Baerbock Endorses Ukraine: NATO-Involvement in Conflict Averted
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock issues a warning of severe repercussions for Germany and NATO if insufficient aid isn't provided to Ukraine. She states, "If we fail to offer continued support, we risk faced with Russian forces lurking at Poland's border. The conflict would then engulf EU and NATO territories," as told to the "Süddeutsche Zeitung" by the Green politician. Consequently, newer refugee waves would surface. "If Ukraine fails to defend itself - and to those denying support - it'll lead to millions more individuals being forced to flee. Who among us wants to endure voluntary torture and occupation?"
22:20 Ukrainians face even more power shortagesUkrainian energy supplier Ukrenerho, led by Volodymyr Kudryzkyj, informs Ukrainians to brace for worsening electricity supply issues in the approaching weeks due to continuous Russian shelling of their power facilities. Kudryzkyj warns on Ukrainian television, "The situation will worsen significantly in the upcoming weeks compared to what it is today." By the end of July, planned power outages and outages will increase. The situation won't improve until quick repairs of two nuclear reactors are completed, Kudryzkyj states. Citizens are already suffering from power outages.
21:55 Charkiw Region: Expectant mother among casualties in air raidAs reported by the Charkiw Regional Prosecutor's Office, three individuals, including a pregnant woman, a man, and a 13-year-old boy, were hospitalized due to Russian air raids in the Charkiw region. They allege that Russian forces attacked the village of Pisky-Radkiwski in the afternoon. Over ten residential houses and an ambulance were damaged during the attack.
21:14 Yellen dismisses Putin's "theft" accusationsUS Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen denies Putin's remarks on Friday, terming the freezing of Russian assets abroad and their usage to aid Ukraine as "theft." In an interview with the ABC program "This Week," Yellen explains the frozen Russian assets remain in place. Russia has no claim to earnings derived from these frozen assets, Yellen adds. Post Russia’s attack on Ukraine, the US and its allies decided to freeze Russian state funds within their jurisdiction, Yellen notes. The total amount is approximately 280 billion dollars. "And a large part, approximately 200 billion dollars, is in a Belgian financial institution, from which they generate earnings that do not belong to Russia and which have been transferred to this institution." The G7 nations have agreed to grant Ukraine a loan exceeding 50 billion dollars, the profit from which will be used to repay the frozen funds.
20:40 Russian attacks intensify despite peace talksRussia has allegedly increased its attacks on Ukraine in the lead-up to the peace conference in Switzerland, according to reports from Kiev. "The enemy has escalated both the tempo and intensity of its offensive and assault actions, aiming to either infiltrate our defenses or eject Ukrainian units from their positions," the Ukrainian General Staff declares. The number of conflicts has consequently increased to 88. Notably, in the Pokrowsk area in eastern Donetsk, Russian soldiers are attempting to advance further. Most of the battles took place there - a total of 36. Of these, 25 were thwarted, while 11 attacks remain ongoing. This has not been verified independently.
20:07 Ukrainian Navy employs new "Stalker 5.0" overwater droneIn the defense against the Russian invasion, Ukraine is using overwater drones. The Ukrainian armed forces announced on social media that they've acquired the new overwater drone "Stalker 5.0." The drone was unveiled in Odessa. It can apparently travel up to 75 nautical hours at a speed and transport up to 150 kilograms of explosives or other cargo. The range is approximately 600 kilometers. The cost is reported to be 60,000 euros.
19:36 Russian journalist killed by drone attackAs per Russian reports, a Russian journalist was killed by a drone attack in eastern Ukraine. "Our correspondent Nikita Zizagi was killed by Ukrainian drones," writes the website News.Ru on Telegram. The attack reportedly took place near a monastery near the town of Vugledar, which has recently seen intense fighting. On Thursday, a journalist from the Russian state television was killed by a Ukrainian drone attack in Golmiwsky, a village under Russian control near the front line in the Donetsk region, and another was injured. The Russian Foreign Ministry alleges Ukraine intentionally targets journalists.
19:03 Zelensky: F-16 aircraft deliveries imminentAccording to the words of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the first Danish F-16 combat aircraft are set to be delivered to Ukraine "soon." During a bilateral meeting at the peace conference in Switzerland, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and he apparently discussed the preparations for the transfer. Zelensky also announced that the Netherlands have already committed to delivering F-16 jets to Ukraine - but after Denmark.
