Steinmeier welcomes Selenskyj at Bellevue Palace at 10:35 AM.

Steinmeier welcomes Selenskyj at Bellevue Palace at 10:35 am.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin before the reconstruction conference for Ukraine. Steinmeier will also take part in the conference and watch Zelenskyy's speech in the German parliament. The contents of their bilateral talks were unknown. They had met previously in May of the previous year at Schloss Bellevue. Tensions between the two presidents had been high during the early stages of the Ukraine war, as Steinmeier had been invited by Zelenskyy to Kiev with Polish and Baltic state colleagues for a visit. However, since then, their relationship has improved.

10:29 Zelenskyy's Visit: Disruptions in Berlin's Public Transportation

The Ukraine reconstruction conference is causing major disruptions in public transportation in Berlin. The railway has cancelled operations between Friedrichstraße and Tiergarten at the request of the police. Several S-Bahn and regional train lines are affected.

9:51 Russia and Belarus' Nuclear Exercises Continue

Russia and Belarus are continuing their tactical nuclear exercises. The Russian Defense Ministry reports that the exercise is aimed at ensuring the readiness of armed forces and equipment to protect both countries' sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also involves joint training of units from both sides, preparing for the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons. Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the nuclear exercise last month in response to what he perceived as threats from France, Great Britain, and the United States regarding the Ukraine conflict. Western allies have recently allowed Ukraine to use weapons supplied by them against military targets in Russia.

9:31 Sharma on "Race Against Time": Ukraine's Hopes from the Reconstruction Conference

At the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Berlin, expected to attract around 2000 participants from 60 countries, the focus is primarily on networking relevant actors. NTV reporter Kavita Sharma shares Ukrainian hopes and "accusations at a particularly unfavorable time."

9:05 Hofreiter Calls for Enhanced Air Defense for Ukraine

The chairman of the European Affairs Committee in the German Parliament, Anton Hofreiter, called for the German government to take action to improve Ukraine's air defense at the reconstructing conference for Ukraine. "A fundamental prerequisite for reconstruction in Ukraine is comprehensive air defense. Only then can the Ukrainian energy infrastructure be protected, which was severely damaged by Russian air attacks," Hofreiter said to the Rheinische Post. "Long-term private-sector investments will only be made on a large scale if Russian air attacks can be reliably repelled. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a European initiative in the field of air defense."

FDP defense expert Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann also urged the German government to provide more extensive arms deliveries. "I assume that the Federal Chancellor will promise the Ukrainian president concrete, quick German support," she said. "And show himself openly in favor of the wishes of the president." Union faction vice president Johann Wadephul also called for the German government to offer more support to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his visit to Berlin and to supply Taurus-cruise missiles to Ukraine.

8:27 Former CDU General Secretary Czaja: German Government Risking Further Escalation of War in Ukraine

A lack of East German representation in the CDU leadership has resulted in views shared by many East Germans, such as those on Russia and arms shipments to Ukraine, being less represented in the party. Former CDU General Secretary Mario Czaja shared his concerns in an interview with the Tagesspiegel. "I believe that we East Germans bring different experiences in dealing with Russia that West Germans have not collected," said the Berlin Bundestag member. "I can't imagine German attack weapons landing at the gates of Moscow and hitting civilians there." Czaja believes that the Russian President Vladimir Putin, who started this brutal war of aggression, should return to the negotiating table, but cautions against escalating the war with more civilians dying.

8:08 Former US Secretary of State Pompeo Calls for More European Support for Ukraine

Michael Kretschmer and Mario Czaja, who have expressed reservations about supplying Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, represent a minority position within the CDU. Their views on this issue are heard less frequently than they should be, according to Czaja. The goal remains to push Putin back to the negotiation table, but with caution to prevent further escalation of the war.

Mike Pompeo, the ex-U.S. Secretary of State and former CIA Director, asserts the necessity of more European assistance for Ukraine, focusing on extensive investment from the private sector. This investment approach has been proven effective after World War II's reconstruction of Germany. Pompeo wrote this in a guest article for Tagesspiegel, emphasizing that Ukraine needs to maintain its domestic infrastructure and economy to bounce back from the war. To attract more private investors, an encouraging investment climate is essential. Otherwise, he believes Putin has already attained his objective to destroy Ukraine, despite not capturing Kiev.

At 07:51, Ukraine announced that Russia had lost 520,850 soldiers since the initial conflict with Ukraine. Their General Staff disclosed this information on Facebook, including 1,100 casualties from recent days. The statement also reported Russia's losses from 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 one submarine.

In another development at 07:36, Kyiv School of Economics estimated the damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure at €52 billion. The study outlined the destruction of energy infrastructure, resulting in direct losses of €16.1 billion as of May. The most affected sectors were power plants, power lines, and facilities in the oil and gas industries. The revenue loss for energy companies was estimated around €40 billion.

