21:25 Scholz expresses concern, yet not astonishment, over AfD and BSW rejection
German Chancellor Scholz voices his disapproval of the absence of AfD and BSW during Ukrainian President Zelensky's Bundestag speech. A government spokesperson calls their behavior a "disrespect" to ARD-Hauptstadtstudio. Scholz seems both "very surprised" and "not surprised" by their absence. The majority of the AfD faction and the entire BSW group boycotted Zelensky's speech.
20:47 Estonia gives Mistral missile systems to UkraineEstonia plans to offer more military assistance to Ukraine, aiming to fight against Russia. Estonia's Defense Minister, Hanno Pevkur, discloses that the Baltic EU and NATO country will supply Kiev with short-range air defense system Mistral missiles and launching devices. Pevkur explains that Ukraine needs air defense for repelling Russia's persistent attacks, and Estonia's participation benefits Estonia's security as well. He further mentions that they have prepared this aid package in a way that maximizes Ukraine's benefit while not sacrificing the combat readiness of Estonian forces.
20:11 US redirects arms embargo from Azov BrigadeThe United States has lifted the arms embargo on the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. According to the US State Department, this marks a new chapter in the history of the brigade. It can now receive military assistance from the United States. The US Department assures that, after a careful review, no evidence of human rights violations was found. In 2014, the battalion, consisting of volunteer fighters, was known for Nazi symbols like the wolf's angel. The founder, the well-known Right-wing extremist Andrij Bilezkyj, was among those involved. The US claims the current brigade, serving as part of the Ukrainian National Guard, has evolved from its earlier form.
19:35 Sri Lanka works to bring back citizens from Ukraine conflictSri Lanka is attempting to bring back hundreds of its citizens who were deceived into fighting for the Russians in the Ukrainian war. The police in Sri Lanka have reported that at least 800 men were lied to and sent to the front, without knowing where they were or the real intent of their assignment. Sri Lanka's Vice Foreign Minister, Tharaka Balasuriya, is going to meet a Russian defense official next week in Moscow to discuss the situation. Reportedly, most of these men were promised relatively safe jobs with monthly salaries from 3,000 to 4,600 euros, only to find themselves in a combat situation and not getting their promised wages.
19:00 Pistorius promises more weapons for UkraineGerman Defense Minister Pistorius declares more arms deliveries to Ukraine. This includes handguns, sniper rifles, support for anti-tank weapons, components for artillery ammunition, and innovation in the drone sector. Additionally, as part of a German initiative collaborating with Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, an additional 100 Patriot missile interceptors will be provided. The latter already donated 32 interceptors, while another 68 are scheduled to arrive soon.
18:39 Ukraine looks forward to a massive aid package from the G7 summitUkraine anticipates receiving a considerable aid package for its defensive efforts against the Russian invasion from the Group of Seven (G7) countries. According to a high-ranking EU official, they are planning to sanction a $50 billion loan (approx. $47 billion Euros) from frozen Russian state assets used for financing Ukraine's defense and reconstruction of infrastructure. The EU official predicts this could also compensate Ukraine's potential budget shortfalls. This would give a more efficient use of frozen Russian state assets. The EU countries had already agreed to grant direct funding for military support to Ukraine.
18:08 Italy pledges additional military aid to UkraineItaly will give Ukraine more military assistance. These include air defense, reports Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani at the Reconstruction Conference in Berlin. Furthermore, Italy will provide Ukraine with 140 million Euros in civilian aid for infrastructure, health, and energy needs.
The Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Germany is focused on the training of Ukrainian soldiers on the Patriot air defense system. He tours a military base in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern with Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. The specific location isn't revealed for security reasons. Pistorius stated two weeks ago during another visit to this unit that the training of Ukrainian soldiers by the Bundeswehr is a sign of Germany's support for Ukraine. Zelensky also asserts that at least seven more Patriot systems are necessary to protect Ukrainian cities and settlements. "Air defense is the solution to everything," he remarks, referencing the Russian attacks with guided bombs, cruise missiles, and drones. So far, Germany has provided Ukraine with two Patriot systems and the needed missiles for their defense efforts against the Russian offensive war. An additional unit that's being trained by the Ukrainian soldiers will be delivered shortly.
