Scholz refuses to deploy German trainers in Ukraine.

14:33 Scholz opposes German coaches in Ukraine.

Recently, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated that Germany will remain firm in its commitment not to train Ukrainian soldiers in their own territory. Instead, the Bundeswehr will provide training for Ukrainian soldiers in Germany. This comes in response to French President Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of training soldiers in Ukraine by French specialists.

Gussow: "It's embarrassing that Russia can't protect its modern jets."

Ukraine considers Russia's advance on Kharkiv to be unsuccessful. Although it's uncertain whether Russia's intention was to reach the city itself, security expert Gustav Gussow notes that this is an embarrassment for Moscow in light of its inability to protect its jets. Ukraine also managed to strike at Russia's interior, making the situation more challenging for Russia.

14:17: After BSW members boycotted Zelensky's speech in the Bundestag, the AfD suggests the same. The AfD parliamentary group advises AfD MPs to also boycott the speech by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy this afternoon, according to parliamentary sources. However, the decision ultimately lies with the parliamentarians. The Left Alliance (BSW) has confirmed that BSW MPs will boycott the speech.

13:48: The EU Commission proposes that Ukrainian refugees continue to enjoy special benefits until March 2026. This is in response to the ongoing Russian attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure in Ukraine, which make returning to the country unsafe. With around 4.2 million Ukrainian refugees in the 27 EU countries, more than 1.3 million of them in Germany, it's clear that Ukraine's refugees greatly outnumber other European countries like the Czech Republic, Lithuania, and Poland.

13:29: Russia and Iran deny any issues with their cooperation agreements. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov insists that Russia's intention to strengthen ties with Iran is unchanged, despite reports that the plans have been temporarily suspended due to Iranian issues. Iranian ambassador to Moscow, Kasem Jalali, also denies these claims according to the Iranian news agency Irna.

13:15: Germany plans to offer advice to Ukraine regarding post-reconstruction financing. A joint declaration signed by the German and Ukrainian finance ministers aims to help Ukraine with its reconstruction efforts. The Ukrainian Finance Ministry will be advised on supervisory and control measures when it comes to financing reconstruction. German Finance Minister Christian Lindner explains, "We want to help now so that Ukraine can establish a foundation for future growth through its reconstruction."

13:05: Von der Leyen advocates for the initiation of EU accession talks with Ukraine from the end of June. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urges the start of accession negotiations with Ukraine at the end of the month, given that Ukraine has fulfilled all agreed-upon reforms. Ukraine currently holds the status of a potential EU member. However, there is still no finalized date for these negotiations.

12:55: According to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Ukraine requires annual investments of $10-30 billion over the next decade to revitalize its economy. Improving logistics and expanding foreign market access are crucial for fostering economic expansion. Schmyhal also reports that Ukraine's economy has increased by 4.4% during the first four months of the year.

12:46: Stoltenberg assures support for NATO's eastern member states. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg promised assistance to NATO's eastern member states in a speech at the international reconstruction conference for Ukraine. NATO intends to maintain its commitment to its eastern members during these uncertain times.

NATO's top leader Jens Stoltenberg guarantees support for Eastern NATO countries amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing NATO's readiness to defend any ally. "NATO possesses the military forces, resources, capabilities, and political resolve to safeguard any of its members," Stoltenberg asserts after meeting with Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics in Riga. Currently, the Bucharest Nine Group (B9), consisting of Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Baltic states Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, is holding consultations. In addition, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Finnish President Alexander Stubb are present as guests at the Riga summit. This event aims to pave the way for the upcoming NATO summit in Washington in July.

At a Berlin conference, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledges billions of euros in EU aid to Ukraine. She announces immediate distribution of 1.9 billion euros in financial aid and utilization of 1.5 billion euros from interest on frozen Russian assets in July. Furthermore, the G7 summit intends to discuss expediting Ukraine's utilization of frozen Russian assets. In response to Zelenskyy's request for help regarding the energy sector, EU has allocated nearly 500 million euros for prompt repairs and will provide 1,000 generators for power generation and thousands of solar panels in the future. "Our goal is to decentralize the energy supply structure and thus increase the resilience of Ukraine's energy network," von der Leyen adds. The EU is also signing agreements worth 1.4 billion euros with partner banks to entice private investment in Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, defends the bombing of Ukraine's power grid, claiming it could involve military targets. "It's quite possible that there's some military infrastructure in some cases," Peskov says in response to a question about whether Ukraine's power grid is a legitimate target. Russia has been waging a war against Ukraine for over two years, attacking energy facilities in the neighboring country. According to Zelenskyy, 80% of thermal power plant capacity and about a third of hydroelectric power plant capacity have been obliterated. Amnesty International labels these assaults on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as war crimes as they leave the population without heating, electricity, and water.

