Jun 12, 2026, 04:30 PM UTC

European Union intelligence agencies have reportedly verified that China conducted training for Russian military personnel who later engaged in the conflict in Ukraine. Anonymous senior EU officials stated that European services found proof of this training taking place within Chinese borders, a claim Beijing has consistently refuted. Concurrently, Ukraine is set to seek an additional $20 billion in military assistance from its partners at the next Ramstein meeting. Meanwhile, the United States plans to decrease its military presence in Europe, including fighter jets and warships. European officials recognize that this reduction could potentially impact the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Sources: Громадське, Радіо Свобода, Українська правда

US President Donald Trump announced plans for a "very strong strike" against Iran, threatening to "bomb the shit out of Iran" if a proposed agreement was not reached. He also spoke of seizing Kharg Island and other Iranian oil infrastructure. These statements followed two consecutive nights of US military actions against Iranian sites and Iran's retaliatory strikes on American bases in the Middle East. Trump characterized an April ceasefire as "the most violated in history." Amidst the heightened tensions, Tehran reportedly declared the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. However, hours after his public pronouncements, President Trump ultimately canceled the planned military operations.

Sources: Радіо Свобода, Українська правда, Громадське, Forbes Ukraine

Tensions in the Middle East escalated as Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) announced it had struck ships in the Strait of Hormuz, following new US military actions. US Central Command confirmed it conducted "self-defense strikes" in response to Iranian activity. Separately, President Donald Trump accused Iran of downing a US helicopter near the Strait, from which two crew members were rescued, and pledged a response. Trump asserted Iran had delayed negotiations and would "pay the price," while Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated his country might withdraw if conditions were not met. Meanwhile, Pakistan conducted air strikes in Afghanistan, reporting 26 militant deaths, though the Taliban government claimed 13 fatalities, including 11 children. Analysts suggest the region faces a "permacrisis" given Iran's resilience. Sources: BBC News

SpaceX has commenced trading on the US stock exchange, marking a significant initial public offering (IPO) that could potentially be the largest in history. The aerospace company, co-founded by Elon Musk and Tom Mueller, is now valued at an estimated $1.8 trillion. This market debut positions CEO Elon Musk to potentially become the world's first trillionaire. Tom Mueller, SpaceX's first employee, reflected on the company's journey since its inception in 2002 and Musk's foundational vision. The public listing signifies a major milestone for the firm's future operations.

Sources: BBC News

Acclaimed British artist David Hockney has passed away at the age of 88. Widely regarded as one of the UK's most significant and beloved artists, Hockney was celebrated for his innovative work across various mediums, including painting, photography, and digital art. Tributes have been paid by figures across the art world and politics, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who expressed sadness at the loss of "one of Britain's most celebrated artists." Artist Dame Tracey Emin also acknowledged Hockney as "a great artist and a wonderful man." His prolific career saw him become a household name, known for his distinctive style and trenchant views.

Sources: BBC News