Kremlin opponents' report suggests EU acceptance of Russian experts might undermine Kremlin's influence.
A gathering of Russian influencers who've fled their homeland are pleading with European nations to accept more Russian dissenters. This move would also benefit Europe, since the relocation of skilled workers would debilitate Russia's economy and military, the group asserted during a unveiling of a report in Paris. 75% of the 3,200 participants left Russia post-2014, the year of the Crimea annexation, as per the study. The other 75% departed the country after the initiation of the Ukraine war in February 2022. Most of these migrants were educated and aligned with Western ideals, it disclosed. Hence, an organized campaign for "economic relocation" from Russia is reasonable. Through the "exodus of skilled workers" and their resources, the Kremlin can be weakened more proficiently than through present sanctions.
22:16 Russia reports dominating control over two additional settlements in eastern Ukraine.
The Russian military claims to have conquered control over two more establishments in eastern Ukraine. The Russian Defense Ministry declared Russian forces have penetrated the town of Timkowka near the city of Kupyansk in the northern region of Kharkiv and the village of Miasoschariwka in the northern section of the eastern region of Luhansk.
21:56 Latvia demands solidarity amongst NATO's eastern edge nations
Latvia is advocating for harmony among the nations on NATO's eastern frontier in supporting Ukraine. "The top priority is that we exhibit a synchronized methodology during the NATO summit in Washington," said President Edgars Rinkevics before a meeting with representatives from the "Bucharest Nine." Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok has withdrawn from the Riga summit of nine eastern European NATO members. Slovak President Zuzana Caputova also dropped out "at the last minute," shares the Latvian presidency office. Hungary refuses military aid for Ukraine. Slovakia discontinued their assistance last year post-election of Primer Minister Robert Fico.
21:25 Scholz is "shocked, yet unsurprised" by AfD and BSW boycott
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemns the absence of AfD and BSW at the Bundestag speech by Ukraine's President Zelenskyy. This attitude is a "display of disrespect," states a government representative to ARD's principal studio. Scholz "is very startled, but not taken aback." Zelenskyy's speech was bypassed by most of the AfD faction and the entire BSW group.
20:47 Estonia delivers Mistral missile systems to Ukraine
Estonia aims to provide Ukraine with more military aid to withstand Russia's persistent attacks. According to Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur, the Baltic EU and NATO member state is giving Kiev rockets and launch systems of the short-range air defense system Mistral. "Ukraine requires urgent air defense to counteract Russia's persistent aggression, and it is also in the direct security interest of Estonia to cooperate with its allies in this respect," affirms Pevkur. He doesn't disclose any specifics about the size of the weapons transport. "We've organized the help packet so that Ukraine can profit as much as possible while preserving the combat readiness of the Estonian armed forces."
20:11 USA annuls sanctions against Ukrainian Azov Brigade
The United States has ended its arms embargo on the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. The decree will result in a "new stage" in the history of the brigade, the army unit expressed on Telegram. The brigade can now acquire weapons assistance from the USA. The US State Department claims it couldn't discover proof of human rights offenses during a meticulous review. The Azov Brigade was established as a volunteer battalion shortly after the outset of the conflict in eastern Ukraine in 2014. Its troops initially brandished Nazi symbols, such as the Wolfsangel, for publicity purposes. One of the founders of the battalion was the renowned extremist Andriy Biletsky. However, the United States now argues that the contemporary brigade, which has remained a component of the Ukrainian National Guard for a while, differs from the militia of the initial days.
19:35 Sri Lanka intends to salvage hundreds of its citizens from the Ukraine war
Sri Lanka plans to reclaim several hundred of its citizens from the war in Ukraine. At least 800 men were tempted to join Russia's battlefield under false pretexts to combat on Russia's side, the Sri Lankan police report. The men were uninformed about their destination or were forbidden to depart by their commanders. Vice Foreign Minister Tharaka Balasuriya is booked to meet with a rep of Ukraine's Defense Minister Andrei Bogdanov in Moscow next week, the Sri Lankan embassy in Moscow states. The most affected are claimed to have been tricked with promises of secure positions for a monthly remuneration of around $3,000 to $4,600 or more. In reality, the men were drafted to fight and didn't receive the promised pay.