5:24 Soldiers from the LGBTQ+ Community Rally for Equal RightsIn the heart of Kiev, hundreds of Ukrainian military personnel, including Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender individuals, and their allies, take part in a Pride March. Their demand? Official recognition of same-sex partnerships by the Ukrainian government. Sporting Rainbow- and Unicorn-emblems on their uniforms, these Soldiers and Allies assert, "We are ordinary people, fighting alongside everyone else, but we are denied our rights, making us no different from others." Personnel from the US Embassy and European embassies join in solidarity. The event is marked by a heavy police presence due to threats from counter-demonstrators. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church voices its disapproval.
3:52 Ukrainian Military Gains Ground in Serebrjansker ForestThe Ukrainian military reports an advance of its own troops in the Serebrjansker Forest region in Luhansk. Brigades "Asow" and "Burewij" have pushed one kilometer deeper and two kilometers wider into the forest, as per their Telegram page. Previously, the "Asow" Brigade announced that Russian troops had abandoned their positions in this forested area.
3:18 Trump Mocks Zelensky as "Ultimate Salesman"At a rally in Detroit, Trump restated his opposition to Ukrainian aid. Before his supporters, he ridiculed Zelensky as "the ultimate salesman" and falsely claimed that Zelensky demanded $60 billion each time.
2:47 Kremlin Suggests Zelensky Give Putin's Proposal Serious ConsiderationThe Kremlin urges the leadership in Kiev to give Putin's proposition of withdrawing troops from the east and south of Ukraine a thoughtful review. "The ongoing situation at the front clearly demonstrates how dire the situation is for the Ukrainians," remarks Kremlin spokesman Peskov, while Zelensky discusses ending the conflict with other heads of state and government in Switzerland. Peskov asserts, "A politician who prioritizes the interests of his nation over his own and those of his masters will undoubtedly consider such a proposal with due diligence." Previously, Moscow had proposed a ceasefire in weapons and peace negotiations, contingent on Ukraine relinquishing its partially occupied territories in the east and abandoning NATO membership. More details here.
2:23 Zelensky Conditions Peace Negotiations on Russian Troop WithdrawalUkrainian President Zelensky sets a precondition for peace talks: a Russian troop withdrawal from Ukrainian territory. "Russia can initiate negotiations with us tomorrow, without delay, if they withdraw from our lawful territories," Zelensky said to journalists at the end of the Ukraine conference in Bürgenstock, Switzerland. He added, "Russia and its leaders are not yet ready for a just peace."
2:14 Von der Leyen Doesn't See Sincerity from Putin in Ending WarEU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared that the conference in Switzerland was appropriately named "Path to Peace," as peace would not be achieved in a single step. There had been no peace talks, as Russian President Vladimir Putin lacked genuine interest in ending the war. He demanded capitulation and control over Ukrainian territory, von der Leyen said. Additionally, he sought to disarm Ukraine and leave it vulnerable. Such terms could not be agreed upon.
2:06 Zelensky Proposes Swift Second SummitFollowing the Ukraine summit in Switzerland, Ukrainian President Zelensky suggests a second meeting take place shortly. According to him, preparations would only take months, not years. Some countries have already expressed readiness to host such a summit. A prerequisite for Russian participation, Zelenskyy said, is for Moscow to acknowledge the UN Charter. The final declaration, not signed by all attendees, makes no mention of a follow-up conference. Swiss Federal President Amherd acknowledges that perspectives and starting points were diverse. However, she reported that for the first time, a high-level and broadly representative conference had discussed a peace process.
2:00 Summit Declaration Condemns Use of Nuclear WeaponsA majority of summit participants support the final declaration, which condemns any use or threat of nuclear weapons, or their application in the context of the war against Ukraine. Nuclear energy use and facilities must be secure, protected, monitored, and environmentally friendly. Ukrainian nuclear power plants and facilities, including the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, must be under full Ukrainian control and adhere to the principles of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and be subject to their supervision.
1:22 Bystander Records Drone Strike on Military Vehicle in BelgorodIn the Russian region of Belgorod, a Ukrainian drone strikes a Russian military vehicle. While no one was reportedly hurt, the attacks are reportedly increasing. According to the governor, Gladkov, there were dozens of air strikes on Saturday alone.
