Overview

• Russian forces have stepped up their summer offensive in eastern and northern Ukraine, reporting over 138 armed clashes in a single day and launching hundreds of missiles and drones against key frontline areas.
• President Zelensky’s proposed government reshuffle, including nominating Yulia Svyrydenko as prime minister to improve internal efficiency and coordination with Western allies, is pending parliamentary approval.
• President Trump confirmed a military aid package of Patriot air defenses, long-range weapons and advanced drones for Ukraine, tying delivery to a 50-day deadline that threatens 100% U.S. tariffs on Russian exports if no peace talks begin.
• EU member states remain divided over fresh sanctions on Russia after Slovakia vetoed a new package targeting oil and gas, even as High Representative Kaja Kallas accused Moscow of more than 9,000 chemical weapons attacks.
• Commission Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič arrived in Washington today leading a technical EU team to negotiate suspension of a proposed 30% U.S. tariff on European exports before an August 1 deadline.