Sri Lanka plans to repatriate hundreds of its citizens from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Sri Lanka is bringing back hundreds of its citizens deceived into fighting in the Ukraine war under false pretenses. As many as 800 men were lured with the promise of relatively safe humanitarian jobs offering monthly salaries between 3,000 to 4,600 euros, according to Sri Lankan police. Upon arrival, these men were not allowed to leave and were sent to fight instead. Vice Foreign Minister Tharaka Balasuriya will meet a Russian deputy defense minister in Moscow next week, as per the Sri Lankan embassy in Moscow.
On the other hand, German Defense Minister Pistorius stated that Ukraine will be receiving more weapons, including small arms, sniper rifles, support for anti-tank weapons, components for artillery ammunition, along with assistance related to drones and drone defense. Furthermore, an additional 100 Patriot missile systems will be supplied through an initiative with Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway. So far, 32 Patriot missile systems have been delivered, with 68 more to follow.
Ukraine can expect a massive aid package from the G7 summit, as a senior EU official revealed. The plan is to finalize a loan of $50 billion (approximately 47 billion euros) for Ukraine, tapped from frozen Russian state assets. These funds will aid Ukraine in fortifying its defense against the Russian invasion, as well as facilitate the rebuilding of damaged infrastructure. The budget deficit in Ukraine may also be addressed under this package.
Italy has pledged additional military and civilian aid to Ukraine. Apart from air defense, it will provide 140 million euros worth of assistance focused on infrastructure, health, and energy.
In an event at a military training ground in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Ukrainian President Zelensky and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius visited Ukrainian soldiers receiving training on the Patriot air defense system. While touring the training ground, both leaders emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine against the Russian offensive war, expressing the need for at least seven more Patriot systems to safeguard Ukrainian cities and population centers. Germany has already provided Ukraine with two Patriot systems, along with the necessary missiles, and promised to provide a third.
Criticizing the absence of the Left-Green Alliance (BSW) and members of the AfD during Ukrainian President Zelensky's speech in the Bundestag, Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Union faction, called it a low point in the culture of the German parliament. Only 4 out of 77 AfD MPs and none of the 10 BSW MPs were present during the speech.
A nuclear-powered submarine "Kasan" and a frigate "Admiral Gorshkov" were conducting a training exercise in the Atlantic, revealing Russia's nuclear weapon proficiency. However, Rainer Munz, an ntv correspondent, downplayed the concern, asserting that such threats are no more worth considering.
Russia's Defense Ministry has announced military exercises involving precision long-range weapons in the Atlantic, as the "Kasan" submarine and "Admiral Gorshkov" frigate practiced hitting the target from a distance of over 600 kilometers.
19:00 Pistorius: More weapons for Ukraine
German Defense Minister Pistorius stated that Ukraine will receive more weapons, including small arms, sniper rifles. There will also be support for anti-tank weapons, components for artillery ammunition, as well as in the areas of drones and drone defense. In addition, as part of a German initiative together with Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, an additional 100 Patriot missile systems will be provided. Currently, 32 have already been delivered, with 68 set to follow in the coming weeks.
18:39 G7 Summit: $50 billion aid package for Ukraine
The G7 summit is expected to agree on a massive aid package of $50 billion (aprox. 47 billion euros) to help fund Ukraine's defense against the Russian invasion. The funds will come from frozen Russian state assets. With the money, Ukraine plans to cover military costs, pay for the repair and reconstruction of destroyed infrastructure, and cover potential financial gaps in its state budget.
18:08 Italy pledges further support for Ukraine
Italy will provide Ukraine with additional military and civilian aid. Besides air defense assistance, Italywill contribute 140 million euros for infrastructure, healthcare, and energy.
17:29 Zelensky and Pistorius visit Ukrainian troops in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Ukrainian President Zelensky and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius visited Ukrainian soldiers in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, to observe the training of the Patriot air defense system. They emphasized the importance of providing support to Ukraine in the face of the Russian offensive war. Additionally, Zelensky requested at least seven more Patriot systems to protect Ukrainian cities and population centers.
