Jun 12, 2026, 03:30 PM UTC

European Union intelligence services have reportedly confirmed that China provided training to Russian military personnel who subsequently participated in the conflict in Ukraine. High-ranking EU officials, speaking anonymously, indicated that European services uncovered evidence of this training occurring on Chinese territory. Beijing has consistently denied such allegations. This development comes as Ukraine continues to seek substantial military aid from allies, with a $20 billion request anticipated at the upcoming Ramstein meeting. Separately, the United States plans to reduce its military assets in Europe, a move European officials acknowledge could impact the ongoing conflict.

Sources: Громадське, Радіо Свобода, Українська правда

Ukrainian forces are engaged in urban combat in Kostiantynivka against infiltrating enemy personnel, with assault units conducting clearing operations. A battalion commander described the city as "semi-encircled" following Russian advances near Chasiv Yar and Berestky. Military experts and personnel suggest the city could be lost in the coming months, with Russian forces having significantly advanced towards and into the city.

Separately, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) experienced its 19th loss of external power on June 10, around 9 PM, after an attack on an electrical substation, leading it to rely on backup diesel generators, a situation confirmed by the IAEA.

Additionally, Ukrainian Defense Forces reported striking the "TANEKO" and "TAIF-NK" oil refineries in Nizhnekamsk, Tatarstan, on June 12, with hits and fires confirmed. They also claimed a strike on the "Tolyattikauchuk" combine in Samara Oblast. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on June 12 that Russia would increase its strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure.

Sources: Громадське, Радіо Свобода

SpaceX successfully concluded its initial public offering, securing $75 billion through the sale of 555.6 million shares at $135 each. This landmark transaction valued the aerospace firm at approximately $1.77 trillion, establishing it as the largest IPO in global history. Consequently, Elon Musk's personal wealth is projected to surpass $1.1 trillion, making him the world's first dollar trillionaire. Separately, Ukraine plans to request an additional $20 billion in military assistance from NATO partners during the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting scheduled for June 18, aiming to preserve its current battlefield advantage. Concurrently, the United States has emerged as the leading global oil exporter, overtaking Saudi Arabia and Russia.

Sources: Радіо Свобода, Українська правда, Forbes Ukraine

The European Union is reportedly contemplating a relaxation of its stringent methane emission regulations concerning imported fossil fuels. This potential adjustment stems from ongoing energy security concerns. The proposed changes would affect a significant portion of Europe's energy supply, as over 90% of the gas and oil consumed in the EU is imported. The original regulation aimed to enhance control over methane, a potent greenhouse gas and a primary component of natural gas, but its implementation modalities for imports may now be softened by the European Commission.

Sources: Le Monde

Public schools in Guinea, such as Centre 1 in Dixinn, Conakry, face significant challenges with water access, which is contributing to the dropout rates among young girls. The school, serving approximately 2,800 students aged 3 to 13, has only one tap where water flows just once a day. This scarcity necessitates students, often girls, fetching water, particularly for latrine use. Experts suggest that inadequate water and sanitation facilities, especially those hindering menstrual hygiene management, are a major factor in girls discontinuing their education. The burden of managing these basic needs often falls on female students, diverting their time and focus from learning. Sources: Le Monde — International.