The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) carried out airstrikes targeting sites in Iran on June 11 at 5:15 PM Eastern Time, following orders from President Donald Trump. This military action was described as a response to ongoing Iranian aggression.
In retaliation, Iran announced a complete closure of the Hormuz Strait to all vessels, including oil tankers and commercial ships. Iranian military officials warned that any ship attempting to navigate the strait would face attack.
Subsequent reports from Iranian media indicated that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) struck two vessels in the Hormuz Strait, asserting that this decision was made in light of prolonged American hostilities and recent strikes in southern Iran.
Context: On June 10, Trump stated that Iran would have to face consequences for delaying negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis, accusing Tehran of wasting opportunities for a favorable agreement.
Ukraine’s President Declares June 11 as Drone Forces Day
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially designated June 11 as Drone Forces Day for the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), a recognition that will be celebrated annually. The presidential decree, numbered 485/2026, was published on June 10 and took effect immediately.
The decree highlights the significant role of drone forces in Ukraine’s struggle for freedom, independence, and territorial integrity, aiming to establish new military traditions.
In a recent address, Zelensky noted that within a year of their establishment, Ukrainian drone forces had inflicted approximately $40 billion in damage to Russian targets. He emphasized that Ukraine is pioneering the development of drone capabilities.
Context: On February 6, 2024, Zelensky signed a decree to enhance the capabilities of defense forces, leading to the formation of a dedicated drone force within the Ukrainian military structure. The initiative received government support on May 7, 2024, and subsequent developments included the appointment of Vadym Sukharevskyi as commander of the drone forces.
Ukraine’s Anticipated Financial Aid from the EU
Reports indicate that Ukraine is set to receive its first disbursements from a €90 billion loan from the European Union in June. A defense tranche of $5.9 billion is expected on June 18-19, while a budgetary support payment of $3.2 billion is anticipated around June 25.
According to EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, the defense assistance will be allocated for the procurement of drones for Ukraine.
Context: The financial support for military purposes is classified as non-repayable aid, while budgetary assistance is contingent upon the implementation of reforms.
Finnish President Declines Role in EU-Russia Negotiations
Finnish President Alexander Stubb has stated that he does not see himself as a representative of Europe in negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He emphasized that major European powers such as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom should lead diplomatic discussions with Russia.
Stubb remarked that the current geopolitical situation is conducive to dialogue, given Ukraine’s strengthened military, political, and economic positions.
He reiterated his stance, stating,
“Personally, I do not see myself as a representative in this matter. I believe that it should be led by major players, namely France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.”
Stubb suggested that countries like Finland and Norway could assist in negotiations behind the scenes.
Context: In late May, Stubb expressed willingness to represent the EU in peace talks with Russia, conditional on Moscow agreeing to a ceasefire.
Digitization of Employment Records: Guidance from Pension Fund and Ministry of Social Policy
Following June 10, the process of digitizing paper employment records will continue. If data has not yet been entered into the electronic system, it can still be submitted for inclusion.
Galina Nedzelska, head of the Pension Fund’s regional office in Lviv, explained that the digitization initiative began in 2021.
She stated,
“The law stipulates that employers are responsible for submitting these documents. Employers must return employment records to employees only after all data has been entered into the register of insured persons.”
However, some employers have failed to input data, necessitating employees to digitize their records independently. Nedzelska assured that the digitization process will persist post-June 10, and no employment history will be lost.
The Ministry of Social Policy emphasized that the five-year transition period for transferring information from paper records to the electronic system concludes on June 10, 2026.
Context: This transition period was established to allow time for the state, employers, and citizens to gradually transfer a significant volume of information from paper records to the register of insured persons.
The U.S. conducted airstrikes in Iran, prompting Tehran to close the Hormuz Strait. Meanwhile, Ukraine celebrates Drone Forces Day, and financial aid from the EU is on the horizon.