7:00 Pistorius: Germany will offer additional weapons to Ukraine
German Defense Minister Pistorius reveals that Germany will offer more weapons to Ukraine, including handguns and sniper rifles. She confirmed this during a joint visit with Ukrainian President Zelensky at a military training ground in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Other support includes assistance with anti-tank weapons, components for artillery ammunition, drones, and drone defense. In addition, a German initiative along with Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway will provide an extra 100 Patriot missile launchers. So far, 32 have been delivered, with 68 more in the works.
18:40 G7 Summit Brings Anticipated Aid Package for Ukraine
Ukraine can expect a substantial aid package from the G7 summit to support its defense against the Russian invasion. It is planned to be ratified at the G7 summit starting Thursday in Italy, financing a $50 billion (approximately €47 billion) credit with interest from frozen Russian state assets. This money can be used to fortify Ukraine's defense and rebuild damaged infrastructure. The EU official adds that any potential funding shortage in the Ukrainian state budget will be compensated. This initiative could optimize how interest from frozen Russian state assets are utilized. EU countries have decided to provide direct funding for Ukraine's military needs.
17:54 New Military Aid from Italy
Italy announces additional military aid for Ukraine. This includes air defense systems, stated Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani at the Berlin reconstruction conference. Additionally, Italy will provide Ukraine with an additional €140 million in civilian aid for areas such as infrastructure, health, and energy.
17:25 Zelensky and Pistorius Visit Ukrainian Soldiers in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
President Zelensky and German Defense Minister Pistorius visit Ukrainian soldiers training on the Patriot air defense system in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. They are concerned about the Russian attacks with glide bombs, cruise missiles, and drones. Germany has previously provided Ukraine with two air defense systems along with the associated missiles. An extra system is currently training Ukrainian soldiers, with the aim to be delivered shortly. Together, they will protect Ukrainian cities and agglomerations against Russian attacks.
16:40 Friedrich Merz Slams BSW and AfD Boycott: "Low Point in Bundestag's Culture"
Unions faction leader Friedrich Merz condemns the absence of the Left-wing Alliance (BSW) and most AfD MPs during Zelensky's speech in the German Bundestag. He says, "It can be expected that people have different opinions on aiding Ukraine. However, denying respect to the state president of this war-threatened country represents a new low in our Bundestag's culture." He is "shocked" by this. Out of the 10 BSW MPs, none attended, and only four of the 77 AfD MPs were present. Other parties also shared their concerns.
16:08 Munz: Putin Cleared Atomic Weapons Issue
As Russia continues to target Ukrainian power plants and infrastructure, Russia and Belarus conduct atomic weapons exercises. NTV journalist Rainer Munz reassures, "This threat is no longer taken seriously."
15:51 Russia Conducts Exercises with High-precision Long-range Weapons in the Atlantic
The Russian Defense Ministry announces exercises in the Atlantic. The nuclear-powered submarine "Kasan" and the frigate "Admiral Gorshkov" are practicing using highly precise weapons. The exercises saw targets being hit from a distance of over 600 kilometers.
15:12 Zelensky Issues Warning about Radical Pro-Russian Populists in Europe
Ukrainian President Selenskyj cautions Europeans against the strength of pro-Russian populists in the recent European elections. He urges people not to promote pro-Russian solutions amid Russia's military aggressiveness. In Germany, pro-Russian political parties gained ground in the European elections - AfD and Wagenknecht Party BSW.
14:40 Russian Attacks Continue on Ukrainian Infrastructure
Russia's military continues to target Ukrainian infrastructure, including power plants. As tensions escalate and the situation remains uncertain, various countries respond with military aid and political support.
The AfD parliamentary faction in the German Bundestag rebukes the address of Ukrainian President Zelensky in the plenary session. "We decline to listen to a person in disguise," comment the two leaders of the AfD parliamentary faction, Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla. "Zelensky's term of office has ended. He remains in office only as a war and begging president." The Ukraine requires "no war president," it requires "a negotiating peace president." The leadership of the AfD parliamentary faction resolved not to attend Zelensky's address in the Bundestag. Nevertheless, four AfD MPs were present during the address.