16:59 Merz: "Low point" in the Bundestag culture after Zelensky's speech
Union Faction Leader Friedrich Merz heavily criticized the Left-Green Alliance (BSW) and most AfD MPs for their absence during Ukrainian President Zelensky's visit. "Some may have different opinions regarding Ukrainian aid," he said, "but denying respect to the state president of a war-threatened country as an MP is a terrible blow to the culture of the Bundestag."
Only 4 of the 77 AfD MPs and none of the 10 BSW MPs were present during Zelensky's speech. Other politicians have expressed their disapproval.
16:28 Munz: "Putin essentially cleared up the nuclear weapon issue"
Despite repeated Russian attacks on Ukrainian power plants and infrastructure, Russia and Belarus conducted nuclear weapons exercises. However, ntv correspondent Rainer Munz considers this to be insignificant, stating that the nuclear threat no longer merits attention.
16:01 Russia conducting exercises with precision long-range weapons in the Atlantic
Russia's Defense Ministry announced that exercises were being conducted in the Atlantic, involving the nuclear-powered submarine "Kasan" and the frigate "Admiral Gorshkov." These maneuvers focused on the use of highly precise weapons, hitting targets more than 600 kilometers away.
15:38 Zelensky warns of pro-Russian forces strengthening in Europe
Ukrainian President Zelensky warned about the growing strength of pro-Russian forces in Europe during his speech in the German Bundestag.
Ukrainian President Zelensky expresses concern about the rise of pro-Russian populists in recent European elections, warning Europeans that radical pro-Russian rhetoric could be harmful to their countries. During a Berlin reconstruction conference, Zelensky emphasizes the importance of not choosing pro-Russian solutions in response to military actions. Several German parties, including the AfD and the Wagenknecht party BSW, have gained votes in the European election that are skeptical of supporting Ukraine.
15:15 AfD skips Zelensky's speech, repeats Putin's narrative
The AfD faction in Germany's parliament belittles Zelensky's presence in the country. The two AfD faction leaders, Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla, argue that Zelensky's term of office has expired and he is simply serving as a "war and beggar president." Ukraine, they claim, no longer needs a "war president" but a "peace negotiator." Four AfD MPs attended Zelensky's Bundestag speech despite the party's decision not to listen to it.
15:00 Zelensky urges determination against Putin's Russia
During his Bundestag speech, Zelensky calls for unwavering determination in the fight against Putin's Russia. He notes that since Putin has resorted to murder instead of deals, compromises are no longer an option. The devastation inflicted by Russia in places like Grozny, Aleppo, and Moldova demonstrates the need to resist.
14:53 Zelensky expresses gratitude to Germany for Ukraine support
Zelensky thanks Germany in his Bundestag speech for its commitment to aiding Ukraine following the Russian attack. He emphasizes that Ukraine is fighting this war in the interest of all of Europe.
14:44 Bas affirms Ukraine's future within the EU and NATO
Bundestag President Bärbel Bas endorses Ukraine's ongoing support from the European community. Europe's future, she states, lies in unity with Ukraine within the EU and NATO.
14:33 Scholz refuses to send German military trainers to Ukraine
Chancellor Scholz reaffirms Germany's stance of not training Ukrainian soldiers in their own country. However, the Bundeswehr will continue to train Ukrainian soldiers in Germany.
14:17 Gressel observes inconclusive Russian advance in Kharkiv
Despite Russia's attempted advance on Kharkiv, it's unclear if they were intending to capture the city. This has allowed Ukraine to strike back at the Russian interior, causing embarrassment for Moscow.
14:01 EU considers extending temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees
As Russian attacks continue to threaten civilian and critical infrastructure in Ukraine, the EU Commission proposes a one-year extension of temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees throughout Europe. The new deadline would be March 2026, as conditions for safe and permanent return to Ukraine remain unfavorable. As of May 2022, Eurostat reports over 4.2 million registered Ukrainian refugees in the EU.
