Ukrainian aviators conclude their education in France at 18:25.
17:24 Scholz Engages with Zelenskyy in New YorkGerman Chancellor Olaf Scholz will interact with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his trip to New York on Monday. Discussions are scheduled with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, as per government sources. Zelensky aims to present a "Strategic Victory Plan" in defense against Russian aggressors during his US trip. A meeting with US President Joe Biden in Washington is scheduled for Thursday. "We aim to convey a message in New York that this conflict, the Russian aggression war, is under the spotlight," said a senior government official who preferred anonymity at a press briefing regarding the Chancellor's trip.
16:58 Putin Refuses Mexico SummonsRussian President Vladimir Putin will not attend Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum's inauguration, as reported by the online media outlet "Ukrajinska Prawda." The Mexican government had extended an invitation to Putin, confirmed by a Russian spokesperson. A representative will attend the inauguration on Putin's behalf. No reason was given by the spokesperson. Poland had previously petitioned Mexico to detain Putin upon his arrival, based on an International Criminal Court arrest warrant.
15:53 Russian Chess Federation Takes Issue with CarlsenThe vice-president of the Russian Chess Federation urged chess world champion Magnus Carlsen to return prize money from Russian competitions. This is reported by telecomasia.net on its news portal. Carlsen had previously suggested that Russian and Belarusian players participate in global tournaments under a neutral flag. "I would like to remind Carlsen of his early career beginnings in Russia," says Vice-President Sergey Smagin. "He visited Russia as a child, competed in various tournaments and earned a considerable income here. Before he expresses negative sentiments about Russia, he should first repay his debts from these winnings."
14:30 Hungary Seeks Increased Economic Cooperation with RussiaHungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto advocates for expanding economic cooperation with Russia in sectors unaffected by European Union sanctions. He mentioned this at a joint press conference with Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko, during an economic forum between the two countries in Hungary. He also reaffirmed that the EU sanctions, in the opinion of the Hungarian government, "are proving to be ineffective." Hungary is a member of both the EU and NATO. Visits by Russian cabinet members to these nations have become rare since the Ukraine conflict began.
14:00: U.S. Fighter Killed by Russian Soldiers in UkraineA U.S. citizen who fought for pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine has been reportedly tortured and murdered by Russian soldiers, according to investigators. The Investigative Committee reported the crime, committed by three Russian soldiers in April. A fourth soldier is accused of assisting in hiding the body. No motive for the crime was disclosed. Russell Bentley, also known as "Texas" or "Donbass Cowboy," joined the pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine in 2014. He fought alongside them until 2017 and remained in eastern Ukraine.
13:56 Zelensky Eager for Biden's Rapid Endorsement of 'Victory Plan'Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky anticipates receiving U.S. President Joe Biden's support for his plan to conclude the Ukraine conflict during his upcoming visit to Washington. "I truly hope he endorses this plan," Zelensky stated on Friday in Kyiv at a joint press conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The "victory plan" necessitates swift decisions from allies between October and December, he said. "We believe this plan will succeed," Zelensky added.
13:10 Russia to Regain Control over KurskRussia is expected to regain control over the Kursk region currently controlled by Ukrainian troops, as per Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. "Our soldiers are performing well, they will manage it. Control will be restored," Peskov stated. While the situation in the occupied Russian territories is currently challenging, it will soon improve in Russia's favor, he added. However, the army will not publicly reveal their strategy, and Peskov did not provide a specific timeline.
12:48 Russia may have been aware of Ukraine's Kursk advancement
Russian authorities and the military in Kursk may have had warnings about an impending Ukrainian offensive, according to a report by The Guardian, based on what it claims are Russian documents discovered by the Ukrainian military during the Kursk offensive. The Guardian could not verify the documents' authenticity, but they share the typical characteristics of genuine Russian military communications. The documents suggest warnings within Russian authorities and the military about specific Ukrainian advances onto Russian territory, dating back to January 2024. Ordered measures to strengthen border defense were reportedly put in place as early as mid-March. However, criticisms were still being made in June about units having an average strength of only 60 to 70 percent and mainly consisting of under-trained reservists. Ukrainian units launched an unexpected attack into the Kursk region in early August.