In their statement, Weidel and Chrupalla repeat the narrative of Russian President Putin, who maintains that Zelensky's term of office has expired. Why this is untrue and what Putin aims to achieve with the disinformation campaign can be read in this article: [link to article]
3:00 PM Zelensky: "The period for reconciliations is over"
The Ukrainian president Zelensky called for resoluteness in the fight against Putin's Russia in his address in the German parliament. "Since Putin began using murder instead of deals, the period for reconciliations is over," stated Zelensky in his Bundestag address. "Russia leaves behind hundreds of cemeteries." Putin is accustomed to subjugating others. "Russia has destroyed Grozny and Aleppo, divided Moldova, forced Belarus to its knees," said the Ukrainian president and also referred to assassination attempts against Putin's opponents in Western Europe. "It is in our common interest that Putin loses."
3:00 PM Zelenskyy thanks Germany in Bundestag address
The Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy expresses gratitude to Germany for its support of his country after the Russian attack. The Ukraine is waging this war also in the interest of all Europe, he says in an address in the Bundestag.
3:00 PM Bas: "The future of Ukraine lies in the EU and in the NATO"
Prior to Zelenskyy's address in the Bundestag, Bundestag President Bärbel Bas confirms the support of the attacked country. "The future of Ukraine lies in the EU and in the NATO," said Bas.
3:00 PM Scholz rules out training Ukrainian soldiers in Ukraine
Chancellor Scholz announces that Germany will not train Ukrainian soldiers in their own country. The Bundeswehr trains Ukrainian soldiers in Germany and that will remain the case, he responded to a question about ideas from French President Emmanuel Macron to train soldiers in Ukraine by French special forces.
3:00 PM Gressel: "It's shameful that Russia can't protect modern aircraft"
Kiev declares that Russia's advance on Kharkiv has failed. Whether the advance to the city itself was actually Russia's objective remains unclear, states security expert Gustav Gressel. Meanwhile, Ukraine scores a hit on Russia's interior, which is shameful for Moscow.
3:00 PM After BSW boycott of Zelenskyy's address in the Bundestag: AfD recommends the same
The AfD parliamentary group recommends that AfD MPs boycott the address of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Bundestag in the afternoon. This information was obtained by the German Press Agency from parliamentary sources. However, the parliamentarians are left free to decide whether to participate. Concrete decisions should only be made in the AfD faction meeting shortly before the address in the afternoon, it is said. The BSW (Left Alliance) has confirmed on request that the BSW MPs will boycott the address.
3:00 PM Refugees from Ukraine should continue to benefit from EU special measures
Ukrainian refugees should be able to remain in the European Union without issues until at least March 2026, according to the EU Commission. The Commission has proposed extending the regulation for the temporary protection of Ukrainians in the EU, a spokesperson in Brussels stated. Given the ongoing Russian attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure across the entire Ukraine, the conditions for a safe, permanent return of inhabitants to the country are not yet in place. In the view of the Commission, the reasons for the temporary protection therefore still exist, making a one-year extension the necessary and suitable response to the current situation. According to statistics from the EU Statistical Office, as of 2021, there were 4.2 million Ukrainian refugees registered in the 27 EU member states - the majority of them, around 1.3 million, in Germany. The number of Ukrainian refugees is significantly higher in countries like the Czech Republic, Lithuania and Poland relative to their populations.
3:00 PM Russia and Iran deny issues with cooperation agreement
Russia maintains its intention to strengthen its relations with Iran. Work on a comprehensive bilateral cooperation agreement will continue, Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov stated. He reacted to a report by the Russian news agency RIA, which claimed that the plans had been temporarily suspended due to Iranian problems. Iranian Ambassador to Moscow Kasem Jalali disputed this in a report by the Iranian news agency Irna. Since the start of the Ukraine war, Russia has been developing its ties with the Islamic Republic. According to Western reports, Russia is obtaining drones from Iran.
The German and Ukrainian finance chiefs ink an understanding to help Ukraine with rebuilding finance. The Ukrainian finance dept will be counseled on augmenting surveillance and command systems for rebuilding funds. "We aim to contribute to Ukraine laying the groundwork for future growth via reconstruction," says German Finance Minister Christian Lindner. This is intended to foster private companies in the Ukraine and lure investment.