Russia is contemplating altering its nuclear strategy due to Western opposition, reveals Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov. However, he remains ambiguous about the specific changes.

Ukrainian President Zelensky believes Ukraine needs at least seven Patriot air defense systems to defend against Russian assaults. "Air defense is the solution to everything," Zelensky states, expressing gratitude to Germany for providing three Patriot systems. Zelensky also points out that Russia is frequently attacking Ukraine's energy supply. Half of Ukraine's electricity capacity has been wrecked by Russian bombs, Zelensky informs at the Ukraine reconstruction conference. Earlier, Chancellor Olaf Scholz had advocated for intensifying Ukraine's air defense protection from Russian attacks.

Olaf Scholz, Germany's Chancellor, urged the need for enhanced air defense for Ukraine against Russian attacks at the international reconstruction conference held for Ukrainian reconstruction. Speaking at the opening of the two-day event, he appealed to allies to back a German initiative "with all the means possible." He emphasized the value of prevention instead of reconstruction, stating, "The best reconstruction is the one that does not have to take place." Scholz showcased deep-seated commitment from Germany for Ukraine's rehabilitation, expressing his intent to advocate this agenda at the G7 summit that started on Thursday. The World Bank anticipates a need for $500 billion in reconstruction aid during the next ten years. Chancellor Scholz also urged private companies to participate with investments. In spite of ongoing warfare, German investments have not declined, and trading volumes are higher than before the conflict. He highlighted that over 35,000 employees were employed in the automotive sector alone by hundreds of German companies in Ukraine.

During the conference, Isjum's residents could experience the devastation of their destroyed houses firsthand. Two individuals representing these individuals - a house owner and the power plant manager - expressed hopes for assistance. Reporter Kavita Sharma of ntv shared their desperation and commitment to help.

Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock pointed out the European perspective of Ukraine during her speech at the reconstruction conference in Berlin. She expressed, "We make it clear here that we're not just resisting Russia's violent assault together but are also laying the foundation for Ukraine to join our European Union." According to Baerbock, Russian leader Vladimir Putin intends to annihilate Ukraine's life source through his brutal war of aggression. She underlines the importance of unity and indicated that emphasis should go beyond just military support and economic reconstruction into joining the European Union.

Before the reconstruction conference, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a bilateral meeting with Germany's President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin. Steinmeier, who will also attend the conference, delivered a speech in Ukraine's parliament following Zelenskyy's address. The meeting's details were undisclosed. Steinmeier and Zelenskyy's friendship witnessed an improvement after a rocky start caused by the Ukraine war, with Steinmeier's initial planned visit to Kiev altered owing to safety concerns.

The reconstruction conference in Berlin caused tremendous disruptions in Berlin's transport system. S-Bahn train services between Friedrichstraße and Tiergarten were halted due to police orders. Several S-Bahn lines and regional trains were affected, as stated in an S-Bahn announcement. The goal of the two-day conference, organized by the German government, is to create a bright future for Ukraine.

At the same time, Russia and Belarus commenced the second phase of nuclear exercises. The Russian Defense Ministry shared that the drill in Russia targets the readiness of its forces and equipment to secure both countries' sovereignty and territorial integrity. Joint training involves non-strategic nuclear weapon use. The nuclear exercises were prompted by French, British, and American statements in relation to the Ukraine conflict. These countries had previously allowed Ukraine to target Russian military infrastructure with supplied arms.

09:51 Why does Ukraine need this reconstruction conference?

The Conference on Rebuilding Ukraine brought together over 2,000 participants from 60 countries, focusing on constructive networking. NTV reporter Kavita Sharma interviewed two Ukrainians who are facing the grim reality of life in ruins and their aspirations for healing.

10:41 Preserving Europe: Baerbock accentuates Ukrainian EU accession at Reconstruction Conference

Arriving in Berlin for the International Reconstruction Conference for Ukraine, Annalena Baerbock, German Foreign Minister, emphasized the European perspective of Ukraine. She declared, "At this reconstruction conference, we want to make it clear that we're not just fighting this brutal Russian attack together, but we're clearing the path for Ukraine to join our European Union."

Antagonist Vladimir Putin aims to obliterate the lifeblood of Ukraine with his aggressive war, remarked Baerbock. Germany and its allies stand in solidarity "in terms of defense and economic reconstruction, but primarily for the slogan that Ukraine will one day be free from this war and can stand tall in a united, common Europe." By underlining the importance of unified efforts, Baerbock assured that the people in Ukraine desperately need electricity, drinking water, and heat, necessitating the involvement of policymakers, mayors, businesses, and organizations.

