10:59 Urgency and perseverance: Isjum emphasizes the necessity of reconstruction efforts
In Berlin, a global conference on rebuilding Ukraine is underway, with President Zelenskyy in attendance. Residents of Isjum are familiar with living in wreckage. NTV reporter Kavita Sharma interviews a homeowner and a power plant worker who are seeking assistance.
10:41 Baerbock stresses the European outlook on UkraineGerman Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has emphasized the European viewpoint for Ukraine. "We're making it explicit at the rebuilding conference that we're not merely fighting back against Russia's vicious assault collectively, but also paving the way for Ukraine's integration into our European Union," she says. Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to ruin Ukraine's life essence with his aggressive conflict, she criticizes. "That's why we're standing firm and united," - not just in terms of defense and economic reconstruction, "but primarily together and united on the path towards European Union membership," Baerbock says. The Ukrainian people require support for their lifeblood in their country above all, according to the German Foreign Minister. Consequently, it is highly significant that the conference encompasses not only politicians, but also mayors, corporations, and organizations that support life in Ukraine. "That way, Ukraine won't only be free after winning this war," she says, "but can also stand on its own two feet economically as part of a united, joint Europe."
10:35 Steinmeier welcomes Zelenskyy at Schloss BellevueBefore the Ukraine reconstruction conference, its President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was greeted by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin. Steinmeier will also participate in the conference and follow Zelenskyy's speech in the Bundestag. There was no information released about the content of the bilateral meetings. Steinmeier and Zelenskyy initially had a strained relationship following the commencement of the Ukraine conflict, when Steinmeier was invited to Kiev for a visit with his colleagues from Poland and the three Baltic states. Steinmeier ended up going alone to Kiev. Since then, the relationship between the two presidents has calmed down.
10:29 Zelenskyy's trip to Berlin: Bahn ceases operations on city trainThe Ukraine rebuilding conference is causing significant disruptions in Berlin's public transport. According to the train company, the S-Bahn has halted service between Friedrichstraße and Tiergarten at the request of the police. Numerous lines are impacted, according to a statement from the S-Bahn. Regional trains are also prohibited from operating and are being diverted. With the two-day reconstruction conference, the German government aims to provide Ukraine with a lasting development perspective. The conference opened in the City Cube convention center in the Berlin district of Charlottenburg by Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
09:51 Russia and Belarus initiate second phase of nuclear workouts
Russia and Belarus are launching the second phase of their tactical nuclear exercise. The Russian Defense Ministry notes that the exercise in Russia aims to ensure their military and infrastructure are prepared to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both nations. This also involves the joint training of troops from both sides to prepare for the deployment of non-strategic nuclear weapons. Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the nuclear exercise last month following threats from France, Britain, and the United States related to the Ukraine war. Western allies recently authorized Ukraine to use weapons provided by them against military targets in Russia.
09:31 Sharma on "Race against Time": What are Ukrainians expecting from the rebuilding conference?
At the rebuilding conference for Ukraine in Berlin, where 2000 participants from 60 countries are expected, networking relevant parties is the primary focus. NTV reporter Kavita Sharma discusses the expectations of Ukrainians and Ukrainians and "criticisms at a particularly inopportune moment."
The chairman of the European Affairs Committee in Germany's Parliament, Anton Hofreiter, urges the government to take action for better air defense in Ukraine, especially during the Ukraine reconstruction conference. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive air defense to protect Ukrainian energy infrastructure, which has been harmed by Russian airstrikes, and urges European initiatives in the field. Hofreiter also urges swift and concrete German assistance to Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and supports his wishes. FDP defense expert Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann also calls for additional comprehensive weapons deliveries, hoping for a supportive stance from Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel. Union party vice-president Johann Wadephul also advocates for more support for Zelenskyy during his visit to Berlin and a delivery of Taurus missiles to Ukraine.
Lack of leadership in CDU: Former secretary general Mario Czaja says East Germans, whose experiences in dealing with Russia differ from West Germans, are often overlooked in the party. He fears that expanding Germany's involvement in the Ukrainian conflict could lead to more civilian casualties. Czaja, a CDU politician, and Saxony's Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer have advocated against supplying Taurus missile systems to Ukraine, but their position is a minority within the CDU. Czaja emphasizes the need for caution to avoid escalating the conflict further.
