General Staff confirms Russian missile ship Tsiklon struck in occupied Crimea

The General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces confirmed on May 21 that the Russian missile ship Tsiklon was struck during a Ukrainian attack in Sevastopol, Crimea, on May 19. This attack follows Ukraine’s Navy’s previous claim of destroying the Russian minesweeper Kovrovets. If confirmed sunk, Tsiklon's loss would mean the depletion of Russia's last missile ship in the Black Sea. This incident is part of Ukraine's ongoing campaign against the Russian Black Sea Fleet, which has led to significant damage and strategic withdrawals of Russian naval assets from Crimean ports.

Humanitarian aid for Ukraine falling but needed now more than ever - UN

Humanitarian aid for Ukraine is decreasing as needs increase, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) warned on May 20.

Karolina Lindholm Billing, UNHCR's representative in Ukraine, told AFP that there are 4 million displaced people in the country, many of whom are very vulnerable.

The situation is worsening as Russia's invasion continues, but international aid funding is slowing. The UN’s $3.1 billion humanitarian plan for Ukraine, including $599 million for the UNHCR, has received only 15% of the required funding so far in 2024.

"It is the most vulnerable who will bear the brunt of reduced funding and support," Billing said.

Countries continue to pledge aid to Ukraine, with Denmark recently announcing a new 250 million kroner ($33.2 million) package. The Danish Foreign Ministry said about 40% of Ukraine's population needs humanitarian aid, citing UN data.

"The humanitarian situation in Ukraine is extremely serious," said Dan Jorgensen, Denmark's development cooperation minister. "Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced, thousands of homes destroyed, hospitals bombed, and basic necessities like water, heating, and electricity are scarce for many Ukrainians."

Tucker Carlson launches new show on Russian TV

U.S. far-right commentator Tucker Carlson launched a new show in collaboration with Russian state TV network Rossiya 24, with the first episode available online on May 21. Carlson, formerly of Fox News, has faced criticism for controversial comments that some see as echoing Russian propaganda. The first episode on Rossiya 24 covers ticks and Lyme disease, and his online platform's content, including interviews with figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene, is also available in Russian. Carlson interviewed Russian President Vladimir Putin in February, which was criticized in the West for its lack of tough questioning.