13:48 Ukraine's future should remain in the EU and NATO
Bundestag President Bärbel Bas reiterates the support of the international community for Ukraine. She expresses hope that the country's future lies within the European Union and NATO, emphasizing the importance of standing in solidarity with Ukraine.
13:29 Iran and Russia deny issues with cooperation agreements
As Germany prepares to receive Russian oil, officials from both countries deny any problems with their ongoing cooperation agreements. Despite international sanctions and public backlash, both nations continue to expand their cooperation.
Russia affirms its determination to enhance ties with Iran. Efforts to formulate a broad-ranging bilateral cooperation agreement will carry on, despite potential interruptions, asserts Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. This response comes in response to a report from the Russian news outlet RIA claiming that the endeavor had been momentarily discontinued due to complications in Iran. However, the Iranian ambassador to Moscow, Kasem Jalali, refutes this notion in an article published by the Iranian news agency Irna. Relations between Russia and Iran have intensified since the onset of the Ukraine war. Reports state that Russia is obtaining drones from Iran.
13:15 Germany's Role in Ukraine's Post-Reconstruction Financing
The German and Ukrainian Finance Ministers have committed to the development of a partnership to help Ukraine with post-reconstruction financing. The Ukrainian Finance Ministry will receive guidance on bolstering their surveillance and supervision mechanisms in the allocation of reconstruction funds. "We want to lend a hand now so that Ukraine can create the groundwork for future expansion with the rebuilding process," says German Finance Minister Christian Lindner. This initiative seeks to support domestic companies in Ukraine and attract investment.
13:05 Von der Leyen's Push for EU Accession Talks with Ukraine at the End of June
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expresses support for the initiation of EU accession negotiations with Ukraine by the end of June. Ukraine has satisfied all the prescribed reform measures, remarks von der Leyen during a Berlin conference on international reconstruction for Ukraine. "Hence, we believe that the European Union should initiate accession talks with Ukraine, and we've set the end of the month as the target." Ukraine holds the status of an EU aspirant nation. At a December meeting last year, a EU summit determined to begin accession negotiations with Ukraine. Nonetheless, there is still no consented date for this move. Hungary, for instance, has additional demands.
12:55 Ukraine's Economic Recovery Plan
Ukraine necessitates annual investments totaling 10 to 30 billion dollars in the upcoming decade to revive its economic system, as mentioned by Prime Minister Denys Schmyhal. Improved logistics and accessibility to outside markets are essential for boosting economic expansion. During the first four months of the year, the Ukrainian economy increased by 4.4%.
12:46 Stoltenberg's Assurance to Eastern NATO Member States
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg reiterates the alliance's support for Eastern NATO countries in the event of an attack. "NATO boasts the military forces, resources, capabilities, and the political drive to protect any ally," Stoltenberg asserts after a meeting with the Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics in Riga. Stoltenberg takes part in one-day consultations of the Bucharest Nine (B9) group, which consists of Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, and the three Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The proceedings in Riga are geared toward preparations for the NATO summit in July in Washington.
12:31 Von der Leyen's Vow to Provide Billions of Euros in EU Aid to Ukraine
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen guarantees that Ukraine will receive billions of euros in aid from the European Union. In Berlin, she discloses that 1.9 billion euros in financial aid for Ukraine will be dispersed imminently. Furthermore, approximately 1.5 billion euros will be diverted from the surplus profits assembled on Russian assets frozen in the West. The Commission President also addresses Zelenskyy's demand for assistance in the energy sector, which has been severely impacted by Russian aggression. The EU has mobilized almost 500 million euros for emergent repairs. In addition, 1,000 additional generators will soon be made available for power generation and thousands of solar panels will be supplied to Ukraine. "The objective is to decentralize the energy supply and thereby raise the resilience of Ukraine's energy network," she asserts. Von der Leyen additionally announces that the initial agreements worth 1.4 billion euros will be inked in Berlin to entice private investment in Ukraine.