13:05 Von der Leyen proposes EU bidding for Ukraine's accession from end-June
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urges EU bidding for Ukraine's accession from end-June. The Ukraine has achieved all agreed reform measures, von der Leyen said in Berlin at the worldwide revival confab for Ukraine. "Hence, we believe the European Union should open accession talks with Ukraine, and it should be from this month's conclusion." Presently, the Ukraine holds EU membership prospect status. But, no agreed date for the commencement of negotiations exists. Hungary, for instance, has further demands.
12:55 Ukraine demands 10-30bn dollars annually for ten years for rebuilding the economy
Prime Minister Denys Schmyhal determines that Ukraine necessitates annual investments of 10-30bn dollars for ten years to reestablish the economy. Ameliorated shipping and access to foreign markets are imperative to spawn economic growth. In the opening four months of the year, the Ukrainian economy grew by 4.4%, the Prime Minister further points out.
12:46 Stoltenberg ensures NATO will uphold Eastern NATO nations' security in case of assault
NATO Secretery General Jens Stoltenberg reiterates support to NATO nations on the Eastern front in the case of an attack. "NATO has the troops, resources, skills, and political will to uphold any ally," he proclaims concluding a meeting with Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics in Riga. Stoltenberg is at the one-day meetings of the so-called Bucharest Nine Group (B9) in Riga. The group encompasses Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and the threesome Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The summit, involving Stoltenberg as well as Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, is readying for the NATO summit in July in Washington.
12:31 Von der Leyen commits Euros of billions to Ukraine as aid
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen commits Euros of billions to Ukraine as aid from the European Union. At the recovery confab in Berlin with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in attendance, she discloses that 1.9 billion Euros of aid for Ukraine will be undeterred shortly. In addition, roughly 1.5 billion Euros will be allocated from the interest profits on frozen Russian possessions in the West. At the G7 confab at the week's end, clarification will be had on how Ukraine may rapidly acquire access to the frozen Russian funds. The Commission President also alluded to Zelenskyy's call for aid in the energy sector, which has been peculiarly afflicted by Russian assaults. The EU has mobilized almost 500 million Euros for fast repairs. Moreover, 1,000 extra generators will be dispatched for energy creation and countless solar panels will be transferred to Ukraine shortly. "The objective is to decentralize the energy supply and thus enhance the Ukrainian energy system's resilience," she divulges. Von der Leyen announced further that the initial accords worth 1.4 billion Euros with alliance banks would be sealed in Berlin to engender private investment in Ukraine.
12:10 Kremlin ponders adjusting its nuclear rationale due to West's position
The Kremlin is pondering tweaking its nuclear policy, according to its own comments. The West's salesmanship motivates Russia to reevaluate its nuclear deterrence method, says Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov to Russian news agencies in response to the query whether he reckons Ukraine's energy distribution system a legitimate war target. Russia has been orchestrating its conflict against Ukraine for over two years and has been recurrently and routinely assaulting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, 80% of the capacity at thermal power plants and more than a third of the capacity at hydroelectric power plants have been ruined. The human rights organization Amnesty International has censured the attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as war crimes since they deteriorate the populace from heating, electricity, and water supplies.
11:35 Due to the Western stance: Russia mulls amending its atomic strategy
The Russian executive is mulling a revision in its nuclear doctrine, according to its own assertions. The Western disposition compels Russia to ponder amending its nuclear deterrence approach, said Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov in a piece by the Russian news agency Tass. The specifics of this modification remain unclear.
11:25 Zelensky: Anti-air defense is the remedy for everything.
Ukraine requires a minimum of seven Patriot air defense systems, as per President Volodymyr Zelensky, to safeguard the nation from Russian attacks. Speaking at the reconstruction conference in Berlin, Zelensky expresses his gratitude toward Germany for providing three of these systems. He suggests that adversaries may still seek to attack Ukraine, stating this at the Ukraine reconstruction forum in Berlin. Zelensky reveals that half of Ukraine's power system has been destroyed by Russian attacks. Previously, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged enhanced air defense for Ukraine against Russian strikes. (See entry 11:15 am)
11:15 Scholz supports Ukraine's air defense demands
The German chancellor, Olaf Scholz, urges international assistance to strengthen Ukraine's air defense against Russian aggression during the Ukraine reconstruction conference. Sharing his thoughts in his opening address, he urges all attendees to step up their support for a German initiative. He highlights the potential benefits of reconstruction aid for both Ukraine and the nations offering support. Scholz endorses extensive and long-term commitments from Germany to aid Ukraine's reconstruction. In the conference, he will advocate for this at the G7 summit of leading Western economies in Italy, starting on Thursday. Citing the World Bank's estimation of a $500 billion reconstruction fund over ten years, Scholz requests private sector involvement. Over 35,000 employees work in the German automotive sector in Ukraine, with a significant expansion in trade volume since the war's onset. "The economy sees the potential in Ukraine," he notes.
