At 21:22, Scholz underscores no Taurus missiles for Ukraine's arsenal.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz Persists in Refusing Russian Missile Delivery to Ukraine, Stressing Peace Negotiations In yet another instance, Chancellor Olaf Scholz has declined a shipment of Taurus guided missiles to Ukraine, asserting, "In spite of the immense pressure, I will not approve missiles capable of reaching Moscow." This statement was made at a public gathering in Nieder Görsdorf, Brandenburg, attended by approximately 200 guests. Scholz reiterated his commitment to this stance, stating, "I am confident and will ensure I uphold this position." The focus of his address centered around exploring possibilities for peace in the Russian-Ukraine conflict. Emphasizing the urgency, he stated, "It's now crucial to examine the existing options."
20:20 Baerbock Reinforces Ukraine Support - "Refusal Equates to Ukraine's Demise" Green Party's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is determined to continue backing Ukraine, including weapon supplies. "We will persist in supporting Ukraine while this terrorist war persists," she declared at a political rally in Potsdam. "Because otherwise, Ukraine may cease to exist." The conflict will conclude when Putin withdraws his troops. "If we fail to support Ukraine during this period, then Ukraine will disintegrate, and we will never allow that."
19:11 Estonian Reports on Nyber's Ammunition Depot Attack Impact The Ukrainian drone strike on a Russian weapons storage facility in Tver has inflicted significant damage on Russia's ammunition reserves, according to Estonian intelligence reports. Colonel Ants Kiviselg, the head of Estonian military intelligence, told Estonian news agency ERR that the attack on September 18 resulted in the destruction of about 30,000 tons of ammunition, equating to two to three months' worth of supplies. Consequences of this loss will be felt on the battlefield in the coming weeks.
18:25 Ukrainian Alpha-Jet Pilots Complete French Training The initial batch of Ukrainian pilots has completed their Alpha-Jet training in France, as announced by the French armed forces on a certain date. The French air force has been conducting training for Ukrainian pilots to operate F-16 fighter jets since March 2024. Kyiv has been requesting combat aircraft from its Western allies since the commencement of the war. Countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, and Norway have committed more than 60 F-16 jets to Ukraine, but pilot training has resulted in delays. The F-16 fighter jet is a highly capable military aircraft utilized by over two dozen countries worldwide.
17:51 Scholz to Converse with Zelensky and Other Leaders in New York German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will engage in discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his trip to New York on Monday. Scheduled conferences include dialogue with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. According to government sources, Zelensky will unveil a "Plan for Victory" during his US visit to tackle the Russian aggression. A meeting with US President Joe Biden is scheduled for Thursday in Washington. A high-ranking official indicated, "We aim to send a message in New York that this dispute, the Russian war of aggression, is a priority."
17:02 Putin Turns Down Mexican Invitation Russian President Vladimir Putin will not join Mexico's inauguration ceremony for President Claudia Sheinbaum, as reported by Ukrainian news outlet "Ukrajinska Prawda." The source cites a Russian spokesperson, who cited no explanation. Instead, a Russian envoy will represent Putin at the event. Previously, Ukraine had requested Mexico to apprehend Putin upon his visit, based on an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. Mexico signed the Rome Statute in 2005 and is obligated to abide by the ICC's jurisdiction.
16:19 Russian Chess Federation Demands Carlsen Repay Prize Money The vice-president of the Russian Chess Federation is urging Magnus Carlsen to return the prize money he won at Russian tournaments. This call comes from betting provider "telecomasia.net," which reported on its news portal. Carlsen previously encouraged Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete in international events under a neutral flag. "I would like to remind Carlsen that the early stages of his professional career were in Russia," says Vice-President Sergey Smagin. "He participated in numerous Russian tournaments as a budding talent and earner considerable earnings. Before expressing negative sentiments towards Russia, he should make amends by returning what he owes in winnings."
15:26 Hungary Advocates for Increased Economic Cooperation with Russia Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has proposed expanding economic cooperation with Russia in sectors unaffected by European Union sanctions. His statement was made during a joint press conference with Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko, held in Hungary for an economic forum of the two countries. Szijjarto also reiterated his position that EU sanctions are ineffective. Hungary is a member of both the EU and NATO. Visits from Russian cabinet members to these countries have become rare since the commencement of the Ukrainian conflict.
