukraine soon will meet to discuss air defense and other weapons supplies.
  • The White House didn’t respond to a request for comment.

What they are saying: Zelensky wrote on X that he spoke to Trump about “opportunities in air defense” and that they “agreed that we will work together to strengthen protection of our skies.”

  • “We – in Ukraine – are grateful for all the support provided. It helps us protect lives, safeguard our freedom and independence. We have achieved a lot together with America and we support all efforts to stop the killings and restore just, lasting, and dignified peace. A noble agreement for peace is needed,” Zelensky wrote.

More at the link.

Georgia:

🇬🇪🇺🇸 A massive rally in Georgia today to mark the 4th of July — once again, we thank the US, our longtime ally, for standing with the Georgian people. We hope to see the MEGOBARI Act pass in Congress soon.

Day 219 of daily protests in Georgia ✊

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:07 PM

The 🇺🇸 Independence Day celebration by the Georgian protesters! 🇬🇪

God Bless America!

We hope in our friendship for freedom!

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:02 PM

🇺🇸 Happy 4th of July to our American friends!

🇬🇪 Today, Georgians gathered in a massive rally to say thank you — and to show how much we hope the MEGOBARI Act becomes law soon.

The people are ready for deeper US-Georgia ties. The regime is not.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:08 PM

Sanctions hit differently in small countries like Georgia. Elites don’t hide behind massive economies — their money, homes, kids, and passports are all in the West.

That’s why the MEGOBARI Act in US Congress matters.

📷 From today’s massive July 4 rally.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:18 PM

Former Minister of Defense Irakli Okruashvili has been sentenced to 8 months for non-cooperation with the “Parliamentary Commission” that “investigates crimes of the UNM rule.”

Okruashvili fought in the Battle of Kyiv. 1/2

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 7:07 AM

Just like others, his sentence will be prolonged. They have already dug up an incident in which he verbally abused his neighbour two years ago. 2/2.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 7:07 AM

🧵1/ At yesterday’s hearing in Saba Jikia’s case, the court heard the defence’s closing statement.

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— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM

2/ The defendant is also expected to address the court with a final statement. The hearing was postponed to July 10. The verdict is likely to be announced at that day as well.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM

3/ After the hearing, a letter from the detained protester, who turned 19 in jail a few days ago, was released:

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM

4/ “This 19th birthday was the coolest one yet, I turned 19 in jail as a political prisoner. I’m gonna be that cool uncle with wild stories. I’ll do everything I can not to let you down. I’m sorry I can’t do more”. – Saba writes.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM

5/ Saba Jikia is accused of assaulting a police officer during a pro-European protest. According to the prosecution, he allegedly kicked a riot police officer who had fallen to the ground.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM

6/ The officer identified as the victim, Beqa Gotiashvili, stated that he was knocked down and kicked during the protest, but did not sustain any injuries.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM

7/ Jikia was 18 at the time of his arrest and turned 19 while in detention.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM

8/ Illustration: Nika Khabelashvili.

Since photography and videography were banned in court, illustrations are the only solution.

— Publika.ge (@publikage.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM

So, a 28-year-old Georgian comedian faces six years in jail for throwing a water bottle and not hitting anyone, and in the video evidence presented against him in court, special forces are shouting “kill them!”

Hundreds were hospitalized during crackdowns. Zero officers punished.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 9:24 AM

⬛️On June 26, Gela Tskhadadze, Onise’s father, passed away. His elder son learned about the tragedy while attending Onise’s court hearing.

Three prisoners of conscience have lost a parent while in detention.
Onise Tskhadadze faces 4 to 6 years imprisonment.
#GeorgiaProtests

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 4, 2025 at 6:34 AM

Internal dissent and targeted Western sanctions build up pressure for corrupt judges in Georgia. Lately, their salaries tripled and media coverage of court proceedings were banned. All to make them feel more comfortable at doing their dirty job.

More sanctions needed!

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 7:34 AM

⭕️ #Batumi City Court, hearing on Mzia Amaglobeli’s case: the defense requested to submit as evidence a request to question GD MP Nino Tsilosani and a video where she accuses Amaglobeli of slapping the police chief “on orders, for money, as a hired (agent), and as part of agentic activity.”
#FreeMzia

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 4, 2025 at 6:51 AM

⭕️On July 4, the Batumi City Court is holding a hearing in the criminal case against Mzia Amaglobeli – journalist, CEO and co-founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti.

Today, the defense witness being questioned is @eturadze.bsky.social, editor-in-chief of Batumelebi.
#RepressionInGeorgia

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 4, 2025 at 8:36 AM

🔻 Sketches from today’s court hearing of Mzia Amaglobeli – Mzia Amaglobeli – journalist, CEO and co-founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti.

✍️ Illustrator: Ana Janelidze

#RepressionInGeorgia
#MediaUnderAttack
#FreeMzia

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 4, 2025 at 11:27 AM

📢Georgian Dream-appointed president, Mikheil Kavelashvili, is promising pardons to imprisoned politicians – but under one condition:

‼️He wants opposition parties to agree to participate in the upcoming local elections.
#RepressionInGeorgia
#GeorgiaProtests

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 4, 2025 at 12:25 PM

It’s not just a political change that’s happening in Georgia. It’s a complete mental liberation struggle from post-colonial & post-Soviet prisms of thought. It’s a new social contract in the making. 1/2

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM

The Georgian Dream is a collective face of filth accumulated in Georgian society over centuries.

And, as great Georgian thinker Levan Ghambashidze said, the Georgian culture will vomit the GD out. 2/2.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM

Back to Ukraine.

Kyiv is burning. Trump is apparently discovering that “Putin doesn’t look like he wants to end the war.” New drones have already been launched at Ukraine as we still fighting fires from last night.

Please, I can’t make sense of this world.

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 8:41 AM

Ukrainian FM Andriy Sybiha called last night’s Russian strike on Kyiv one of the worst and said Putin deliberately launched it after Trump’s call.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 3:22 AM

Entire day, I feel so incredibly exhausted and shattered — and all I did last night was shelter.

Now think about the air defenders. The soldiers in the trenches. The first responders on the scene.

They don’t sleep and don’t stop.
They carry our survival on their shoulders. Every single day…

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 10:31 AM

It’s a tragedy that the coalition of tyrannies — China, North Korea, Iran — is far more committed to helping russia destroy Ukraine than the coalition of democracies is to supporting Ukraine’s survival. As if their own security didn’t depend directly on it. History teaches people nothing.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 4:49 AM

Our people are home!

New prisoners of war exchange! Welcome home, heroes!

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 6:52 AM

Ukrainian drones on their way into fascist Russia tonight. Map from t.me/dronbomber

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:16 PM

Ukrainian drone update.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 5:13 PM

Chuhuiv, Kharkiv Oblast:

Chuhuiv in Kharkiv Oblast is on fire following russian drone strikes!

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 4:36 PM

Kupyansk, Kharkiv Oblast:

One killed and three injured in russian shelling in Kupiansk, Kharkiv region.

A 52-year-old local woman was killed. 56-year-old man and two women aged 66 and 56 were wounded.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:29 PM

Kyiv:

The moment one of the russian drones strikes the building in Kyiv tonight was captured on video🤯‼️

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 12:09 PM

Unfortunately, tonight’s Russian attack on Kyiv was not without fatalities. One person was found dead near one of the impact sites.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 9:01 AM

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said that Poland’s consulate in Kyiv was damaged during Russia’s overnight attack on the city.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 5:30 AM

Kyiv, after being terrorized all night.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 7:12 AM

Families with small children are hiding in basements and metro stations. Russia is trying to get them even there

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:32 PM

Kyiv right now.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:32 PM

Hearing lots of helicopters overhead this morning – a very unusual sound here in wartime Kyiv – following massive air raid by fascist Russia on the Ukrainian capital overnight. Likely it’s these fire-fighting helicopters, helping to douse the numerous fires around the city caused by the attack.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:10 AM

Night of terror continues into morning: Just 15 minutes after the all clear sounds, an air raid alert again in Kyiv.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 10:10 PM

The SBU found Chinese-made components in Russian Geran drones used in the July 4 attack on Kyiv. The parts were marked as produced by Suzhou Ecod Precision Manufacturing in Jiangsu, China. The SBU is investigating the strike as a war crime and gathering evidence.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 9:37 AM

Kryvyi Rih:

Russian glide bombs struck Kryvyi Rih, likely using a Hrom-1 missile. The attack hit civilian infrastructure, sparked a large fire, and injured three people. Power outages were also reported in the city following the combined strike.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 5:27 AM

Belgorod Oblast, Russia:

Chemical plant on fire after drone attack in Belgorod region of russia.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 1:32 PM

More footage from the site of a Ukrainian drone strike on the Selena chemical reagents plant in Shebekino, Belgorod region, Russia.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 10:39 AM

Moscow Oblast:

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports a strike on a facility in Sergiyev Posad, Moscow region, involved in producing thermobaric warheads for Shahed drones. The attack aimed to reduce Russia’s ability to carry out air strikes.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 5:21 AM

Moscow:

This morning, Andrey Badalov, Vice President of the Russian state-owned company Transneft, fell from the window of his apartment on Rublyovskoye Highway in Moscow and died. Transneft is the country’s largest operator of oil transportation infrastructure.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 2:52 AM

Ukraine launched overnight drone strikes on Russia, hitting an electrical substation near Moscow and the Azov Optical-Mechanical Plant in Rostov, which produces key components for Russian tanks, ships, and aircraft. Explosions were also heard in Udmurtia; 2,000 homes lost power.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 4, 2025 at 3:44 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

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Open thread!

War for Ukraine Day 1,226: Russia Targets Kyiv AgainPost + Comments (12)

War for Ukraine Day 1,225: Another Long Night of Russian Ballistic Missile and Drone Strikes on Ukrainian Civilian Targets

by Adam L Silverman|  July 3, 202510:14 pm| 26 Comments

This post is in: China, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Military, Open Threads, Russia, Silverman on Security, War, War in Ukraine

Painting by NEIVANMADE. It has a white background an in the center are Soldiers in green doing air defense by firing at incoming Russian missiles in the upper right. The missiles are red and yellow. In the upper left, written in green, is the text: "SAVE THE BRAVEST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD!" Below the Soldiers, also written in green, is "SUPPORT FOR KHARKIV"

(Image by NEIVANMADE)

The cost:

Our dear Plast friend, Roman “Orlyk” Oryshchenko, officer, commander of a company in the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade “Chorni Zaporozhtsi” has fallen in action. He was always so positive, bright and determined, ready to share his experience and mentor others. This is such a tragic loss.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:36 AM

At 3;50 AM local time in Ukraine/8:50 PM EDT, about 2/3rds of Ukraine is under air raid alert for ballistic missile and drone strikes.

Kyiv right now ‼️

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:11 PM

Families with small children are hiding in basements and metro stations. Russia is trying to get them even there

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:32 PM

Kyiv right now.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:32 PM

It’s only 1am and it’s already easily top 5 of the worst nighttime air attacks

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:20 PM

Explosions just don’t stop and the sky is red and my heart starts skipping beats and I don’t fucking know anymore

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:22 PM

This has been going on for at least the past seven hours:

As more Russian Shaheds make it to Kyiv and air defense shakes the night ahead of a possible missile attack, I can’t stop thinking: there was a choice. Give Ukraine what it needs to stop this. Instead, they’re twisting Ukraine’s arm and emboldening Russia.

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— Maria Avdeeva (@mariainkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 2:58 PM

President Zelenskyy surprised a young Danish man today:

President #Zelenskyy awarded Jens Fogh Thomsen, an 11-year-old from #Denmark, the Future of #Ukraine Award for his volunteer efforts.

Jens raised over 34,000 Danish kroner by selling handmade Easter decorations to buy school supplies for Ukrainian children affected by the war.

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— Eugene McParland 🇺🇦 (@eugenemcparland.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 11:41 AM

Volodymyr Zelenskyy Presents “Future of Ukraine” Award to 11-Year-Old Danish Volunteer Jens Fogh Thomsen

3 July 2025 – 18:12

In Denmark, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented the “Future of Ukraine” award to 11-year-old volunteer Jens Fogh Thomsen for supporting Ukrainian children.

“I am deeply grateful to you on behalf of all our people – especially the children of Ukraine. You know that they are now under Russian attacks and trying to survive. After all, they love Ukraine, and they have friends like you. You are a great friend of Ukraine. Thank you for the backpacks, for raising funds to help Ukrainian children. All our children are proud to have such friends from Denmark. We would be happy to welcome you and your parents to Ukraine,” the Head of State said.

