U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Iranian forces shot down an Apache helicopter patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz, prompting a military response from Washington. Trump confirmed that the two pilots aboard the helicopter were unharmed.
In a statement, U.S. Central Command reported that retaliatory strikes against Iran had commenced, emphasizing that the attacks were a measure of self-defense in response to what they termed “unjustified aggression” from Iran. The strikes concluded around 3:56 AM Kyiv time.
Ukraine and Latvia Forge Drone Partnership
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a new agreement with Latvia aimed at enhancing drone capabilities. He described the initiative as a significant step towards bolstering mutual defense and cooperation in military production.
“This is about concrete actions to strengthen joint defense and co-production. It is also important for Ukraine’s expertise to reinforce our partners. We are building systematic cooperation with those who have consistently supported us throughout the years of the Russian war,” Zelensky stated.
The Drone Deal is part of a long-term collaboration strategy between Ukraine and various nations, designed to enhance defense against large-scale attacks on critical infrastructure. Previously, Ukraine has signed similar agreements with Middle Eastern nations, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, with contracts lasting up to ten years.
Zelensky Claims Positive Outcome from Letter to Putin
Zelensky also reported a successful outcome from a letter sent to Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 4, proposing a meeting to discuss ending the ongoing conflict. However, he did not disclose specific details regarding the nature of the outcome.
“I received a result, but I cannot share what it was at this moment. My goal was to send the letter to Putin, and I believe I achieved the necessary result,” Zelensky remarked.
He noted that he had been reaching out to various institutions, including those in the U.S. and the EU, in an effort to draw more attention to Ukraine and secure additional anti-ballistic capabilities.
Bulgaria Halts Arms Supplies to Ukraine
Bulgaria’s Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov announced that the country would cease supplying arms to Ukraine, arguing that the conflict would not be resolved through military means.
“Ukraine needs more people, not more weapons. They have enough arms, and we do not foresee providing additional supplies to the Ukrainian army. We are witnessing a positional war, and regardless of the amount of weaponry accumulated, the only outcome is the loss of lives,” Stoyanov stated.
He emphasized the need for negotiations to seek a just peace, which he believes must be determined by both parties involved in the conflict.
Russia Modifies Kalibr Missiles with Imported Components
Since 2022, Russian Kalibr missiles, which have been used extensively against Ukraine, have undergone significant modifications. They now feature a cluster munitions warhead, and recent analyses indicate a return to the use of imported electronics in their production after an unsuccessful attempt to transition to domestic components.
According to military engineers and scientists from Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, the modifications aim to increase the area of effect and target dispersed objectives. This year marked a notable shift, as cluster munitions were first observed in missiles intercepted in the spring.
“The adversary made this change to enhance the impact area and utilize the missile against scattered targets,” the Ministry of Defense noted.
Furthermore, while Russia has been gradually shifting to domestic components for missile production, reports indicate that a digital computing unit in a missile intercepted in 2025 still contained imported parts. Experts suggest that the move towards domestic electronics has compromised targeting accuracy, prompting a return to previously used components.
The U.S. has launched retaliatory strikes against Iran following the downing of a helicopter, while Ukraine and Latvia have signed a drone cooperation agreement. Bulgaria has announced it will stop supplying arms to Ukraine, emphasizing the need for negotiation, and Russia has modified its Kalibr missiles with imported components.