10:59 Despair and tenacity: The toll of reconstruction is evident in Isjum
In Berlin, numerous attendees, including President Zelensky, gather for Ukraine's reconstruction conference. Kavita Sharma, NTV's reporter, interviews a homeowner and a power plant operator who express their hopes for aid in this dire situation.
10:41 Baerbock underscores Ukraine's European aspirations
Minister of Foreign Affairs Annalena Baerbock punctuates Ukraine's European aspirations. "Ukraine is not only united against Putin's vicious attack with us," she says at Ukraine's international reconstruction conference in Berlin, "but we're also laying the groundwork for Ukraine's membership in the European Union." As criticism mounts against Russian President Vladimir Putin for his brutal war of aggression, Baerbock affirms that their partnership with Ukraine extends beyond defense and economic reconstruction. "This conference brings together not only politicians, but also mayors, companies, and organizations that support life in Ukraine." This cooperation will enable Ukraine to become a self-reliant nation in a united Europe one day.
10:35 Steinmeier meets with Zelensky at Schloss Bellevue
In preparation for the Ukraine reconstruction conference, Zelensky has a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin. Steinmeier will also join the conference and observe Zelensky's address in the German parliament. No information has been revealed about the meeting's content. During their initial gathering in May of last year at Schloss Bellevue, the relationship between the two presidents was rife with tensions. Steinmeier had intended to travel to Kiev accompanied by his Polish and Baltic counterparts. However, due to unexpected circumstances, he visited Ukraine alone. Relations between Steinmeier and Zelensky have since progressed, with tensions easing.
10:29 S-Bahn discontinues service near Ukraine reconstruction conference
The construction conference for Ukraine in Berlin results in considerable disruptions in the city's public transportation. Per railway information, the S-Bahn halts operations between Friedrichstraße and Tiergarten at law enforcement's request. Several lines are affected, according to an S-Bahn statement. Regional trains are also barred from operating and are temporarily routed. This two-day conference seeks to provide Ukraine with a long-term development perspective. The opening address of the event was delivered at the City Cube congress center in Berlin's Charlottenburg district by Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
09:51 Russia starts the next phase of joint atomic drills with Belarus
Russia and Belarus have begun the second phase of their military exercise involving atomic weapons in the Vostok-2022 drills. NATO and Western officials have expressed concern over this display of nuclear force, with some fearing that the joint drills could escalate into a full-scale conflict with Ukraine. The concurrent war with Ukraine's southern neighbor, Moldova, has heightened tensions in the region, with the European Union and the United States urging restraint and dialogue. The Kremlin has remained defiant against international pressure to de-escalate tensions.
Russia and Belarus commence the next stage of their tactical nuclear weapons practice. the Russian Ministry of Defense states that the drill in Russia is geared towards ensuring their military and gear are prepared to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both countries. It encompasses joint training of units from both sides for a non-strategic nuclear weapons deployment. Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated this atomic weapons practice last month in response to threats from France, Great Britain, and the United States in relation to the Ukraine conflict. Recently, Western allies allowed Ukraine to utilize weaponry provided by them to assault military installations in Russia.
9:31 Kavita Sharma, talking about "Race against Time": What are Ukrainians' expectations from reconstruction conference?
During the Ukraine restoration conference in Berlin, anticipated to welcome close to 2000 individuals from 60 countries, the emphasis is predominantly on networking relevant players. Reporter Kavita Sharma shares the aspirations of Ukrainians and non-Ukrainians, and addresses "accusations during an unfavorable time."
9:05 Hofreiter demands improved air defense for Ukraine
The chairman of the European Affairs Committee in the German parliament, Anton Hofreiter, urges the German government to take decisive action towards better air defense for Ukraine at the Ukraine restoration conference. "A fundamental prerequisite for reconstruction in Ukraine is substantial air defense. Unless this is achieved, the Ukrainian energy infrastructure can't be effectively protected, which was severely damaged by Russian airstrikes," explains Hofreiter to the Rheinische Post. "Additionally, large-scale private sector investments will only be made on a large scale if Russian airstrikes can be successfully repelled. Hence, there's an urgent need for a European initiative involving air defense."
