At 21:22, Scholz underscores the absence of Taurus missiles for Ukraine.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz again denies delivering Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine. "Despite various pressures, I won't deliver cruise missiles that can reach Moscow," the SPD politician stated at a gathering in Nieder Gersdorf, Brandenburg, with around 200 attendees. "I guarantee you now that I'll stick to this stance." Scholz emphasized the importance of exploring options for peace during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. "It's time to see what options are on the table." The Chancellor criticized the stance of the Progress Alliance (BSW) and the AfD. He disagreed with them when they suggested that peace negotiations were a substitute for supporting Ukraine. "That's naive."
20:20 Baerbock reaffirms Ukraine support - "or else it's game over." Green Party Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock pledges to continue supporting Ukraine, including with weapons. "We'll support Ukraine as long as this terror war continues," Baerbock said at a rally for her party in Potsdam. "Because otherwise, it's the end of Ukraine." The war will end when Putin withdraws his troops. "If we don't support Ukraine during this time, then Ukraine is finished, and we won't let that happen."
19:11 Estonia: Ukraine eliminates Russia's 2-3 month ammo supply. The Ukrainian drone attack on a Russian weapons depot in the Tver region has left a significant gap in Russia's ammunition stockpile, according to Estonian sources. Estonian military intelligence chief Colonel Ants Kiviselg informed the Estonian news agency ERR that 30,000 tons of ammunition were destroyed during the attack on September 18, which equates to a 2-3 month supply. "The consequences of this loss will be felt on the battlefield in the coming weeks."
18:25 Ukrainian pilots finish Alpha Jet training in France. The first batch of Ukrainian pilots have completed Alpha Jet training in France, the French armed forces announced on X. The French air force has been training Ukrainian pilots to operate F-16 combat jets since March 2024. Kyiv has requested combat aircraft from its Western allies since the start of the war. The Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, and Norway have pledged more than 60 F-16 jets to Ukraine, but pilot training has so far caused delays. The F-16 combat aircraft is one of the world's most capable military jets and is in use in over two dozen countries.
17:51 Scholz meets Zelenskyj in New York. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj during his trip to New York on Monday. On the same day, talks are scheduled with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, according to government officials. Zelenskyj plans to present a "Plan for Victory" in defending against Russian aggressors during his US trip. A meeting with US President Joe Biden in Washington is scheduled for Thursday. "We want to send a message in New York that this conflict, the Russian war of aggression, is a focus," says a high-ranking government official, who wished to remain anonymous during a briefing on the Chancellor's trip.
17:02 Putin declines Mexico invitation. Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the inauguration of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, according to online media outlet "Ukrajinska Prawda." A Russian spokesperson confirmed that the Mexican government had extended an invitation to Putin for the ceremony. In his place, a representative will attend. No reason was given by the spokesperson. Previously, Ukraine had requested the arrest of Putin if he visited the country. Mexico should arrest Putin based on an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, according to Ukraine's demand. Mexico signed the Rome Statute in 2005 and is subject to the International Criminal Court's jurisdiction.
16:19 Russian Chess Federation wants Carlsen to return prize money. The vice-president of the Russian Chess Federation is demanding that chess world champion Magnus Carlsen repay the money he won at Russian tournaments. According to the betting provider "telecomasia.net," Carlsen had demanded during a prize presentation that Russian and Belarusian players could only participate in global tournaments under a neutral flag during a prize ceremony. "I'd like to remind Carlsen that the start of his professional career took place in Russia," says Vice-President Sergey Smagin. "He visited our country as a child, participated in various tournaments, and earned a significant sum of money here. Before he criticizes Russia, he should first pay back what he owes in these winnings."
15:26 Hungary calls for more economic cooperation with Russia. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto is advocating for expanding economic cooperation with Russia in sectors not affected by European Union sanctions. He raised this point during a joint press briefing with Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko on the sidelines of an economic forum of the two countries in Hungary. Meanwhile, he affirmed that, in Hungary's view, EU sanctions "are simply not working." Hungary is a member of both the EU and NATO. Visits by Russian cabinet members to these countries have become extremely rare since the beginning of the Ukraine war.