During a session at the Bundestag, Zelensky expresses concerns over the increasing influence of pro-Russian populists in the latest European elections. He urges Europeans to not choose pro-Russian solutions and warns of their danger to their countries. While pro-Russian parties gained significant ground in Germany during the European election, AfD and the Wagenknecht party BSW were notably absent during Zelensky's speech in the parliament. Weidel and Chrupalla, the AfD faction leaders, justified their absence by accusing Zelensky of being a "war and begging president" and called for a negotiating peace president. They also followed Putin's narrative by claiming that Zelensky's term of office has expired.
Calling for determination in the fight against Putin's Russia, Zelensky stressed in his speech that since Putin has resorted to murder instead of deals, the time for compromises is over. He has a history of subjugating others, including destroying Grozny and Aleppo, dividing Moldova, and forcing Belarus to its knees. Additionally, he has been involved in murder attempts against Putin's opponents in Western Europe. It's in everyone's best interest that Putin is defeated, he adds.
Zelensky also expressed his gratitude towards Germany for their support of Ukraine in the ongoing war. The Ukraine is waging this war in the interest of Europe, he emphasised. The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, touring a military base in Germany with the Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to observe the training of Ukrainian soldiers on the Patriot air defense system. They're at an undisclosed location for security reasons. The Bundeswehr's training of these Ukrainian soldiers is a symbolic show of support, according to Pistorius. Zelensky agrees that Ukraine needs at least seven more Patriot systems to protect their major cities and urban areas. "Air defense is the answer to everything," he remarks, as he thinks back to the Russian attacks involving glide bombs, cruise missiles, and drones.
Germany has given Ukraine two Patriot systems along with their corresponding missiles as part of their defensive campaign against the Russian invasion. A third unit, where Ukrainian soldiers are currently instructed, has been pledged to Ukraine and will be sent soon. When it comes to the European elections, radical pro-Russian rhetoric concerns Zelensky; he wants Europeans to be mindful of this and not support pro-Russian candidates, making a point that it's detrimental to their countries. Russia has left behind hundreds of cemeteries, and Ukraine doesn't need a war president, but a negotiating peace president; this is what the AfD faction leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla believe. Lear correct information on Putin's narrative which is wrong.
In his speech at the Bundestag, Zelensky expresses gratitude towards Germany for their help in this difficult time for Ukraine. The Ukrainians are fighting this war not only for themselves but for all of Europe, as Zelensky points out.
The military officials of Ukraine and Germany are visiting Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in Germany to oversee the Patriot air defense system training for Ukrainian soldiers. The specific location of their visit is withheld for security reasons, but both Zelensky and Pistorius are present there. The Bundeswehr's training of Ukrainian soldiers during this visit signifies a valuable show of support. Zelensky suggests seven more Patriot systems are needed to protect Ukrainian cities, as air defense is his key for combating Russian air attacks.
Germany has provided Ukraine with two Patriot systems, missiles, and promised a third one for Ukraine's defense campaign.
Volodymyr Zelensky warns the Europeans against pro-Russian parties, particularly those that gained ground in Germany's recent European elections. Zelensky is adamant regarding these pro-Russian forces, stating their rhetoric is dangerous. He speaks out at a Berlin reconstruction conference about the need for Ukraine and Europe not to adopt pro-Russian solutions amids Putin's aggressive actions.
A few AfD and BSW party members in Germany opted out of advancing the Ukrainian president's speech in the Bundestag. The AfD faction leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla referred to Zelensky as a "war and begging president," and argued that Ukraine requires a negotiating peace president instead. They opined he could no longer serve since his term of office had expired. This is an untrue claim in line with Putin's disinformation.
