Jul 1, 2026, 05:30 PM UTC

On July 1, Ukraine reported multiple Russian attacks and warnings. In Kherson, two separate drone strikes occurred. One attack on a minibus resulted in two fatalities, including an 18-year-old, and nine injuries. Separately, another drone strike in the city center killed one person and injured 20, causing a fire and structural damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also stated on July 1 that intelligence indicates Russia is preparing a new large-scale strike across the country. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Ambassador to NATO, Olena Hetmanchuk, confirmed that Ukraine receives 90-92% of its Patriot missile interceptors through the PURL procurement scheme. These incidents follow a report detailing ten civilian sites targeted by Russia in June, with more than half sustaining damage. Sources: Громадське, Радіо Свобода, Українська правда

The French Parliament has validated a new military spending bill, allocating €436 billion to the armed forces budget by 2030. Both the Senate and the National Assembly widely adopted the government's proposal, with the latter passing it by 375 votes to 113. This financial commitment is intended to address insights gained from ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. While many deputies supported the measure, some expressed concerns that the allocated funds might not be entirely sufficient to meet the evolving defense requirements. Sources: Le Monde

Maltese businessman Yorgen Fenech has commenced trial on charges of complicity in the 2017 car bomb assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The prominent journalist, known for her critical reporting on the government, was killed in an attack that shocked the nation. Mr. Fenech, 44, has pleaded not guilty to all accusations. The trial follows the 2022 convictions of brothers George and Alfred Degiorgio, who were each sentenced to 40 years in prison for their role in Caruana Galizia's murder. Her death sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.

Sources: BBC News - World

Franco-Tunisian journalist Mourad Zeghidi, who has been imprisoned in Tunisia since May 2024, has addressed an open letter to President Kaïs Saïed requesting his release. Zeghidi was initially detained for remarks critical of the Tunisian president, with subsequent charges relating to alleged financial malversations. In his letter, the journalist cited the settlement of all his outstanding dues as grounds for his liberation. He referenced recent declarations made by President Saïed. Zeghidi's appeal highlights his ongoing detention and the legal processes surrounding his case.

Sources: Le Monde