Dominic Cummings, the former aide to ex-Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has sparked a debate by labelling Ukraine as a “corrupt mafia state” and critiquing the Western sanctions against Russia. In a recent interview with The i, Cummings stated that the support for Ukraine has inadvertently bolstered Vladimir Putin’s position and drawn Russia closer to China. He criticized the effectiveness of the sanctions, suggesting they have harmed European politics more than Russia itself. The Ukrainian embassy has been contacted for comments on his assertions.

In a display of solidarity, Ukrainian gymnast Mariia Vysochanska led a group of European athletes carrying the Paris Olympic torch through Marseille. This event marked the commencement of the torch’s 11-week journey across France, leading up to the Olympics on July 26. French Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra highlighted the significance of European unity, particularly in supporting Ukrainian athletes amid ongoing conflict. Vysochanska’s participation holds personal relevance as her father has been involved in the conflict in Ukraine since 2015.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has addressed the challenges faced by the Ukrainian army, particularly in the eastern regions where Russian forces are making advances. Despite shortages in ammunition and manpower, Zelenskyy is optimistic about significant military aid from the US aiding Ukraine’s defense efforts. Recent legislation passed by Ukraine’s Parliament allows for the parole of convicts who enlist for military service, aiming to reinforce the Ukrainian military.

During Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations, Putin displayed a lone tank and held a fireworks event, diverging from past displays of multiple tanks. These celebrations, amid the ongoing Ukrainian conflict, illustrate Putin’s attempt to maintain morale and affirm his leadership. The event underscored the political and international implications of the conflict, highlighting Russia’s drawn-out struggle and Putin’s message of unity.