Jun 24, 2026, 06:30 PM UTC

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that transponders in Belarus, previously used to guide Russian strikes, ceased functioning on June 22, though it remains unclear if they were dismantled. This follows earlier reports of no Russian drone activity near the Belarusian-Ukrainian border. Meanwhile, Russian forces struck Zaporizhzhia's central beach with a guided aerial bomb, injuring six people, including three children. Separately, media reports indicate a shift in former US President Donald Trump's position on the conflict, with sources suggesting he privately urged President Zelenskyy to act more boldly towards Russia, reportedly influenced by recent Ukrainian successes.

Sources: Радіо Свобода, Громадське, Українська правда

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi announced on June 24 that there are currently no plans for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections of the country's nuclear facilities. He clarified that any discussions concerning Iran's nuclear sites and enriched materials would only proceed as part of a comprehensive final agreement with the United States. Gharibabadi explicitly stated, "There is no plan to access attacked facilities or nuclear materials."

Separately, Iran refuted US assertions that billions in unfrozen Iranian assets, part of a memorandum of understanding with Washington, would be allocated for purchasing American agricultural goods. While denying the immediate claim, Tehran did not entirely dismiss the possibility, a stance that has reportedly drawn strong criticism from hardliners within Iran.

Sources: Радіо Свобода

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz affirmed that Israel will not withdraw its forces from Lebanon, despite ongoing US-mediated negotiations between Tel Aviv and Beirut. Speaking at the MUNI EXPO conference in Tel Aviv on June 24, Katz stated that this position has been clearly communicated to his American counterpart. He further highlighted that the United States is currently not demanding an Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon, describing this as a "diplomatic achievement." The minister's remarks underscore Israel's firm stance amidst regional tensions and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation along its northern border.

Sources: Радіо Свобода

Russia is reportedly experiencing a significant gasoline deficit, with production decreasing by approximately 25% between June 15 and 21 compared to the average daily output for June 2024. This shortage has impacted various regions, from Moscow to the Khanty-Mansiysk autonomous district. Amidst the supply issues, reports indicate that Russia has approached Kazakhstan to request the supply of around 50,000 tonnes of AI-92 gasoline. However, Kazakhstan's Energy Minister, Yerlan Akkenzhenov, stated that Astana has not received such a request. The Russian Ministry of Energy has not issued a comment on the situation.

Sources: Радіо Свобода

US Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta has reportedly intervened to reduce tensions between former US President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Following a public disagreement between the two leaders, Ambassador Fertitta stated in an interview that the relationship between Italy and the United States is in a "normal state." His efforts are aimed at de-escalating the friction and ensuring the continued strength of the alliance between the two nations, despite the recent public spat. The ambassador's comments suggest a diplomatic push to stabilize bilateral relations and maintain strong ties.

Sources: Українська правда