Johann Wadephul, Union Vice-Fraction Leader, reiterated the demand for the delivery of Taurus missiles to Kiev, ahead of President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Berlin. Wadephul expressed hope that Ukraine "will not have to give a pleading speech again in the German Bundestag and then return with empty hands." The CDU politician stressed the importance of providing Ukraine with the appropriate long-range weapons to support the country during this critical phase of the war. If this doesn't happen, it could have deadly consequences for the future of European security.

A Russian bomber of the type SU-34 crashed during a training flight in the Caucasus as per government announcements and Russian news agencies on Monday. The crew perished, and the cause of the crash was probably a technical malfunction. The crash took place in the Russian Republic of North Ossetia-Alania, and the number of people on board is yet to be determined.

CDU Foreign Policy Expert, Jürgen Hardt, deemed the Ukraine reconstruction conference a significant political and economic expression of solidarity on Monday. This conference, in its initial stage, gave hope to Ukrainian people and showcased the global community's potential and willingness to transform Ukraine into a free and modern country. Hardt remarked that the potential of Ukraine is enormous, and a prosperous Ukraine would benefit Germany as well. The conference would also enhance Ukraine's path to NATO and the EU.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz opened the conference at 10:00 a.m. with an address, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expected to attend too.

07:51: Ukraine states that Russia has lost 520,850 soldiers in its war against Ukraine since its beginning. This count includes 1,100 additional Russian casualties suffered in recent days.

A report published in February 24, 2022, shows Russia's losses comprising: 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, 1 submarine, and other vehicles.

07:36: Kyiv School of Economics detailed the damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure to total $56.2 billion (€52 billion). The loss consists of financial losses sustained by energy companies from decreased earnings, with €50.5 billion required to restore the destroyed or damaged infrastructure.

Major damage to the energy industry primarily impacted power plants, power lines, oil and gas facilities, causing direct losses of €16.1 billion as of May 2023. Additionally, energy companies are estimated to endure around €40 billion in lost revenue due to this destruction.

07:18: Union Vice-Fraction Leader Johann Wadephul demands Taurus missiles for Kiev as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky travels to Berlin. Wadephul wants such long-range weapons, especially the Taurus, for Ukraine's support during this crucial period of the war. Germany has yet to fulfill Ukraine's need, which, according to Wadephul, is fatal if it continues.

06:52: A Russian SU-34 bomber experienced a crash in Caucasus. The Defence Ministry stated that the crew sadly passed away, and the likely culprit was a technical malfunction. The location of the crash was the Russian Republic of North Ossetia-Alania, but the number of passengers on board is yet to be determined.

06:37: CDU Foreign Policy Expert Jürgen Hardt lauds the Ukraine reconstruction conference as a powerful symbol of global solidarity. He asserts it instills hope in the Ukrainian people and confirms the international community's capacity to create a modern, free Ukraine. He added that a thriving Ukraine would benefit Germany. The path of Ukraine towards NATO and EU would be further strengthened by this conference.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz commenced the conference with a speech, and President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to attend.

Development Minister Svenja Schulze anticipates that the rebuilding conference for Ukraine, commencing in Berlin early in the day, will emit a strategic message of collaboration. "For two days, representatives from various areas around the world will assemble in Berlin, not just believing in a more promising future for Ukraine, but also taking tangible action. This conference showcases that a potent alliance exists for Ukraine: 60 nations, numerous companies, municipalities, and members of civil society," the minister reveals to the German Press Agency prior to the event. Russia's illegal aggression against Ukraine underpins the imperative to provide "our unwavering support," adding, "Ukraine is safeguarding our security and liberty." Due to the ongoing war, rebuilding should begin under such conditions. Schulze emphasizes, "Ukraine has no alternative. They cannot delay until the conflict ends. People need a house, electricity, water, and hospitals right now." Necessary civilian assistance is required for Ukraine to endure the hostilities. "They require physicians, electricians, and craftsmen as much as armored vehicles," Schulze asserts. Anticipate 2000 attendees from politics, industry, and global organizations to attend the rebuilding conference by Wednesday. This gathering is not an event to solicit funds for reconstruction but rather to interconnect relevant stakeholders.

05:** Report: A US arms ban against the Azov Regiment has been lifted.

The USA no longer prohibits training and armaments for the Ukrainian Azov Brigade, as confirmed by the US State Department in a statement relayed by the "Washington Post." A newly reviewed analysis did not discover proof of human rights abuses carried out by the unit. The Leahy Law prevents the provision of military support to foreign forces implicated in such violations. The ultra-nationalist and far-right Azov Regiment was initiated in 2014 to counter the pro-Russian separatists in Eastern Ukraine, who declared their independence.

