Following Donald Trump’s election victory, BlackRock suspended its work on a multibillion-dollar Ukraine recovery fund, causing the initial plan to secure $500 million from governments and another $2 billion from private investors to fall through. The investment firm halted talks in January due to a lack of interest amid perceived uncertainty in Ukraine, causing the fund to be scrapped, though advisory work had been completed. France is now developing a replacement proposal, aiming to secure investment for Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts as the war continues. The success of the replacement plan remains uncertain without Washington’s backing, and as foreign investment in Ukraine is still underwhelming.
Read More
A Russian gas pipeline near Vladivostok, crucial for supplying military facilities, was destroyed in an explosion and subsequent fire, according to a source within the Ukrainian Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR). The damaged pipeline provided gas to multiple Russian military installations, including units of the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade. The incident, which occurred around 1:00-2:00 AM on July 5, 2025, also involved the destruction of a water supply line for military garrisons. To control information flow during Vladivostok’s anniversary celebrations, authorities reportedly restricted mobile internet and communications in the area.
Read More
According to Ukraine’s military intelligence, Russia is attempting to involve Laos in its war against Ukraine under the guise of humanitarian aid. Moscow is organizing the deployment of Lao military engineers to Russia’s Kursk Oblast for demining operations, with Laos reportedly agreeing to send up to 50 engineers and offer rehabilitation services to wounded Russian soldiers. This move is part of Russia’s broader efforts to recruit foreign personnel, as the Kremlin uses “humanitarian rhetoric” to legitimize foreign military presence. Laos, which has close ties with Russia and China, has not yet commented on the claims.
Read More
Following a phone call on July 4th, former US President Donald Trump reported he had a “very good call” with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, discussing various strategic topics. He affirmed continued American assistance to Ukraine, stating “we’ve been helping them and we’ll continue to help them.” Trump also hinted at the possibility of supplying Patriot systems to Ukraine. While offering support, he remained somewhat vague on specific details regarding aid.
Read More
On July 5th, Ukrainian Special Operations Forces, in coordination with other defense forces, conducted an attack on the Borisoglebsk air base in Russia’s Voronezh Oblast. The base houses Su-34, Su-35S, and Su-30SM aircraft. The General Staff reported that the strike hit a stockpile of guided aerial bombs and a military training aircraft, with other aircraft likely damaged as well. Further information regarding the attack’s consequences is still being confirmed.
Read More
On July 5th, President Trump stated that Russian President Putin does not appear interested in ending the war in Ukraine, expressing his unhappiness with their recent phone call. During the call, which focused on Ukraine, Putin reportedly indicated that Russia would continue pursuing its goals. Following escalating attacks by Russia, Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Zelensky, calling the conversation “strategic” and hinting at the potential supply of Patriot air defense systems. However, Trump’s administration has yet to impose new sanctions or approve additional aid packages, while also directing strikes against Iran.
Read More
Dutch and German intelligence agencies have reported Russia’s intensified use of chemical weapons in Ukraine, including the banned choking agent chloropicrin, based on extensive evidence. These agencies claim Russia is employing these weapons on a large scale, causing concern about the potential continuation of such actions. While Russia and Ukraine deny using these weapons, the Dutch Defence Minister is calling for more sanctions as a result. Meanwhile, the OPCW states that previous accusations have not been “substantiated.”
Read More
During a phone call on July 4th, US President Donald Trump informed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the US is willing to assist Ukraine with air defense, acknowledging the recent escalation of Russian attacks. The 40-minute conversation centered primarily on Ukraine’s air defense requirements. Trump expressed his commitment to assess and potentially revive any previously paused support. Furthermore, both leaders agreed to schedule a meeting between US and Ukrainian representatives to discuss the supply of air defense equipment and other weaponry.
Read More
In a recent statement, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate (HUR) reported the elimination of three Russian drone operators near Strilkove, Kherson region. The individuals were affiliated with the “Bars-Sarmat” special-purpose drone unit, a division established in 2024 focused on deploying advanced robotic and electronic warfare systems. The unit, reportedly commanded by Dmitry Rogozin, includes several subunits, with the targeted group belonging to “Bars-1”. HUR emphasized that retribution will be sought for all war crimes committed against Ukrainians.
Read More
On July 3, a Russian missile and drone strike on Odesa damaged the building of the Chinese Consulate General. Following the attack, Ukrainian officials discovered a Chinese-made component in a Russian-Iranian Shahed-136 drone. China, a key partner of Russia, has yet to acknowledge the incident or any damage to its diplomatic premises. Furthermore, reports suggest China’s support for Russia’s war effort is expanding, with a high-level official stating Beijing cannot afford for Russia to lose the war.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker