Kremlin Criticizes Macron for Provocations Following Fighter Jet Promise from Paris
Following France's declaration of fighter jet deliveries to Ukraine, Russia responded with serious criticism. According to Kremlin spokesman Peskov, President Macron's actions are "provocative" and he's showing "absolute support for the Kiev regime" while inviting "direct involvement in the armed conflict." In an interview on Thursday, Macron revealed plans to deliver several Mirage fighter jets. He evaded questions about sending military trainers to aid Ukraine, stressing that it wouldn't trigger a widespread escalation as Ukraine's request for training wouldn't result in their engagement.
Notably, Putin has hinted at the possibility of supplying weapons to countries opposing the West in response to the potential use of Western weapons against Russia. Speaking at the International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, he said, "If they send weapons to the combat zone and call for their use against our territory, why shouldn't we have the right to do the same?" While Putin doesn't explicitly identify the countries involved, it's implied that they'd face retaliation if they target Russia with their weapons. Currently, Moscow is supposedly not helping countries hostile to the West with their military equipment.
At the same time, Germany expects progress on deciding how to use the interest accumulated from frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's aid during the forthcoming G7 summit. However, no definitive decision has been made, and the major challenge lies in achieving consensus among EU members within the G7. The German government is confident that significant funds can be raised from these assets, but final approval is still pending.
Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed his gratitude towards France and its fighter jets, proclaiming that "Europe is stronger" and has the capacity to resist Russian threats. Zelensky was addressing the French Parliament, where he emphasized that these jets would not only aid Ukraine in defending itself but also demonstrate European solidarity. Preexisting reports had indicated that France would provide Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets, which can accommodate French-British cruise missiles like Scalp/Storm Shadow.
Russian Governor Lyssohor confirmed a larger attack on the Russian-occupied city of Luhansk. Claiming this operation was carried out against military facilities, the governor detailed damage to barracks, depots, and fuel stations. Reports of casualties have emerged, but the sources remain ambiguous – three civilians were reportedly killed, and more than 30 were injured. The Russian military claims to have intercepted four of five rockets, a claim that also lacks independent verification. They accused Ukraine of intentionally attacking residential areas in Luhansk.
In an attempt to diminish the Western presence in its economy, Russian President Putin aims to increase the nation's independence. Russia must reduce imports, promote non-Western currencies in international commerce, and expand domestic financial markets, he said. Currently, approximately 40% of Russian trade is done in rubles, and Western-dominated currencies constitute a dwindling share. To further reduce their reliance on the West, Putin wants to increase the share of exchanges using the BRICS currencies.
The Russian army has declared the capture of another village in the eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk, known as Paraskoviivka. It's approximately 25 kilometers southwest of Donetsk, a city Moscow had already overtaken in 2022. Since the beginning of 2022, Russian forces have publicly claimed the incorporation of numerous settlements into their occupied territories.
Finally, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated that under international law, Ukraine is allowed to attack military targets in Russia for self-defense. "Ukraine has the right to self-defense," he affirmed, adding that this right includes targeting legitimate military targets.
In summary, this text reports on the reaction from the Russian government to France's announcement of fighter jet deliveries to Ukraine. The Kremlin expressed its displeasure and labeled Macron's actions as provocative, while Putin hinted at the possibility of retaliating with weapons support to countries opposing the West. The G7 summit is expected to discuss the use of Russian assets to help Ukraine, though no agreement has been reached. Ukrainian President Zelensky thanked France for its support and military aid, whereas Governor Lyssohor confirmed an attack on a Russian-occupied settlement in Luhansk and attributed civilian casualties to the use of Russian air defense over the city. Putin emphasized the need for Russia to diminish its dependence on the West, diversifying its trade, and using BRICS currencies more frequently. The Russian army reportedly took control of another village in Donetsk. Stoltenberg confirmed that according to international law, Ukraine is allowed to target military assets in Russia to ensure its own security.
Biden Announces $225 Million Aid Package for Ukraine's Military
U.S. President Joe Biden unveiled a new military support package for Ukraine valued at $225 million (€207 million) during a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris. Zelenskyy is on a multi-day visit to France, as are Biden and other Western leaders, who are attending the NATO summit in Madrid. The fresh aid package includes rockets for Hawk anti-aircraft systems, ammunition for HIMARS multiple rocket launchers, Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, and 155 and 105-millimeter artillery ammunition. The U.S. is concentrating on reinforcing Ukraine's air defense and supplying the country with ammunition after a considerable supply hiatus.
14:58 Russia Charges Ukraine With Launching Aerial Assault on Luhansk
Russia accuses Ukraine of aerial-striking the Russian-controlled eastern Ukrainian city of Luhansk, resulting in fatalities and structural damages. The Russian Emergencies Ministry reports that three individuals were killed, while conflicting reports suggest 22 or 35 injuries, including three children. The Russian-appointed head of the area, Leonid Pasetschnik, claims "Ukrainian nationalists" triggered a "massive rocket onslaught on the civilian infrastructure of Luhansk." He asserts that "at least six ATACMS rockets from U.S. production" were fired toward the city. The Russian Ministry of Defense later adds that the Ukrainians fired "5 ATACMS rockets from U.S. production directly at residential areas." The Russian air defense systems claimed to have successfully intercepted four rockets, while the fifth allegedly struck two residential buildings. Additional details are available here.
14:24 Germany Requires Extra Soldiers for NATO Operations
Germany is reportedly in need of more than 75,000 soldiers to fulfill its obligations in conjunction with NATO plans, as per an internal report from the German Defense Ministry obtained by "Spiegel" magazine. NATO Army's escalating measures against an anticipated Russian attack led to these requirements. The German Army currently has around 180,000 active service members and civilian employees. No remark has been issued from the Defense Ministry about the matter.
13:50 Ukraine Completes Requirements for EU Accession
The European Union Commission purportedly assesses that Ukraine and Moldova have fulfilled all prerequisites to initiate talks on EU accession. During a secret gathering with EU member state representatives in Brussels, the open concerns were presented. The two countries still have outstanding issues that must be addressed in March. Ukraine's requirements included safeguarding the rights of national minorities and restricting the political sway of oligarchs. Germany announced in May that it considers all the criteria for Ukraine's EU accession talks have been accomplished. More details in the linked article.
13:20 Biden Extends Apologies for Delayed Military Aid to Ukraine
Joe Biden apologizes to Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the temporary halt in weapons deliveries from the United States to Ukraine, ongoing since February. Biden conveyed his apologies and requested forgiveness for the period of uncertainty about further military support before both leaders met in Paris for a multi-day visit. The blockade of U.S. financial aid for Ukraine had been a contentious issue, with conservative legislators preventing a bill from passing in Congress. Biden emphasized his commitment to Ukraine as a significant barrier against Russian aggression, asserting that the U.S. should and would support Kiev.
12:50 Russian Tragic Deaths: Moscow Blames U.S. for Weapons Supplied to Ukraine
Moscow charged the United States for the first time with being directly linked to the deaths of women and children in Russia due to the U.S. arms deliveries to Ukraine. Spokeswoman for the Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, asserts that the U.S. government tacitly authorized such attacks by admitting that they don't stop Ukraine from targeting military targets within Russia's borders. She also intimated that fragments of HIMARS rockets will serve as evidence of Washington's involvement in the fatalities in the Belgorod region. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously cautioned the West not to fuel the conflict by providing arms and ammunition to Ukraine.
A security expert named Christian Mölling has experienced positive outcomes from the decision allowing Ukraine to strike Russian targets with Western weapons. In an interview, he tells the "Stern" podcast "The Situation" that for now, the region of Kharkiv is secure from Russia's previous tactics of preparing and launching attacks in protected areas. He explains that, "The lifting of bombardments with Western weapons on Russian territory has significantly improved the situation and brought the Ukrainian troops to the forefront. The effects of weapons are evident - the Ukrainian forces can quickly regain control." However, Mölling also points out where there could be more action required, as inaction in these areas contributes to the deaths, injuries, and damaged infrastructure. He emphasizes the importance of not creating "safe havens for the aggressor," which he considers a twisted notion.
The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addresses the French National Assembly, warning about the expansion of Russian aggression. Comparing Putin to Hitler, Zelensky states, "In the 1930s, Hitler crossed border after border. Putin is doing the same thing." He further explains that they are witnessing the war's spread to the Baltic states, Poland, and the Balkans, and that the Russian leadership will find ways to destabilize Europe. Calling Putin a blackmailer, Zelensky declares, "He is threatening the whole world, trying to instill fear in everyone."
A US soldier named Gordon Black, 34, is on trial in Russia following accusations from his partner of stealing. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison. This situation adds tensions to the already-strained relationship between the US and Russia, as the latter is detaining multiple Americans, including spy Paul Whelan and "Wall Street Journal" reporter Evan Gershkovich. Zelensky adds that Russia is using outdated tactics in their aggression war, including sea blockades and abducting and re-educating children.
Russia is allegedly considering merging the occupied territories in Ukraine into a new federal district, prompting ntv's correspondent Rainer Munz to elaborate on the implications of this move and sending more warships to Cuba.
Ukraine accuses Russia of firing rockets from the Himars system at civilian targets within Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, blames Ukraine for the resulting deaths and damage, with plans to use the rocket fragments as evidence.
Ukraine charges Russian General Oleg Makarevich, former commander of the Dnieper Group, with premeditated murder and violating the laws of war. He is believed to have ordered the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, causing a devastating flood in the Kherson region. If captured and found guilty, the general could face life in prison.
After trainings for the promised combat aircraft are stalling, Russia is attempting to break through the defense 28 times in various parts of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine claims to have shot down dozens of drones in various regions. The attacks focused on energy infrastructure but caused minimal damage. Thankfully, there were no casualties.
Historian Winkler urges against losing Ukraine, highlighting the potential consequences of doing so. The past year has shown that Russian aggression will not stop unless firm action is taken. This request for attention and action comes as air raid sirens are sounded in many areas, with Russian forces attacking Odessa and Kyiv.
Historical expert Winkler warns against debt brake in times of crisis
German historian Heinrich August Winkler views the insistence on maintain the debt brake as a potential threat to Germany in times of crisis. "If a crisis occurs in Ukraine, it could be disastrous if we had to say 'we saved the debt brake and lost Ukraine.' This would be dangerous for European peace and the freedom of European democracies," Winkler states in the "Sueddeutsche Zeitung." The historian argues that Germany must work alongside other NATO members to increase conventional defense efforts, with the debt brake not being an obstacle. He states that it is impossible for Germany to play a significant role in politics with Russia at present.
Switzerland anticipates further peace talks with Russia
Swiss President Viola Amherd predicts that the upcoming peace conference scheduled for mid-June, organized by her country, will be the first step in a series of negotiations. "It's clear we won't sign a peace treaty at the end of the conference," Amherd told the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung." Amherd emphasises the importance of both sides participating in the talks in order to achieve peace. She further acknowledged that Russia has not been invited to the summit due to their unwillingness to participate, although they may be invited to a potential follow-up conference later. Ministry of Foreign Affairs predicts that more than 80 countries, including Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, will participate in the conference.
German companies continue to invest in Ukraine
A survey conducted by the German-Ukrainian Industry and Trade Chamber (AHK Ukraine) reveals that many German companies in Ukraine plan to keep their investments despite the ongoing war. Forty-three percent of the respondents expressed their intent to maintain their engagement, while only eight percent plan to reduce their investments. KPMG interviewed a total of 142 companies, enumerating key factors for future business growth as including political stability, economic stability, public financing, and guarantees. Approximately 42% of the companies expect economic improvement in Ukraine over the next year, with 48% envisioning no change, and 10% predicting a deterioration.
