Russia downs 50 Ukrainian drones near St. Petersburg before forum
What's new: Flight limits at Pulkovo disrupted more than 30 flights hours before the St. Petersburg economic forum opened.
The Straits Times, The New York Times +3
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House GOP joins Democrats to pass Ukraine bill in rebuke to Trump
What's new: Republicans also moved to block or cut several Trump-backed priorities, from a White House ballroom request to a domestic spying measure.
The Straits Times, Bloomberg +1
Italy pushes 40-nation European defense bloc beyond EU and NATO
Why it matters: The proposal reflects growing alarm over Russia and doubts about whether the US will keep guaranteeing Europe’s security.
The Straits Times, The New York Times
Zelensky seeks Putin meeting to halt war, with ceasefire first
What's new: Trump backed direct talks, and the Kremlin said Zelensky could come to Moscow if he wants negotiations.
The Straits Times, Bloomberg +5
Germany, France and Britain weigh Ukraine-Russia talks push
What's next: European officials see any talks as months away and insist Kyiv must approve the format and timing.
5 Azerbaijani crew members killed in Sea of Azov vessel strikes
What's new: Ukraine said its drones hit five ships near Mariupol and Berdyansk that it accused of moving grain, fuel and military cargo.
The Straits Times, Bloomberg
Sea drone explodes at Romania's Constanta port; no injuries reported
Why it matters: The blast shut down part of a key Black Sea hub used for Ukrainian grain and fuel shipments and widened NATO security fears.
Xi to make June 8-9 North Korea trip, first in nearly 7 years
Why it matters: The visit signals Beijing is moving to pull Pyongyang closer as Kim deepens military ties with Moscow.
Channel News Asia, The New York Times +4
House passes 226-195 bill for Ukraine aid and Russia sanctions
What's next: The measure faces a tougher path in the Senate and would likely draw a veto if it reached the White House.
The Straits Times, The New York Times +1
House passes Ukraine aid, Russia sanctions bill in 226-195 vote
What's next: The measure heads to the Senate and faces a likely veto fight after 18 Republicans joined Democrats to force it through.