Jens began helping Ukraine last year after seeing news reports about Ukrainian children who had lost their homes due to Russian aggression. Since then, he has been handcrafting Easter decorations – blue and yellow beaded chicks. Through their sale, Jens has raised over 34,000 Danish kroner, which he used to purchase school backpacks and supplies for Ukrainian children affected by the war.

The “Future of Ukraine” award is a new presidential distinction established by President Zelenskyy by decree on May 29 of this year. The very next day, he issued the first decree awarding 24 children. Jens Fogh Thomsen became the first foreigner to receive this award.

Here is President Zelenskyy’s address to the gala dinner of the EU Council from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.

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President’s Address to the Participants of the Gala Dinner Marking the Start of Denmark’s Presidency of the EU Council

3 July 2025 – 22:36

Thank you very much!

Your Majesties, thank you so much! 

And dear Mette, my friend, thank you so much for the invitation to such a beautiful city!

Such a strong people – thank you for your support! Thanks!

And, of course, dear Ursula, dear António, all our friends, colleagues!

Once again, congratulations to Denmark – our close friend – and to you personally, Mette, along with your team, as Denmark begins its Presidency of the EU Council. We can be confident – this will be a time of strong and principled decisions. And that means – a time of predictability. Predictability has become a rare thing these days. But Denmark is the country that leaves no room for doubt. It’s a country, and a people, we can rely on. Denmark brings a sense of predictability. You keep your promises, and together we achieve meaningful results. Thank you for that. And I also want to thank our friends leading the EU institutions – António and Ursula. Even on such symbolic days like the start of the Presidency, we don’t stop at symbolism – we make real decisions. It’s important. We talked about how important it is to close the gaps in defense funding. We’re working to get real results from our joint defense programs. And we’re getting things ready so the EU can keep its promises. Ukraine is ready – ready to open the accession clusters, ready to move forward with the negotiations, and ready for decisions that benefit both sides. Thank you for your support.

Ladies and gentlemen,

We in Ukraine created a special national award – for children. I told this story today to Mette. It’s for boys and girls who have shown bravery during Russian attacks, or helped in other dangerous situations, volunteered, or shown civic leadership. The award is called “The Future of Ukraine,” and truly our future depends on whether we can raise children who care, who are not indifferent to others, who are willing to help. As this visit began, I had the honor of presenting this award to a boy who lives here in Denmark. He’s a Danish citizen. His name is Jens, and he’s just 11 years old – like my son. He’s 11, but his kindness and care have already made a difference – and inspired many adults. Jens made Easter crafts in blue and yellow – Ukraine’s national colors – sold them, and bought backpacks to send to Ukrainian children who need – really need – help. It was deeply moving. But if you think about it, this was also deeply political: wanting to help, to support others, to not stay on the sidelines in a time of war – that’s a powerful message in itself. And this is exactly the kind of message that lies at the heart of the European Union, at the heart of our unity.

We are united. And we work together. And our Europe needs the EU – for mutual support, for shared protection, and for the very values shown by Jens, by you, and by millions of Europeans every day: compassion, sincerity, and the will to help someone in need – even if that person is far from your home. And we must not forget this. All our European institutions, all our agreements, all our cooperation and joint work for security – it’s all built around this idea – that Europeans care for one another and act like human beings in the fullest sense of the word.

This is why we need the European Union.

And this is why we must defend Europe – not only from outside enemies, but also from those inside who try to replace solidarity with division, and compassion with a cold disregard for anyone but themselves.

Dear friends,

The next 6 months of Denmark’s EU Presidency will go by fast – time always flies. The most important thing is that we achieve what we all truly want.

First, we need to protect the EU from those who are trying to break it apart – often for personal and corrupt reasons. The EU must stay strong, because it gives strength to every European nation in global competition. And the EU must keep its promises – especially when it comes to enlargement. And I hope that during Denmark’s Presidency, the EU accession negotiations with Ukraine will move forward, and the clusters will finally be opened.

Second, we all understand that Russia is not just some dangerous neighbor, that much is obvious. It’s something more deliberate – an anti-European project. Everyone in Europe can clearly see this – Russia invests in everything that goes against our European way of life. That’s why we must not let them win – not in this war, and not in any part of our future. We need biting sanctions against Russia. We need steady defense support for Ukraine. We need to build up Europe’s own defense industry – so that Russia cannot outmatch us in any area. All of this is vital for keeping Europe safe. And we have to keep putting pressure on Russia – to make them stop the war, respect their neighbors, and choose peace. As long as Russia gets a high price for its oil – it keeps fighting. That’s why we need a strict price cap. As long as Russia finds ways to buy parts and equipment for weapons – it keeps killing. That’s why we need a full stop to all supplies to Russia of anything that is – or could be – used for making weapons. It is high time we established an efficient international platform to control dual-use exports – and it could be one of achievements of the Danish Presidency, we can work on it together. And we need to cut off Putin and his buddies from money. As long as Russian banks can still operate in Europe and other key parts of the world – Russia keeps ignoring diplomacy. We must push it back toward diplomacy.

Third – even if it’s not easy – we must do everything we can to keep cooperation between Europe and the United States strong. Yes, Europe should rely more on itself – especially when it comes to defense and protecting our people. But it’s always better to be in an alliance than in disagreement. So the next 6 months should bring real progress – to protect our partnerships and make our cooperation stronger.

No matter what anyone says, Europe is and will stay one of the world’s strongest players and a leader in human rights. Europe must also become a global leader in technology – especially in defense technologies. That’s a key goal. And most importantly, Europe must be a continent of peace. Let’s use the next 6 months to make the right decisions – especially for that.

Thank you!

Glory to Ukraine!

Here’s his joint presser with a bunch of EU officials:

And remarks about a joint venture with the US to produce drones:

Georgia:

Marching through Tbilisi streets on day 218 of daily, nationwide protests in Georgia. 🇬🇪

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 11:10 AM

This potentially very important development is happening at the moment in Tbilisi👇🏻

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 11:43 AM

🔴 21-year-old Giorgi Mindadze has been sentenced to 5 years in prison by Judge Nino Galustashvili.

⭕️He was convicted of “attacking a police officer”.

#GeorgiaProtests
#RepressionInGeorgia

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— Batumelebi&Netgazeti (@netgazeti.org) July 3, 2025 at 8:52 AM

Nani Tsulaia, the mother of 21-year-old regime prisoner Giorgi Mindadze who was sentenced to 5 years today.

She calmed people and call for resourcefulness, believing in our victory.

A true Georgian lady, the one we learn in school from history and legends.