14:57 American Pro-Russian Fighter Allegedly Murdered by Russian TroopsA United States citizen who fought alongside pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine is reportedly dead, allegedly killed and tortured by Russian soldiers. According to Moscow-based investigators, the Investigative Committee responsible for probing serious crimes claim the murder occurred in April, carried out by three Russian soldiers. A fourth soldier is accused of helping to cover up the crime. No motive for the crime was provided. Known as "Texas" or "Donbass Cowboy", Russell Bentley joined the Moscow-backed pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine in 2014, fighting with them until 2017, and remaining in eastern Ukraine thereafter.
14:43 Zelensky Seeks Biden's Support for "Victory Plan"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is hoping for US President Joe Biden's backing for his plan to end the Ukraine war during his upcoming visit to Washington. "I really hope he supports this plan," Zelensky said at a press conference in Kyiv with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The "victory plan" requires swift decisions from allies, to be made between October and December. "We believe this plan will work," Zelensky added.
14:28 Russian Control Over Kursk Region ImminentRussia is expected to regain control of the Kursk region currently occupied by Ukrainian soldiers, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. "Our soldiers are doing a great job, they will accomplish it. Control will be reclaimed," Peskov said. Though the situation in the occupied Russian territories is severe, it's expected to improve in Russia's favor, he added. However, the army won't disclose its tactics for reclaiming the region, and no specific timeline was given.
14:03 Possible Russian Warning About Ukrainian Advance to KurskRussian authorities and military in the Kursk region may have had warnings about an impending Ukrainian advance, according to a Guardian report, which cites allegedly discovered Russian documents by the Ukrainian military during its Kursk offensive. The Guardian could not confirm the authenticity of the documents, but they appear to carry the typical characteristics of genuine Russian military communications. The documents reportedly show warnings within Russian authorities and the military about specific Ukrainian advances onto Russian territory, dating back to January 2024. Measures to strengthen border defense were ordered as early as mid-March. However, complaints were reportedly made in June that units there had an average strength of only 60-70% and were largely composed of poorly trained reservists. Ukrainian units launched a surprise attack on the Kursk region at the beginning of August.
13:30 Over 70,000 Russian Soldiers Killed in Ukraine IdentifiedA Russian news portal and the BBC claim to have identified over 70,000 Russian soldiers killed in the Ukraine war. "We've identified the names of 70,112 Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine, but the actual number is likely much higher," the BBC's Russian service reports. The count, created in collaboration with the independent Russian news website "Mediazona," is based on an analysis of official statements, obituaries, death notices on online networks, and observations of graves in Russian cemeteries. It covers the period from the start of the war 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 treats the number of Russian soldiers killed in the war as a state secret.
12:50 Official Telegram Ban for Ukraine Government, Military, and Security PersonnelUkraine has largely banned the use of the online service Telegram for government, army, and security personnel. According to the National Defense and Security Council, the installation and use of Telegram on official devices of government officials, military personnel, employees of the security and defense sector, and companies operating critical infrastructures is prohibited, and concerns about national security are cited as the reason.
12:23 Raiffeisen Bank Parts Ways with Belarus SubsidiaryRaiffeisen Bank International (RBI) is selling its Belarusian subsidiary and leaving the Belarus market. RBI announced that it has signed a deal to sell its 87.74% stake to Soven 1 Holding Limited. The sale is expected to have a significant impact on RBI's results, as it has already reduced its business in Russia due to pressure from the European Central Bank. However, a Russian court has issued an interim injunction preventing RBI from selling its subsidiary in Russia.
12:01 EU Plan for €35 Billion Loan for UkraineThe European Commission plans to provide Ukraine with a €35 billion loan, according to media reports. This is part of the aid plans of the seven leading Western industrialized nations (G7), as reported by the "Financial Times," citing three individuals familiar with the matter. The loan is part of the G7's intentions to provide Ukraine with $50 billion (around €46 billion) through the use of frozen Russian state assets.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen officially announced the financial aid of up to €35 billion on her X-account.