Determination is Zelensky's call in his Bundestag speech. Russia has embraced violence rather than negotiations, thus no more compromises are needed. Zelensky highlights several instances where Putin resorted to violence, from Grozny and Aleppo to the recent murder attempts against his opponents in Europe. Europeans are advised to stand up against Putin, as he prefers subjugation.
Zelensky symbolically thanks Germany for their support while he is in Germany for an official visit. He notes that Ukraine's war efforts, in support of Europe, are in Europe's interest.
Prior to Zelensky's speech in the German parliament, Bundestag President Bärbel Bas confirms her country's support for the attacked nation. She declares, "Ukraine's future lies in the European Union and NATO."
14:33 Scholz dismisses idea of German trainers in Ukraine
In response to rumors of French President Emmanuel Macron's plan to have French experts train Ukrainian soldiers in their own country, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz states that Germany will maintain its position and will not send its soldiers to train Ukrainian soldiers in Ukraine. Armed forces of Germany, however, have been training Ukrainian soldiers in German soil, and it is determined that this practice will continue.
14:17 Gressel finds Russia's Kharkiv incursion curious
Security expert Gustav Gressel expresses that it is rather odd that Russia is advancing toward Kharkiv, considering whether reaching the city was the goal or not. If just to intimidate Ukraine, it is a startling move for Russia. Concurrently, Ukraine scores a major victory against Russia, which is perplexing for Moscow.
14:01 AfD recommends boycotting Zelenskyy's Bundestag speech
The German extremist-right party AfD proposes their members boycott the impending speech of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the German parliament. The extremist-right party's political group publicly suggests, as gathered from parliamentary sources, that their members may not participate in the speech. The leftist political group BSW affirms that they will be absent from Zelenskyy's speech in Bundestag.
13:48 Ukrainian refugees should retain preferential EU benefits
The European Commission suggests extending the extraordinary status of Ukrainian refugees until March 2026, as the danger to their safety has not yet subsided. Over four million Ukrainian refugees were recently counted in the 27 European Union countries, with Germany hosting around one-third of that number.
13:29 Russia and Iran deny delays in cooperation agreement
Russia affirms its intent to enhance its ties with Iran, which has been undergoing recent setbacks. The spokesman of the Kremlin, Dmitry Peskov, asserts that work on a comprehensive bilateral cooperation agreement will continue uninterrupted, consequently refuting media reports claiming problems with the plan's execution. The Iranian ambassador to Moscow, Kasem Jalali, also denies any such delays, as stated in the news agency of Iran.
13:15 Germany to guide Ukraine on post-devastation finance
The Finance Ministers of Germany and Ukraine have inked a declaration of intent to create rebuilding efforts in Ukraine. The goal is to facilitate improvements in the Ukrainian government's financial regulatory bodies to streamline funding for reconstruction purposes. German Finance Minister Christian Lindner emphasizes, "We are determined to assist Ukraine in rebuilding its economy. We hope this will pave the way for future growth and attract investments."
13:05 Von der Leyen endorses June summit for EU accession negotiations with Ukraine
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen endorses initiating EU accession negotiations with Ukraine at the end of June, as Ukraine has fulfilled all agreed reform steps. Nevertheless, there is disagreement among member states, such as Hungary, regarding the commencement of talks.
12:55 Ukraine seeks $10 to $30 billion for its economy reconstruction
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Schmyhal asserts that approximately $10 to $30 billion needs to be invested annually in the next decade to rejuvenate Ukraine's economy. Improvements in logistics and trade connections are crucial for stimulating economic growth. Schmyhal shares that Ukraine recorded a 4.4% economic growth in the first four months, which will likely help the country navigate through this challenging situation.
