Ukraine has intensified its anti-corruption efforts amid the ongoing war with Russia by offering financial rewards to whistle-blowers. Businessman Yevhen Shevchenko and a defense ministry official are among the first to receive state payouts for exposing corruption, a move seen as crucial for Ukraine's EU membership aspirations. The initiative, which includes a new online portal for anonymous reporting, aims to change public perceptions of corruption and encourage more citizens to report wrongdoing. Despite improvements in Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index, corruption remains a significant challenge in Ukraine.

Ukraine is investigating the death of journalist Victoria Roshchyna, who died in Russian captivity. Roshchyna, known for her reports on life under Russian occupation, disappeared in August last year during a reporting trip in eastern Ukraine. Russia confirmed her detention in April. The incident highlights ongoing tensions and the risks faced by journalists in conflict zones.

NATO's new chief, Mark Rutte, emphasizes that Ukraine's defense extends beyond its borders, urging the 32 member nations to increase funding. This statement reflects NATO's strategic stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted and destroyed 26 out of 28 drones launched by Russia overnight, with the drones being Iranian-made. The attacks caused injuries and damage in various regions, including Zaporizhzhia and Kharkiv. Additional missile strikes were reported in the Odesa region, though no injuries were noted. The ongoing conflict sees regular air strikes by Russia on Ukrainian population centers.

Russia arrested 11 people, including four suspected gunmen, for a shooting rampage at a concert hall near Moscow that killed 143 people, marking the deadliest attack in the country in 20 years. Islamic State claimed responsibility, but Russia is investigating a potential Ukrainian link, which Ukraine denies. The suspects were apprehended while heading to the Ukrainian border. Russian state TV showed a video of one suspect being interrogated. The attack occurred two weeks after the U.S. embassy in Russia warned of a potential extremist attack in Moscow. The United Nations Security Council condemned the attack, and Russia has heightened security nationwide.

Russia has arrested 11 individuals, including four suspected gunmen, in connection with a deadly attack at a concert hall near Moscow, which claimed 143 lives. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility, but Russia is investigating a possible Ukrainian link, despite Ukraine's denial of involvement. The FSB reported that the suspects were apprehended en route to Ukraine. The attack has prompted international condemnation and heightened security measures across Russia. The incident underscores ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the persistent threat posed by Islamic State affiliates.

Russia arrested 11 people, including four suspected gunmen, in connection with a deadly attack at a concert hall near Moscow, which killed 143 people. The Islamic State claimed responsibility, but Russia is investigating a possible Ukrainian link, despite denials from Ukrainian officials. The FSB reported that the suspects were heading to the Ukrainian border. The attack, the deadliest in Russia in 20 years, involved gunmen opening fire and setting a fire in the concert hall. The incident has led to heightened security measures across Russia and international condemnation.

Two people were killed in Vinnytsia, Ukraine, following Russia's second overnight mass drone attack in two days. Kyiv's air force reported that all 27 Iranian-made drones were shot down across seven regions, including the capital. Additionally, Russian forces fired eight missiles in eastern and central Ukraine. The previous night's drone strike targeted civilian infrastructure, disrupting television and radio signals in five cities and towns. Russia continues to conduct regular air strikes on population centers amid its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraine's number two commander, emphasized the importance of 'active defence' in the war against Russia, suggesting that despite a lack of major breakthroughs, Ukrainian forces are capable of surprising attacks. He highlighted the use of smaller-scale engagements to conserve resources and the need for more ammunition and advanced technology from Western partners. Syrskyi, known for his tactical prowess, also discussed the role of electronic warfare and the strategic use of drones. Despite heavy casualties in Bakhmut, he believes Ukraine has weakened Russia's efforts by targeting the Wagner mercenary group. Assassination attempts against him underscore his significance in the conflict.

Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraine's number two commander, emphasizes the defensive posture of Ukraine's ground forces along the eastern front, while not ruling out their offensive capabilities. Despite a lack of major advances and a challenging battle for Bakhmut, Syrskyi highlights the importance of tactics and technology in the conflict. He notes the role of drones, electronic warfare, and the need for more advanced equipment from Western partners. Syrskyi's past successes, including a counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region, and his strategic approach to exploiting enemy weaknesses, underscore his message that Ukraine can still surprise Russian forces.