A United States citizen who fought for pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine is reportedly brutally murdered and tortured by three Russian soldiers, as per investigations. A fourth soldier is accused of assisting in the concealment of the body. The investigation committee did not disclose any potential reasons behind the heinous crime. Russell Bentley, also known by his aliases "Texas" or "Donbass Cowboy," joined the pro-Russian separatists backed by Moscow in Ukraine in 2014. He fought alongside them until 2017 and continued residing in eastern Ukraine.
14:43 Zelensky Pushes for Biden's Swift Support for 'Victory Plan'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky desires President Joe Biden's approval for his strategy to end the Ukraine conflict throughout his impending visit to Washington. "I truly hope he will back this plan," Zelensky stated on Friday in Kyiv at a joint press conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The "victory plan" necessitates prompt decisions from allies that must be made between October and December, he explained. "We believe this plan will work," Zelensky added.
14:28 Russia to Regain Control Over Kursk Soon
Russia is expected to regain control over the occupied Kursk border region, which is currently under Ukrainian control, as per statements from the Kremlin. "Our soldiers are doing a great job; they will succeed. Control will be restored," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskow said. Although the situation in the occupied Russian territories is currently challenging, it will soon improve in favor of Russia, Peskow mentioned. However, the army will not elaborate on their plans for regaining control. Peskow did not provide a specific timeframe.
14:03 Russia May Have Been Aware of Ukrainian Advance to Kursk
Russian authorities and military in the Kursk region may have been alerted about an upcoming Ukrainian advance, according to a report by The Guardian. The article cites alleged Russian documents discovered by the Ukrainian military during their Kursk offensive. The Guardian could not authenticate the documents, but they show traits of genuine Russian military communications. The documents hint at warnings within Russian authorities and the military about specific Ukrainian advances onto Russian territory, which were later confirmed. These warnings date back to January 2024. According to the documents, measures were ordered in mid-March to reinforce the defense of the border. However, there were reported complaints in June that the units there had an average strength of only 60-70% and were primarily composed of poorly-trained reservists. Ukrainian units launched a surprise attack on the Kursk region at the beginning of August.
13:30 BBC: 70,000 Russian Soldiers Killed in Ukraine Identified
A Russian news portal and the BBC claim to have identified over 70,000 Russian soldiers killed in the Ukraine conflict. "We have identified the names of 70,112 Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine, but the actual number is likely much higher," the BBC Russian service reports. The count, produced in collaboration with the independent Russian news website "Mediazona," is based on the analysis of official statements, obituaries, death notices on online networks, and observations of graves in Russian cemeteries. It covers the period from the beginning of the conflict in February 2022 to September 19. "Mediazona" estimates that the total number of Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine is at least 120,000. The Russian government regards the number of Russian soldiers killed in the war as a state secret.
12:50 Ukraine Bans Telegram Use for Officials and Military
Ukraine has largely prohibited the use of the online service Telegram for government, military, and security personnel. "The installation and use of Telegram on official devices of government officials, military personnel, employees of the security and defense sector, as well as companies operating critical infrastructure," has been banned, the National Defense and Security Council announced on Facebook. Concerns about "national security" were cited as reasons.
12:23 Raiffeisen Bank Abandons Belarus Subsidiary
Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI) is selling its Belarusian subsidiary and leaving the market there. As the Austrian bank announced, it has signed an agreement to sell its 87.74% stake to Soven 1 Holding Limited. The sale will significantly impact the results. RBI has already significantly reduced its business in Russia at the request of the European Central Bank. However, a Russian court has issued an interim injunction preventing RBI from selling its subsidiary bank in Russia.
12:01 Report: EU Plans €35 Billion Loan for Ukraine
The European Commission is planning a €35 billion loan for Ukraine, according to a media report. This is part of the aid plans of the seven leading Western industrialized nations (G7), the "Financial Times" reports, citing three individuals familiar with the situation. The loan is part of the G7's intention to provide Ukraine with $50 billion (around €46 billion) using the proceeds from frozen Russian state assets.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has officially announced the financial aid of up to €35 billion from her X-account.