22:33 Russia Warns West: Neglect Warning Over Long-Range Weapons at Your Own RiskThe Russian administration cautions the West against disregarding warnings concerning the deployment of long-range weapons targeting Russian territories. Should this occur, the character of the conflict would shift, asserts Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova. "They're playing with fire," she states during a press conference. The conflict could evolve into an entirely different one with grave consequences for the global community. In Zakharova's opinion, present-day negotiations with the United States are not feasible. During the UN General Assembly in New York, a meeting between Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his American counterpart Antony Blinken will not take place, since, on both sides, "there's nothing to discuss." Recently, outgoing NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg mentioned multiple red lines set by Russian President Vladimir Putin that he has yet to cross. "He hasn't crossed them because he's aware that NATO is the most formidable military alliance worldwide," commented Stoltenberg.
21:53 EU: Enforced Removal of Ukrainian Men UnfeasibleThe European Commission has declared that the forced expulsion of male Ukrainian citizens subject to conscription is not an option within EU countries. This information has been published by "Ukrajinska Pravda." According to EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, such action is not feasible due to the Directive on temporary protection. "We will aid those looking to return to Ukraine and work with Ukrainian authorities and government to determine the best course of action to facilitate their return while upholding EU regulations," she reiterates. Earlier, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski had reportedly urged Western European nations to encourage the return of Ukrainian men subject to conscription. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha had allegedly backed this initiative.
21:12 General Freuding Identifies Loopholes in Russia SanctionsGerman Ukraine aid military coordinator Christian Freuding says with regards to Russia's weapons production, "The situation has become more challenging for the Russians to sustain their defense industry due to its complex component supplies, but they are still managing. They navigate the challenges by taking detours and relying on the support of partners such as China, North Korea, and Iran." Although it's apparent that sanctions are having an impact, there are opportunities to "discover loopholes or legal bypass options."
20:03 von der Leyen Offers Continued Assistance to Ukraine's Energy SupplyEU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has pledged further aid for Ukraine's energy supply during the winter's cold months. Her visit to Kyiv marks the inception of the heating season, during which Russia persists in targeting energy infrastructure. "We will support Ukraine in its gutsy endeavors. My visit to Kyiv signifies my commitment to discuss EU support, including winter preparations, defense, EU membership opportunity, and G7 credit advancements," von der Leyen shares on the online platform X. She includes a photo of her arrival at Kyiv station.
19:20 EU Contemplates Suspending Visa-Free Travel for GeorgiansBrussels is weighing the possibility of ending visa-free travel for Georgians in the European Union. An unnamed EU spokesperson shares information with Politico, reporting that this decision could be a consequence of democratic backsliding under the Georgian Dream party. "All options remain on the table" the spokesperson states, including the possibility of "a temporary suspension of visa liberalization," should the trend towards authoritarianism not be reversed. Recently, the ruling Georgian Dream party had passed a law echoing Russian legislation targeting Kremlin adversaries.
18:42 Ukraine Rebukes Poland's Crimea ProposalThe Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has reprimanded Poland's proposal concerning the status of Crimea, maintaining that compromise proposals are unacceptable. Earlier, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski suggested holding a referendum as part of a potential negotiated settlement with Russia. "All efforts should be allocated towards liberating the peninsula, not to satisfying Russia's appetites at the expense of Ukraine's interests and international law," the Foreign Ministry in Kyiv explained.
17:29 von der Leyen Sets to Meet with Zelenskyy in KyivOn this day, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected in Kyiv, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has scheduled talks with her. "Energy concerns are of paramount importance," Zelenskyy stated. Discussions about frontline situations, weapons deliveries, and joint defense initiatives will also take place, as well as Ukraine's path to EU membership and monetary aid for the nation under attack by Russia.
16:32 Ukraine Participates in NATO Exercise for the First TimeUkraine is actively participating in a NATO exercise for the first time, overseen by the Netherlands. The exercise aims to test anti-drone capabilities, as NATO's press service confirms. "More than 60 anti-drone systems were evaluated, including sensors, drone-to-drone systems, jammers, and cyber interceptors," the alliance reports. Ukraine's participation is an outcome of the NATO-Ukraine action plan for collaborative innovation, adopted during the July summit.