12:10 Justification of Russia's Attacks on Ukraine's Civilian Infrastructure
The Kremlin justifies the shelling of civilian infrastructure in Ukraine by the possibility that electricity may be redirected to military factories. "There's no question that, in certain cases, the power grid is related to military infrastructure," declares Kremlin spokesman Dimitri Peskov to Russian media outlets, when questioned about whether he perceives the Ukrainian power grid as a permissible military target. Russia has been pursuing its assault against Ukraine for more than two years, and has been regularly damaging energy facilities in the neighboring nation since then. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claims that 80% of the generating capacity of thermal power plants and over a third of the generating capacity of hydroelectric power plants have been destroyed. Human rights organization Amnesty International has condemned the attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as war crimes, as they leave the population without heat, electricity, or water supplies.
11:35 Following Western Pressure: Russia Contemplates Shifting Nuclear Strategy
The Russian government is mulling over a potential revamp of its nuclear policy. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said in a statement to TASS news agency that the stance of the West forces Russia to consider changing its nuclear deterrence strategy. However, the specifics of this change remain vague.
11:25 Zelensky: Patriots are the Solution to All Problems
Ukraine needs at least seven Patriot air defense systems to protect the nation from Russian aggression, as per President Volodymyr Zelensky. He made this remark at the Ukraine Reconstruction Conference in Berlin. Zelensky expressed gratitude towards Germany for providing three Patriot systems. Further, he added that the enemy aims to take advantage of any opportunity to directly assault Ukraine. He stated at the Ukraine Reconstruction Conference in Berlin that Russia is targeting the country's energy source, specifically. Half of Ukraine's electricity has already been destroyed due to Russian attacks, Zelensky informed the attendees. Chancellor Olaf Scholz previously emphasized on the need to strengthen Ukraine's air defense against Russian attacks (see entry 11:15 am).
11:15 Scholz Advocates Additional Air Defense for Ukraine
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged further reinforcement of Ukraine's air defense against Russian assaults at the international Ukraine Reconstruction Conference. He asked other allies to support a corresponding German proposal "with all their might." In addition, Scholz disclosed his plans to push for intensive reconstruction aid at the upcoming G7 summit of the leading Western nations in Italy. Scholz announced significant Germany-backed aid proposals for Ukraine's reconstruction at the two-day conference. The World Bank forecasts a necessity for an investment of 500 billion USD (464 billion EUR) in Ukraine over a decade for rebuilding purposes. Scholz also encouraged private firms to join the reconstruction endeavor. "Faced with the scale we're discussing here, private capital must be a part of this as well," he stated. Thousands of German companies still operate in Ukraine with over 35,000 people employed in the automotive sector alone. Germany's trade volume with Ukraine had increased significantly even during the ongoing war. "This demonstrates to me: Ukraine's potential is well-recognized by the economy," Scholz remarked.
10:59 Facing Reconstruction in Isjum: Despair and Hope
The Ukraine Reconstruction Conference is underway in Berlin. To witness the impact of conflict, ntv reporter Kavita Sharma conversed with a householder and a power plant worker in Isjum, who are hoping for assistance.
10:41 Baerbock: Ukraine's Journey Towards the EU
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock asserted the European significance of Ukraine. "Here in the reconstruction conference, we emphasize that we are not only fighting against the merciless Russian assault, but we are also carving out a path for Ukraine's entry into our European Union," Baerbock declared at the international Ukraine Reconstruction Conference in Berlin. She attacked Russian President Vladimir Putin for trying to eradicate Ukraine's life sources with his ruthless war. "This is why we unite, not only in terms of defense and economic restoration, but fundamentally on the path to the European Union," she said. Baerbock emphasized that the Ukrainian people need support in terms of electricity, water, and heating above all. She drew attention to the participation of politicians, mayors, companies, and organizations, arguing, "so that one day Ukraine can be not just free after winning this war, but economically independent in a unified Europe."