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 10:37 AM

‪And it’s her birthday too… ‬

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 1:10 PM

The Georgian Dream’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze reiterates that the democratic leaders are in jail for not recognizing the legitimacy of the Parliament.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 4:36 PM

The PRC:

China’s foreign minister tells EU that Beijing cannot afford Russia to lose in Ukraine, media reports #Ukraine

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— AmplifyUkraine 🔱🇺🇦 (@amplifyukraine.eu) July 3, 2025 at 7:09 PM

From The Kyiv Independent:

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi reportedly told the EU’s top diplomat Kaja Kallas on July 3 that the country cannot afford for Russia to lose the war in Ukraine amid fears the U.S. would shift focus towards Beijing, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported, citing sources familiar with the conversation.

As the war in Ukraine drags on, Wang’s reported comments suggest that Russia’s war in Ukraine may serve China’s strategic needs as focus is deviated away from Beijing’s mounting preparation to launch its own eventual invasion into Taiwan.

China has been a key ally to Russia during its full-scale war, helping Moscow evade Western sanctions and becoming the leading source of dual-use goods fueling the Russian defense industry.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who has not managed to broker a promised ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv, has long viewed China as the United States’ main adversary and is predominantly focused on relations between the two nations.

In June, Bloomberg reportedTrump is pulling back from pressuring China over its support for Russia’s war effort, instead prioritizing other aspects of the U.S.-China relationship. The publication reported that the administration lowered the issue of Russia’s war against Ukraine on its list of foreign policy priorities and is focusing on bilateral issues with Beijing, though they noted Trump could still shift course.

The frankness of Wang’s reported admission was greeted with surprise by EU official, according to Hong Kong-based SCMP, amid China’s past public statements in favor of a peace deal. Two sources familiar with the meeting told SCMP that they believed Wang was providing Kallas with a lesson in realpolitik during the four-hour encounter.

Wang on July 3 again reportedly rejected Western accusations that it was providing funding and weaponry to support Moscow’s war effort in Ukraine.

Wang’s comments come amid waning support from Kyiv’s main military backer, the United States. On July 1, the U.S. Defense Department paused shipments of key weapons systems to Ukraine, including Patriot air defense missiles and precision-guided munitions.

I’m really not sure what to make of this. At one level, sure it makes some strategic sense from the PRC’s perspective, but at the same time it clearly misreads Trump who could care less what happens to Ukraine and the Ukrainians. Frankly, I’m not completely unconvinced that Trump doesn’t want to see Putin win because he’s a AA authoritarian. Which is an authoritarian that punches down on those weaker than him while sucking up to those more powerful like Putin and Xi.

This type of statement also goes against everything I know about how Chinese officials communicate. Senior Chinese officials DO NOT make direct statements like this. Some of this is cultural as China is a high context communication culture, but some of it is also how PRC officials strategically communicate. If direct statements need to be made, they’re made by junior personnel, which makes them very easy to disavow or ignore.

The US:

“We had a call [with Putin]… we spoke about Ukraine, and im not happy about that… we didn’t make any progress…”

So?? Push! Make him listen, for goddess’s sake, you have all the cards!

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 5:49 PM

Who could’ve ever imagined such a thing?

From France24 republished by Yahoo News:

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday told his US counterpart Donald Trump that Moscow would not give up on its war aims in Ukraine during a lengthy phone call – their sixth publicly disclosed chat this year – that also touched on Iran and the Middle East.

Russian President Vladimir Putin told US President Donald Trump in a phone call on Thursday that Moscow wants a negotiated end to the Ukraine war but will not step back from its original goals, a Kremlin aide said.

In a wide-ranging conversation that also covered Iran and the Middle East, Trump “again raised the issue of an early end to military action” in Ukraine, the aide, Yuri Ushakov, told reporters.

“Vladimir Putin, for his part, noted that we continue to seek a political and negotiated solution to the conflict,” Ushakov said.

Putin briefed Trump on the implementation of agreements reached between Russia and Ukraine last month to exchange prisoners-of-war and dead soldiers, Ushakov said, and told him that Moscow was ready to continue negotiations with Kyiv.

(FRANCE 24 with Reuters)

Here’s the confirmation of the US cutting Ukraine off:

Per reporting by my colleague @olliecarroll.bsky.social, US has cancelled 8,000-ish 155mm shells for Ukraine. That is 20% of current MONTHLY production. How that would have materially affected US readiness is hard to see. That’s before getting onto 25 Stingers & 92 AIM-7, which are being phased out

— Shashank Joshi (@shashj.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:17 AM

President Zelenskyy is going to talk to Trump about this tomorrow:

Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy are expected to discuss the abrupt halt in some key US weapons deliveries to Kyiv in a call on Friday, according to people familiar with the planning, who said the Ukrainian president will also raise potential future arms sales.
www.ft.com/content/edac…

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— Christopher Miller (@christopherjm.ft.com) July 3, 2025 at 6:36 AM

I would not expect a reversal of the US decision.

Germany:

BILD reports, citing government circles, that the German government is currently trying to obtain approval from the US government for the procurement of two MIM-104 Patriot fire units, which Germany would finance for #Ukraine.

1/2

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— German Aid to Ukraine (@deaidua.org) July 3, 2025 at 1:14 PM

According to BILD information, the Ukrainian government had approached the German government with the request because they could not make any progress in the US themselves.

2/2

— German Aid to Ukraine (@deaidua.org) July 3, 2025 at 1:14 PM

Via X (Twitter), one of the co-authors also makes it clear that the deal proposed by the German government also involves hundreds of missiles, which are also to be purchased at the German government’s expense for Ukraine.

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— German Aid to Ukraine (@deaidua.org) July 3, 2025 at 5:41 PM

I am neither surprised by this, nor am I surprised that the Trump administration put the breaks on once it sussed out this purchase was by Germany on behalf of Ukraine. Again, my professional assessment is that Trump falls somewhere between not caring what happens to Ukraine to actively wanting Putin to win.

Sweden:

Sweden to provide Ukraine with over 10 new Archer artillery guns, long-range strike weapons #Ukraine

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— AmplifyUkraine 🔱🇺🇦 (@amplifyukraine.eu) July 3, 2025 at 8:54 AM

Back to Ukraine.

Ukraine has developed a multifunctional UAV called “POP Fly,” which serves as an analogue to the Switchblade.