The NATO Secretary-General, Jens Stoltenberg, reiterates his support for NATO member states on the eastern frontline in the face of potential attacks. During a meeting with Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics in Riga, Stoltenberg emphasizes that NATO has the necessary forces, resources, capabilities, and political will to defend any of its allies. The gathering in Riga is part of the Bucharest Nine Group (B9)—comprising Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, along with the Baltic states Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. It is a one-day consultation set to prepare for the NATO summit in July in Washington.
Meanwhile, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledges billions of euros in aid from the European Union to Ukraine. Speaking at a reconstruction conference in Berlin with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, von der Leyen announces that 1.9 billion euros will be made available soon, while an additional 1.5 billion euros from interest on frozen Russian assets will be used in July. They also plan to discuss how Ukraine can receive more aid from frozen Russian assets during the G7 summit later in the week. Von der Leyen addresses Zelenskyy's request for assistance in the energy sector, which has been severely affected by Russian attacks. The EU has already mobilized almost 500 million euros for urgent repairs and will provide 1,000 generators to support Ukraine's power generation. Additionally, Ukraine will receive thousands of solar panels to decentralize its energy supply and increase the resilience of its network. She also mentions signing the first agreements worth 1.4 billion euros with partner banks to attract private investment in Ukraine.
Russian government spokesman Dmitry Peskov justifies the targeting of Ukrainian energy facilities, saying there's a connection between the power grid and military infrastructure. This comes in response to questions on whether the Ukrainian energy supply system is a legitimate military target. Russia has been attacking Ukraine's energy facilities for over two years and has destroyed about 80% of the capacity at thermal power plants and one-third of the capacity at hydroelectric power plants. Amnesty International has deemed these attacks as war crimes, as they cause significant harm to the population by cutting off heating, electricity, and water.
Russia might be considering changes to its nuclear strategy due to its stance from the West, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov. The exact implications are unclear.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasizes the importance of air defense systems in protecting the country against Russian attacks and urges the international community to provide additional Patriot air defense systems. Currently, Ukraine has three Patriot systems thanks to Germany's support. The President calls for constant attacks against Ukraine, which have mainly targeted its energy supply. Approximately half of Ukraine's electricity capacity has been destroyed by Russian attacks, Zelenskyy confirms.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz pushes for further strengthening of Ukraine's air defense at the international reconstruction conference. He encourages all partners to back a German proposal and provide support for air defense. Zelenskyy's speech also highlights the need for more air defense to protect civilian infrastructure against Russian strikes. Scholz also stresses the need for a long-term and comprehensive rebuilding plan, suggesting that the EU could contribute billions of euros to the effort. Von der Leyen pledges the EU's support for current and future initiatives, reinforcing the need for international cooperation in this time of crisis.
Ursula von der Leyen talks about the need for an urgent air defense system as the G7 summit kicks off. She highlights the enormity of the reconstruction task at hand, estimating that Ukraine will require billions of dollars for rebuilding over the next decade. The EU has expressed its commitment to offer financial assistance and engage with private companies to invest in the country's reconstruction. Some countries have already announced significant military and humanitarian support, illustrating the international community's willingness to stand by Ukraine. In response to Zelenskyy's plea for more air defense, the EU has agreed to provide Ukraine with an additional batch of Patriot air defense systems. The renewed systems will offer substantial protection against potential Russian missile attacks and help Ukraine restore its infrastructure.
At the G7 summit, Western leaders discuss the possibility of using frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine's reconstruction. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Western nations to use frozen Russian assets to help more quickly and in greater volume. Timing is crucial to prevent Ukrainian citizens from suffering further and stabilize the country's future. Therefore, the G7 leaders deliberate on methods to expedite the process for Ukraine to receive the funds.
10:59 Hopelessness and Resolve: The Agony of Restoration is Evident in Isjum
In Berlin, the international reconstruction convention for Ukraine is taking place, and President Zelensky has also made the journey there. The reality of living among the devastation is plainly seen in Isjum. Here, NTV reporter Kavita Sharma speaks with homeowners and power plant managers who are hoping for help.