10:35 Steinmeier Hosts Zelensky at Schloss Bellevue
Before the Ukraine Reconstruction Conference, its President Volodymyr Zelensky was welcomed by Germany's President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin. Steinmeier will be attending the conference and will listen to Zelensky's speech in the German parliament. No details have been released about the content of their private meeting. Steinmeier and Zelensky had previously met in May the previous year at Schloss Bellevue. The relationship between the two presidents had initially seemed strained after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Initially, Steinmeier planned a joint visit from himself and his colleagues from Poland and the three Baltic countries to Kiev. He headed to Kiev solo afterward. Since then, the relationship between the two presidents has improved.
The Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin is causing major disruptions in public transport. The S-Bahn has stopped operations between Friedrichstraße and Tiergarten, while regional trains are being diverted. This was ordered by the police. The two-day conference aims to give Ukraine a long-term development perspective. It was opened by Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the City Cube congress center in Charlottenburg.
09:51 Russia and Belarus start second phase of nuclear exercise
Russia and Belarus are beginning the second phase of their tactical nuclear exercise. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, it is meant to ensure their armed forces and equipment are ready to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both countries. This also involves joint training of units from both sides to prepare for non-strategic nuclear weapons deployment. Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the nuclear exercise last month in response to threats from France, Britain, and the United States regarding the Ukraine conflict. These countries have recently allowed Ukraine to use weapons supplied by them against military targets in Russia.
09:31 Sharma on "Race against Time": What does Ukraine hope for from reconstruction conference?
At the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin, which is expected to attract around 2000 participants from 60 countries, the focus is on connecting relevant actors. NTV reporter Kavita Sharma reports on the hopes of Ukrainians and the "accusations at a particularly unfavorable time."
09:05 Hofreiter calls for better air defense of Ukraine
Anton Hofreiter, chairman of the European Affairs Committee in the German Bundestag, calls for more support in the form of a better air defense for Ukraine. "A prerequisite for reconstruction in Ukraine is a comprehensive air defense. Only then can the Ukrainian energy infrastructure be protected, which was severely damaged by Russian air raids," Hofreiter tells the Rheinische Post. He urges European initiatives to develop air defense capabilities and ensure reliable protection against Russian air raids. Hofreiter also calls for early delivery of further military equipment. "I assume that the Federal Chancellor will provide more concrete support to the Ukrainian President," he says.
08:27 Former CDU Secretary General Czaja: Federal Government may further expand war in Ukraine
There is a difference in opinions within the CDU when it comes to Russia and weapons deliveries to Ukraine. Former CDU Secretary General Mario Czaja highlighted this in an interview with the Tagesspiegel. "I believe that we East Germans bring different experiences in dealing with Russia compared to West Germans." According to Czaja, the federal government's approval to strike targets in Russia with Western weapons could potentially lead to the war expanding. "Many people in East Germany are following this situation with great concern and criticism," he says. Czaja thinks that the focus should be on returning Russian President Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table and finding a diplomatic solution, not increasing the violence.
08:08 Former US Secretary of State Pompeo calls for more European support for Ukraine
Former US Secretary of State and CIA Director Mike Pompeo calls for more European support for Ukraine by encouraging massive private sector investments. This, he believes, can help rebuild and strengthen Ukraine in the way Germany was reconstructed after World War II. Ukraine must be able to maintain its domestic infrastructure and economy to recover from the war. Pompeo emphasizes the need for an investment climate that attracts private investors to invest in the reconstruction. If this doesn't happen, Putin will have achieved his goal of destroying Ukraine, regardless of whether he captures Kiev or not.
07:51 Ukraine reports 520,850 Russian losses since the start of the war
Ukraine reports 520,850 losses from the Russian troops since the beginning of the war. No further information is available about the losses.
The Russian military has seen the loss of 520,850 soldiers since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, as announced by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in their latest Facebook update. This count includes 1,100 casualties sustained by the Russian armed forces in recent days. Their losses since February 24, 2022, are as follows: 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 one sunken submarine.