FDP defense specialist Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann also pleads for extra comprehensive weapon supplies. "I assume the Federal Chancellor will make definite, prompt German backup guarantees to the Ukrainian president," she says. "To demonstrate his support for the Ukrainian president's aspirations." Union parliamentary group deputy Johann Wadephul also urges the German government to offer more assistance to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his Berlin visit and give Ukraine Taurus missiles. (see entry 7:18 a.m.)
8:27 Former CDU General Secretary Czaja: German government may expand the war in Ukraine even more.
Due to the dearth of East German personnel in the CDU leadership, perspectives less commonly shared by numerous East Germans, including those on Russia and arms deliveries to Ukraine, receive less attention in the party. This is what former CDU General Secretary Mario Czaja says in an interview with the Tagesspiegel. "I believe that East Germans bring distinctive experiences in dealing with Russia that West Germans have not accumulated." According to Czaja, the existing authorization of the German government to also strike Russian targets with Western weapons could potentially intensify the war in Ukraine even further. "This is concerning many people in East Germany." Czaja cannot envision German attack weapons near Moscow, potentially harming civilians.
The aim, states Czaja, should be for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who started this violent conflict of aggression, to revisit the negotiating table. However, caution is needed. The war should not continue to intensify, "with more and more civilians perishing." The opinions of Czaja and Michael Kretschmer, who are against delivering Taurus missiles to Ukraine, constitute a minority stance within the CDU and are heard less frequently than they should, according to Czaja in response to the newspaper. (see also entry 7:18 a.m.)
8:08 Former US Secretary of State Pompeo calls for increased European support for Ukraine
The former US Secretary of State and CIA Director Mike Pompeo advocates for more European support for Ukraine, particularly in the form of exorbitant foreign direct investments. Similar to post-World War II Germany's reconstruction, this should happen in Ukraine. "Today, as the Ukraine war has been going on for three years, America and Europe must adopt this aged approach once more. They have to try to rebuild and strengthen Ukraine with massive foreign direct investments," states Pompeo in a guest article for the Tagesspiegel. Ukraine must have the ability to sustain its domestic infrastructure and economy. To recover from this war, the nation needs an investment culture that attracts more private investors to participate in the rebuilding process. "If this doesn't occur, Putin has accomplished his mission of demolishing Ukraine - even if he can't seize Kiev," assesses the ex-American Secretary of State.
7:51 Ukraine reports 520,850 Russian casualties since the beginning of the war
520,850 Russian soldiers have been lost since the inception of Russia's attack on Ukraine. This is publicized by the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff in their latest post on Facebook. The report features an additional 1,100 casualties endured by the Russian armed forces over the past few days. The statistics state the following losses inflicted upon the Russians since February 24, 2022: 7,902 tanks, 15,176 armored combat vehicles, 18,676 vehicles and fuel tanks, 13,690 artillery systems, 1,099 multiple rocket launchers, 842 air defense systems, 359 aircraft, 326 helicopters, 11,023 drones, 28 ships and boats, and a submarine.
A research conducted by the Kyiv School of Economics revealed that the damage inflicted to Ukraine's energy infrastructure by Russian airstrikes is precious at around €52 billion. The amount includes the financial losses endured by energy firms due to diminished earnings. The Kyiv study's findings, revealed on Monday, estimate the expenditure for rebuilding the decimated or harmed infrastructure is approximately €50.5 billion. The direct losses resulting from the destruction of energy infrastructure stand at €16.1 billion, primarily affecting power plants, power lines, and facilities in the oil and gas industry. The remaining loss of €40 billion stems from the loss of revenues for energy companies.