10:35 Steinmeier meets Zelenskyy at Schloss Bellevue before conference

Before the conference for Ukrainian reconstruction, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was received at Schloss Bellevue in Berlin by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Additionally, Steinmeier would take part in the conference, attending Zelenskyy's speech in the German parliament. No specifics were announced about the closed-door meeting.

10:29 Transport disruption: A delayed train deters S-Bahn operations during reconstruction conference

The Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin is disrupting public transport services. S-Bahn train services between Friedrichstraße and Tiergarten were deprived of operations due to police command. Multiple S-Bahn lines and regional train services were impacted, according to a S-Bahn statement. The conference, organized by the German government, strives to project a positive outlook for Ukraine's future.

09:51 Part 2: The second phase of Russian-Belarus nuclear exercises

Nuclear exercises entered phase two, with Russia and Belarus performing a union of military forces. Stating that these drills ensure the readiness of forces and equipment, the Russian Defense Ministry indicated this ensured both countries' sovereignty and territorial integrity's defense.

On a related note, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in Berlin for an international reconstruction conference on Ukraine. This aims to provide a long-term perspective to rebuild Ukraine. The conference included Annalena Baerbock, German Foreign Minister, who highlighted European Union aspirations. She strongly opposed Russia's aggressive stance, focusing on solidarity and constructive actions for Ukraine's future.

09:05 Anton Hofreiter urges German Government for Improved Air Defense in Ukraine

Chairman of the European Affairs Committee in the German Bundestag, Anton Hofreiter, insists that Germany should take more action to provide better air defense for Ukraine. This demand comes ahead of the reconstruction conference for Ukraine. Hofreiter claims, "A crucial requirement for rebuilding Ukraine's infrastructure is comprehensive air defense. By doing so, we can protect the Ukrainian energy infrastructure from further Russian air attacks." He emphasizes the importance of European initiatives to bolster air defense, as this would help mitigate more air attacks on Ukrainian territory. He points towards providing more arms support as well.

FDP defense expert, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, echoes Hofreiter's sentiment, stating, "The German government should provide extensive arms delivery, and it is expected that the Federal Chancellor will make concrete and quick German support promises to the Ukrainian President. This will clearly show support for his wishes." Union faction vice-chairman, Johann Wadephul, has also called for increased aid to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his visit to Berlin. Moreover, the delivery of Taurus missiles to Ukraine is on the table.

08:27 Former CDU Secretary General Warns: German Government Escalating War in Ukraine

A lack of Eastern representation in the CDU's political leadership has resulted in opinions that are often overlooked, according to former CDU Secretary General, Mario Czaja. In an interview with the Tagesspiegel, Czaja says, "East Germans bring different experiences in dealing with Russia, which West Germans haven't accumulated." One such opinion refers to the German government's current stance of striking targets in Russia with Western weapons. Czaja expresses concerns, "It's being followed with great concern and criticism by many people in East Germany". He believes that Germany must avoid an escalation of the war, as more civilian casualties result.

Despite calling for peace talks where Russian President Vladimir Putin could return to negotiations, Czaja suggests exercising caution to prevent further deployment of weapons, "We should avoid exacerbating the war, which is causing more and more civilian casualties." Opposing him are the views of Michael Kretschmer, who doesn't support sending Taurus missile systems to Ukraine. Czaja emphasizes that this position is a minority one within the CDU.

08:08 Mike Pompeo advises Europe to Support Ukraine Economically

Mike Pompeo, former US Secretary of State and CIA chief, urges Europe to direct more investments towards rebuilding Ukraine. Pompeo believes the response should mirror the strategy adopted after World War II in Germany, where reconstruction was led through huge foreign direct investments. "Today, with the war in Ukraine entering its third year, America and Europe must again apply this successful approach - investing in Ukraine to rebuild it and strengthen it," he writes in a guest article for the Tagesspiegel. He believes that by doing so, Ukraine needs to maintain its domestic infrastructure and economy to ensure recovery from the war.

07:51 Ukraine Claims Over 520,000 Russian Soldiers Lost Since Russian Invasion

The Ukrainian General Staff has reported that Russia has suffered a staggering loss of 520,850 soldiers since the start of the invasion. They also added that there have been 1,100 more casualties in the last few days. In terms of equipment, the General Staff mentions that 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 defence systems, 359 aircraft, 326 helicopters, 11,023 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine have been lost or destroyed.