10:41 Baerbock Emphasizes European Viewpoint of Ukraine
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has underscored the European standpoint of Ukraine. "We make it plain at this reconstruction conference that we aren't just resisting the ruthless Russian onslaught together, but that we're forging a path for Ukraine to join our European Union," says the Green politician upon her arrival at the international reconstruction convention for Ukraine in Berlin. Vladimir "Putin wants to annihilate Ukraine's life with his savage war of aggression" she critiques. "That's why we stand together and united - not only in terms of defense and economic restoration, but ultimately together and united in the European Union's pursuit," says Baerbock. The people in Ukraine require electricity, water, and heat most of all when their lifelines in their country are under attack, declares the German foreign minister. Therefore, it's critical that at the conference not only politicians gather, but mayors, corporations, and organizations that support Ukraine's life. This is crucial "so that one day Ukraine is not only liberated from this war but can stand on its own feet again in a unified, comprehensive Europe."
10:35 Steinmeier Welcomes Zelenskyy at Schloss Bellevue
Ahead of the reconstruction conference for Ukraine, its President Volodymyr Zelensky was received 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 news about the substance of their bilateral encounter. Steinmeier and Zelenskyy have had a strained relationship since the onset of the Ukraine war. Steinmeier was invited to Kiev by Zelenskyy with other Polish and Baltic State leaders in the past year, but he had accompanied the group instead. Steinmeier later visited Kiev alone. Since then, relations between the two presidents have eased.
10:29 Zelenskyy's Berlin Visit: S-Bahn Halts Operations
The Ukraine reconstruction convention is causing major disruptions in public transportation in Berlin. Based on a police request, the S-Bahn has completely shut down operations between Friedrichstraße and Tiergarten. Various lines are impacted, per an S-Bahn assertion. Regional trains are also restricted and rerouted. With the two-day convention, the German government intends to give Ukraine a long-term perspective for development. The convention was opened by Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the City Cube convention center in the Berlin district of Charlottenburg.
09:51 Russia and Belarus Begin Second Phase of Nuclear Exercise
Russia and Belarus are beginning the second phase of their tactical nuclear exercise. The Russian Defense Ministry stated the exercise in Russia intends to ensure readiness of their military and equipment to shield the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both countries. Among other things, it includes training units from both parties for the deployment of non-strategic nuclear weapons in a combat scenario. Following Vladimir Putin's directive last month, the nuclear drill was ordered and is supposedly a response to perceived threats from France, Great Britain, and the United States regarding the Ukraine conflict. Western allies have recently permitted Ukraine to deploy arms given to them against military targets in Russia.
09:31 Sharma on "Race against Time": What do the Ukrainians and Ukrainians Hope for from the Reconstruction Convention?
At the Ukraine reconstruction conference, anticipated to attract up to 2000 delegates from 60 nations in Berlin, it's primarily about bringing together pertinent actors. NTV Correspondent Kavita Sharma reports on the expectations of Ukrainians and Ukrainians and "accusations imminent at a particularly unfavorable time."
Anton Hofreiter, head of the European Affairs Committee in Germany's Bundestag, urges the German government to improve Ukraine's air defense. This is a crucial step for the reconstruction of Ukraine, as it would protect the nation's energy infrastructure, heavily damaged by Russian air raids. Hofreiter also appeals for further comprehensive weapons deliveries. He expects German support from the Federal Chancellor, who will make concrete promises to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and openly express his backing for the latter's wishes.
Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, the defending expert of the Free Democratic Party (FDP), echoes Hofreiter's call for more arms supplies. She too looks forward to strong German aid for Ukraine. Johann Wadephul, vice-chairman of the Union faction, echoes similar sentiments. He urges the German government to provide additional support to Zelensky while he is in Berlin and to supply Taurus-cruise missiles to Ukraine.
