JUNE 2024
June 1
Zelensky Meets Nordic Leaders to Discuss Defense and Reconstruction
President Volodymyr Zelensky met with the President of Finland and the Prime Ministers of Denmark, Norway, and Iceland on the sidelines of the Ukraine-Nordic Summit. Zelensky expressed gratitude for their comprehensive assistance and discussed Ukraine’s defence needs and battlefield situation. He highlighted Finland’s commitment to reconstruction, Denmark’s significant aid package, Norway’s extensive support through the Nansen Programme, and Iceland’s long-term assistance plan.
June 2
Estonia to Aid in Restoring Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure
Deputy Minister of Energy of Ukraine, Roman Andarak, met with Estonian representatives, including the Deputy Head of Mission Vahur Soosaar and ESTDEV Programme Manager Eva-Maria Liimets, to discuss Estonian support for Ukraine’s energy sector after the Russian attacks. Estonia pledged continued assistance and is planning a multi-tonne aid delivery. The parties focused on cooperation projects to rebuild energy infrastructure and improve system resilience, with Estonia already providing 225 tonnes of power equipment.
June 3
Italy to Send Second SAMP/T Air Defense System to Ukraine
Italy will supply Ukraine with a second SAMP/T air defence system, capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, as confirmed by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on June 3. This decision follows increased Russian strikes targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Previously, France and Italy jointly provided a SAMP/T system to Ukraine in 2023.
Netherlands Grants Ukraine Use of F-16s for Strikes in Russia, Following US Approval
The Netherlands has announced that it will allow Ukraine to utilize its fleet of 24 F-16 fighter jets to conduct strikes within Russian territory, mirroring recent permissions granted by the United States for Ukrainian use of American weapons. This decision, confirmed by Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren, signals a significant escalation in European support for Ukraine’s defence capabilities.
June 4
Biden: Peace in Ukraine Doesn’t Require NATO Membership
US President Joe Biden stated that peace in Ukraine entails ensuring Russia never occupies the country again, but NATO membership for Ukraine is not necessary. Biden emphasised supporting Ukraine through weapon supplies for self-defence rather than immediate NATO integration. Biden highlighted past corruption issues in Ukraine and stressed the broader regional implications if Ukraine falls.
June 6
France to Transfer Mirage 2000-5 Fighter Jets to Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will transfer an unspecified number of Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets to Ukraine and will train Ukrainian pilots. The Mirage 2000-5, a multirole aircraft with upgraded radar systems, will complement Ukraine’s air defence capabilities. This move is part of a broader international effort, with countries like the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium also pledging to supply F-16 jets to Ukraine.
June 7
Biden Administration Announces $225 Million Security Assistance Package for Ukraine
The Biden Administration announced a new $225 million security assistance package for Ukraine, marking the fifty-ninth tranche since August 2021. This package includes air defence interceptors, artillery systems, armoured vehicles, anti-tank weapons, and various other military equipment to address Ukraine’s urgent battlefield needs. The U.S. will continue collaborating with over 50 allies and partners to support Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression.
Ukraine and France Sign Four Agreements on Defense, Infrastructure, and Nuclear Energy
On June 7, 2024, Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and Emmanuel Macron of France oversaw the signing of four key agreements between their countries. These include a €200 million grant for Ukraine’s critical infrastructure and energy sector, the establishment of a French Development Agency office in Ukraine, and the renewal of a 20-year agreement on peaceful nuclear energy cooperation. Additionally, a statement of intent was signed to enhance defence industry cooperation, focusing on armaments, military equipment, and ammunition production and maintenance.
June 8
Czechia Declines to Send Military Instructors to Ukraine
Czech Defense Minister Jana Cernochova announced that while Czechia plans to train up to 4,000 Ukrainian soldiers this year, it will not send military instructors to Ukraine due to logistical challenges. This decision contrasts with France’s initiative to send military instructors to Ukraine. President Emmanuel Macron confirmed France’s plan to form a coalition to train Ukrainian soldiers on-site, despite Russia’s warnings.
June 10
Dutch Defense Minister Visits Kyiv for Cooperation Talks
On June 10, Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren visited Kyiv unannounced. She met with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal to discuss enhancing Ukraine’s defence capabilities and joint defence production. Topics included technology exchange, the upcoming global peace summit in Switzerland, and Ukraine’s integration with Euro-Atlantic institutions. Shmyhal highlighted the Netherlands’ role in providing Patriot air defence systems and expressed hopes for F-16 fighter jet deliveries.
June 11
Ukraine and Germany Sign Declaration to Enhance Business Cooperation
On June 11, Ukraine’s Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko and Germany’s Finance Minister Christian Lindner signed a joint declaration to strengthen bilateral business support. The signing, part of the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin, aims to build capacity and reform the German-Ukrainian Business Development Fund, supporting Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. The World Bank estimates Ukraine’s recovery cu_event_costs at $486 billion. The declaration also involves institutional support coordinated through the German Development Bank KfW to provide affordable financing for Ukrainian businesses.
