16:59 Merz condemns BSW and AfD's parliamentary boycott: "A new low in the parliament's cultural standards"
Leading faction member Friedrich Merz criticizes the non-attendance of the Left-Left Alliance (BSD) and most of the AfD MPs during Ukrainian President Zelensky's address to the German Bundestag. "Differing viewpoints on aid for Ukraine are allowed," Merz states, "but disrespecting a war-threatened country's state president as an MP in the German Bundestag is a disgraceful act in our parliament's culture." He is taken aback. During Zelensky's speech, only four of the 77 AfD MPs were present, and none of the ten BSW MPs were present. Criticism came from other parties as well.
16:28 Munz: "Putin effectively eliminated the atomic weapons issue"
While the Russian army targets Ukrainian power plants and infrastructure, Russia and Belarus conduct an atomic weapons exercise. NTV correspondent Rainer Munz provides assurance: "This isn't something to take seriously anymore."
16:01 Russia announces Atlantic exercises with high-precision long-range weapons
Russia's Defense Ministry announces exercises in the Atlantic. The nuclear-powered submarine "Kasan" and the frigate "Admiral Gorshkov" practiced the use of highly precise weapons. The exercises included hitting targets from a distance of more than 600 kilometers, according to the statement.
15:38 Selenskyj warns against the rise of pro-Russian forces in Europe
Ukrainian President Selenskyj expresses concern over the growing popularity of pro-Russian populists in the latest European elections. In the reconstruction conference in Berlin, he tells the Europeans, "Radical pro-Russian rhetoric is dangerous for your countries." Amidst potential military invasion, it is "most important that people don't agree on pro-Russian solutions." In Germany, pro-Russian leaning parties, including the AfD and the Wagenknecht Party, also garnered votes in the European election on Sunday.
15:15 Selenskyj's speech in the German Bundestag is boycotted by the AfD - repeating Putin's narrative
The AfD faction in the German Bundestag criticizes Zelensky's speech in the plenary session. "We refuse to hear a disguised speaker," AfD faction leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla remark. "Zelenskyj is no longer the legitimate president," they maintain. "Ukraine needs not a war president, but a negotiating peace president." The AfD faction decided to boycott Zelensky's speech in the Bundestag. The faction meeting echoed the decision. However, four AfD MPs were present during Zelensky's speech in the plenary session.
With this statement, Weidel and Chrupalla reinforce Putin's narrative, who claims Zelensky's term has ended. Understanding the falsity of this claim, and his intentions behind the disinformation campaign, can be found here: [link to article]
15:00 Zelensky: "Enough of compromises with Russia"
Ukrainian President Zelensky urges determination in fighting against Putin's Russia during his speech in the German Bundestag. "Putin resorts to murder instead of deals, so the time for compromises is gone," Zelensky proclaimed in his Bundestag speech. "Russia's left a trail of cemeteries." Putin's penchant for dominion is highlighted. "Russia wiped out Grozny and Aleppo, divided Moldova, forced Belarus to its knees," Zelensky adds, and refers to murder attacks against Putin's opponents in Western Europe. "It's in our collective interest that Putin loses."
14:53 Zelensky thanks Germany in his Bundestag speech
The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, expresses gratitude to Germany for supporting his nation after Russia's assault. The Ukraine fights the war not just for its own interests, but for all of Europe, he said in a Bundestag speech.
14:44 Bas: "Ukraine's future belongs to the EU and NATO"
Prior to Zelensky's address in the German Bundestag, Bundestag President Bärbel Bas reiterates support for Ukraine. "Ukraine's fate lies in the EU and NATO," Bas says.
14:33 Scholz rules out German training of Ukrainian soldiers in Ukraine
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz indicates that Germany will abide by its course and will not train Ukrainian soldiers on Ukrainian soil. Bundeswehr personnel train Ukrainian soldiers in Germany, he said, when questioned about French President Emmanuel Macron's idea of training Ukrainian soldiers in the country by French specialists.
14:17 Gressel: "It's embarrassing that Russia can't protect modern jets"
Russia's offensive on Kharkiv is declared a failure by Kiev. Whether the advance was aimed at capturing the city is undecided, but Ukraine inflicts a significant blow within Russia, which is embarrassing for Moscow, according to security expert Gustav Gressel.
The parliamentary group of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) suggests that AfD parliament members boycott Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's speech in the Bundestag later in the day. Sources informed the German Press Agency of this development. However, it's up to each individual parliamentarian whether they'll participate or not. Concrete decisions will only be made during an AfD faction meeting just before the speech. Meanwhile, the Left Alliance confirmed that their MPs would indeed boycott the speech.
13:48 Ukrainian refugees can continue to enjoy EU special accommodations
Ukrainian refugees should be able to stay in the European Union without issues until at least March 2026, as suggested by the EU Commission. The Commission wants to renew the regulation for the temporary protection of Ukrainians in the EU, a representative in Brussels confirmed. With the continuous Russian attacks targeting Ukraine's civilian and critical infrastructure across the entire country, a safe, permanent return to Ukraine is far from possible. The Commission justifies its belief that the temporary protection is still necessary, and thus recommends extending the regulation for a year. Eurostat reports around 4.2 million registered Ukrainian refugees in the 27 EU countries – most of them, about 1.3 million, in Germany. Countries like the Czech Republic, Lithuania, and Poland have a significantly higher proportion of Ukrainian refugees in their populations. The Czech Republic, for example, has roughly 32 refugees per 1,000 inhabitants.
13:29 Russia continues to strengthen relations with Iran
Russia remains committed to fostering stronger ties with Iran, with work on a bilateral cooperation agreement progressing smoothly, as mentioned by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. He commented on a report from Russian news agency RIA claiming the plans had been halted due to Iranian concerns. Iran's Ambassador to Moscow, Kasem Jalali, refuted the claim in an Iranian news agency report. Since the onset of the Ukraine conflict, Russia has been deepening its relationship with the Islamic Republic. As per Western reports, Russia has been acquiring drones from Iran.
13:13 Germany offers assistance on Ukraine reconstruction funding
The German and Ukrainian finance ministers sign a memorandum of understanding to aide Ukraine in reconstruction financing. The Ukrainian finance ministry will be advised on honing their oversight and control capabilities in managing the reconstruction funding. "We want to help lay the groundwork for future growth in Ukraine," German Finance Minister Christian Lindner remarked. This aid should enable Ukraine to support private businesses and encourage investments.
13:04 von der Leyen advocates for EU accession talks with Ukraine from the end of June
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has spoken in favor of initiating EU accession talks with Ukraine at the end of June. According to von der Leyen, the Ukrainian government has completed all of the agreed-upon reform steps. Therefore, she believes that the EU should commence negotiations with Ukraine. Currently, Ukraine has a candidate status within the EU. However, no official start date for the negotiations has been established. Hungary, for example, has presented additional demands.
12:55 Ukraine requires 10-30 billion dollars annually for ten years
To rebuild its economy, Prime Minister Denys Schmyhal estimates that Ukraine will need investments of 10-30 billion dollars annually in the next ten years. Improving logistics and enhancing access to international markets are essential for stimulating economic growth. Moreover, he noted that the Ukrainian economy grew by 4.4% during the first four months of this year.
12:46 Stoltenberg guarantees support to Eastern NATO states in case of aggression
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg pledges support to Eastern NATO countries in the event of an attack, following Russia's war against Ukraine. "NATO possesses the necessary forces, resources, abilities, and determination to defend any ally," Stoltenberg shared during a meeting with Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics in Riga. Stoltenberg participates in the Bucharest Nine (B9) group's consultations. This gathering involves Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and the three Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The summit, attended by Norway's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Finland's President Alexander Stubb, is preparing for the NATO summit in July in Washington.
12:31 Von der Leyen Offers Billions in Aid to UkraineEU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivers a promise of short-term financial aid to Ukraine, totaling 1.9 billion euros, at the Berlin reconstruction conference beside President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Additionally, a sum of roughly 1.5 billion euros will be utilized from the Western frozen Russian assets' interest earnings. At the G7 gathering later in the week, further conversations will be held to elucidate the quicker and more expansive access to these assets by Ukraine. Zelenskyy also inquired about support in the energy sector, which has been drastically impacted by Russian assaults. The EU has mobilized almost 500 million euros for urgent energy repairs, with 1,000 generators slated for power generation and thousands of solar panels planned for delivery to Ukraine in the imminent future. Von der Leyen explains, "The goal is to decentralize the energy supply, and consequently, increase the Ukrainian energy network's resilience." Afterwards, the Commission President declares that the initial deals equivalent to 1.4 billion euros will be signed in Berlin to stimulate private investment in Ukraine.