3:31 Stragglers of the Treaty call for the repatriation of war captives and displaced children
The conclusion of the peace talks in Switzerland suggests that food should not be utilized as a weapon. As a result, there should be free and secure navigation and access to seaports located in the Black and Azov Seas. Raids on merchant ships in ports, as well as along the entire route, along with attacks on civilian ports and civilian port infrastructure, are inappropriate, states Swiss Federal President Viola Amherd as the meeting's host. Additionally, all war prisoners must be exchanged. All Ukrainian children who were forcefully relocated or unlawfully removed, along with all other Ukrainian civilians who are held captive without legal grounds, must be returned to Ukraine.
3:24 Consensus Summit declaration: Engage all parties in the conflict resolution
The majority of participants in the peace talks in Switzerland want Russia to be involved in future peace discussions. The closing declaration has the following statement: "We believe that peace can only be achieved through the involvement and dialogue between all parties." However, there is no clear statement about a future conference in the declaration. No date or location for a forthcoming summit with Russia is mentioned. Previously, some conference participants, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, had advocated for Russia to be present in future meetings. Russia was not invited to the Swiss gathering, nor was China represented. The goal of the conference is to discover a common ground on an international level as a potential starting point for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. Learn more here.
3:10 Ukraine peace summit ends with divisions: Not all nations agree with the declaration
The closing declaration of the peace negotiations in Switzerland is not supported by all participating countries. The document is only backed by 80 of the 93 participating countries. The UN Charter and the "respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty" serve as the foundation for "a comprehensive, fair, and lasting peace in Ukraine," according to the closing declaration. It also covers matters like nuclear security, food security, and prisoner exchange. Among the nations that do not support the closing declaration are six nations from the G20 group of the world's leading economic powers: Brazil, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, India, and Indonesia. In addition, Armenia, Bahrain, Thailand, Libya, the United Arab Emirates, Colombia, and the Vatican are among the nations that are not in agreement.
2:54 The Alliance calls for an end to welfare assistance for Ukrainian refugees
The parliamentary representative for the Union faction in the German Bundestag, Thorsten Frei, advocates for the discontinuation of welfare aid for Ukrainian refugees. "The welfare payments to the refugees create completely false incentives," states the CDU politician to Funke Media Group. While it is essential for Ukraine in the face of the Russian attack that every effort be made, numerous Ukrainian soldiers have remained hidden here. It is known that the country not only needs weapons, but also soldiers. Frei also advocates for the modification of welfare aid for Ukrainian women: The urgency of aid for the refugees is highlighted by the fact that the number of Ukrainian women seeking work in Germany is surprisingly low.
2:34 Russia attempts to conquer a village in the south
Russia reports the capture of yet another village in the south of Ukraine. "The units of the Eastern Military District have liberated the settlement of Sagrine in the Saporischschja region and have taken advantageous positions," reports the Russian Defense Ministry. Russia's army has been making steady progress in the east of Ukraine for months, but without any significant breakthroughs. Prior to the capture of Sagrine, it had announced the capture of three villages in the east, south, and northwest of Ukraine over the past week. Russian troops had launched an offensive in the northeast of Ukraine on May 10, and they occupied several locations before their advance was halted by reinforced Ukrainian troops.
2:11 Putin does not rule out talks with Ukraine: "Genuine guarantees are required to ensure the credibility of any negotiations"
According to Russian reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin is not ruling out negotiations with Ukraine. However, genuine guarantees are necessary to ensure the credibility of any potential negotiations, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov. A few days ago, Putin made an offer of peace that many observers see as similar to capitulation, offering large parts of Ukraine's territory to Russia. Many observers consider Putin's offer as poisoned to influence the conference in Switzerland. Kiev rejected the supposed offer immediately.
1:51 Trubetskoy on avenues of escape from war: "Playing with the beast is not an option for many soldiers"
While representatives from 92 nations are discussing a peace plan for Ukraine at the Swiss Bernina Convent, combat still continues in the Russia-invaded country. Ukrainian journalist Dennis Trubetskoy speaks in an ntv interview regarding the slim possibility of a negotiated solution, as well as the positions of Zelensky and Putin: [
(Note: The text seems to be missing the end of the last quote from Dennis Trubetskoy.)
