13:58⇢Russia Occupies 18 Settlements in One Week
⌨The newspapers report on Russia's territorial gains as German media confirms Russian forces occupied 18 settlements across three regions within a week (Glavcom). Ukrainian military leadership countered with strategic strikes, hitting 58 targets in Russian rear areas during May alone, focusing on military infrastructure and defense industry capabilities (Liga.net). Fighting intensified with 191 combat clashes reported in 24 hours, concentrated on Pokrovsk and Kursk fronts, while Russia launched new offensives on the Zaporizhzhia direction (Ukrinform, UNIAN). International concerns emerged over Putin potentially creating a "Janissary army" from abducted Ukrainian children, drawing parallels to Ottoman practices (Kyiv Post). European preparations for long-term Ukrainian defense accelerated amid potential Trump policy changes, while reports suggest Trump's displeasure with Putin may trigger new US sanctions (Pravda, Radio Svoboda).