12:10 Kremlin Explains Justification for Attacking Civilian Infrastructure in UkraineThe Kremlin characterizes the Ukrainian energy facilities' shelling as a potential supply of power to military institutions. Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin's spokesperson, answers questions from Russian news agencies regarding the idea of considering the Ukrainian power grid a legal military target. Russia's campaign against Ukraine has persisted for more than two years, and they have systematically and consistently targeted energy facilities, destroying 80% of the capacity at thermal power plants and 1/3 of the capacity at hydroelectric power plants. Amnesty International condemns these assaults on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as war crimes, as they result in public disconnection from heating, power, and water.
11:35 Potential Alteration in Russian Nuclear StrategyRussia considers a shift in its nuclear defense strategy, according to their own reports. The Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov expresses this idea in an interview with Russian news agency Tass. Details remain unknown.
11:25 Zelenskyj Highlights the Vital Role of Air DefensePresident Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists on acquiring at least seven Patriot air defense systems to protect Ukraine from Russian attacks. At the Berlin reconstruction conference, he expresses, "Air defense is the solution to everything." In gratitude to Germany's support, three Patriot systems have been provided by them. He also advocates for continued attacks on Ukraine, stating that half of the nation's energy capacity has been damaged by Russian attacks. Earlier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for a stronger air defense against these onslaughts.
11:15 Scholz Asks for More Air Defense for UkraineOlaf Scholz, the German Chancellor, advocates for enhanced air defense for Ukraine at the international reconstruction conference for the country. He urges allies of this initiative, urging them to support it "with everything possible," as whatever is reconstructed, might not be required. By attending the G7 summit of the renowned Western economic powers in Italy, Scholz intends to promote a reconstruction plan for Ukraine. He also suggests the World Bank's plan for $500 billion in reconstruction aid over the following 10 years. Furthermore, the chancellor encourages private businesses to contribute to the project. Scholz mentions that numerous German firms, with 35,000 employees in the automotive sector alone, are still operational in Ukraine. Although there's a war, these companies' investments have not decreased, and trade has increased compared to pre-war levels, illustrating the potential Ukraine holds.
10:59 Desperation and Resilience: The Tough Reality of Reconstruction Illustrated in IsjumAs the international Ukraine reconstruction conference unfolds in Berlin, with President Zelenskyy present, the residents of Isjum present an up-close glimpse of life in ruins. NTV reporter Kavita Sharma chats with a house owner and a power plant operator, both yearning for assistance.
10:41 Baerbock Underlines the European Point of View on UkraineBaerbock highlights the Ukrainian reconstruction conference's European angle, underlining the EU's dedication and support for the country's rebirth. The conference hosts President Zelenskyy, and the German Annual Summit is imminent. [res2:20224]
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock underscored the European stance on Ukraine. "We emphasize here at the reconstruction conference that we're not just fighting the brutal Russian assault together, but also creating a path for Ukraine to join the EU," said the Green politician upon arrival at the international Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin. Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to destroy the heart of Ukraine with his violent war of aggression, Baerbock criticized. "That's why we stand as one," she added. This isn't simply concerning defense and economic reconstruction efforts, but primarily about Ukraine's journey to becoming part of the EU, Baerbock mentioned. People in Ukraine require aid with the country's economic lifeblood during their nation's attack on infrastructure. It's crucial that the conference features not just politicians, but also town officials, companies, and organizations that support life in Ukraine. This way, Baerbock believes, "one day Ukraine will be not just liberated, having won this war, but economically stable within a united Europe."
10:35 Steinmeier welcomes Selenskyj at Schloss Bellevue
Ahead of the Ukraine reconstruction conference, its president Volodymyr Selenskyj was received by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin. Steinmeier plans to participate in the conference and attend Selenskyj's address in the Bundestag. No details on the bilateral meeting contents were provided. Steinmeier and Selenskyj had previously met at Schloss Bellevue in the previous year. The relationship between the two presidents initially appeared tense after the outbreak of the Ukraine war, when Steinmeier was scheduled to travel to Kiev with his fellow Polish and Baltic state leaders. Steinmeier went to Kiev alone. Since then, the relationship between the presidents has improved.