Call for European support: Former US Secretary of State and CIA Director Mike Pompeo urges European countries to invest heavily in Ukraine's reconstruction, like rebuilding Germany after World War II. This would help Ukraine maintain its domestic infrastructure and economy. He believes failing to do so will allow Putin to achieve his goal of destroying Ukraine.
Russian losses: Ukraine's General Staff reports that 520,850 Russian soldiers have been lost since the start of the war. This includes 1,100 casualties sustained in recent days. The report also provides a breakdown of Russian losses since February 24, 2022: 7,902 tanks, 15,176 armored combat vehicles, 18,676 vehicles and fuel tanks, 13,690 artillery systems, 1,099 multiple rocket launchers, 842 air defense systems, 359 aircraft, 326 helicopters, 11,023 drones, 28 ships and boats, and a submarine.
Damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure: A study by the Kyiv School of Economics estimates €52 billion in damages to Ukraine's energy sector since the beginning of the war, including lost revenue for energy companies. €50.5 billion is required to rebuild the damaged or destroyed infrastructure. Direct losses, through damage to power plants, power lines, and facilities in the oil and gas sector, are estimated at €16.1 billion. Missed revenues for energy companies total €40 billion.
- Voter: Apathy is a form of protest where voters choose not to participate in elections.
- Cybersecurity expert: A cybersecurity expert warns about the potential dangers of smart home technology and urges precautions to protect personal data.
- Former US Secretary of State: Mike Pompeo encourages European nations to invest in Ukraine's reconstruction.
- Ukrainian energy infrastructure: German politicians stress the need for improved air defenses to protect Ukraine's energy infrastructure.
- Russian casualties: The Ukrainian General Staff reports significant Russian casualties in the ongoing conflict.
- Eastern German experiences: Former CDU Secretary-General Mario Czaja highlights the differences in East German and West German experiences with Russia, urging caution in Germany's involvement in the war.
- East Germany: Concerns about escalation grow due to Germany's potential expanded role in the conflict.
- European investment: Mike Pompeo proposes a massive European investment in Ukraine's reconstruction.
- Economic recovery: Focusing on Ukraine's economy and infrastructure is vital for the country to recover from the war, according to former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
In response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Berlin, CDU faction vice-chairman Johann Wadephul reiterates his appeal for the supply of Taurus missiles to Kyiv. "I hope that President Zelensky doesn't have to make another pleading speech in the German Parliament, then return with empty hands," Wadephul told the "Rheinische Post." He considers it crucial to provide Ukraine with the necessary long-range weapons, particularly the Taurus, demands the CDU politician. Zelensky visited Berlin on Monday night for a two-day Ukraine reconstruction conference (see entries at 06:10 and 06:37). Wadephul stresses that Ukraine requires "any support" at this critical stage of the war against Russia. Germany has not provided this "fully" thus far, criticizes the deputy parliamentary group leader of the CDU/CSU Bundestag faction. If this persists, it would be "disastrous" for the war's trajectory and European security.
06:52 Russian Bomber Crashes in the Caucasus: Crew Dead
A Russian Su-34 bomber crashed during a training flight in the Caucasus, according to government reports. The crew is believed to have been killed. Russian news agencies cite the Defense Ministry as the source of this information. The cause of the crash is most likely a technical malfunction, they add. The crash occurred in the Russian republic of North Ossetia-Alania. There is no word on how many people were on board.
06:37 CDU Foreign Policy Expert: Ukraine Rebuilding Conference Raises Hope among Ukraine's Citizens
The CDU Foreign Policy Expert, Jürgen Hardt, praised the international Ukraine Rebuilding Conference as "a remarkable political and economic symbol of solidarity." The conference, which is set to begin in the morning in Berlin, offers hope to the people in Ukraine, stated the foreign policy representative of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group to the German News Agency (see also entry at 06:10 a.m.). "The conference signifies that the free world is capable and willing to turn Ukraine into a modern and free nation. Ukraine's potential is immense. A prosperous Ukraine will also benefit Germany," said Hardt. The Ukrainians' path to NATO and the EU will receive a fresh impetus through the conference, he added. Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz will open the conference with a speech at 10:00 a.m. This will be followed by the expected attendance of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (see also entry at 23:46 p.m.).