02:**34 A Russian destroyer, "Admiral Levchenko" is on fire in the Barents Sea.

A Ukrainian Navy spokesman announced that the Russian destroyer, "Admiral Levchenko," was on fire in the Barents Sea. The information has yet to be independently corroborated. The vessel, containing several hundred crew members, is struggling to maintain stability and comprises a real peril, according to Dmytro Pletenchuk on his Facebook page. There are speculations that an overheated engine caused the fire. Established in 1988 during the Soviet Navy, the ship's engines were constructed in Mykolayiv, Ukraine, and can only be maintained there. "This occurs when the Russian state is penalized by Ukraine," writes Pletenchuk.

00:**37 Rheinmetall and Ukraine inaugurate a tank repair workshop and production facility.

The German armaments corporation, Rheinmetall, and Ukraine are inaugurating their initial joint tank repair workshop and manufacturing site. As per the Ukrainian Ministry of Strategic Industries, the keys have been given to the workshop for repair and maintenance of the infantry combating vehicle Marder. The first joint service centre facilitates expedited repair and maintenance of German arms directly in Ukraine, as stipulated by the Ukrainian Defense Ministry in Kiev. This enhancement should considerably ameliorate the effectiveness of their armed forces. Ukrainian technicians will work at the site, while Rheinmetall executives will monitor the technical aspects.

23:**46 Zelensky has arrived in Berlin.

Ukrainian President Zelensky has touched down in Berlin, as declared in an evening announcement on X. He's taking part in Ukraine's reconstruction conference in the German capital. "Chancellor Scholz and I will cover additional defense aid, enlarging the Ukrainian air defense system, and shared arms production," said Zelensky. At 2 pm (13:00 GMT), he will deliver a speech before the German parliament.

22:**15 Russia ejects an ORF reporter.

The Russian Foreign Ministry quashed the accreditations of an Austrian journalist and mandated her to vacate the nation. The ministry declared that this was a repercussion to the termination of a permanent accreditation for a Russian correspondent linked to the state agency Tass in Austria. The ministry in Moscow described that the Tass correspondent left Vienna on 7th of June because her accreditation was withdraw on 30th April. The Austrian authorities have not elucidated their discriminatory decision yet.

21:**44 Poland establishes a buffer zone at the border with Belarus.

Following a cabinet meeting in Bialystok in eastern Poland, Poland indicated its intention to install a buffer zone at the Belarusian border. The Interior Ministry has been commissioned to issue the requisite decree. The intended outcome is to hinder the smuggling of migrants across the Polish-Belarusian boundary and to improve the conditions for border guards, the military, and the police. The depth of the buffer zone ranges from 200 meters to as much as 2 kilometers. Poland shares a 400-kilometer-long border with Belarus. Poland and the EU accuse the Belarusian leader, Alexander Lukashenko, of organizing the unlawful transportation of migrants toward the EU's external perimeter to enforce pressure on the West.

The German Industry and Commerce Chamber (DIHK) is pushing for the expansion of some security measures to rebuild Ukraine. "We're in favor of keeping essential trade promotion tools for Ukraine open, even with the ongoing war," says DIHK Managing Director Martin Wansleben. He suggests broadening the scope of German investment guarantees as a solution. Wansleben proposes setting up a foundation during the forthcoming Berlin reconstruction conference to balance high-risk assessments with reinsurance mechanisms, making it smoother for businesses to get financing. It's crucial that German businesses have a comprehensive understanding of international investment, export guarantees, and other insurance options. In 2022 and 2023, DIHK claims, investment guarantees were issued for over 40 projects.

20:41 Ukraine: 32 men escape with a truck into Hungary

In western Ukraine, 32 Ukrainian men are believed to have crossed the unofficial border into Hungary using a truck, tells Andrij Demtschenko, Ukrainian border guard spokesman. Demtschenko informed Ukrajinska Prawda: "Hungary has found a vehicle and detained 32 Ukrainian citizens." Only men aged 18 to 60, except for some exceptions, are authorized to leave the country. Multiple individuals attempt to evade to EU member states or Moldova via the green border. Dead bodies of escaping men are frequently discovered in the Tisza (Theiss) River and the Carpathians.

20:09 Germany and the EU boost Ukraine aid fund

Germany and the EU expect to raise the funding for a GIZ project assisting Ukraine at the forthcoming international reconstruction conference in Berlin. Initially valued at 27 million euros, the project will now be upgraded to 75 million euros. Germany will increase its contribution from 27 million euros to 39 million euros, while the EU Commission will up its support from 18 million euros to 36 million euros, according to a German Foreign Office spokesman. The project is within the Foreign Office's stabilization platform. It's planned to directly assist and bolster state and civil society actors in areas most affected by the war.

Earlier occurrences can be found here. [link to earlier developments]