In Moscow, a military parade featured Ukrainian tanks and armoured vehicles captured by the Russian military, adorned with flags of various countries including the UK, USA, and France. Experts, such as Professor Michael Clarke of King’s College London and Dr. Peter Caddick-Adams, suggested these flags were likely added for show, as it is not customary to display national flags on vehicles in combat. This revelation potentially undermines the credibility of the display, intended as a show of strength before Russia’s World War 2 celebrations.

In social media, a Russian soldier described the war in Ukraine as a “living hell,” and discouraged potential recruits from joining based on financial incentives. The soldier detailed the frequent threats in modern warfare and the high risk of casualty. This account aligns with estimates by British armed forces minister Leo Docherty, who cited Russian losses at approximately 450,000.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov issued a warning to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating “his fate is sealed” amidst continuing martial law in Ukraine due to the Russian invasion. This statement accompanies concerns about the legitimacy of Zelensky’s continued leadership.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg voiced concerns over the tardiness in delivering promised aid to Ukraine, which he believes has permitted Russian gains. Following a Russian missile strike in Odesa, at least four people were killed, intensifying the call for more immediate Western support.

Additionally, suspicions about illegal weapon supplies have escalated after debris from a North Korean Hwasong-11 ballistic missile was discovered in Kharkiv, which could indicate a breach of UN sanctions.

In Germany, a Russian citizen was arrested after allegedly stabbing two Ukrainian soldiers to death in an incident under investigation for potential political motives.

During the first British royal visit to Ukraine since the invasion, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, met with survivors of sexual violence and displaced families, highlighting the severe impacts of the conflict on women and girls.