Local sources from Ukraine: Радіо Свобода, I-UA.TV.
UK coverage: POLITICO Europe.
During the NATO summit, Ukraine received significant support from the alliance, including the declaration of its membership as ‘irreversible’ and $43 billion in military assistance for next year. NATO also condemned Russia’s nuclear threats and called China the enabler of Russia’s war against Ukraine. While Ukraine didn’t get everything it wanted, they expressed satisfaction with the outcome. President Biden successfully avoided any major gaffes during the summit, but concerns about his health and capabilities may arise from U.S. lawmakers and European speculations leading up to the November election.
In the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the Ukrainian Armed Forces repelled 17 attacks on the Kurakhiv direction during the day, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. There were a total of 136 military clashes on the front line, with the hottest situation remaining on the Pokrovsk direction. Russian forces also remained active on the Kurakhiv and Toretsk directions. The Ukrainian Defense Forces successfully defended against attacks near Hlybokyi, Vovchansk, Starytsia, and Lyptsiv in the Kharkiv region. On the Kupiansk direction, three attempts by the Russian army to advance near Synkivka, Stepova Novoselivka, Pishchane, and Berestove were repelled. The battle continues in two locations near Chasove Yar, and nine attacks on the Kramatorsk direction were stalled. The Ukrainian Armed Forces repelled 14 out of 19 attacks on the Toretsk direction. The enemy showed the most activity on the Pokrovsk direction, attempting to infiltrate Ukrainian defense in multiple areas. Currently, 33 enemy attacks have been repelled, and seven clashes are ongoing. Ukrainian defenders are taking measures to stabilize the situation and prevent further enemy advancements.
In a separate event, a concert titled ‘Ukrainian Fantasy’ took place, showcasing traditional and original songs from Ukraine and abroad. Artists of the National Folk Instruments Orchestra of Ukraine, along with renowned soloists Olga Chubareva and Igor Borko, expressed their love for Ukraine and its rich musical heritage. Oles Zhuravchak, a virtuoso musician and cultural expert, played a significant role in creating a unique orchestral palette for the concert. The event featured performances of Ukrainian songs such as ‘Green Oak Tree,’ ‘What a Night, Lord,’ and ‘Four Oxen Grazing,’ as well as international folk and opera masterpieces. The concert concluded with the artists and the audience singing the legendary song ‘Oh, in the Meadow, the Red Kalyna’ together. Igor Borko, one of the soloists, shared his experience of the past two challenging years, expressing his pride in the young men from his family who are serving in the war. He emphasized the importance of love and unity in these difficult times and expressed his commitment to continue his creative and teaching activities.
In summary, Ukraine received significant support from NATO during the summit, with the declaration of irreversible membership and substantial military assistance. The ongoing conflict with Russia saw Ukrainian forces successfully repelling attacks on multiple fronts. The concert ‘Ukrainian Fantasy’ showcased the country’s musical heritage and emphasized the power of love and unity. Despite the challenges, Ukraine remains determined to defend its territory and preserve its cultural identity.