07:18 CDU Deputy Faction Leader Asks for Taurus Missiles for Kiev once more
During Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Berlin, Union deputy faction leader Johann Wadephul repeated his demand for delivering Taurus missiles to Kiev. "I hope that President Zelensky won't have to make a begging speech in the German parliament and then return to Kiev with empty hands," Wadephul stated in the "Rheinische Post." The CDU politician maintained that it's "vital" to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons, particularly the Taurus. Zelensky landed in Berlin on Monday night (see entry 23:46 p.m.). He's attending a two-day Ukraine reconstruction conference (see entries 06:10 and 06:37 a.m.). Wadephul stressed the significance of giving Ukraine "any assistance" during a pivotal stage of the war against Russia. Germany hasn't offered full aid, he lamented. If this continues, it could be disastrous for the course of the conflict and eventually, European security.
06:52 SU-34 Russian Bomber Crashes in the Caucasus: No Survivors
The Russian government reported a SU-34 bomber crash during a training flight in the Caucasus. The crew had no survivors, according to Russian news agencies. The Sunshine 34 streamlined tapered delta wing medium bomber crashed in the Russian Republic of North Ossetia-Alania. The exact number of individuals onboard is unknown.
06:37 CDU Foreign Policy Spokesman Labels Ukraine Reconstruction Conference as "Impressive Sign"
The CDU foreign policy spokesman, Jurgen Hardt, lauded the Ukraine reconstruction conference as "an impressive political and economic symbol of solidarity." While this conference started in the morning, it granted hope to the Ukrainian people, aligned with the political spokesman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group. "The conference symbolizes that the free world boasts the willingness and capacity to transform Ukraine into a modern and autonomous state," noted Hardt to the German Press Agency. The event confirmed that a prosperous Ukraine would benefit Germany as well. Scholz will initiate the conference with a speech at 10:00 a.m., and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also supposed to attend (see also entry 23:46 p.m.).
06:10 Schulze Before Rebuilding Conference: Close Alliance by Ukraine's Side
German Development Minister Svenja Schulze anticipates that the rebuilding conference for Ukraine, starting in Berlin on Monday morning, will convey a powerful message of cooperation. "During these two days, individuals from numerous regions will collect in Berlin who not only advocate for a brighter future for Ukraine but also take action to make it a reality," Schulze added in a statement to the German Press Agency. Russia's illegal attack against Ukraine warrants "the unwavering support" from the international community. Schulze highlights, "Ukraine is defending our security and freedom." She emphasized the necessity of rebuilding even during the ongoing conflict. "Ukraine cannot wait until the war ends. Individuals need homes, power, water, and hospitals now," asserted the minister. About 2,000 attendees are expected at the reconstruction conference until Wednesday. It is not a fundraising drive; instead, it focuses on coordinating the activities of stakeholders.
05:24 USA Rolls Back Arms Embargo on Azov Regiment
The US government has allegedly lifted a ten-year training and weapons ban on the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. The "Washington Post" reported that the 12th Special Unit of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the Azov Brigade, has passed the Leahy Amendment review by the US State Department. No evidence of human rights violations by the unit was found in the latest analysis, the Leahy Law forbids providing military assistance to foreign units that commit such violations. The Azov Regiment has origins in right-wing and ultra-nationalist factions. It has been part of the Ukrainian National Guard since then. The brigade was formed in 2014 to combat the separatists supported by Russia, who declared independence in eastern Ukraine.
23:21 Fire onboard Russian destroyer "Admiral Levchenko"
The Russian destroyer "Admiral Levchenko" is on fire in the Barents Sea. The Ukrainian Navy confirmed the news. The cause of the fire is believed to be an overheated engine. The ship, with several hundred crew members, is struggling to survive. The "Admiral Levchenko" was commissioned into the Soviet Navy in 1988. Its engines were built in Mykolajiw, Ukraine, hence it must go to Ukraine for maintenance. Dmytro Pletenchuk, a spokesperson, stated that the Russians face such situations due to being sanctioned by Ukraine.
17:03 Joint tank repair facility opened by Rheinmetall and Ukraine
The German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and Ukraine have inaugurated their first joint tank repair shop and production site. The Ukrainian Ministry of Strategic Industries confirmed the news, stating that the workshop is set up to repair and maintain the infantry fighting vehicle Marder. The first joint service center will help rapidly repair and maintain German equipment directly in Ukraine. Furthermore, Ukrainian specialists will be working in the joint production facility, and Rheinmetall representatives will be overseeing the technical aspects.