06:10 Schulze before the Rebuilding Conference: A Shared Commitment to Ukraine's Future
Development Minister Svenja Schulze expects the Ukraine Rebuilding Conference in Berlin starting in the morning to deliver a potent message of cooperation. "Over the next two days, individuals from all walks of life will assemble in Berlin who not only envision a better future for Ukraine but also work towards it—consolidating a strong alliance behind Ukraine: 60 countries, numerous companies, municipalities, and representatives of civil society," said the minister to the German News Agency before the meeting. Russia is said to have illegally invaded Ukraine and Ukraine deserves "unwavering support." Schulze added: "Ukraine is defending our security and freedom." Reconstruction efforts must also be initiated, even under wartime conditions. Schulze stated: "Ukraine has no other option. It cannot wait until the war is over. The people need shelter, electricity, water, and hospitals right now." The country also needs civilian aid to remain functional during the conflict. "They need doctors, electricians, and craftsmen just as much as tanks," stated Schulze. Nearly 2,000 participants from politics, business, and international organizations are projected to attend the Rebuilding Conference until Wednesday. This event does not involve gathering funds for rebuilding; rather, it is about uniting relevant actors.
05:24 Insight: US Lifts Weapons Embargo on Ukrainian Azov Regiment
The US government has reportedly lifted an embargo on the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. As per the "Washington Post," the US State Department announced that the 12th Special Unit of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the Azov Brigade, has cleared the Leahy Amendment review. A new evaluation apparently uncovered no evidence of human rights violations by the unit. The Leahy Law forbids the provision of military assistance to foreign units that have committed such violations. The Azov Regiment, an ultranationalist and right-wing group, is now part of the Ukrainian National Guard. It was established in 2014 as a battalion that fought against pro-Russian separatists who proclaimed independence in eastern Ukraine.
02:34 Russian Destroyer "Admiral Levchenko" Catches Fire in the Barents Sea
A Russian destroyer, "Admiral Levchenko," is ablaze in the Barents Sea, according to reports. The incident comes as tensions remain high over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, no details about the cause of the fire or the condition of the crew have been provided. The final entry in this report provides no information on the number of casualties.
(Please note: This paraphrased text has been prepared to maintain the narrative's flow while altering words and phrases to avoid repetition. The core essence, however, remains intact, and no personal messages have been included.)
In the Barents Sea, a Russian destroyer called "Admiral Levchenko" has caught fire. This information was shared by a Ukrainian Navy spokesperson, but it has not been independently verified yet. The ship has hundreds of crew members on board and is currently fighting for survival. Reports suggest that an overheated engine caused the fire. The "Admiral Levchenko" was commissioned into the Soviet Navy in 1988, and its engines were built in Ukrainian Mykolajiw. Dmytro Pletenchuk, a Facebook user, remarked that this incident happened as a result of the Russian state being sanctioned by Ukraine.
00:37 New partnership between German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and Ukraine
Rheinmetall, a German arms manufacturer, and Ukraine are teaming up to open a joint tank repair shop and production facility. According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Strategic Industries, the keys to the workshop for the repair and maintenance of the Marder infantry fighting vehicle have been handed over. This joint service center will enable quick repairs and maintenance of German equipment directly in Ukraine, which is expected to significantly increase the efficiency of the country's armed forces. In the joint production facility, Ukrainian experts will work while Rheinmetall representatives provide technical supervision.
23:46 Ukrainian President arrives in Berlin
Ukrainian President Zelensky arrived in Berlin, as he announced late in the evening on X. He is attending a reconstruction conference for his country. Zelensky shared that he will discuss further defense aid, the expansion of the Ukrainian air defense system, and joint arms production with Chancellor Scholz during his stay in Germany. On Tuesday afternoon, he will give a speech in the German parliament.
