A new Russian law mandates a tracking app for all foreign nationals in the Moscow region, ostensibly to combat crime. The app will collect biometric data, location information, and monitor real-time geolocation. Non-compliance results in deportation, while critics cite constitutional privacy violations and potential negative impacts on labor migration. The program, running until September 2029, may expand nationwide if deemed successful.
Finland anticipates a Russian troop buildup along their shared border following the Ukraine war, with satellite imagery revealing expanded military infrastructure near the Finnish border. This activity, though currently moderate, involves infrastructure improvements and equipment deployment, prompting close monitoring by Finnish defense forces. While there’s no immediate military threat, Finland, as a NATO member, is preparing for potential worst-case scenarios. Despite this, the situation is not causing widespread alarm among Finnish citizens, who have become accustomed to Russia’s actions.
Following a May 19th phone call between Presidents Trump and Putin, Russia, through Foreign Minister Lavrov, rejected calls for a Ukrainian ceasefire. Instead, Russia insisted on negotiating a future peace treaty addressing what it terms the “root causes” of the conflict. These negotiations, including a May 16th meeting, saw Russia reiterate maximalist demands, including Ukrainian concessions on Crimea and eastern territories, and featured a low-level Russian delegation, signaling a lack of commitment to meaningful progress. Lavrov accused Western leaders of pressuring Trump for stricter sanctions, further hindering peace efforts.
Polish military forces responded to a sanctioned Russian “shadow fleet” ship exhibiting suspicious behavior near a crucial Poland-Sweden power cable. The ship, identified as the Antigua-flagged tanker *Sun*, was forced away by Polish naval and air patrols, ultimately returning to a Russian port. This incident, highlighting increased security concerns in the Baltic Sea following similar attacks on infrastructure, prompted assurances of a firm response from Poland and NATO to any further threats. The power cable remains operational, transmitting over 600 megawatts to Sweden at the time of the incident.
The EU and Britain imposed new sanctions on Russia’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers, marking the 17th such action since the Ukraine invasion. This coordinated response followed recent Russian drone attacks on Ukraine and came despite a lack of accompanying U.S. sanctions. While President Zelenskyy urged continued U.S. involvement in peace negotiations, the White House opted against additional sanctions, prioritizing dialogue with Russia. The sanctions target Russia’s oil export capabilities, aiming to increase pressure for a ceasefire.
Following the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys urged immediate commencement of work on the 18th EU sanctions package against Russia. This package should target Russia’s most vulnerable sectors, including energy, finance, and the defense industry, to counteract Putin’s delaying tactics. Budrys stressed the need for swift action, emphasizing that the previous sanctions package is already outdated and decisive measures are necessary to maintain credibility. The 18th package may include targeting banks from non-EU countries supporting Russia’s military. This follows discussions between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and European Commission President von der Leyen regarding further restrictions on Moscow.
Australia has delivered the first shipment of its pledged M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, following previous delays in international clearances. The transfer, confirmed by Prime Minister Albanese to President Zelensky, consists of decommissioned tanks slated for replacement in Australia’s military modernization program. These 49 tanks, already planned for retirement, will bolster Ukraine’s ground forces. The donation comprises part of a larger commitment to upgrade its armed forces with the newer M1A2 Abrams tanks.
The Trump administration’s opposition to strong wording in a forthcoming G7 statement regarding Ukraine has reportedly stalled the drafting process. This opposition specifically targets language affirming continued support for Kyiv and characterizing Russia’s invasion as illegal. This stance mirrors previous instances where the US blocked similar condemnations, reflecting a prioritisation of peace talks with Russia over firm condemnation of its actions. The disagreements highlight a persistent divergence between the US and other G7 members on how to address the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Former Ukrainian politician Andriy Portnov, a senior aide to ousted President Viktor Yanukovich, was fatally shot in Madrid. Multiple gunmen fired upon him near the American School of Madrid, fleeing the scene afterward. Portnov, who had faced investigations and sanctions related to corruption and alleged involvement in Russia’s annexation of Crimea, had lived in exile since 2014. His death follows other recent attacks targeting prominent Russians and Ukrainians in Spain.
Colonel General Andrei Mordvichev has been appointed the new commander of Russia’s ground forces, replacing General Oleg Salyukov. Mordvichev, known for his brutal, attritional combat tactics, oversaw the sieges of Mariupol and Avdiivka, resulting in significant Ukrainian casualties. His appointment, reported amidst ongoing peace talks, suggests the Kremlin’s endorsement of these tactics. Mordvichev’s close relationship with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov further highlights his rise through the ranks.
John Q. Hosedrinker