07:36 Kyiv Study: Value of Damaged Energy Infrastructure Estimated at €52 Billion

The Kyiv School of Economics has estimated that the damage inflicted on Ukraine's energy infrastructure due to Russian airstrikes is worth €52 billion. This includes both financial losses and expected repair costs, as per their study. According to their findings, direct losses due to destroyed energy infrastructure stood at €16.1 billion by May. Critical sectors such as power plants, power lines, and the oil and gas industry have been heavily damaged, with €40 billion of lost revenues suffered by energy companies.

Regarding the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Berlin, the vice-chairman of the Union faction, Johann Wadephul, reaffirms his call for the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv. Wadephul states in a conversation with "Rheinische Post," "I hope that President Zelensky doesn't have to make a humiliating speech in the German Bundestag again, only to come home empty-handed." He firmly believes that Ukraine needs "the appropriate long-range weapons," particularly the Taurus, which he strongly urges the CDU to provide. Zelensky arrived in Berlin on Monday evening and is attending a two-day Ukraine reconstruction conference (see 06:10 and 06:37). Wadephul emphasizes the critical phase of the war against Russia and expresses his concern over Germany's current lack of support for Ukraine. Should this persist, he warns of catastrophic consequences for the course of the war and European security.

06:52 Russian Su-34 Bomber Crashes in Caucasus: Crew Killed

A Russian Su-34 bomber has crashed during a training flight in the Caucasus, as reported by government statements. The Russian news agencies attribute this news to the Defense Ministry. It is suspected that a technical malfunction caused the crash and the crew is presumed to have perished. The crash occurred in the Russian republic of North Ossetia-Alania, and there is no definitive information about the number of people on board.

06:37 CDU Foreign Policy Expert on Ukraine Rebuilding Conference: Beacon of Solidarity

The CDU foreign policy expert Jürgen Hardt considers the international Ukraine rebuilding conference in Berlin, which starts in the morning, to be "an impressive political and economic sign of solidarity." Hardt, the foreign policy spokesman for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, tells the German Press Agency, "This conference gives hope to the people in Ukraine." He adds, "It demonstrates that the free world is capable and ready to transform Ukraine into a modern and free country. The potential of Ukraine is vast. A prosperous Ukraine will benefit Germany as well." The Ukrainian President's entry into NATO and the EU will receive a significant boost, according to Hardt, due to the conference. Chancellor Olaf Scholz will commence the conference with a speech at 10:00, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is also expected (see also 23:46).

06:10 Schulze's Take on Rebuilding Conference: Strong Alliance for Ukraine

Development Minister Svenja Schulze anticipates the Ukraine rebuilding conference starting in Berlin in the morning to send a powerful message of cooperation. Prior to the event, she says, "This conference brings together individuals from all over the world who not only believe in a brighter future for Ukraine but are also actively working toward it. This conference highlights the strong alliance behind Ukraine: 60 countries, hundreds of businesses, municipalities, and civil society representatives." Addressing Russia's illegal attack on Ukraine, Schulze affirms that, "Ukraine is defending our security and freedom," and emphasizes the importance of embarking on the reconstruction process under current war conditions. She remarks, "Ukraine has no choice. It cannot wait for the war to end. The people require roofs over their heads, electricity, water, and hospitals immediately." The country also needs civilian assistance, from doctors, electricians, and craftsmen in addition to military support. Over 2000 attendees from politics, business, and international organizations are expected at the rebuilding conference until Wednesday. Rather than a financial donor conference, this gathering focuses on networking among relevant actors.

05:24 American Government Reportedly Lifts Weapons Ban on Azov Regiment

According to reports, the US government has removed the arms embargo on the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. The US State Department reportedly passed the Leahy Amendment review on the 12th Special Unit of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the Azov Brigade. They confirmed that the review did not uncover evidence of human rights violations by the unit. The Leahy Law restricts the provision of military assistance to foreign units involved in human rights violations. The Azov Regiment, with right-wing and ultranationalist origins, has been part of the Ukrainian National Guard since 2014. It was formed in 2014 as a battalion that fought against the pro-Russian separatists who declared independence in eastern Ukraine.

02:34 Russian Destroyer "Admiral Levchenko" Catches Fire in the Barents Sea

A Russian destroyer, the "Admiral Levchenko," has caught fire in the Barents Sea, according to government statements. The Russian news agencies attribute this information to the Defense Ministry. The exact cause of the fire has not been disclosed yet, but it is presumed that a technical malfunction caused the accident. No details about the casualties or extent of the damage are available. The incident transpired in the Russian republic of North Ossetia-Alania, but the number of people on board has not been confirmed.