1:32 Swiss-Ukraine Summit concluding remarks unlikely to receive universal agreement
The concluding remarks of the Ukraine peace talks in Switzerland are not expected to receive universal support, according to Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer. Some nations have concerns with the wording of the remarks, Nehammer explained to journalists at Bürgenstock. There is a desire for a follow-up conference on Ukraine. However, it is too soon to say how the format will look. Additionally, it is yet to be determined if Russia will be able to participate. Before the participation of a Russian delegation, there may be an interim conference, Nehammer added.
Conference on Ukraine's Future Ends with Ukrainian Foreign Minister's ApprovalThe concluding statement of the Ukraine summit in Switzerland is considered "well-rounded," as stated by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba while addressing journalists from Bürgenstock. The perspectives of the Kiev administration were given ample consideration. There were no discussions regarding alternative peace proposals at the summit. Ukraine will not tolerate Russia's demands being issued in a forceful manner.
Intelligence from UK Expects Additional $29 billion for Russia's RevenueRecent tax increases implemented in Russia are expected to be utilized with a high level of confidence to satisfy the growing financial obligations, including the war in Ukraine, according to British intelligence. London anticipates the Kremlin to generate an additional $29 billion in 2025 following an increase in the corporate tax rate from 20% to 25%, as well as the introduction of additional tax classes and a hike in the highest income tax rate from 15% to 22%. "The higher financial burden on companies may restrict future investments and growth in the non-military sectors," the British intelligence report concludes.
Day 2 of Switzerland's Ukraine Conference: Conversations about Nuclear Security, Grain Exports, and Humanitarian IssuesThe conference participants continue their discussions on how to achieve peace in Ukraine. Among the main talking points today include discussions in larger groups regarding nuclear security, grain exports from Ukraine, and humanitarian issues such as the plight of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. The conclusion of these discussions will be incorporated into a statement. Press conferences with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other dignitaries have been scheduled for the afternoon, at the end of the two-day meeting. The main goal of the conference is to initiate a peace negotiation process, eventually inviting Russia to participate. However, Moscow has decided not to attend, neither receiving an invitation nor expressing the wish to do so.
Historian Calls Out Putin's "Puppet" in UkraineHistorian Matthäus Wehewski from the Hannah-Arendt Institute for Totalitarianism Research argues that Putin's willingness to negotiate or compromise is highly questionable. As proof, he points to Viktor Medvedchuk, who heads the "Another Ukraine" movement: "Putin's new 'peace offering' is just an interview with Viktor Medvedchuk, a Russian marionette in Ukraine. In the interview published by the Kremlin propaganda outlet TASS, Medvedchuk propagates ridiculous lies like Zelenskyy not acting in the best interests of the Ukrainian people. He also claims that Russia's and the Ukrainian people's interest lies in 'the liberation of Odessa and other cities' after Putin's peace offering was dismissed. Medvedchuk also repeats familiar Kremlin talking points by calling for Ukraine's 'complete denazification and demilitarization.'" According to historian Wehewski, the "Another Ukraine" movement consists of former pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine. "Putin has already constructed an 'alternative' Ukrainian government, with whom he intends to carry out 'negotiations' for the partition and political/cultural subjugation of Ukraine. This strategy was used by Stalin in 1939/40 against the Baltic countries and Finland."
Switzerland Conference Excludes Russia: German Chancellor Scholz Addresses Central IssueThe conference in Switzerland is attended by state and government leaders aiming to find a peaceful solution in Ukraine. However, Russia's absence from the event is noteworthy. NTV reporter Jürgen Weichert explains the reason behind Russia's absence: "Russia is missing from the conference because Moscow did not receive an invitation."
Ukraine Stung by Heavy Casualties on Russian SideUkraine continues to report substantial losses on the Russian side in battle, albeit not as high as the casualties experienced in May at the start of the Kremlin's offensive in the Kharkiv region. In the past 24 hours, 1,160 Russian soldiers have been reported killed. Additionally, six infantry fighting vehicles and 58 artillery pieces were destroyed. No destroyed tanks were reported according to the press statements. The death toll cannot be independently verified.
Ukraine Awaits Remaining Portion of $61 billion US Aid PackageUkraine is still awaiting the largest portion of the $61 billion support package promised by the USA. However, a limited amount of aid has reached the country, reducing the artillery ammunition shortage. The advantage of Russian forces in available projectiles has gone down from seven to one to five to one. According to General-Lieutenant Ivan Havriliuk, it might take several weeks or months until sufficient Western aid arrives to make a significant difference on the battlefield.