The Russian government cautions the West not to disregard warnings concerning the deployment of long-range weapons aiming at regions inside Russia. If such a scenario materializes, the very nature of the conflict would shift, notes Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova. "They're playing with fire," she declares at a press conference. The conflict could transform into something totally different with disastrous consequences for the entire globe. According to Zakharova, negotiations with the USA are out of the question at present. A gathering between Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his American counterpart Antony Blinken at the UN General Assembly in New York will not occur, as both parties "have nothing to discuss."
10:53 EU: Enforced removal of Ukrainian males of military age 'impossible'
The European Commission has brought forward that ejecting male Ukrainian citizens of military age from EU countries cannot be enforced. This information is shared by "Ukrajinska Pravda." This is impossible due to the Directive on temporary protection, explains EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson. "We will back those who wish to return to Ukraine, and we will discuss with Ukrainian authorities and the Ukrainian government how this can be accomplished in the best way possible. We will not expel anyone from the EU," she underlines. Previously, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski had reportedly urged Western European countries to encourage Ukrainian men of military age to return to Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha reportedly endorsed the idea.
10:12 General Freuding spots 'opportunities' in Russia sanctions
The military coordinator of German Ukraine aid, Christian Freuding, comments on Russia's weapons manufacturing: "We assess the situation as having deteriorated for the Russians to maintain their defense industry with its intricate component supplies, but they are still managing. They manage by making detours and by being able to rely on the aid of partners such as China, North Korea, and Iran." While it's apparent that sanctions are having an effect, there are possibilities for "identifying loopholes or even completely legal circumvention options."
09:03 Von der Leyen vows additional assistance for Ukraine's energy supply
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has guaranteed further assistance for Ukraine's energy supply during the winter at the outset of her visit to Kyiv. "My eighth trip to Kyiv comes at a time when the heating season is about to begin, and Russia continues to target the energy infrastructure," von der Leyen writes on the online service X. She posts a photo of her arrival at Kyiv station. "We will support Ukraine in its valiant endeavors. I am here to discuss Europe's support. From winter preparations to defense, to membership (of the EU) and advancements on G7 credits."
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08:20 "Authoritarian Trend" - EU Ponders Ending Visa-Free Travel for GeorgiansBrussels is considering terminating visa-free travel for Georgians to the European Union. An unnamed EU spokesperson informed Politico that this is due to democratic backsliding under the ruling Georgian Dream party. "All alternatives are under consideration," the spokesperson said, "including the prospective temporary suspension of visa liberalization" if Georgia does not reverse its trend towards authoritarianism. Recently, the ruling party "Georgian Dream" enacted a law on foreign agents resembling oppressive Russian legislation employed against Kremlin critics.
07:42 Ukraine Criticizes Poland's Crimea ProposalThe Ukrainian Foreign Ministry condemned a proposal by Poland related to Crimea's status, emphasizing that compromises are unacceptable. Earlier, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski suggested a referendum in Crimea as part of a potential negotiating solution with Russia. "All efforts should be directed towards liberating the peninsula, not at fulfilling the Kremlin's desires at the expense of Ukraine's interests and international law," the Foreign Ministry in Kyiv elucidated.
06:29 Von der Leyen Anticipated in Kyiv - Talks with ZelenskyyEU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled to arrive in Kyiv today. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced talks with her about preparations for winter. "Of course, the energy issue is a top priority," he stated. The situation on the front, weapon deliveries, and joint defense projects are also on the agenda, as well as Ukraine's path to the EU and additional financial support for the country confronting Russia.
05:32 Ukraine Participates in NATO Exercise for the First TimeUkraine is participating directly in a NATO exercise under Dutch leadership for the first time. The exercise to assess anti-drone systems is ongoing, according to the NATO press service. "More than 60 anti-drone systems and technologies such as sensors, drone-to-drone systems, jammers, and cyber-hunters were tested live," the alliance stated. Ukraine's participation is part of the NATO-Ukraine action plan for cooperation in innovation, adopted at the summit in July.
04:28 Transgender Advocate Expires in GeorgiaIn Georgia, a popular transgender advocate met an untimely end shortly after the passing of a globally contested LGBTQ law. The Georgian Interior Ministry mentioned that Kesaria Abramidze, who was active in modeling, acting, and social media influencing, was murdered in her apartment with numerous stab wounds on a Wednesday. Law enforcement apprehended Abramidze's partner as a prime suspect, charging him with murder with "extraordinary brutality and underpinned by gender discrimination." The incident unfolded just a day after the implementation of a law centered on "family values" that the EU and human rights organizations denounced as a violation of LGBTQ rights. The law, which mirrors Russian legislation restricting LGBTQ rights, imposes restrictions such as curtailing gender transition procedures.