10:29 Selenskyj's trip to Berlin: S-Bahn service suspension on city railway
The Ukraine reconstruction conference is causing disruptions in Berlin's public transportation. The S-Bahn has entirely stopped operations between Friedrichstraße and Tiergarten at the request of the police. Several lines are impacted, per the S-Bahn's statement. Regional trains also are not authorized to operate and are rerouted. The German administration intends to provide Ukraine with a long-term growth outlook at the conference. The conference began in the City Cube congress center in the Berlin district of Charlottenburg with Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selenskyj.
09:51 Russia and Belarus start second phase of atomic weapons exercise
Russia and Belarus are initiating the second stage of their tactical atomic weapons exercise. The Russian Defense Ministry reports that the exercise in Russia is intended to ensure that their military and equipment are ready to secure both nations' sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also involves joint training of units from both sides, preparing for the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons. In response to threats from France, Great Britain, and the United States about the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the atomic weapons exercise. Western allies allowed Ukraine to use the weapons given by them to target military sites in Russia.
09:31 Sharma on "Race Against Time": What are Ukraine's hopes for the reconstruction conference?
At the Ukraine reconstruction conference, where approximately 2000 attendees from 60 countries are expected, the focus is mainly on facilitating connections between relevant actors. NTV reporter Kavita Sharma shares the expectations of Ukrainians and Ukrainians and addresses "criticism being voiced at a particularly challenging time."
09:05 Hofreiter calls for better air defense for Ukraine
The European Affairs Committee chairman in the German Parliament, Anton Hofreiter, urges the German government to prioritize increasing Ukraine's air defense during the Ukraine reconstruction conference. "A prerequisite for reconstruction in Ukraine is comprehensive air defense," Hofreiter told the Rheinische Post. "Only then can the Ukrainian energy infrastructure be protected, which was seriously damaged by Russian air raids. Large-scale private-sector investments will only be made if Russian air raids can be effectively repelled. We thus urgently require a European initiative in air defense." FDP defense expert Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann calls for even more comprehensive weapon deliveries. "I assume the Federal Chancellor will offer concrete, quick German assistance," she said. "He should also publicly support the wishes of the president." Union deputy faction leader Johann Wadephul calls on the German government to provide more support to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky during his trip to Berlin and to supply Ukraine with Taurus missiles.
08:27 Former CDU General Secretary Czaja: The German government might escalate the war in Ukraine even further
Because of the absence of East German staff in the CDU leadership, perspectives less endorsed by many East Germans, such as those on Russia and weapon shipments to Ukraine, are also less noticeable in the party. This is what previous CDU General Secretary Mario Czaja stated in an interview with Tagesspiegel. "I believe that we East Germans bring different experiences in handling Russia that West Germans have not amassed." In his view, the current authorization of the German government to hit targets in Russia with Western weapons could potentially expand the war in Ukraine. "This is being viewed with major worry and suspicion by many people in East Germany." Czaja cannot envision German assault weapons landing on the edges of Moscow and striking civilians.
The aim should be for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who initiated this violent war of aggression, to return to the bargaining table, Czaja stated. However, one must proceed with caution. The war should not be permitted to intensify further, "with more and more civilians dying." The position of Czaja and Michael Kretschmer, who are against providing Taurus missiles to Ukraine, is a minoritarian perspective within the CDU and is heard less frequently than it should be, according to Czaja.
08:08 Former US Secretary of State Pompeo urges more European help for Ukraine
The former US Secretary of State and CIA Director Mike Pompeo is calling for more European support for Ukraine - especially in the form of substantial investments from the private sector. Just like the post-World War II reconstruction of Germany, this should now be done in Ukraine. "Today, as the conflict in Ukraine enters its third year, America and Europe must resort to this time-tested approach. They must attempt to rebuild and strengthen Ukraine with significant foreign direct investments," writes Pompeo in a guest contribution for the Tagesspiegel. Ukraine must be enabled to maintain its domestic infrastructure and economy. To recover from this war, the country needs an investment environment that encourages more private investors to participate in the reconstruction process. "If this does not happen, Putin has achieved his goal, to wreck Ukraine - even if he does not manage to seize Kiev," evaluates the former American Secretary of State.
07:51 Ukraine claims 520,850 Russian casualties since war started
Since the onset of Russia's offensive on Ukraine, Russia has lost 520,850 soldiers. This is reported by the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff in their most recent update on Facebook. Among these losses are 1,100 casualties that the Russian military has sustained in the previous few days. The report also details the Russian losses since February 24, 2022: 7,902 tanks, 15,176 armored personnel carriers, 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.