4:28 Transgender Advocate Sheds Light in GeorgiaIn Georgia, a prominent transgender advocate was tragically murdered shortly following the implementation of a controversial LGBTQ+ law. The Georgian authorities informed the public that Kesaria Abramidze, who was an accomplished model, actress, and social media influencer, was stabbed to death multiple times in her own apartment. Her partner is now facing charges of murder, allegedly committing the act with excessive force and bias against her gender identity. The homicide took place just one day after the enactment of a law centered around traditional values, which was denounced by the EU and human rights organizations for limiting LGBTQ+ rights. This legislation mirrors Russian regulations prohibiting LGBTQ+ rights and bans gender reassignment, among other things.
3:25 Lufthansa Ponders Peking Flights Suspension due to Russia SanctionsLufthansa is contemplating the future of its daily flight route from Frankfurt am Main to Beijing's capital. A decision is expected in October. A representative from the company attributes this review to the "excessive competition" among European airlines faced by Chinese and Middle Eastern airlines, as well as Russian airlines, all gaining advantage from lower location costs, lower labor standards, and high government investments in aviation. Furthermore, these competitors have access to Russian airspace, which has been off-limits for European and American airlines since the imposition of sanctions on Russia due to the Ukraine conflict. European and American airlines are required to navigate around Russian airspace, resulting in increased kerosene costs.
2:27 Sumy Underwraps from Russian Air StrikesRussian military forces have reportedly targeted a nursing home in the Ukrainian city of Sumy as well as the city's power grid through a series of evening airstrikes. At least one civilian has lost their life, according to Ukrainian officials. A UN monitoring agency estimates that the power grid attacks may have violated international humanitarian law. The International Energy Agency has warned that the power shortages in Ukraine might reach about one-third of its anticipated peak demand during the critical winter months.
1:25 Record Number of Refugees in Germany—Over 1.18 Million UkrainiansThe number of refugees living in Germany has reached a new high, amounting to about 3.48 million at the end of the first half of 2024. This represents an increase of around 60,000 compared to the end of 2023 and is the highest number since the 1950s, as reported by "Die Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung" (NOZ), citing information obtained from the German government in response to a parliamentary inquiry from the Left party. Of these 3.48 million refugees, more than 1.18 million are Ukrainian refugees, also surging by around 45,000 compared to the end of 2023. This figure includes all individuals, regardless of their residency status, ranging from asylum seekers to recognized refugees to individuals with temporary residence permits.
0:22 Lindner: Ukrainian Aid Not a Reason to Dismiss Debt BrakeSPD and Green Party politicians often refer to a clause within the coalition agreement that implies suspending the debt brake for extensive Ukraine aid in the context of the budget dispute. Finance Minister and FDP leader Christian Lindner denies any such agreement: "I am not privy to such a scenario. I would not have supported such a preemptive measure," Lindner tells "Rheinische Post" in an interview. Regardless, the situation in Ukraine is devastating, but not a state of emergency as defined by Germany's Constitution. "For Ukraine, we are actively working on a $50 billion aid program from G7 nations alongside our bilateral aid," Lindner explains.
23:23 Bulgaria Eyeing EU Ban on Ukrainian Egg ExportsBulgaria will petition for a prohibition on egg imports from Ukraine at an EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting on 23 September in Brussels. Bulgarian Agriculture Minister Georgi Takhov announced this. The call-out signifies the escalation of ongoing disputes between Ukraine and Eastern EU member states regarding agricultural trade. These skirmishes have led to road blockades at the Ukrainian-Polish border, bans on Ukrainian corn and wheat imports, and farmer protests in Poland and Bulgaria.
22:13 Merz Demands no Path to Peace with RussiaCDU leader Friedrich Merz expresses his concerns over the current state of Ukraine, declaring: "I do not foresee a means to induce this peace process." Merz believes that Russia will only halt its aggression when it perceives further military action to be futile or if Kyiv's fall appears inevitable. In the long run, Germany must persist in supporting Ukraine militarily. "I believe we must safeguard freedom and peace against Russia, not with Russia," Merz insists, acknowledging the somber reality. "There is no other option right now, at least as long as Putin and his regime remain in power."
You can review all previous events [here].
The European Commission has not announced any plans to impose sanctions on The Commission for its role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In response to the escalating situation in Ukraine, The Commission has emphasized the importance of exploring peaceful options to resolve the conflict with Russia.