Human rights organizations accuse Russian propagandists
The International Federation for Human Rights, the Center for Civil Liberties, and the Kharkiv Human Rights Group have referred a report to the International Criminal Court, accusing several Russian media individuals of instigating hatred against Ukrainians. The accused include Vladimir Solovyov, Margarita Simonyan, Dmitry Kiselyov, Sergey Mardan, Dmitry Medvedev, and Alexei Gromov, first deputy chief of staff of the Russian presidential administration. The rights groups claim these individuals have "definitely incited violence." The International Criminal Court previously issued warrants for arrests of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova for the deportation of Ukrainian children.
Emphasis on Russian war economy
Kremlin head Vladimir Putin vows his country to a build-up of a war economy following more than two years of conflict in Ukraine. Manturov, first deputy prime minister, divulged Putin signed a series of instructions to enhance production of arms and ammunition. The war economy, which has witnessed an increase in manufacturers, was deemed necessary for a century-long conflict. Manturov elaborated that there are currently over 850 in Russia's military-industrial complex, serving as the driving force behind the economy. In spite of the rise in business deals, economist Pyotr Fradkov opines that it is the weaponry sector leading the economy during this period.
Dissatisfaction within NATO over Germany's resistance to utilize the term "NATO Mission Ukraine"
NATO allies are displeased with the German government's reluctance to call a new project supporting Ukraine a "mission". German officials argue the use of "NATO Mission Ukraine" could imply that the alliance is sending troops to Ukraine, thus it might be exploited by Russia for misinformation. However, allies find it incomprehensible that Germany is the only country debating the term, despite supporting the project overall. Critics of this position claim that the Kremlin would likely condemn the project as aggression, regardless of the name designated. Germany is drawing criticism for its stance, particularly considering its backing of the project.
Ukranian expert Gerhard Mangott considers the upcoming Ukraine conference in Switzerland diminished due to the absence of influential nations. The anticipated lack of countries like China, Brazil, or South Africa is a blemish, according to the University of Innsbruck political scientist. Interesting is that talks of a follow-up conference are already underway before the current gathering even starts. "Typically, announcements of a follow-up conference happen only after the present conference has begun, to show that little is expected from it," said Mangott.
In other news, Russia targeted Ukraine with drones and cruise missiles throughout the night. Air raid sirens blared in areas not west of the country, and the Ukrainian air force reported drone attacks on Odessa. Cruise missiles were also fired.
The US will supply Ukraine with new military aid valued at around $225 million. The package, expected to contain ammunition with a range beyond the country's borders, is to help shield Kharkiv from potential hefty Russian attacks. Vice President Kamala Harris and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will represent the US at a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
23:30: Astonishingly, key Georgians face visa sanctions from the USA following the passing of a "foreign influence" law. Washington will prevent entry to certain individuals, such as members of the ruling Georgian Dream party, parliamentarians, and security sector insiders, and their relatives. This measure was announced previously and reflects growing tensions concerning Georgia's domestic politics.
In a related development, Russian state media RIA Novosti reports that the occupied Ukrainian territories could be merged into a new federal district, citing Yevhen Balizkyy, a Russian governor active in the region of Zaporizhzhia.
Ukrenergo, Ukraine's power grid operator, recently cut power in Kiev and twelve other parts of the country. Despite the mixed response from international and domestic observers, the current geopolitical situation weighs heavily on the nation's energy sector.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy may address Germany's parliament, the Bundestag, on Tuesday. If confirmed, it would be Zelenskyy's first in-person speech in the Bundestag. The Bundestag meeting has been arranged to discuss the reconstruction of Ukraine.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that France will provide Ukraine with Mirage-2000 fighter jets, as well as train 4,500 Ukrainian soldiers. This military aid aims to empower Ukraine in protecting its territory and airspace.
