Ukraine-Russia News
LAST UPDATE: June 5, 2025
Ukraine and U.S. discuss how to make minerals fund operational by year-end
Ukraine and the United States have made progress toward operationalizing a minerals fund by the end of 2025. Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, announced that the fund’s inaugural board meeting is scheduled for July.
Insight
The establishment of the minerals fund signifies a strategic partnership aimed at developing Ukraine’s mineral resources, which are critical for various industries. The agreement, strongly supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to attract investment and bolster Ukraine’s economy amid ongoing conflict. The fund’s success depends on effective governance, transparent operations, and the ability to navigate geopolitical challenges. The collaboration also reflects broader efforts to reduce reliance on adversarial nations for critical minerals.
Ukraine to revise 2025 budget, increasing financing for defence, lawmaker says
Ukraine plans to revise its 2025 budget to increase defense spending amid ongoing conflict with Russia, according to lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak. Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko informed parliament that more funds are required for the armed forces due to the prolonged and intense military engagement stretching over 1,000 kilometers of frontline.
Insight
The budget revision underscores the financial strain of prolonged conflict and the necessity for increased defense funding. Allocating 26% of GDP to defense reflects Ukraine’s commitment to national security but also raises concerns about the sustainability of such spending. Efforts to increase domestic revenues by addressing the shadow economy are crucial for fiscal stability. Continued reliance on Western financial aid highlights the importance of international support in Ukraine’s defense and humanitarian efforts. The situation necessitates a balanced approach to defense spending and economic resilience.
Zelensky urges world not to show ‘weakness’ to Putin
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on the international community to avoid showing “weakness” to Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the importance of a strong and united response to Russian aggression.
Insight
President Zelensky’s appeal highlights the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in garnering international support against Russian aggression. Demonstrating unity and resolve is critical in deterring further escalation and ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty. The call to action serves as a reminder of the broader implications of the conflict and the necessity for collective defense strategies. It also underscores the importance of sustained diplomatic and military support from allies to counterbalance Russian influence and aggression.
In call with Putin, Pope Leo urges Russia to support peace
On June 4, 2025, Pope Leo held his first telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging Russia to take meaningful steps toward ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Vatican’s statement highlighted the Pope’s call for a peaceful gesture, emphasizing dialogue and humanitarian support, including facilitating aid and prisoner exchanges.
Insight
Pope Leo’s outreach signifies the Vatican’s commitment to mediating peace in the Ukraine conflict. His emphasis on humanitarian issues, such as aid and prisoner exchanges, aligns with the Vatican’s traditional role in conflict resolution. However, Russia’s response, accusing Ukraine of escalating the war and labeling its actions as terrorism, indicates a challenging path ahead for diplomatic efforts. The Kremlin’s skepticism towards Vatican-hosted talks, due to religious affiliations and geopolitical considerations, further complicates potential mediation. Nonetheless, the Pope’s initiative may open avenues for renewed dialogue and highlight the importance of humanitarian concerns in conflict zones.
Russia will respond to Ukrainian attacks as and when its military sees fit, Kremlin says
On June 5, 2025, the Kremlin announced that Russia would retaliate against Ukrainian attacks at times it deems appropriate, labeling recent actions by Kyiv as state terrorism. This follows Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian bomber planes in Siberia and the far north, and alleged rail bridge bombings in southern Russia that killed seven.
Insight
The Kremlin’s statement underscores escalating tensions and a hardening stance in the ongoing conflict. By labeling Ukraine’s actions as state terrorism, Russia signals a justification for potential escalated military responses. The timing of these statements, coinciding with peace talks in Turkey, suggests a complex interplay between diplomatic negotiations and military posturing. Russia’s emphasis on retaliating at its discretion indicates a strategic approach to conflict management, potentially aimed at deterring further Ukrainian actions and influencing international perceptions. The situation highlights the fragility of peace efforts amidst ongoing hostilities.
North Korea’s Kim vows ‘unconditional support’ for Russia’s war in Ukraine
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed his country’s “unconditional support” for Russia’s war in Ukraine during a meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu in Pyongyang.
Insight
Kim’s pledge underscores the deepening military alliance between North Korea and Russia, highlighted by North Korea’s deployment of thousands of troops and weapon shipments to aid Russia in the conflict. This partnership raises significant concerns among Western nations about the potential exchange of military and nuclear technologies. The collaboration not only bolsters Russia’s military capabilities but also provides North Korea with economic and technological support, potentially destabilizing regional security dynamics in East Asia.