07:36 Kyiv study estimates €52 billion in damage to energy infrastructure
The Kyiv School of Economics (KSE) in a study assesses the damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure at €52 billion. In the report published on Monday by the experts, the total damage is put at $56.2 billion. This includes financial burdens that energy companies have incurred as a result of lost revenue. According to the KSE assessment, €50.5 billion is needed to restore the destroyed or damaged infrastructure. The direct losses from the destruction of energy infrastructure are estimated at €16.1 billion. Based on the study, power plants, power lines, and facilities in the oil and gas sectors were particularly affected. The losses due to missed profits for energy companies are estimated at approximately €40 billion.
07:18 CDU bundestag deputy faction leader requests Taurus missiles for Kiev
In connection with the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Berlin, Union deputy faction leader Johann Wadephul reiterates the demand for the delivery of Taurus missiles to Kiev. "I hope that President Zelensky does not have to give a pleading speech in the German Bundestag again, then return with empty hands," Wadephul tells the "Rheinische Post." It is "imperative" to provide Ukraine with the corresponding long-range weapons, "especially the Taurus," demands the CDU politician. Zelensky arrived in Berlin on Monday evening (see entry 23:46 pm). There he partakes in the two-day Ukraine reconstruction conference (see entries 06:10 and 06:37 am). Wadephul emphasizes that Ukraine needs "any assistance" during a particularly critical phase of the war against Russia. Germany has not provided this "thus far in full," criticizes the deputy faction leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group. If this remains the case, it would be "fatal" for the continuation of the war and consequently for European security.
06:52 Russian bomber crashes in the Caucasus: crew dead
A Russian plane of the model SU-34 is said to have crashed in the Caucasus during a training flight as per government announcements. The crew was declared dead by Russian news agencies, confirming the Defense Ministry. It is assumed that the crash was due to a technical malfunction. The incident occurred in the Russian Republic of North Ossetia-Alania. It remains unclear how many people were aboard.
6:37 CDU political representative: Reconstruction meeting brings optimism to Ukrainians
The foreign policy expert from the CDU party, Jürgen Hardt, praises the Ukraine reconstruction conference, calling it "an impressive political and economic display of solidarity." The day-long conference, being held beginning in the morning, gives hope to the Ukrainian population in the eyes of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group's foreign policy representative. This conference indicates that the free world is both competent and willing to transform Ukraine into a modern, free nation. The potential of Ukraine is enormous. A prosperous Ukraine, states Hardt to the German Press Agency (see also entry 6:10 am), would also be advantageous for Germany. The path to NATO and EU membership for Ukraine will be given new impetus through the conference. The German chancellor, Olaf Scholz, will kick off the event with a speech at 10:00 am. The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, is also expected to attend (see also entry 9:59 pm).
6:10 Schulze prior to reconstruction conference: Strong coalition for Ukraine
The Development Minister, Svenja Schulze, anticipates the two-day Ukraine reconstruction conference, which starts in Berlin today, will send a clear message of collaboration. "For two days, individuals from all over the world will gather in Berlin who not only imagine a better future for Ukraine but also bring it to life concretely. This conference signifies a strong coalition behind Ukraine: 60 countries, numerous companies, municipalities, and representatives of civil society," remarks the minister to the German Press Agency before the meeting.
Russia has initiated an illegal conflict against Ukraine, so it should receive "unwavering support." Schulze adds, "Ukraine is defending our security and freedom." It is also essential to approach reconstruction under wartime circumstances. Schulze states, "Ukraine has no option. It cannot wait until the war ends. People require a roof over their heads, electricity, water, and hospitals now." The country also needs civilian help to withstand the war. "It requires medical personnel, electricians, and craftsmen, just as much as tanks," says Schulze. Over 2000 people from politics, business, and international organizations are expected to attend the conference through Wednesday.
These attendees will not be a donor conference to gather cash for reconstruction but rather focus on networking.
5:24 US Lifts Weapons Ban and Training Prohibition for Azov Regiment
The US government purportedly abolished a ten-year training and weapons ban on the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. "Following a thorough examination, the Ukrainian Armed Forces' 12th Special Unit, the Azov Brigade, has met the Leahy Amendment criteria of the US State Department," says the "Washington Post", quoting a statement from the US State Department. The new evaluation could not find evidence of human rights violations by the unit. The Leahy Law prevents providing military assistance to foreign forces that have perpetrated human rights abuses. The Azov Regiment has ties to far-right and nationalist ideologies. It is now part of the Ukrainian National Guard. It developed from a 2014 battalion, which combatted the pro-Russian separatists who claimed independence in eastern Ukraine.
