Ukraine Fears Weapon Halt, Russia Advances and Uses Disinformation

A recent decision by Washington to pause some shipments of crucial weapons to Ukraine has sparked concern in Kyiv. Ukrainian officials have warned that this move would weaken their ability to defend against intensifying airstrikes and battlefield advances. They summoned the acting US envoy to emphasize the importance of continued military aid and cautioned that any cut-off would embolden Russia. The Pentagon's decision, reportedly due to concerns about low US military stockpiles, includes a halt on 30 Patriot air defense missiles, essential for intercepting ballistic missiles, along with thousands of artillery shells and various other missiles.

Ukrainian officials expressed that any delay in supporting their defense capabilities would only encourage Russia to continue the war. While the Ukrainian defense ministry stated they had not been officially notified of the halt, they were seeking clarification from their American counterparts. A Ukrainian source described the decision as a "total shock."

US officials, however, downplayed the announcement, stating that President Trump still had "robust" options for military assistance to Kyiv. The Pentagon emphasized its commitment to providing the president with options for military aid, while also preserving US military readiness. The State Department also clarified that this was not a complete cessation of assistance, but rather a specific situation.

In other news, a Russian attack on the southern Ukrainian port of Odesa overnight resulted in injuries to five people, including children. A multi-storey residential building and other civilian infrastructure were damaged.

An Estonian court announced that an arson attack on a restaurant and supermarket last year was ordered by Russian intelligence. This attack was part of a series across Europe linked to Russia, with the goal of sowing division and undermining support for Ukraine. The perpetrators were identified as two Moldovan men.

Meanwhile, Russia has made incursions near two towns critical to army supply routes in eastern Ukraine, as part of its summer offensive. Despite heavy losses, Russia has advanced in rural areas near Pokrovsk and Kostiantynivka.

Poland is increasing its defense readiness with a project to build three ammunition factories. Four companies of the Polish Armaments Group will receive significant financing from the state assets ministry for this project.

Finally, the German foreign ministry has accused Russia of using the online media outlet Red to sow discontent in German society as part of a disinformation campaign. Red, which presents itself as an independent platform, is linked to the Russian state media outlet RT. The ministry confirmed that Red is being used by Russia to manipulate information. The outlet is run by a Turkish media company and its founder, who are already subject to EU sanctions.