The reconnaissance version has a range of 100–120 km, while the strike version ranges from 50–100 km depending on the warhead (2.5–5 kg).
militarnyi.com/uk/news/ukra…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 10:27 AM

Kyiv:

Russia’s air attack is ongoing. It’s been hours of air defense fire, explosions and the whirring of Russian drones in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv. Trump said he “didn’t make any progress with [Putin] today at all” — and that is apparent as much as ever now.

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— Christopher Miller (@christopherjm.ft.com) July 3, 2025 at 7:03 PM

At least six huge, building-shaking explosions in Kyiv just after the Ukrainian Air Force warned of incoming Russian ballistic missiles. Hell here tonight. Putin must absolutely feel he can attack with impunity. He just spoke to Trump by phone hours ago.

— Christopher Miller (@christopherjm.ft.com) July 3, 2025 at 8:18 PM

And the Trump admin halted air defense missiles this week. No threat of new sanctions because, to paraphrase Secretary of State Rubio, it would close the door to negotiations. Well, Putin reiterated earlier he wasn’t negotiating; he said he would continue to wage his war. He is proving that tonight.

— Christopher Miller (@christopherjm.ft.com) July 3, 2025 at 8:18 PM

Reports that eight ballistic missiles were just fired by Russia at Kyiv – I heard six airbursts, which were probably interceptions. Threat now of more ballistic missile launches from Russia’s Voronezh Oblast.

— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 7:40 PM

Reports that eight ballistic missiles were just fired by Russia at Kyiv – I heard six airbursts, which were probably interceptions. Threat now of more ballistic missile launches from Russia’s Voronezh Oblast.

— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 7:40 PM

Another big bang in Kyiv, and another. Blast waves set off car alarms and even wafted my dressing gown…

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 8:02 PM

Russian/Iranian drones swarming around Kyiv just now – never known it so bad. They seem to be circling around the city and then coming in to attack.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:06 PM

Just heard a drone come in for a dive, then an explosion – not too close but it doesn’t seem it was shot down.

— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:08 PM

Another sound of a diving drone – the Russians have attached sirens to them to instill terror like Stuka dive bombers – and an explosion. Not close, but not far enough! More anti-aircraft gunfire – Kyiv’s defenders hard at work. Another siren, and another blast.

— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:20 PM

Hearing this sound VERY regularly here in Kyiv tonight.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:33 PM

Hearing so many of these dive-bomb attacks I’ve lost count. What I’m not hearing so much of is anti-aircraft fire, unfortunately.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 7:03 PM

Poltava:

Two people reported dead and at least 11 injured in russian drone attack on Poltava this morning.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 6:41 AM

Poltava: Emergency teams have concluded rescue efforts at the sites of this morning’s Russian attack.

The enemy strike killed 2, injured 47, while emergency workers successfully rescued 10 people.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 10:04 AM

Poltava earlier this morning. Three russian drones strike one after another.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 3:05 AM

Donetsk:

Over the past 24 hours, six people were killed and 12 injured in russian attacks across Donetsk Oblast. 82 civilian sites were damaged, including 24 homes.

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 3:16 AM

Russian occupied Luhansk:

Russian sources write that the mayor of Lugansk appointed by the Russians was blown up. The explosion occurred on Tarasa Shevchenko Street in Luhansk.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 8:26 AM

/2. Video from the place where the Russian-appointed mayor of Lugansk was reportedly blown up.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 8:28 AM

/3. Manolis Vasilyevich Pilavov Luhansk mayor from 2014 to 2023. He was charged by the SBU Investigation Department in the Luhansk region under Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine for participation in an illegal armed formation.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 8:48 AM

Russian occupied Crimea:

Launched from uncrewed surface vehicles, FPV drones and copters with payload drop capabilities destroyed three Russian radar stations in Crimea, as stated by Ukraine’s Southern Defense Forces.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:55 AM

💥Ukrainian heavy drones launched from the marine drones bombard Russian radar systems in Crimea!

Strikes were carried out on the components of the Russian “Nebo-M” radar system:
• RLM-M 55Zh6M “Nebo-M”
• RLM-D 55Zh6M “Nebo-M”
• Radar Command Post (KU RLS) 55Zh6M “Nebo-M”

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:38 AM

/2. One of the heavy drones launched from an unmanned marine platform found by Russians in Crimea. After takeoff, the drones go on a one-way mission and do not return. According to Russians, drones also self-destruct approximately 15 minutes after falling.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:46 AM

/3. Location in Crimea where components of the Russian Nebo-M radar system were targeted (45.3474031, 32.4985225)

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:53 AM

The Kursk cross border offensive:

Russian media confirm the death of Guard Major General, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, former commander of the 155th Brigade of the Russian Armed Forces Mikhail Gudkov, as well as his close comrade, Russian Navy officer Lieutenant Colonel Nariman Shikhaliyev.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 5:55 AM

/2. As its now claimed by Russian sources, 4 HIMARS missiles were fired at the Russian base in Korenevo, Kursk Region. Various Russian sources report from 10 to more than 20 Russians killed in the attack, many of whom were officers.

— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 5:55 AM

Yelets, Russia:

Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed a successful strike on JSC “Energia” in Yelets, Russia. The facility produces batteries and modules for Iskander-M missiles, Kh-35U cruise missiles, and other specialized systems.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 3, 2025 at 9:34 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today. Here is some adjacent material.

Open thread!

War for Ukraine Day 1,225: Another Long Night of Russian Ballistic Missile and Drone Strikes on Ukrainian Civilian TargetsPost + Comments (26)

War for Ukraine Day 1,224: Make It Hot!

by Adam L Silverman|  July 2, 202510:44 pm| 23 Comments

This post is in: Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Military, Open Threads, Russia, Silverman on Security, War, War in Ukraine

The Ukrainians have fired for effect!

Ammunition depot in Russian-occupied Khartsyzsk in Donetsk Oblast reported to have been struck. Huge explosion with visible shock wave caught on video, along with colorful Russian swearing. Fire and many secondary explosions reported. There was a missile alert before the strike.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 4:26 PM

More from Khartsyzk

It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve seen all day 😍

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 5:55 PM

Russians are a bit panicking👀

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 6:13 PM

Nope not a low(er) yield nuke used for tactical effect, just a great example of what happens when you get the right weaponeering for the target you want to blow up real good.

Last night Old School asked:

The first, as I’ve hammered over and over and over again for the past three years is that the US defense industrial base has not been put on a war footing.