2:34 Russian destroyer "Admiral Levchenko" experiences fire in the Barents Sea
The Russian destroyer "Admiral Levchenko" is said to have caught fire in the Barents Sea. This information is shared by a spokesperson for the Ukrainian Navy. The details of this incident remain unverified. The ship, with a crew of several hundred, is "fighting for survival," reports Dmytro Pletenchuk on Facebook. Overheating is assumed to have been the cause of the fire. The "Admiral Levchenko", which entered service in 1988 for the Soviet Navy, has an engine built in Mykolajiw, Ukraine. It can only be maintained at that location. "This happens when the Russian state is punished by Ukraine," writes Pletenchuk.
00:37 Rheinmetall and Ukraine Open Tank Repair Workshop
The German weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall and Ukraine are opening a joint tank repair workshop and production facility. According to Ukraine's Ministry of Strategic Industries, the keys to the repair facility have been handed over for the maintenance and upkeep of the infantry-fighting vehicle Marder. The first partnership center will facilitate timely repair and maintenance of German equipment directly in Ukraine, indicating a substantial boost in efficiency for their armed forces. In the shared production facility, Ukrainian professionals will work with Rheinmetall representatives overseeing the technical aspects.
Ukrainian President Zelensky arrives in Berlin, scheduled to discuss additional defense aid, expansion of the Ukrainian air defense system, and joint arms production with Chancellor Scholz. A Russian journalist from Austria has had her accreditation revoked, following the withdrawal of a Russian correspondent from Tass's accreditation. Meanwhile, Poland is setting up a 200-meter buffer zone at its border with Belarus to prevent illegal smuggling of migrants and improve the working conditions for border guards, the army, and the police. The German Industry and Commerce Chamber (DIHK) urges the expansion of certain security mechanisms to encourage German companies' involvement in Ukraine's reconstruction, particularly through German investment guarantees. A group of 32 Ukrainian men were stopped by Hungarian authorities after trying to cross the green border to Hungary in a truck. Germany and the EU are set to increase their contributions to a GIZ project aimed at boosting support for affected regions in Ukraine. For further updates, refer to the full article.
Russia Expels Austrian Journalist (22:15): The Russian Foreign Ministry revoked the accreditation of an Austrian journalist and ordered her to leave the country in response to the withdrawal of a permanent Russian correspondent from Austrian state agency Tass.
Buffer Zone Set Up at Polish-Belarusian Border (21:44): Poland has established a buffer zone at its border with Belarus to thwart illegal migration and enhance working conditions for border guards, the army, and the police. The buffer zone spans up to 2 kilometers in certain areas and provoked by Belarus's alleged attempt to increase migrant pressure on the EU.
DIHK Supports Reconstruction Efforts in Ukraine (21:14): The German Industry and Commerce Chamber urges the expansion of investment guarantees to ensure German companies' engagement in Ukraine's reconstruction, calling it crucial to improving risk-sharing mechanisms and facilitating financing through international instruments.
32 Men Flee Ukraine for Hungary (20:41): Ukrainian authorities report the detention of 32 Ukrainian men who attempted to cross the border to Hungary in a truck. The crossing is restricted to men of military age between 18 and 60 years old, except for those with special permissions.
Germany and EU to Increase Funding for Ukrainian Reconstruction (20:09): Germany and the EU plan on increasing contributions to a project of the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) to assist Ukraine's reconstruction during the upcoming conference in Berlin. The GIZ project is part of a stabilization platform from Germany's Foreign Office and aims to reinforce state and civil society actors in areas severely affected by the war.
Read also:
- During Zelensky's speech in the German Bundestag, the AfD faction, led by Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla, chose to boycott, reinforcing Putin's narrative that Zelensky's term has ended.
- The AfD's decision to boycott Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's speech in the German Bundestag mirrors Putin's claims, as they believe Zelensky is no longer the legitimate president and Ukraine needs a peace negotiator, not a war one.
- Military operations between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, with Russia conducting atomic weapons exercises with Belarus, while targeting Ukrainian power plants and infrastructure.
- As Ukraine fights for its survival, President Zelensky urges the EU and NATO to support Ukraine's rebuilding efforts and strengthen its air defense against ongoing attacks from Russia.