A study by the Kyiv School of Economics (KSE) estimates the damage done to Ukraine's energy infrastructure by Russian air strikes at a whopping €56.2 billion ($52 billion). This damage is a combination of financial losses for energy firms resulting from lost revenue and the cost of repairing and replacing the destroyed infrastructure, which amounts to a staggering €50.5 billion. The report also highlights that direct losses related to energy infrastructure damage are currently standing at €16.1 billion. The energy sector's power plants, power lines, and oil and gas facilities have been significantly impacted. The financial losses suffered by these companies come up to a total of €40 billion.
Johann Wadephul, a Union faction vice-chairman, has reiterated his call for the provision of Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv. The visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Berlin comes at a time when diplomatic efforts to provide Ukraine with necessary long-range weaponry, especially the Taurus, are intensifying. "I hope President Zelensky doesn't have to return to the German Bundestag empty-handed after his begging speech," Wadephul tells 'Rheinische Post,' emphasizing the need for Ukraine's access to these weapons during this critical phase of the war.
A Russian SU-34 bomber crashed in the Caucasus region during a training flight, resulting in the death of its crew, per the reports by the Russian government. The initial cause of the crash is believed to be a mechanical issue. The specifics of how many people were on board are still not clear.
The CDU foreign policy expert Jürgen Hardt has expressed his admiration for the international Ukraine rebuilding conference, remarking that it is a "political and economic symbol of solidarity." This event is a beacon of hope for the Ukrainians and demonstrates the capability and willingness of the free world to transform Ukraine into a modern, democratic nation. The future of Ukraine, as well as Germany, is tightly linked to its journey toward NATO and the EU. Chancellor Olaf Scholz is scheduled to deliver an opening speech at 10:00, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also expected to be present.
The Development Minister, Svenja Schulze, anticipates that the Ukraine rebuilding conference, happening in Berlin, will give off a strong message of cooperation. "During the next two days, individuals from all around the world will assemble in Berlin who not only envision a better future for Ukraine but are also actively working toward it," Schulze shares with the German Press Agency before the gathering. Sixty countries, numerous companies, municipalities, and representatives of civil society will attend the event, according to the Minister. Russia has unlawfully attacked Ukraine, and Schulze states, "Ukraine deserves our unwavering support." She also emphasizes that, "Ukraine is defending our security and freedom." Commencing the rebuilding process amid wartime is critical, as Schulze highlights, "Ukraine cannot wait for the war to end. Their requirements are immediate; they need shelter, power, water, and hospitals." In addition to material support in the form of tanks, Ukraine necessitates civilians supporting services like medical personnel, electricians, and craftsmen. Nearly 2000 attendees are expected at the rebuilding conference, spanning politics, business, and international institutions, all the way up until Wednesday. This gathering is not a donor conference where contributions are gathered for the rebuilding, but rather about connecting the relevant parties.
05:24 US Removes Arms and Training Ban for the Azov Regiment
After a comprehensive review, the US State Department has rescinded a ten-year prohibition on training and armaments for the Ukrainian Azov Brigade. "The 12th Special Unit of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the Azov Brigade, has cleared the Leahy Amendment process by the US State Department," the Washington Post reports from a statement by the department. There is supposedly no evidence of human rights violations uncovered by the latest analysis. The Leahy Law forbids the supply of military assistance to foreign units accused of such infractions. The Azov Regiment has roots in right-wing and ultranationalist movements. Since its founding in 2014, as a battalion that combated pro-Russian separatists who proclaimed independence in eastern Ukrainian areas, it has been a component of the Ukrainian National Guard.
02:34 Russian Destroyer "Admiral Levchenko" Catches Fire in the Barents Sea
In the Barents Sea, the Russian destroyer "Admiral Levchenko" has experienced a fire. This was reported by a Ukrainian Navy spokesperson. The situation couldn't be verified independently at this time. Pletenchuk posted on Facebook that the ship is "fighting for its survival." The blaze is claimed to have ensued due to an overheated engine. The "Admiral Levchenko" joined the Russian Navy in 1988. Maintenance of the vessel's engines can only be materialized in the Ukrainian city of Mykolajiw. "This occurs when the Russian state is subjected to sanctions by Ukraine," writes Pletenchuk.
