Russia has indicated that it will retaliate against Norway’s decision to tighten visa rules for Russian tourists. The move comes in response to Norway’s decision to further restrict access for Russian tourists traveling for tourism purposes from May 29 due to the war in Ukraine. The restrictions were first imposed in 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine, with exceptions being made for Russians visiting close relatives, as well as for work or study. Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov called Norway’s decision discriminatory, indicating that Russia’s response will not go unanswered.
British defense minister Grant Shapps accused China of providing or preparing to provide Russia with lethal aid for use in its war against Ukraine. Shapps claimed that U.S. and British defense intelligence had evidence of possible lethal aid flowing from China to Russia, citing a 64% increase in trade between the two countries since the start of the conflict. However, a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in London called these allegations groundless, accusing Britain of spreading baseless accusations. Concerns were raised about China’s role in the conflict, as it was initially seen as a moderating influence on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Russian forces launched an attack on the northeastern city of Kharkiv, injuring at least five people. Governor Oleh Syniehubov stated that Russian forces struck Kharkiv multiple times, resulting in injuries to civilians and damage to infrastructure. Additionally, attacks on Zolochiv and Lubotyn left four people injured. Russia claims that it does not intentionally target civilians, though the extent of the damage remains unverified. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, with reports of increased military actions by Russian forces in various parts of the country.
Russia has detained another high-ranking defense official, Lieutenant General Vadim Shamarin, on suspicion of large-scale bribe-taking. This marks the fourth arrest of a top military figure since April, reflecting significant changes in Russia’s defense establishment. The arrests come amidst President Vladimir Putin’s recent removal of long-serving Sergei Shoigu as defense minister, replacing him with former deputy prime minister Andrei Belousov. The string of arrests highlights growing concerns about corruption within Russia’s military leadership.
Russian air defense systems shot down 35 rockets and three drones over the border Belgorod region, adjacent to Ukraine’s Kharkiv region. The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that this action thwarted an attempted terrorist attack by Ukrainian forces using multiple launch rocket systems and a drone. The offensive in Kharkiv aims to capture the entire region and create a buffer zone to protect Russian border regions, like Belgorod, from attacks. The ongoing conflict continues to intensify, with reports of increased military engagements and casualties.
Norway announced further restrictions on entry for most Russian tourists, blocking almost all access due to the war in Ukraine. The decision reflects Norway’s support for allies and partners in response to Russia’s illegal aggression against Ukraine. Russian citizens traveling for tourism and non-essential purposes will be rejected upon entry, with exceptions made for visits to close family residing in Norway. The new policy will take effect on May 29, with police empowered to refuse entry to Russian citizens falling under the new restrictions. The move reflects ongoing tensions between Russia and its neighboring countries in the region.