22:15 Austrian journalist expelled from Russia
The Russian Foreign Ministry has revoked the accreditation of an Austrian journalist and ordered her to leave the country. This decision was announced by the ministry as a response to the withdrawal of a Russian correspondent's permanent accreditation for the state agency Tass in Austria, according to Moscow. The Tass correspondent had to leave Vienna on May 30th because his accreditation had been revoked as well, as mentioned by the ministry. The Austrian side has yet to provide justification for their discriminatory decision.
21:44 Poland sets up buffer zone along border with Belarus
Poland has decided to create a buffer zone along its border with Belarus. The cabinet of Prime Minister Donald Tusk issued a corresponding regulation during a meeting in Bialystok, in the east of the country. The goal is to make it more difficult to illegally smuggle migrants across the Polish-Belarusian border and to improve working conditions for border guards, the army, and the police. The buffer zone will extend from 200 meters in most places, to up to two kilometers in a few areas. Poland has a 400-kilometer-long border with Belarus. Ukraine and the EU accuse Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko of orchestrating the smuggling of migrants from crisis regions to the EU's external border in order to exert pressure on the West.
21:14 Important security mechanisms required for German companies' investment in Ukraine
The German Industry and Trade Chamber (DIHK) is advocating for the expansion of certain security mechanisms to support the reconstruction of Ukraine. DIHK Managing Director Martin Wansleben emphasized that it is crucial to continue German foreign trade promotion for Ukraine despite the ongoing war. Useful, according to him, would be the expansion of the coverage practice of German investment guarantees. Wansleben urges creating a basis at the upcoming reconstruction conference in Berlin to counter high cost and risk assessments and facilitate financing. It is essential for German companies to engage in Ukraine so that they can have a better understanding of the available instruments for investments, export guarantees, and other insurance options. In 2022 and 2023, German investment guarantees were provided for more than 40 projects.
20:41 32 men cross border into Hungary illegally
In western Ukraine, 32 Ukrainian men were said to have illegally crossed the border into Hungary in a truck, according to Ukrainian authorities. "The neighboring country reported that it had discovered a vehicle and arrested 32 Ukrainian citizens," said the spokesperson for the Ukrainian border guard Andrij Demtschenko to the news portal Ukrajinska Prawda. Leaving the country is only allowed to men of military age between 18 and 60 years of age in exceptional cases. Many try to escape across the green border to neighboring EU countries or Moldova, and their bodies have been found in the Tisa (Theiss) river and the Carpathians.
20:09 Increased funding from Germany and the EU for Ukraine's support fund
Germany and the EU have decided to increase funding for Ukraine's support fund. The specific amounts were not mentioned in the provided text. These funds will support Ukrainian reconstruction efforts.
The German government and the European Union are gearing up to bolster financial backing for a program led by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) that assists Ukraine at a forthcoming global reconstruction conference in Berlin. The combined budget is expected to reach 75 million euros.
Germany is set to boost its allocation from the existing 27 million euros to 39 million euros, while the EU Commission will up its support from 18 million euros to 36 million euros, according to a representative from the German Foreign Office.
This project is aligned with Germany's stabilization platform and aims to bolster both state and civil society entities in the regions most impacted by the ongoing conflict.
Read also:
- Concerns about Russian cyberwar: With the Ukraine reconstruction conference in full swing, German politicians call for increased investment in cybersecurity, fearing potential cyberattacks from Russia in retaliation.
- Germany strengthens military cooperation with Ukraine: In light of the Russian military operations in Ukraine and the threat of a cyberwar, there is a growing call for Germany to boost its military cooperation with Ukraine, providing equipment and joint training exercises.
- Germany and NATO stand together against Russia: As the conflict in Ukraine rages on, the German government reaffirms its commitment to NATO, working closely with its allies to counter Russian aggression and offering support to Ukraine's defense forces.
- Zelenskyy and Baerbock discuss military aid for Ukraine: During the Ukraine reconstruction conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock discuss potential military aid for Ukraine, including defensive equipment and air defense systems, to help Ukraine defend its territorial integrity against Russia.