23:31 Zelensky in Berlin for reconstruction conference
Ukrainian President Zelensky has arrived in Berlin for the reconstruction conference for his country. He announced in an evening tweet that he would discuss further defense aid, the expansion of the Ukrainian air defense system, and joint arms production with Chancellor Scholz. Zelensky will be giving a speech in the German parliament on Tuesday afternoon.
19:30 Russian Foreign Ministry expels Austrian journalist
The Russian Foreign Ministry ordered the expulsion of an Austrian journalist, citing the withdrawal of a Russian correspondent's accreditation from Tass in Austria as the reason. The ministry accused the Austrian side of making a "discriminatory decision" and failing to justify it. The Tass correspondent had to leave Austria on April 30 due to the cancellation of his accreditation.
19:08 Poland implements buffer zone at Belarus border
Poland has decided to establish a buffer zone along its border with Belarus. The Interior Ministry issued an ordinance during a cabinet meeting in Bialystok in the east of the country. The purpose is to make it harder to smuggle migrants across the Polish-Belarusian border and improve the working conditions for border guards, the army, and the police. The buffer zone is expected to be about 200 meters deep, but in some places, it may extend up to two kilometers. Poland's border with Belarus is 400 kilometers long. Poland and the EU accuse Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko of organizing illegal migrant transport to the EU's external border to exert pressure on the West.
18:34 DIHK supports expanding security guarantees for German companies in Ukraine
The German Industry and Commerce Chamber (DIHK) promotes the expansion of certain security mechanisms to rebuild Ukraine. DIHK's Managing Director, Martin Wansleben, believes that the preservation of important foreign trade promotion instruments by the German federal government is vital. Wansleben advocates for expanding the German investment guarantee practice to mitigate the high cost and risk assessments with reinsurance mechanisms and enable financing. He stresses the need for German companies to have a clear understanding of internationally available investment, export guarantees, and other insurance solutions. DIHK revealed that over 40 projects received investment guarantees in 2022 and 2023.
21:22 Thirty-two men flee to Hungary in a truck from Ukraine
Thirty-two men illegally crossed the green border from Ukraine into Hungary in a truck. Hungarian border guards made the discovery. The men, allegedly all Ukrainian citizens, were arrested and face potential asylum or deportation proceedings. The Ukrainian government has not commented on the situation. The incident is the latest in a series of attempts by Ukrainian citizens to enter the EU.
19:00 Disrupted grain exports to cause food crisis in Indonesia
The disruption of grain exports from Ukraine and Russia is causing a food crisis in Indonesia. The country must import around 80% of its grain consumption. Indonesia depends heavily on the two countries for wheat, corn, and sunflower oil. Experts warn that if the disruptions continue, the situation could lead to skyrocketing food prices and further exacerbate the existing food crisis, especially for the poorest segments of the population. The suggested solutions are to increase domestic production, encourage imports from other countries, and consider stockpiling grains.
In western Ukraine, 32 Ukrainians are reported to have escaped to Hungary through a border crossing, as stated by Ukrainian officials. "The neighboring country informed us that they had discovered a vehicle and apprehended 32 Ukrainian citizens," said Andrij Demtschenko, press officer for the Ukrainian border guard, on the news platform Ukrajinska Prawda. It is only permissible for men of military age between 18 and 60 years old to leave, with a few exceptions. Many attempt to flee to neighboring EU nations or Moldova. The remains of those who try to escape are frequently found in the Tisza (Theiss) River and the Carpathians.
20:09 Germany and EU Raise Funds for Ukraine Reconstruction
Germany and the EU intend to boost the funding for a project administered by GIZ, a German non-profit organization focused on international cooperation, to back Ukraine during the global rebuilding conference in Berlin. Germany's donation will increase from 27 million euros to 39 million euros, while the EU Commission's support will rise from 38 million euros to 54 million euros, according to a German Foreign Office spokesperson in Berlin. The project forms part of the Foreign Office's stabilization program. It aims to offer real aid to reinforce both state and civil society entities in regions heavily impacted by the war.
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- As the Ukraine conflict continues, Volodymyr Selensky has issued a warning about radical pro-Russian populists gaining ground in Europe and promoting pro-Russian solutions, as seen in recent European elections.
- In response to the cyberwarfare tactics used by Russia in the Ukraine conflict, NATO and its eastern edge nations, such as Latvia, are working together to enhance cyberdefenses and protect against potential cyberattacks.