Forgive my ignorance, but I’m not sure what that involves.  I guess I’ve assumed that a defense contractor knows they’ll get millions of dollars more by producing more weapons then the business would make arrangements for that to happen.

Do contractors really not generate as much profits as possible unless asked?  (Ordered?). (Again, I’m unclear as to what the government would actually be doing.)

It would have meant the Biden administration seeking and getting a significant increase in defense budgeting and appropriations to rapidly increase the production of weapons systems, weapons, munitions, ammunitions, and other defense material like armored vehicles. Some of this would’ve been done by Biden invoking the Defense Production Act and authorize activities under it. Which lots of us were doing everything from asking to begging to screaming for him and his natsec team to do. While companies that work in the defense and intelligence sector, like all other companies, seek to maximize profit and shareholder returns, they can’t just do things, such as hire more personnel to make munitions, expand production lines, buy raw materials, etc unless they are contracted to do so. The government, which is the client, has to provide the company with the requirement and the requirement also has to be funded. Just because Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Northrup Grumman, etc have an existing contract to make Patriots or Strykers or Bradleys or M4s or M2s (MA DUECE!!!!) or 155 mm shells or NATO spec 5.56 ammo or to source any of this stuff, does not mean they can just start hiring, buying, building, and/or producing. When you combine this with the fact that Congress works on an annual budget and appropriations cycle and much of what I’ve just described needs year on year certainty and you get another complication. Remember since, 2013 or so, the US government has been working under the one of the stupidest budgetary agreements every made – the Sequester/Budget Control Act – combined with how Trump and the GOP do budgeting and appropriations with a detour through COVID and the Biden administration with two years of Democratic control of the House and Senate. Which is why I kept insisting in post after post during the first two years of the Biden administration that he and his natsec team leveraging those Democratic majorities to expand production, ship everything that wasn’t nailed down up to the threshold that would leave us unable to fight if we had to, and just go with full on militarized Keynesianism.

He and his team didn’t. One of the major players in that decision was this guy:

Please just sh**t me already

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 5:35 PM

The reason we’re at the point where a transactional, mercurial, vindictive Trump and the genteel isolationist senior nat-sec professionals his personnel people put into place can turn off the supply pipeline is that even when Biden was still president and Sullivan was his National Security Advisor, the Biden administration didn’t actually send everything Congress had authorized before they ran out of time on 20 January 2025. Sullivan should be driven from both polite and impolite society. He’s a galactic failure as a national security professional. He doesn’t deserve the sinecures he’s got. Frankly, he should be airdropped into southern Sudan or Gaza or Saada or Russian occupied Luhansk without a passport or money and told to figure out how to get home safely. If he survives he might actually learn something.

I’ll stop now before I say something intemperate.

Right now, no one actually seems to really know what has and has not been paused. Which just creates more fog and friction for the Ukrainians.

From The New Voice of Ukraine:

“Deliveries are ongoing. It would look very strange, it would look inhumane — let’s put it this way — to stop supplying anti-missiles, especially for the Patriot systems, which very clearly and massively protect the civilian population in Ukraine,” Podolyak said.

On July 1, Politico reported that the Pentagon had temporarily halted the supply of certain air defense missiles and other precision-guided munitions to Ukraine due to concerns over depleting U.S. stockpiles. According to the outlet, the decision was made in early June but only recently went into effect.

Later, White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly confirmed that the U.S. had paused some weapons shipments to Ukraine following a Defense Department review and increased support from other partner nations.

On July 2, Ukraine’s Defense Ministry said it had not received any official notice of suspended or revised schedules for previously agreed U.S. military aid and was currently seeking clarification.

The ministry requested a phone call with its American counterparts to clarify the matter and said it would report on the results of the discussion once available.

The Defense Ministry also stressed that individuals making public claims about weapons transfers to Ukraine may not have access to complete information.

It’s also demoralizing:

“Although it is unclear how many weapons were included and how soon the pause will be felt on the battlefield, the signal seems clear: Washington is disengaging from the war.”

Put it in the dictionary next to the word “betrayal.”

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— Iryna Voichuk (@irynavoichuk.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 8:50 AM

And it encourages the Russians:

Completely expected. The Kremlin welcomed the US decision to cut weapons shipments to Ukriane. “The less weaponry is supplied to Ukraine, the sooner the [invasion] will end,” spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, according to Interfax.
www.ft.com/content/b69e…

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— Christopher Miller (@christopherjm.ft.com) July 2, 2025 at 8:50 AM

Here is President Zelenskyy’s address from earlier today. Video below, English transcript after the jump.

show full post on front page

Currently, at the Working Level, Ukraine and the U.S. Are Clarifying All the Details of the Defense Support – Address by the President

2 July 2025 – 19:33

I wish you good health, fellow Ukrainians.

A few important updates from today. I have just met with entrepreneurs – members of the American Chamber of Commerce. These are significant businesses. I thanked them for their work in Ukraine and with Ukraine – these are companies that pay taxes in our country and preserve job opportunities. But they are also companies and people with significant influence. It is important for all of us in Ukraine that everyone now uses their personal influence to achieve a collective outcome. Continued U.S. support for Ukraine, for our defense, for our people, is in our shared interest, held by everyone in our country. Air defense for Ukraine is protection for every company operating in our state, holding assets here, and developing their production. Ukraine’s message is absolutely clear: together, we can achieve more. I thank all the companies and entrepreneurs who support Ukrainian defense, who support Ukrainian resilience. Today, we discussed how meaningful it is when companies withdraw from the Russian market and choose to work right here, in Ukraine. We are also establishing a new network of cooperation with the United States and many other countries, based on shared opportunities for developing industry and technological sectors.

But of course, security, of course, protection from Russian strikes is the cornerstone. And we expect greater engagement from businesses in promoting this security agenda of ours.

Also today, Ukraine’s Minister of Defense and Minister of Foreign Affairs gave their reports, in particular on our relations with the United States. Currently, at the working level, Ukraine and the U.S. are clarifying all the details of the defense support, including the air defense component. One way or another, we must ensure protection for our people. There were also discussions today about the next steps in our relations with the European Union, during this period of Denmark’s six-month Presidency. There was a meeting today with our Government officials and the Office team – we are also working with Denmark and other partners on new agreements for arms production, including joint manufacturing, and we’re also preparing updates on our interceptor drones.

I spoke today with the President of Egypt – it was a very important conversation about our bilateral relations and, of course, ways to bring the war closer to an end. Egypt is ready to help. We agreed to activate the work of the Ukraine–Egypt intergovernmental commission and our entire bilateral cooperation.