03:25 Lufthansa Ponders Halting Frankfurt-Beijing FlightsLufthansa is weighing the possibility of withdrawing its daily flights linking Frankfurt am Main to Beijing's capital. A verdict will be rendered in October. A company spokesperson cited "extremely unbalanced competition" between European airlines and those from China, the Persian Gulf, and the Bosporus, which enjoys financial advantages thanks to minimal location fees, reduced social standards, and substantial state investments in aviation. Furthermore, these airlines have access to Russian airspace, which has been shut to European and American airlines since sanctions were imposed against Russia due to the Ukrainian conflict. This situation necessitates longer flights around Russian airspace, resulting in higher fuel expenses.
02:27 Sumy Under Assault: Russians Target Power GridRussian military forces launched another round of evening airstrikes, striking a nursing home in Sumy, Ukraine, and the city's energy infrastructure. At least one civilian fatality was reported by Ukrainian officials. The United Nations monitoring body suggested that these strikes against the power grid constituted a breach of international humanitarian law. Based on an International Energy Agency report, power outages in Ukraine during the critical winter months could climb to around a third of projected peak demand.
01:25 Swell in Ukrainian Refugees in GermanyThe number of refugees residing in Germany has reached an all-time high. According to the Foreigner Central Register, approximately 3.48 million refugees were in Germany at the close of the first half of 2024, an increase of approximately 60,000 compared to the end of 2023, and the highest number since the 1950s, according to "the New Osnabrücker Zeitung" (NOZ), citing Government's response to a petition from the Left party in the Bundestag. Amidst the 3.48 million refugees, about 1.18 million are Ukrainian refugees, with an increase of approximately 45,000 compared to the end of 2023. In this count, individuals of various residency statuses, spanning asylum seekers to recognized refugees and tolerated residents, are included.
00:22 Lindner: Ukraine Aid Not Justification for Suspending Debt BrakeSPD and Green politicians frequently cite a compromise within the traffic light coalition to defer debt brake enforcement for comprehensive Ukraine aid in the budget dispute. However, FDP leader and Finance Minister Christian Lindner disagrees: "I am unaware of such an agreement. I would not have signed off on such a precautionary measure," Lindner told the "Rheinische Post" in an interview. While the Ukrainian conflict is regrettable, it does not qualify as a state of emergency under the German Constitution. Therefore, responsive aid for Ukraine is being coordinated alongside other bilateral aid initiatives from the G7 nations.
23:23 Bulgaria Proposes EU Ban on Ukrainian Egg ImportsBulgaria plans to advocate for an EU suspension of egg imports from Ukraine at an Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting on September 23 in Brussels. Bulgarian Agriculture Minister Georgi Takhov announced this proposal. The demand is a signal of ongoing conflicts over agricultural commerce between Ukraine and Eastern EU members, leading to border blockades, import bans on Ukrainian corn and wheat, and public protests in both Poland and Bulgaria.
22:13 Merz: No Chance of Initiating Peace Process with RussiaCDU leader Friedrich Merz expressed concern over the Ukrainian conflict, stating: "I do not see a viable path to initiate this peace process at present." Merz believes that Russia will only halt its actions when further military incursions appear futile or Kyiv is defeated. Yet, Merz advocates for ongoing German military support for Ukraine: "I maintain that we must defend freedom and peace from Russia, not with Russia," he said, voicing his dismay. However, as long as Putin's regime remains in power, Merz asserted that this remains the only viable option.
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The Green Party's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock strongly supports Ukraine and believes that refusing to provide weapons would lead to Ukraine's demise. She stated, "We will persist in supporting Ukraine while this terrorist war persists, because otherwise, Ukraine may cease to exist."
Despite international pressure, Chancellor Olaf Scholz repeatedly refuses to approve missiles capable of reaching Moscow for delivery to Ukraine. He stated at a public gathering, "In spite of the immense pressure, I will not approve missiles capable of reaching Moscow."