June 12
Norway to Allocate $257 Million for Ukraine’s Air Defenses
Norway will provide $257 million to support Ukraine’s air defences, as announced by its Foreign Ministry. Of this, $134 million will be used to procure Patriot missiles as part of a German-led initiative, with additional contributions from Denmark and the Netherlands. This effort addresses Ukraine’s urgent need for air defence amidst ongoing Russian attacks on its cities and infrastructure. Norway’s increased defence production aims to support both domestic needs and aid to Ukraine.
US Expands Sanctions on Russia, Targeting Banks and Technology
On June 12, 2024, the US broadened sanctions on Russia, targeting banks aiding its war effort and imposing restrictions on the Moscow stock exchange, halting dollar and euro trades. The sanctions also restrict Russia’s access to critical technology. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stated these measures aim to further isolate Russia’s war economy and limit its access to international resources.
June 13
Canada Boosts Support for Ukraine at G7 Summit and Imposes Additional Sanctions on Russia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced $5 billion in funding to support Ukraine, including contributions to the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Loans and new sanctions targeting Russia’s military-industrial complex. Canada also plans to export the first four of 50 Canadian-built armoured combat support vehicles to support Ukraine’s Armed Forces.
June 14
G7 Leaders Agree on $50 Billion Loan Package to Aid Ukraine
G7 leaders have reached an agreement to provide Ukraine with a $50 billion loan, approximately $3 billion in annual interest from frozen Russian assets to secure the agreed loan for Ukraine. This historic move aims to bolster Ukraine’s resilience against ongoing Russian aggression, supporting military, economic, and humanitarian needs as outlined by President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the summit in Italy.
Putin Proposes Ceasefire Terms Amid International Tensions
Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined ceasefire conditions for Ukraine, demanding Ukrainian troop withdrawal from regions Russia claims to have annexed and renunciation of NATO aspirations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the demands as reminiscent of historical ultimatums, while international leaders including NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin dismissed Putin’s proposals as lacking in good faith.
June 15
US Announces $1.5 Billion in Aid for Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure and Humanitarian Needs
US Vice President Kamala Harris announced a $1.5 billion aid package for Ukraine, aimed at supporting the country’s energy infrastructure, addressing urgent humanitarian needs, and bolstering civilian security. The package includes $500 million in energy assistance, an additional $324 million redirected for emergency energy needs, and $379 million in humanitarian aid for refugees and displaced persons. The State Department also plans to provide $300 million for equipment for Ukrainian border guards and law enforcement.
June 17
Latvia Sends First Batch of Drones to Ukraine, Prepares Second
Latvia has dispatched its first batch of drones to Ukraine and is preparing a second, according to Latvian Defense Minister Andris Spruds. Organized within a national program, Latvia is also implementing joint international purchases. The drone coalition, led by Latvia and the UK, has secured international commitments totalling 549 million euros ($590 million). Latvia’s government has invested around 20 million euros ($22 million) in the coalition this year and a similar amount for its drone development.
Canada Holds Off on Sending Military Trainers Back to Ukraine
Canada’s Defence Minister Bill Blair announced that it is not the right time to send military trainers back to Ukraine, citing hesitation among NATO allies. Despite discussions at a NATO summit about enhancing training missions, Blair emphasized concerns about expanding such missions in the current circumstances. Canada has trained over 40,000 Ukrainian soldiers since 2015 but withdrew its trainers before Russia’s 2022 invasion, relocating them to Britain and Poland.
June 18
Canada Imposes Sanctions on Russian Officials Over Alexei Navalny’s Death
Canada announces new sanctions on 13 Russian officials linked to the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. These measures target individuals from Russia’s investigation agency, penitentiary service, and police force involved in Navalny’s ill-treatment and death. The sanctions address issues including his poisoning in 2020, unlawful detention in 2021, and the failure to investigate his death.
June 19
Putin and Kim Sign Mutual Assistance Pact
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a mutual assistance pact during Putin’s first visit to North Korea in nearly 25 years. The agreement promises mutual support against aggression and includes cooperation in various sectors. This move intensifies their alliance against Western countries supporting Ukraine. Concerns have been raised about North Korea supplying Russia with weapons in exchange for economic aid and technology transfers.
Thales and Ukrainian Industry Forge Agreements to Boost Defence Capabilities
Thales signed three agreements with the Ukrainian industry at Eurosatory. The agreements, supported by the French and Ukrainian ministries, cover areas including Electronic Warfare, Tactical Communications, Air Defence Systems, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Notably, Thales will establish a joint venture in Ukraine, provide extensive support for Electronic Warfare equipment, and collaborate with FRDM to develop a new Unmanned Aircraft System.
June 20
EU Approves First-Ever Sanctions on Russian Gas
The EU has approved unprecedented sanctions on Russia’s gas sector, banning the resale of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) at EU ports and blocking financing for Russia’s Arctic and Baltic LNG terminals. The sanctions aim to reduce Moscow’s gas revenue, however, this decision follows opposition from Germany and Hungary. Despite previous sanctions on oil and coal, Russian LNG imports to the EU have continued, raising concerns about the bloc’s reliance on Russian energy.