Ukraine's Coal Power Plants Suffer in Wake of Russian AttacksCoal power plant capacity in Ukraine has decreased from 5 Gigawatts to 500 Megawatts due to Russian attacks, severely hindering Ukraine's preparations for the upcoming heating season. To restore some of the capacity, Ukraine is scrambling to repair or replace turbines, generators, and other necessary parts. "This year, we might manage to find temporary solutions. We might obtain materials from power plants built in countries like Poland, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Romania, and Greece during the Soviet era," Dmytro Sakharuk, spokesperson for the Ukrainian energy conglomerate DTEK said in an interview with ntv.de. "These power plants will be 'Frankenstein units.'"
23:23 Activists raise concern over renamed children by RussiaUkrainian charity organization Save Ukraine accuses Russia of indoctrinating children taken from Ukraine. Mykola Kuleba, the head of the organization, claims that children are prohibited from speaking Ukrainian or displaying Ukrainian symbols. He adds that children are harshly punished if they refuse to sing the Russian national anthem. Furthermore, Russian authorities are alleged to have changed the children's names and birthdates. Save Ukraine has managed to recover 373 children, with many showing signs of trauma, according to Kuleba. The Ukrainian government estimates that over 20,000 children have been taken since the start of the war, a claim denied by Russia, who claims to be providing shelter for children from the war zone.
00:54 Zelensky: Russia uses 3500 rockets on civilian targets monthlyUkrainian President Zelensky states that Russia fires approximately 3500 rockets at civilian targets and Ukrainian infrastructure every month. In an interview with Sky TG24, Zelensky asserts that these rockets are aimed solely at civilian targets to force people to abandon cities and villages, paving the way for Russian occupation. Russia is seen as dishonest if they claim to target only military objectives.
01:28 Latvia practices emergency preparednessLatvia held a nationwide civil defense information day under the title "Armed with Knowledge" in 14 cities and municipalities. The population received instructions on how to act during emergencies, including first aid, setting up emergency supplies, and handling explosive objects, radiation, or chemical hazards. This is meant to boost civil defense capabilities in response to Russia's full-scale attack war in Ukraine. Defense Minister Andris Spruds stresses the importance of informing the public on what to do during crisis situations.
02:50 von der Leyen: Peace must restore Ukraine's territorial integrityEU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen believes the current battlefield situation should not be allowed to persist. "Permitting a frozen conflict with foreign troops occupying Ukrainian land is not the solution," she says at the Ukraine Summit in Switzerland. "It's a formula for future attacks on Ukraine." The summit attendees should support a comprehensive, fair, and long-term peace for Ukraine, one that reestablishes Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
03:55 Biden misses Ukraine Summit for Hollywood fundraiserDespite being close to the Ukraine Conference in Switzerland, US President Biden did not attend, opting instead to join a gala dinner with celebrities like Julia Roberts and George Clooney in the United States to boost his campaign's finances. In Biden's stead, US Vice President Kamala Harris attended the Ukraine Summit.
05:24 Stübgen ambivalent towards benefits for Ukrainian refugeesBrandenburg's Interior Minister Michael Stübgen supports Bavaria's call to end citizens' benefits for fleeing Ukrainians in Germany. He contends that providing support to Ukraine while simultaneously granting benefits to flag-fleeing Ukrainians is illogical. Stübgen believes that the low employment rate among Ukrainians is due to citizens' benefits impeding employment acceptance. He suggests that the federal government reconsider its policy.
06:07 Ukrainians claim counterattack successAccording to the Ukrainian Asow Brigade, Russian invaders have lost positions in the Serebryansky Forest. Swjatoslaw Palamar, deputy commander of the 12th Brigade of the Asow National Guard, announced this on social media. Nasar Voloshchyn, a spokesperson for the Chortyzja grouping, confirmed it: "Our defensive forces are storming the enemy's positions, pushing back Russian defense lines, and firing positions. We are also launching counterattacks, capturing their firing positions on the tactical level and driving them out of their lines." Recent reports from the military-affiliated Deepstate channel also mention advances. The Luhansk region's front line is located in the Serebryansky Forest.
06:54 Ukraine reports increased Russian activities in Wremiwka sectorThe Ukrainian General Staff reports that Russian forces have tripled their activities in the Wremiwka sector, an area between Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia cities. Russian forces allegedly assaulted the front lines ten times in the areas of Vodjane, Uroschajne, and Staromajorsk. "The situation is tense. Measures are being taken to stabilize the situation."