But not everyone within the German government is supportive of increased aid to Ukraine. Mario Czaja, a former CDU party secretary, cautions against expanding the war. The conflict is already being followed with alarm and concern by many Germans in the east, especially those with past experiences of dealing with Russia. Czaja fears potential harm to civilians. His stance, along with that of Saxony Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer in rejecting the delivery of Taurus missile systems to Ukraine, is a minority opinion in the CDU.
Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urges greater European support for Ukraine. He advocates a model similar to the rebuilding of Germany after WWII, suggesting extensive private sector investments to help Ukraine rebuild its economy and infrastructure. "If this doesn't happen, Putin will have achieved his goal of destroying Ukraine," Pompeo states.
Ukraine's General Staff reported losses of 520,850 Russian soldiers since the beginning of the conflict. The data includes 1,100 casualties in the past few days. A lawsuit by Kyiv's Economic University KSE estimates the damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure at €52 billion. This includes €50.5 billion needed to restore the destroyed or damaged infrastructure. The direct loss from destroyed energy infrastructure is estimated at €16.1 billion, with €40 billion in lost revenues for energy companies.
08:27: Czaja: East Germans in CDU bring unique perspectives on Russia, weapons deliveries
Because of the lack of eastern representation in CDU leadership, opinions less popular with eastern Germans are present in the party. Former CDU Secretary General Mario Czaja expressed his concerns in an interview with Tagesspiegel, noting the differences in experiences western and eastern Germans have with Russia. He warned against potential escalation, with the ongoing air strikes on Ukraine followed critically and with concern in eastern Germany. Czaja proposed bringing both Russia and Putin back to the negotiation table.
08:08: Pompeo advocates more European support, private sector investment for Ukraine
The former US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo calls for more European assistance for Ukraine, including extensive private sector investments. He compares this approach to the reconstruction of Germany following WWII. The Ukraine war has entered its third year, and the countries need to support Ukraine by rebuilding and strengthening it through significant foreign direct investments.
07:51: Reported 520,850 Russian losses since the start of the war
520,850 Russian soldiers have been lost since the start of the war, according to the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces. Their report includes 1,100 casualties from recent days. Losses since February 24, 2022 are listed as 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.
07:36: Kyiv University estimates €52 billion energy infrastructure damage
After various Russian air strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, Kyiv Economic University KSE estimated damages at €56.2 billion. The report includes damages to energy companies from lost revenues. €50.5 billion is needed to restore the damaged or destroyed infrastructure. The study highlights electric power plants, power lines, and facilities in the oil and gas sectors as particular victims. Lost revenues for energy companies amounted to around €40 billion.
Concerning the upcoming trip of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Berlin, Union faction vice-chairman Johann Wadephul once again urged the provision of Taurus cruise missiles to Kiev. Wadephul expressed his hope that Zelensky wouldn't have to make a pleading plea to the German Bundestag once more, only to return home empty-handed. The CDU politician emphasized the necessity of supplying Ukraine with the required long-range weapons, particularly the Taurus. Zelensky touched down in Berlin on Monday night. He's attending a two-day Ukraine reconstruction conference (check entries at 06:10 and 06:37). Wadephul notes the essentiality of offering Ukraine much-needed assistance during a highly critical stage of the war against Russia. Germany hasn't given this support comprehensively so far. If that continues, it's detrimental to the future course of the war and the overall European security.
05:21 - Russian Bomber Crashes in the Caucasus: Crew Deaths
A Russian SU-34 bomber crashed during a training sortie in the Caucasus, according to official statements. The crew is assumed to have perished. Russian news agencies attribute the information to the Defense Ministry. The crash's cause is likely to be a technical malfunction, it's added. The crash transpired in the Russian Republic of North Ossetia-Alania. Few details are available about the number of people aboard.