Ukraine and EU Extend Transport Visa-Free Regime for One Year
On June 20, 2024, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the cu_people_phone_ext of the EU-Ukraine transport visa-free regime for one year, with an option for automatic cu_people_phone_ext until the end of 2025. This agreement eliminates special permits for road freight transport between Ukraine and the EU, enhancing trade and supporting Ukraine’s economic integration into the EU.
Andriy Yermak Discusses Peace Formula with Canadian Advisor
Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, had a cu_people_phone conversation with Nathalie Drouin, National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister of Canada. Yermak thanked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for participating in the Global Peace Summit and Drouin for moderating a panel. They discussed the Summit’s outcomes, emphasizing Canada’s support for the Joint Communiqué on a Peace Framework.
June 21
Ukraine and Poland Near Security Agreement
Ukraine and Poland have concluded the final round of negotiations on a bilateral security agreement, according to the Ukrainian President’s Office. Deputy Head Ihor Zhovkva highlighted the significant progress made, stating the agreement reflects the deep cooperation and future plans between the two nations. The agreement is expected to be finalized and signed before the NATO summit on July 9-11.
June 23
Zelensky Urges Allies to Allow Use of Weapons Against Russian Air Bases
In response to a recent Russian airstrike on Kharkiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on Western allies to lift restrictions on the use of their weapons for targeting Russian air bases. The recent U.S. policy change allowing Ukraine to strike inside Russia has helped mitigate the assault on Kharkiv, but the restrictions still prevent the use of long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) needed to target deeper Russian airbases.
June 24
EU Approves €1.4 Billion Military Aid to Ukraine from Frozen Russian Assets
EU countries have approved up to €1.4 billion in military aid for Ukraine using proceeds from frozen Russian assets. This funding will be used for direct purchases of ammunition and aerial defence systems, with a quarter allocated to Ukrainian industries. Although Hungary blocked previous payments under the Ukraine Assistance Fund (UAF), it could not prevent this tranche since it had abstained in an earlier vote.
June 25
EU Accession Negotiations Begin for Ukraine and Moldova and EU Council Approves Draft Security Agreement with Ukraine
EU ministers formally initiated accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. The first intergovernmental conferences mark the start of this process. Additionally, the Council of the European Union has approved a draft security agreement with Ukraine. This agreement consists of two parts: security and defence, including commitments such as equipment supplies, training, demining, and nuclear and cyber security; and civilian aspects related to Ukraine’s EU membership prospects.
ECHR Finds Russia Guilty of Human Rights Violations in Crimea
The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has found Russia guilty of systematic human rights abuses in Crimea, marking Ukraine’s first interstate case win against Russia over the peninsula. The court’s decision cites violations such as breaches of the right to life and freedom of expression. However, Russia, which was expelled from the Council of Europe and is no longer part of the European Convention on Human Rights, has rejected the ruling’s impact.
June 26
PACE Plans Tribunal for Russian Leaders, Enhances Sanctions and Defends Ukrainian Identity
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted resolutions to try Russian leaders for aggression against Ukraine, strengthen sanctions against Russia, and protect Ukrainian cultural identity. The Assembly proposed a special tribunal to hold Russia’s leadership accountable, urged the seizure of Russian state assets for Ukraine, and condemned Russia’s efforts to erase Ukrainian cultural heritage, calling these actions war crimes and crimes against humanity.
June 27
Minister Ng Visits Ukraine to Discuss Reconstruction and Modernized Trade Agreement
Canadian Minister Mary Ng visited Ukraine with a business delegation, meeting with Ukrainian leaders and discussing support for Ukraine’s reconstruction. The visit also highlighted the upcoming July 1, 2024, entry into force of the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), aimed at enhancing trade and supporting Ukraine’s economic recovery.
EU Signs Financial and Military Cooperation Agreement with Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelensky signed new security agreements with the European Union. The agreements, signed at the European Council, include financial and military aid commitments. Zelensky also signed cooperation pacts with Estonia and Lithuania. Ukraine and Lithuania signed a Security Cooperation Agreement, under which Lithuania will provide Ukraine with annual security and defence support amounting to 0.25% of its GDP.
June 28
US to Provide Ukraine $150 Million Aid Package Including HAWK Missiles
On June 28, 2024, the Biden administration announced a $150 million aid package for Ukraine, including HAWK air defence interceptors and 155mm artillery munitions. This package, set to be unveiled on Monday, addresses Ukraine’s urgent need for enhanced air defence as Russia intensifies aerial attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. This aid comes through the Presidential Drawdown Authority, part of a broader $50 billion military support effort since 2022.
June 30
Russia Attacks Kyiv and Kharkiv
Russian forces launched attacks on Ukraine’s largest cities, Kyiv and Kharkiv. In Kyiv, missile fragments damaged an apartment building, while in Kharkiv, a guided bomb killed one person and injured nine others. President Zelensky has urged for improved weaponry to counter such attacks, noting that over 800 guided bombs have targeted Ukraine in the past week.