The saga continues.
03:02 A toll of Russian drone and cruise missile attacks rocked parts of Ukraine throughout the night. Air raid sirens in a large part of the nation's west remained silent, while Odessa felt the menace. The Ukrainian air force confirmed drone strikes.
01:55 With a value of roughly $225 million, the US is dishing out new military assists to Ukraine. Washington sources suggest that the package will feature ammunition suitable for targets outside the nation's borders, enabling Ukrainian forces to safeguard Kharkiv. The American President Joe Biden will also meet with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky in Paris, scheduled for later today.
00:54 Power outages in 12 Ukrainian regions were announced by the power provider Ukrenergo, including zones of Lviv and Zakarpattia (west), the capital Kiev, the Kiev region, Odessa (south), Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia in the east. This happened in response to surpassed consumption levels. Critical infrastructure units may suffer as well, which already saw damage from Russian strikes on Ukraine's power supply.
23:30 A few dozen Georgians face visa restrictions from the US. The group includes members of the Georgian Dream party, lawmakers, and personnel from security services, along with their relatives. Protesters in Georgia had urged to avert the passage of an analogous Russian law titled "foreign agents."
22:13 News spreads of Russian governor, Yevhen Balizkyy's proposal to merge occupied territories in Ukraine. This could result in a newly created federal district in Zaporizhzhia. Optically, it reflects Moscow's grip on regions annexed in 2014, including Crimea and parts of Donbass. The situation became even more critical following the start of the full-scale attack in February 2022, leading to the Russian occupation of Kherson, Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia.
21:22 Ukrenergo reduced the power supply in Kiev and 12 Ukrainian regions. Both household customers and industrial plants in regions such as Volhynia, Donetsk, Zhytomyr, Transcarpathia, Saporizhzhia, Lviv, Mykolaiv, Kirovohrad, Odessa, Rivne, and Kharkiv experienced power cuts.
20:47 There is speculation that Zelenskyy will make an address to the German parliament, the Bundestag, on Tuesday. As part of a reconstruction conference for Ukraine, Zelenskyy may give a speech, setting an example of unwavering international support.
20:36 French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that his country would deliver Mirage-2000 fighter jets to Ukraine. France's efforts also extend to training 4,500 Ukrainian soldiers, as it aims to bolster the nation's ability to defend its territory.
As Russian influence stretches across Europe, nations align with Ukraine, with governments sending military aid to support its defense. Yet, the situation remains tense in several areas of the continent.
Zelenskyy recalls the dam collapse anniversary in southern Ukraine
Exactly a year ago, the Russian occupiers destroyed the dam and the buildings at the Kakhovka hydroelectric plant in southern Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted on social media. He considered this to be one of the worst environmental crimes committed by the invading forces since they first invaded. As a result of the dam's collapse, tens of thousands of people faced flooding. The water supply for drinking was also disrupted for several hundred thousand people. Zelenskyy mentioned that the aftermath of this crime extended to the neighboring Black Sea countries in our region.
For more information about the earlier developments related to this incident, check here.
Read also:
- Russia criticized French President Macron for providing military support to Ukraine, labeling his actions as "provocative" and showing "absolute support for the Kiev regime," potentially inviting "direct involvement in the armed conflict."
- During the same time, Russian President Putin hinted at supplying weapons to countries opposing the West if they were to use Western weapons against Russia, stating, "If they send weapons to the combat zone and call for their use against our territory, why shouldn't we have the right to do the same?"
- Following France's announcement of fighter jet deliveries to Ukraine, Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed his gratitude, proclaiming that "Europe is stronger" and has the capacity to resist Russian threats. He emphasized that these jets would aid Ukraine in defending itself and demonstrate European solidarity.
- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg confirmed that according to international law, Ukraine is allowed to attack military targets in Russia for self-defense, "Ukraine has the right to self-defense," he affirmed, adding that this right includes targeting legitimate military targets.