07:32 Germany vulnerable to hybrid threats, says cybersecurity expertAccording to Christian Dörring, a cybersecurity expert at the Hasso-Plattner-Institute (HPI) in Potsdam, Germany is insufficiently equipped to protect against foreign disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks. He warns that the past two years of the Ukraine conflict have demonstrated that, in relation to hybrid threats, we as a society are poorly prepared and, to some extent, ineffective. This encompasses disinformation and fake news, all the way to attacks on our infrastructure.
Eastern Ukraine Tragedy: Civilians Suffer Due to Russian Shrapnel Attacks
As per Ukrainian investigators, casualties among civilians have occurred in eastern Ukraine as a result of Russian shrapnel. The Regional Prosecutor's Office in Donetsk declared that the Russian army discharged multiple rocket launchers carrying shrapnel at the village of Ulakly in the Volnovakha district. The Russians apparently targeted a residential area with these multiple rocket launchers, leading to the death of two men and a woman, and the injury of five more civilians.
Sunak Slams Russia's Supporters and Allies
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak openly criticized Russia's supporters and allies. He stated at the peace summit in Switzerland, "They are choosing to side with the aggressor - and on the wrong side of history." He further added, "Those who support Russia by providing weapons or components for such weapons should take a long, hard look at the atrocities taking place in Bucha, Mariupol, and Kharkiv today, and consider the implications of their actions." Sunak accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of having no genuine interest in peace.
Saudi Arabia Pushes for Russian Participation in Peace Talks
Saudi Arabia believes that credible peace talks to bring about an end to the conflict will require Russian participation, according to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, who spoke at the Ukraine conference in Switzerland. He expressed that a peace plan would necessitate "tough compromises." Saudi Arabia is reportedly one of the frontrunners to host a subsequent conference.
Ukrainian Forces Report Successes at the Eastern Front
The Ukrainian armed forces have claimed successes in their battles at the Eastern Front in the regions of Klischtschijiwka and Serebrjansker Wald. Reports suggests that Russian troops were forced to abandon their positions, according to the Ukrainian army's Telegram page. This success is credited to the 12th Special Brigade Asow. Its deputy commander, Sviatoslav Palamar, announced on Facebook that the Russian troops had evacuated their positions in the Serebrjansker Wald area.
Ukraine Face Continued Attacks Near Wowtschansk
Despite international efforts for peace in Ukraine, Russian troops persist in conducting aggressive attacks on various frontlines. With air support, Russian units attacked again in the east of the country near Wowtschansk, as per the General Staff in Kiev's evening report. Exceptionally aggressive advances were also documented from the Pokrowsk region in the southeast of Ukraine. Approximately one third of the 74 Russian attacks recorded for the day were registered there. All attacks were reportedly repelled.
German Chancellor Scholz Advocates for Russian Inclusion in the Peace Process
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his support for including Russia in the peace process for Ukraine at the peace conference in Switzerland. He asserted, "It is a fact that peace in Ukraine cannot be achieved without Russia's involvement." At the same time, he demanded that Russia withdraw its forces completely from the partially occupied Ukraine. "Russia is able to end this war today - or at any time - if it ceases its attacks and withdraws its troops from Ukraine," he added.
Read also:
- Annalena Baerbock, the German Foreign Minister, warns that if NATO and its allies do not provide sufficient aid to Ukraine, Russia's military forces could pose a threat at Poland's border, potentially escalating the Ukraine conflict and causing additional refugee waves.
- The Ukrainian energy supplier Ukrenerho, led by Volodymyr Kudryzkyj, warns of worsening electricity supply issues due to continuous Russian shelling of their power facilities, predicting that planned power outages and outages will increase by the end of July.
- Janet Yellen, the US Treasury Secretary, denies Putin's accusations of "theft" regarding the freezing of Russian assets and their usage to aid Ukraine, explaining that the frozen funds remain in place and Russia has no claim to earnings derived from these assets.
- As the Ukraine-Russia conflict continues, discussions about a potential cyberwar between the two nations arise, with NATO playing a significant role in defending Ukraine's cybersecurity and preventing Russian cyberattacks on Ukraine's critical infrastructure.
