Key facts
- Ukraine has introduced significant reforms to its military service compensation system.
- Infantry soldiers will receive a record pay rise, combat bonuses, and fixed contracts.
- Ukraine aims to recruit 30-50% of infantry and assault roles with foreign fighters.
- Two Russian oil refineries in Tatarstan and a rubber plant in Samara Oblast were damaged by Ukrainian drones.
- Ukrainian drone manufacturer Skyfall has partnered with Airbus Defense and Space.
- At least six civilians were killed and 52 injured in Russian strikes across Ukraine in the past day.
- Ukraine's Air Force warned of a high probability of a Russian missile launch using the Oreshnik system.
Ukraine has announced sweeping reforms to its military service terms, including significant pay increases for infantry soldiers and fixed service contracts, in an effort to combat a critical manpower shortage. President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed the changes on June 12, following meetings with top military and finance officials. The reforms aim to improve soldier motivation and address exhaustion after years of conflict.
Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov elaborated on the new system, emphasizing respect for individuals and clear rules. Key changes include simplified transfer processes, easier rules for returning from AWOL (absent without leave), and a six-month exemption from mobilization after completing a fixed service term. Ukraine also plans to intensify efforts to recruit foreign fighters, targeting 30-50% of infantry and assault roles to be filled by foreigners.
In parallel, Ukrainian forces conducted a mass drone attack overnight on June 12, targeting Russian regions. The General Staff reported damage to two oil refineries in Russia's Tatarstan and a major rubber plant in Samara Oblast. The damaged rubber plant's products are reportedly used in the production of rocket fuel.
Separately, Ukrainian drone manufacturer Skyfall announced a strategic partnership with Airbus Defense and Space. The memorandum of understanding, signed at the ILA Berlin exhibition, aims to enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities and accelerate the European defense ecosystem.
Meanwhile, the northeastern city of Sumy was hit by artillery bombardment on the morning of June 12. Across Ukraine, Russian strikes over the past day resulted in at least six civilian deaths and 52 injuries. Ukraine's Air Force also issued a warning of a high probability of a Russian missile launch using the Oreshnik system within the next 24 hours, urging citizens to take air raid alerts seriously.