And one more thing.

We are also continuing our entirely justified efforts targeting various individuals who have aligned themselves with Russia. Figures with political influence and Russian passports, individuals who work against Ukraine’s independence in all its dimensions, including spiritual independence, anyone who supports or justifies aggression: all these people have no place in Ukraine, and never will. We are adopting the respective decisions. And we are preparing new Ukrainian sanctions – resolutions of the National Security and Defense Council will follow.

Glory to Ukraine!

President Zelenskyy also met with representatives of companies that are part of the US Chamber of Commerce today.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy Meets with Representatives of American Business in Ukraine

2 July 2025 – 22:44

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with representatives of companies – members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine.

The meeting was attended by representatives from Horizon Capital, Cisco Systems, Unilever, Carlsberg, Avrora Multimarket, Microsoft, KPMG, Winner Imports, Coca-Cola, Cargill, CHS, Citibank, AON, CBRE, OTIS, KBR, Pfizer, Google, Baker Hughes, WTW, Wooden Horse, Parsons Corporation, Visa, AGCO, McDonald’s, Honeywell, ADM, Raytheon, MasterCard, Auterion, CRH, TechMet, Argentem Creek, Boeing, D&M Holding, IBM, Shield AI, and the President of the American Chamber of Commerce, Andy Hunder.

“I want to thank the American business community present in Ukraine for creating and, perhaps most importantly, preserving jobs. Your presence sends signals and speaks to stability in Ukraine,” said the Head of State.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine values all the assistance provided by the United States and the bipartisan support. Stable relations with the U.S. are important for our country.

“Signals about risks of reduction or slowing down of assistance from the U.S. – I believe none of us are interested in that. Neither American nor Ukrainian business, because Patriot systems do not choose whom to protect in Ukraine from the Russian aggressor. Air defense systems and other protection save lives, opportunities, and production capacities for absolutely everyone,” the President stated.

Andy Hunder highlighted Ukraine’s resilience during the war and noted that 88 chamber members have relatives or loved ones serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He also reported that 53% of companies suffered damage to their facilities and offices as a result of Russian shelling.

“One of the things we always ask from the U.S. Government is to provide protection for American businesses operating here, including supplying missiles for the Patriot systems,” he said.

Meeting participants stressed the importance of continuing support and strengthening Ukraine’s air defense.

The President noted Ukraine’s interest in developing cooperation with the United States in the defense-industrial complex and economic partnership.

According to the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine, John Ginkel, the creation of the United States-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund is a long-term investment in Ukraine’s independence and future.

“We know the road ahead will not be easy, but it is also full of opportunities. With bold leadership, a resilient private sector, and strong Ukrainian-American cooperation, Ukraine will emerge not just restored but as a thriving, independent state of growth and stability in the region,” he emphasized.

TechMet representative Volodymyr Ignashchenko emphasized that, if his company wins the relevant tender, it is ready not only to explore and extract lithium in Ukraine but also to build processing facilities.

Leonid Polupan, CEO of Microsoft Ukraine, noted that the company had a high level of cooperation with the Government even before the full-scale war began and is committed to close collaboration going forward in cybersecurity and the latest developments in artificial intelligence.

Joao Moura, COO of CRH, which operates three cement plants in Ukraine, said that, during the war, the company is investing in creating a modern terminal in Kyiv and a technical laboratory. He also noted the support from foreign investors by the Government.

Arthur Lesnikovskyi, CEO of Boeing Ukraine, stressed that the company’s office was recently damaged due to Russian shelling, but despite this, all employees continue working on projects. In particular, leaders of the defense division cooperate with Government representatives regarding opportunities to deepen technical cooperation.

Representatives of KBR and Shield AI shared their vision of developing cooperation with Ukraine in the defense sector.

Co-founder and CEO of Horizon Capital, Lenna Koszarny, on her part, highlighted the importance of improving the pension system and creating domestic capital markets. She also thanked for the adoption of the law on multiple citizenship.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that the state will cooperate with American businesses to discuss and resolve all problematic issues.

Georgia:

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 2:12 PM

For the 117th day, Rustaveli Avenue is blocked in Georgia. 🇬🇪

Seven months of uninterrupted protests across 8+ cities. Georgia’s not giving up.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 1:52 PM

Renowned Georgian opera singer Paata Burchuladze says he’s received 34 fines for blocking roads during protests—totaling GEL 170,000 (~USD 60,000).

For context: The median monthly salary in Georgia is just USD 440.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 6:14 AM

🇮🇷 According to Iran’s embassy, Georgian Dream’s Deputy FM Alexander Khvtisiashvili visited the embassy in Tbilisi to express solidarity after the Israeli strike.

💬 He signed a condolence book honoring Iran’s “martyrs” and expressed sympathy, the embassy says.

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— Rusudan Djakeli (@rusudandjakeli.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 8:54 AM

Dear friends, fellas, we at Droa party are having a very tough time financially. Due to the current circumstances in Georgia, we have neither domestic, nor international funding.

Yet our unwavering team is instrumental in Georgia’s fight for liberation. 1/

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— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 3:57 PM

We hope in your support 🙏🏻

Thank you very much and hope I’ll be able to repay each and every single one of you with the same kindness.

PayPal:

paypal.me/tsetkhliolig…
2/2.

— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@marikamikiashvili.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 3:57 PM

NATO:

“Ukraine cannot manage without full support,” Rutte said, commenting on the halt in deliveries of critically important weapons to Ukraine from the United States.

At the same time, the NATO Secretary General emphasized that Europe intends to strengthen its support for Ukraine.
t.me/c/1377735387…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 11:37 AM

Rutte dismissed Lavrov’s claim that boosting NATO budgets would collapse the alliance, joking on Fox News that Lavrov’s been Russia’s FM “since the time of Jesus Christ” and hasn’t said “a single useful word” since, urging not to give him “too much attention.”
www.foxnews.com/video/637517…

— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 1:11 PM

Latvia:

Latvia is sending a new batch of military aid to Ukraine.

It will include 42 Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers, spare parts, weapons, and ammunition.

www.overtdefense.com/2025/02/06/l…

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 9:17 AM

Germany:

“The supply of long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine “has been and remains an option”: Ukrainian troops must undergo training, and this has not yet been discussed.” – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 4:35 AM

Yesterday was the best day to begin that discussion. Today was the next best day. Or you can continue to do your Hamlet impersonation on Germany news shows.