00:37 Rheinmetall Opens Tank Repair Workshop with Ukraine
Arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and Ukraine have established a joint tank repair workshop and production site. As per the Ukrainian Ministry of Strategic Industries, the keys to a facility for the maintenance of the infantry fighting vehicle, Marder, have been handed over. The inauguration of the first joint service center will enable the expedited repair and maintenance of German equipment directly in Ukraine, signifying a significant enhancement in efficiency for the military. In the joint manufacturing site, Ukrainian experts will work while Rheinmetall reps will oversee the technical aspects.
23:46 Zelensky in Berlin for a Rebuilding Conference
Ukrainian President Zelensky has arrived in Berlin. He notified everyone in the evening on X. In the German capital, he is taking part in a conference aimed at rebuilding Ukraine. "Scholz and I will discuss further defense aid, the expansion of the Ukrainian air defense system, and joint arms production," Zelensky declared. On Tuesday, he is scheduled to provide a speech in the German parliament.
21:44 Russia Ousts ORF Journalist
The Russian Foreign Ministry has revoked the credentials of an Austrian journalist and ordered her to depart the country. They attributed this move to the termination of the permanent accreditation of a Russian Tass correspondent in Austria. The Tass reporter was compelled to vacate Vienna on May 7 due to the loss of his accreditation on April 30, as per the Ministry in Moscow. The Austrian authorities haven't offered an explanation for their one-sided judgment.
The Polish government plans to create a buffer zone along its border with Belarus, as told by PM Donald Tusk during a meeting in Bialystok. The Interior Ministry will be instructed to create regulations for this purpose. The goal is to prevent illegal transportation of migrants across the border and improve conditions for border guards, the army, and the police. The buffer zone will extend up to 200 meters in some places and reach up to two kilometers in others. Poland's border with Belarus is approximately 400 kilometers long. Poland and the EU blame Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko for bringing migrants from crisis regions to the European Union border to threaten the West.
On a separate note, the German Industry and Trade Chamber (DIHK) has emphasized the necessity of expanding security tools to facilitate the reconstruction of Ukraine. DIHK managing director, Martin Wansleben, advocates for expanding coverage of German investment guarantees and taking measures to reduce high risk and cost assessments. He stresses the importance of German enterprises being informed about opportunities for investing, export guarantees, and insurance solutions in Ukraine. The DIHK claims that over forty investment projects benefited from German investment guarantees in 2022 and 2023.
In another story, 32 young Ukrainian men crossed the green border into Hungary by truck. According to Ukrainian border authorities, Hungary intercepted the vehicle and detained the 32 Ukrainian citizens. Although men of military age are normally forbidden from leaving Ukraine in most cases, they attempt to cross the green border into EU countries or Moldova, ultimately risking their lives in the process. Their bodies have frequently been found in the Tissa (Theiss) river and the Carpathian mountains.
Finally, Germany and the European Union plan to increase funding for a GIZ project to support Ukraine, bringing the total to 75 million euros. Germany is set to increase its contribution from 27 million euros to 39 million euros, while the EU Commission will raise its support from 38 million euros to 54 million euros. The project is part of the stabilization initiative of the German Foreign Office and aims to support state and civil society actors in regions impacted by the war.
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- The Sri Lankan government is currently in talks with Russia to discuss the situation of its citizens deceived into fighting in the Ukraine conflict.
- Germany has pledged to provide Ukraine with more weapons, including Patriot missile systems, in response to the ongoing Ukraine conflict and Russia's invasion.
- There have been reports of cyberwarfare attacks on Ukraine during the conflict, with Russia accused of launching attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.
- The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Selensky, has called for at least seven more Patriot systems to protect Ukrainian cities and population centers from Russian attacks.