In the Barents Sea, a Russian destroyer named "Admiral Levchenko" has been engulfed in flames. This information was shared by a representative of the Ukrainian Navy. However, this hasn't been verified yet. The ship has several hundred crew members on board. It's struggling to stay afloat, as per Dmytro Pletenchuk's Facebook post. The fire is believed to have been caused by an overheated engine. The destroyer was originally added to the Soviet Navy's fleet in 1988; its engines were manufactured in Mykolajiw, Ukraine, and need to be maintained there. Pletchenuk commented, "This is what happens when the Russian state is sanctioned by Ukraine."

00:37 Rheinmetall and Ukraine establish first joint tank repair workshop

German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and Ukraine have come together to open their initial joint tank repair workshop and production facility. According to Ukraine's Ministry of Strategic Industries, keys for mending the infantry fighting vehicle Marder have been handed over. The first service center will enable rapid repair and maintenance of German equipment directly in Ukraine, increasing the efficiency of the armed forces. Serving at the facility will be Ukrainian staff, while Rheinmetall employees will provide technical supervision.

23:46 Zelensky lands in Berlin

Ukrainian President Zelensky has arrived in Berlin. He made the announcement via a social media post in the evening on X. In Germany's capital, he's participating in the reconstruction conference for his nation. "Chancellor Scholz and I will discuss further defense aid, the enhancement of Ukraine's air defense system, and concurrent arms production," he stated. On Tuesday afternoon, he'll deliver a speech in the German parliament.

22:15 Russia expels Austrian journalist

The Russian Foreign Ministry has stripped an Austrian journalist of her accreditation, urging her to leave the country. The ministry claims this is in response to Germany's decision to withdraw the permanent accreditation of a Russian journalist working for state news agency Tass in Austria. The Tass journalist was denied accreditation on April 30th, forcing him to depart Vienna on June 7th, the Moscow ministry revealed. Details regarding the Austrian side's discriminatory action have yet to be offered.

21:44 Poland creates a buffer zone along Belarus border

Poland is establishing a buffer zone near its border with Belarus. The country's Interior Ministry, headed by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, issued instructions to create such a zone during a meeting in Bialystok, situated in the eastern part of the nation. The aim is to make it more difficult to smuggle migrants across the Polish-Belarusian border and to strengthen the working conditions of border guards, the army, and the police. The buffer zone will span 200 meters in most instances but extends up to two kilometers in specific areas. Poland has a 400-kilometer-long border with Belarus. The EU and Poland accuse Belarus' leader, Alexander Lukashenko, of intentionally sending migrants from crisis areas to the EU border to exert pressure on the West.

21:14 DIHK: Guarantees are crucial for German firms' participation in Ukraine's reconstruction

The German Industry and Trade Chamber (DIHK) is advocating for the extension of certain security measures for Ukraine's reconstruction. "We support the maintenance of important instruments of German foreign economic promotion for Ukraine despite the ongoing war," asserts DIHK's CEO Martin Wansleben. Wansleben insists that expanding coverage for German investment guarantees is beneficial. He proposes creating a framework at the upcoming Berlin reconstruction conference to offset high risk assessments with reinsurance mechanisms and streamline financing. Additionally, Wansleben emphasizes the value of a comprehensive overview of globally available instruments for investment, export guarantees, and other insurance solutions to facilitate German companies' cooperation in Ukraine. During 2022 and 2023, the DIHK reports, German investment guarantees supported more than 40 projects.

20:41 Thirty-two individuals escape to Hungary from western Ukraine

In western Ukraine, thirty-two Ukrainians reportedly crossed the green border into Hungary in a truck, as per Ukrainian authorities. "The neighboring side reported discovering a vehicle, subsequently apprehending 32 Ukrainian citizens," says Andrij Demtschenko, a representative of the Ukrainian border guard, in an interview with Ukrajinska Prawda. Exit is usually restricted to men between 18 and 60 years of age in exceptional circumstances. Many attempt to leave the country by crossing the green border into neighboring EU nations or Moldova. Often, bodies of escaped men are discovered in the Tisza (Theiss) River or the Carpathians.

20:09 Germany and EU increase financial aid for Ukraine's support fund

Berlin is gearing up for an international reconstruction conference, where Germany and the European Union (EU) have plans to boost funding for a project spearheaded by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) to aid Ukraine. Combined, they'll pump in a whopping 75 million euros for this initiative. Germany will raise its stake from the original 27 million euros to a more substantial 39 million euros, while the EU Commission will also step up their support from 18 million euros to a hefty 36 million euros. This project is part of the Foreign Office's stabilization platform, whose objective is to offer tangible assistance to bolster state actors and civil society in the areas most impacted by the war.