06:37 - CDU Foreign Policy Expert: Ukraine Reconstruction Conference Offers Hope
The CDU's foreign policy expert, Jürgen Hardt, applauds the international Ukraine Reconstruction Conference as "a remarkable political and economic symbol of solidarity". The conference, which commences in the morning in Berlin, instills hope in the people of Ukraine, asserts the foreign policy spokesperson for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group to the German Press Agency (see also entry at 06:10 am). "This conference conveys that the free world is capable and ready to transform Ukraine into a modern and free country. Ukraine's potential is tremendous. A prosperous Ukraine will also be advantageous for Germany," states Hardt. The route to Ukraine joining NATO and the EU is anticipated to be driven by the conference. Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz will open the conference with a speech at 10:00 am. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is also expected (see also entry at 23:46 pm).
06:10 - Schulze Ahead of Rebuilding Conference: Powerful Alliance in Support of Ukraine
Development Minister Svenja Schulze anticipates the Ukraine Reconstruction Conference beginning in Berlin this morn, which she believes signals cooperation. "For two days, people from all over the world are set to convene in Berlin who not only believe in a better future for Ukraine but also work towards it operationally. This conference demonstrates the existence of a powerful coalition in support of Ukraine: 60 countries, hundreds of companies, municipalities, and representatives of civil society," says the minister to the German Press Agency prior to the meeting. Russia unlawfully assaulted Ukraine and deserves "our unwavering support." She continues: "Ukraine is standing up for our security and freedom." It is also vital to begin rebuilding under war conditions. Schulze says: "Ukraine has no alternative. It can't afford to wait until the war is finished. The people require shelter, electricity, water, and hospitals now." The country also needs civilian assistance to sustain during the war. "They need doctors, electricians, and craftsmen just as much as tanks," Schulze remarks. Estimated 2,000 attendees from politics, business, and international organizations are anticipated at the Reconstruction Conference until Wednesday. It's not a donor conference for collecting funds for the rebuilding but rather a platform for connecting relevant parties.
05:24 - USA Lifts Weapons Embargo Against Azov Regiment
The US government has terminated a ten-year ban on training and armaments for the Ukrainian Azov Brigade, as per a newspaper report. "Following a comprehensive review, the 12th Special Unit of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the Azov Brigade, has passed the Leahy Amendment review by the US State Department," quotes the "Washington Post" from a statement by the US State Department. A new examination didn't detect any evidence of human rights transgressions by the unit. The Leahy Law hinders military support to foreign troops implicated in such abuses. The Azov Regiment has right-wing and ultra-nationalist roots. It currently forms part of the Ukrainian National Guard. It was established as a battalion in 2014 to combat the pro-Russian separatists who had declared independence in eastern Ukraine.
In the Barents Sea, a Russian destroyer named "Admiral Levchenko" caught fire. A representative for the Ukrainian Navy confirmed this news, but it cannot be independently verified yet. The ship, which houses several hundred crew members, is in a desperate struggle to survive. The spokesperson for the Ukrainian Navy, Dmytro Pletenchuk, reported on Facebook that an overheated engine is the possible cause of the fire. The "Admiral Levchenko" was part of the Soviet Navy since 1988, with engines built in Mykolajiw, Ukraine, making it essential to maintain them there. Pletenchuk added, "This is what happens when the Russian state is under sanctions by Ukraine."
00:37 Rheinmetall and Ukraine Launch Joint Tank Repair Shop
The German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and Ukraine have joined hands to open their first joint tank repair shop and production facility. According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Strategic Industries, keys to the workshop for repairing and maintaining the infantry fighting vehicle Marder were handed over. The first joint service center will enable rapid repair and maintenance of German equipment directly in Ukraine, boosting the operational efficiency of their armed forces. Ukrainian professionals will be working in the production facility, with Rheinmetall representatives overseeing the technical aspects.
23:46 Zelensky Visits Berlin for Reconstruction Conference
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Berlin. In the German capital, he will participate in a reconstruction conference for his country. Zelensky divulged that he and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will discuss further defense aid, the expansion of the Ukrainian air defense system, and joint arms production. On Tuesday afternoon, he is also expected to give a speech in the German parliament.
