Moscow has initiated a significant daytime aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying hundreds of drones, resulting in at least three fatalities and 12 injuries. Ukrainian military intelligence warns of a sustained attack on critical infrastructure, with drones detected from various directions, including Belarus.

Andriy Yermak, former chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, appeared in court as prosecutors seek his arrest over allegations of a $10.5 million money-laundering scheme linked to a luxury housing project. Yermak denied the charges and a hearing is set to continue on Wednesday.

The United Nations human rights chief has called for independent investigations into airstrikes by Nigerian and Chadian forces that reportedly killed over 100 civilians in northern Nigeria. Concerns persist about the high civilian toll from these operations targeting Boko Haram.

UK MORNING BRIEFING

The bodies of three women have been recovered from the sea in Brighton this morning following concerns for their welfare. Emergency services are conducting an investigation to establish their identities and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The World Health Organization has warned of a potential increase in hantavirus cases following an outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship. Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted the long incubation period and urged thorough quarantine measures for affected individuals.

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasised the need for accountability in the EU’s €90 billion loan to Ukraine, amidst an investigation into graft allegations involving a former Zelenskyy aide. Pevkur highlighted that Ukraine must demonstrate responsible fund usage to secure ongoing support from both Ukrainians and Europeans.

EUROPEAN UPDATE

This morning, Europe prepares for key economic discussions.
Focus on energy policies and digital regulations dominates the agenda.

What’s going on?
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rejected calls from his party to resign. The calls intensified amid ongoing criticisms of his leadership and policy direction.

CBS News stated, “U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer rejects mounting calls to resign, even from his own party.” This framing emphasises Starmer’s defiance against internal pressure. In contrast, CNN’s headline, “Who could replace Keir Starmer as Labour leader and Britain’s next prime minister?” focuses on speculation regarding his potential successors, highlighting concerns about his leadership viability.
Coverage analysed: CBS News | CNN

Vladimir Putin appeared at a scaled-back Victory Day parade in Moscow, raising concerns over his health as his face appeared puffy and swollen. Commentators described him as a “deeply frightened, ageing dictator.” For further insights, explore the latest reports.

Between 40,000 and 70,000 people marched in Brussels on 12 May, protesting against the Belgian government’s “anti-social” reforms. Organised by three major trade unions, demonstrators highlighted issues of pensions, purchasing power, and wage indexation amid rising energy prices linked to the Middle East conflict.