**US Secretary of State Congratulates Russia on National Day Amid Ongoing Conflict**
In a move that has sparked controversy, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has congratulated Russia on its national day, saying the United States remains committed to supporting the Russian people. However, this gesture was met with disdain by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who described it as “unpleasant” and pointed out that he had recently witnessed “Russian terror” in Kherson.
**Ukraine’s President Hits Out at Putin**
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has hit out at Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of lying to US President Donald Trump and faking peace talks to avoid sanctions. Zelenskyy also stated that the Russians are “not that successful” in their new offensive.
**Russian Military Loses One Million Soldiers**
The Ukrainian army has announced that Russia has lost over one million soldiers since the start of the conflict, with Moscow’s casualties reaching seven figures. This number was revealed on a day that coincided with Russia’s national holiday.
**US and NATO Provide Support to Ukraine**
Despite the ongoing conflict, the US and other Western nations continue to provide support to Ukraine. The US has diverted anti-drone systems to the Middle East, citing security concerns, while Germany has allocated €9 billion for military aid to Ukraine. However, Canada has yet to deliver confiscated assault rifles to Ukrainian defenders, despite promises made last year.
**Humanitarian Crisis Deepens**
The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine continues to deepen, with the UN reporting a 50% increase in civilian casualties from Russian attacks this year compared to last. The conflict has also led to the displacement of thousands of people, with many forced to live in bomb shelters.
**New Prisoner Swap Prioritizes Ill and Wounded Soldiers**
A new prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine has prioritized the release of ill and wounded soldiers, including Mariupol veterans who were held for over three years. However, the conflict continues to cause suffering on both sides, with Russian strikes injuring 16 civilians in Kharkiv Oblast and killing two in eastern Ukraine.
**Russia Recruiting Elderly in Covert Sabotage Campaign**
In a disturbing development, Russia has been recruiting elderly people in covert sabotage campaigns across Ukraine and Europe. This has raised concerns about the manipulation of vulnerable individuals by Russian intelligence services.
**Trump Diplomacy Under Fire**
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s congratulations to Russia on its national day have been widely criticized, with many viewing it as a reward for aggression. The move has also sparked controversy over Trump diplomacy, with Ukraine’s President accusing Putin of lying to the US leader and faking peace talks.
**Sweden to Inspect Russian Shadow Fleet**
In related news, Sweden is set to inspect Russia’s shadow fleet in the Baltic, with its air force and navy standing by. This move comes as NATO eyes a 5% spending target, with concerns about Russia’s military activities growing across Europe.