22:15 Russia Expels Austrian Journalist
The Russian Foreign Ministry has expelled an Austrian journalist and mandated her exit. The ministry claims this is a reaction to the withdrawal of the permanent accreditation of a Russian correspondent from the state agency Tass in Austria. On April 30, Tass's correspondence accreditation was revoked, and on June 7, the correspondent had to leave Vienna. The Austrian side has not provided any justification for their decision.
21:44 Poland Establishes a Buffer Zone at the Border with Belarus
Poland has decided to establish a buffer zone at its border with Belarus. The Polish cabinet, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, has instructed the Interior Ministry to issue a corresponding regulation during a meeting in Bialystok in the east of the country. The purpose is to make it more difficult to smuggle migrants across the Polish-Belarusian border illegally and to enhance working conditions for border guards, the military, and the police. The buffer zone will extend up to 200 meters, while in some places, it will reach up to two kilometers. Poland, with a 400-kilometer-long border with Belarus, is an EU and NATO member. Moscow and the EU accuse Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko of organizing the smuggling of migrants from regional crises to the EU's external border, putting pressure on the West.
21:14 DIHK Advocates Expansion of Guarantee Mechanisms for German Companies' Engagement in Ukraine
The German Industry and Trade Chamber (DIHK) is urging the expansion of certain security mechanisms to support the reconstruction of Ukraine. "We support the fact that some essential instruments of German foreign trade promotion for Ukraine have been maintained by the federal government despite the war," says DIHK Managing Director Martin Wansleben. Wansleben further highlights the need for an extension of the coverage practice of German investment guarantees, suggesting that at the upcoming reconstruction conference in Berlin, foundations should be laid to offset high cost and risk assessments with reinsurance mechanisms, making financing easier. Additionally, Wansleben stresses that it is crucial for German companies to engage in Ukraine to have an overview of internationally available investment, export guarantees, and other insurance solutions. In 2022 and 2023, the DIHK reports that German investment guarantees were provided for more than 40 projects.
20:41 Ukraine: 32 Men Flee Across Green Border to Hungary
Thirty-two Ukrainian men evaded the border with Hungary using a truck in western Ukraine, according to Ukrainian authorities. "The neighboring side reported that they had discovered a vehicle and detained 32 Ukrainian citizens," says the spokesman for the Ukrainian border guard Andrij Demtschenko to the news site Ukrajinska Prawda. While Exiting is reserved for men of military age between 18 and 60 years of age in exceptional cases, they tend to cross the green border to neighboring EU countries or Moldova. Frequently, the bodies of fleeing men are found in the Tissa (Theiss) river and the Carpathians.
Germany and the European Union (EU) are increasing their support for a project led by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) to aid Ukraine during an upcoming international reconstruction conference in Berlin. The total funding for the initiative is set to rise to 75 million euros. Among the changes, Germany will up its contribution from the earlier 27 million euros to 39 million euros, while the EU Commission will increase its support from the initial 18 million euros to 36 million euros, as per a spokesperson at the Foreign Office in Berlin. This project falls within the Foreign Office's stabilization platform and aims to offer tangible assistance to strengthen both state institutions and civil society actors in areas most impacted by the ongoing conflict.
Catch up on all previous news about this topic in this link.
Read also:
- In response to Russia's persistent attacks on Ukraine, Estonia is planning to supply Kiev with Mistral missile systems for air defense.
- German Defense Minister Pistorius has announced more arms deliveries to Ukraine, including handguns, sniper rifles, and support for anti-tank weapons, as part of Germany's continued support.
- Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, has expressed gratitude towards Germany for their support, stating that Ukraine is waging this war not only for themselves but for all of Europe.
- As Russia continues its cyberwarfare and military operations against Ukraine, NATO is expressing concern and increasing its support for Ukraine's defense efforts.