Back to Ukraine.

“Russian terrorists can launch up to 500 attack UAVs at once, but not on a daily basis.” – Kyrylo Budanov.

In a comment to Ukrainian media, the head of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine also confirmed that the Russians are continuously improving their drones.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 7:35 AM

In 2024, Frontelligence Insight, after long debates, talks with other analysts, and a detailed review of Russian documents, economic data, production, and payments, concluded that Russia will likely pursue a ceasefire by late 2025 or early 2026. Yet Trump’s policies have encouraged Putin to continue

— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 7:47 PM

This isn’t an excuse for a potentially incorrect analysis, but the Trump administration’s signals are undeniably encouraging for the Kremlin, which sees Ukraine’s survival as entirely dependent on US support, and believes it can “finish the job” once the US is out of the picture.

— Tatarigami (@tatarigami.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 7:49 PM

Fog and friction.

5,438 drones. 230 missiles.
Just in June.

russia’s war isn’t slowing down — it’s escalating dramatically.

And we’re now hearing “peace through strength” buzzing over our heads every single night.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 1:47 PM

A new geopolitical reality in which Ukraine and Europe need to survive.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 12:53 PM

Just hours apart, we got the news that the U.S. will withhold air defense missiles and shells it had previously promised Ukraine. And the news that we’re expecting 30,000 North Korean troops to assist Russia on the battlefield.

Ukraine’s support is fading. Russia is getting more of it.

1/3

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 12:25 PM

I’m expected to be polite. Nice. Tamed. Because technically, my anger won’t help us. It won’t convince more people or governments to support Ukraine.

But know this: war comes when you least expect it. We didn’t believe it would come for us. There was no point in it, but it came.

2/3

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 12:25 PM

And at this rate, it will come for you too. Unexpected and surrially cruel. And you’ll know you could have prevented it by supporting us
when it mattered.

3/3

— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 12:25 PM

This is the only formal summoning of the top U.S. diplomat in Ukraine by the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry that I know of or can recall.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 7:39 AM

The Trump administration, by cutting supplies of air defense ammunition to democratic Ukraine at the very time fascist Russia is increasing air attacks on Ukrainian civilians, gives every appearance of working in tandem with the Kremlin.

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— Euan MacDonald (@euanmacdonald.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 4:08 AM

The media reports that the US withheld badly needed ballistic interceptors meant for Ukraine. If Ukraine is left w/o air defences, russia will wipe out entire big cities w/ ballistics. Tens of millions will flee to Europe by winter. It’s in Europe’s best interest to provide SkyShield for Ukraine.

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— Olena Halushka (@halushka.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 3:53 AM

Same day

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— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 2:39 AM

Switchblade 600 strikes on Russian armored vehicles

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 11:50 AM

GBU39 air strike on Russian underground positions by MiG-29. t.me/soniah_hub/1…

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 10:06 AM

Odesa:

Odesa right now, following yet another Russian strike on residential building ‼️

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 9:51 PM

🇺🇦🎾 Wow! Dayana Yastremska caused a sensation at Wimbledon!
The Ukrainian tennis player from Odesa defeated the world’s second-ranked player, Coco Gauff, in two sets, 7:6, 6:1.
For Dayana, this is one of the most notable victories of her career. Bravo! 🔥

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— Vitalis Viva (@vitalisviva.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 2:56 PM

🇺🇦⚡️ Boom! Dayana Yastremska knocks out Coco Gauff in the first round of Wimbledon.
The Ukrainian (#42 WTA) sensationally defeated the world’s second-ranked player in two sets — 7:6(7:3), 6:1 — and will now face Russia’s Zakharova (#95).

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— Vitalis Viva (@vitalisviva.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 2:56 PM

Kherson:

Kherson. A hospital. Russia shelled it with artillery today.

5 patients and 3 nurses were injured.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 9:09 AM

Kharkiv:

Kharkiv endured a record number of attacks in June since the start of the russian full-scale invasion, with 142 shelling incidents, according to Mayor Terekhov.

The city was hit by missiles, drones, and aerial bombs.

These attacks resulted in 15 deaths and over 150 injuries, including 25 children.

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— Kate from Kharkiv (@kateinkharkiv.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 7:30 AM

Kyiv:

FUCKING EXPLOSIONS IN KYIV

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 4:02 PM

AND WE DONT HAVE AIR DEFENSE MISSILES

THANK YOU USA

— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 4:03 PM

Russian occupied Crimea:

🛰️Satelite imagery of the Russian Kirovskiy military airbase in Crimea. After the Ukrainian strikes on Russian helicopters on 26.06.2025.

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— 🦋Special Kherson Cat🐈🇺🇦 (@specialkhersoncat.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 3:21 AM

There are also reports that the Ukrainians were able to successfully target – read that as killed/eliminate – the commander of Russia’s Black Sea fleet in a strike on Russian occupied Crimea. I still haven’t seen official confirmation yet.

Nikopol:

The Russians have brought their human safari tactic to Nikopol. I’ve seen the videos, I’m not posting them. Four were injured, including a sixty-five year old man who is in serious condition.

Izhevsk:

Satellite image from Izhevsk 🤩💥

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— MAKS 25 👀🇺🇦 (@maks23.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 9:55 AM

Satellite images showing the aftermath of the attack on the Izhevsk Electromechanical Plant “Kupol” have appeared online. Part of the roof of one of the military factory buildings has been completely destroyed.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 2:08 PM

Russian media report that as a result of the attack on the “Kupol” plant in Izhevsk, four drone production workshops were damaged at once. These workshops operated around the clock, assembling finished drones, processing metals, and soldering microchips. A fire and roof collapse were recorded.

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— WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 11:03 AM

Moscow:

In Moscow, a car carrying an 80-year-old veteran of the Soviet KGB was blown up, according to Russian media.

The explosion destroyed two vehicles, one of which the veteran was in. He was pulled from the burning car by his daughter, who also served in Russia’s security services.

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— SAINT JAVELIN (@saintjavelin.bsky.social) July 2, 2025 at 11:37 AM

That’s enough for tonight.

Your daily Patron!

There are no new Patron skeets or videos today. Here is some adjacent material.

Ukrainian badass.

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— The Spirit of Lorenzo the Cat (@lorenzothecat.bsky.social) June 26, 2025 at 7:20 AM

Open thread!

War for Ukraine Day 1,224: Make It Hot!Post + Comments (23)

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