A Russian news outlet and the BBC claim to have identified over 70,000 Russian soldiers deemed dead in Ukraine. The BBC's Russian service claims they've identified the names of 70,112 deceased Russian soldiers in Ukraine, although the actual number is likely much higher. The tally, produced in collaboration with the independent Russian news site Mediazona, relies on examining official statements, obituaries, online death notices, and observing graves in Russian cemeteries. It spans from the start of the conflict in February 2022 until September 19. Mediazona estimates at least 120,000 Russian soldiers have perished in Ukraine. The Russian government holds the number of Russian soldiers lost during the war as a confidential state matter.
12:50 Ukraine Prohibits Telegram Use for Authorities and Military
Ukraine has mostly closed off the use of the online service Telegram for government, military, and security personnel. The National Security and Defense Council announced on Facebook that installing and utilizing Telegram on official devices of government employees, military personnel, security and defense sector workers, and companies managing crucial infrastructure is now disallowed. The ban is motivated by "national security."
12:23 Raiffeisen Bank Disposes of Belarus Subsidiary
Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI) is offloading its Belarusian subsidiary and withdrawing from that market. The Austrian bank has declared signing an agreement to sell its 87.74% stake to Soven 1 Holding Limited. The sale will have a significant impact on the bank's results. Raiffeisen Bank International has already significantly reduced its business in Russia due to pressure from the European Central Bank. However, a Russian court has issued a preliminary injunction preventing RBI from selling its subsidiary bank in Russia.
12:01 Report: EU Plans €35 Billion Loan for Ukraine
The European Commission is reportedly planning a €35 billion loan for Ukraine. This is part of the G7's plans to provide Ukraine with $50 billion (around €46 billion) using the funds from frozen Russian state assets.
Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has officially announced financial aid of up to €35 billion on her X-account.
11:33 Russia Warns West: Avoid Ignoring Warnings
The Russian government has warned the West not to ignore warnings against providing Ukraine with weapons capable of targeting locations within Russia. According to Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, if this occurs, the conflict's nature will change, potentially leading to serious consequences for the entire world. Zakharova does not foresee potential negotiations with the US currently. There will be no gathering between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his American counterpart Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, as both sides "have nothing to discuss."
10:53 EU: No Compulsory Expulsion of Ukrainian Men
The European Commission has clarified that compulsory expulsion of male Ukrainian citizens of military age is not feasible in EU countries. This is not permissible under the temporary protection directive, according to EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson. "We will assist those who wish to return to Ukraine, and we will discuss with Ukrainian authorities and the Ukrainian government how this can be accomplished most effectively. We will not expel anyone from the EU," she emphasized. Previously, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski had suggested that Western European countries encourage Ukrainian men of military age to return to Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha reportedly supported this idea.
10:12 General Freuding Sees "Loopholes" in Russia Sanctions
The military coordinator of German Ukraine aid, Christian Freuding, said regarding Russia's weapon production: "We see that the situation has worsened for the Russians to maintain their defense industry's operation with its intricate component supplies, but they still manage it. They manage by finding detours and relying on the help of allies like China, North Korea, and Iran." While it is obvious that sanctions are taking effect, talents still exist to "discover loopholes or even completely legal sidestep options."
09:03 Von der Leyen Promises Further Support for Ukraine's Energy Supply During Winter
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has pledged further support for Ukraine's energy supply during the winter as she begins her visit to Kyiv. "My eighth visit to Kyiv comes at a time when the heating season is about to begin and Russia continues to assault the country's energy infrastructure," she writes on the social media platform X. She has published a photo of her arrival at Kyiv's train station. "We will support Ukraine in its valiant efforts. I am here to discuss Europe's support. From winter preparations to defense, and EU membership and progress on G7 loans."
08:20 "Tendency Towards Authoritarianism" - EU Contemplates Suspending Visa-Free Travel for GeorgiansBrussels is contemplating suspending visa-free travel for Georgians to the European Union. An unnamed EU spokesperson told Politico that this is due to democratic backsliding under the ruling Georgian Dream party. "All possibilities are on the table" if Georgia does not reverse its trend towards authoritarianism, including "the possible temporary suspension of visa liberalization," the spokesperson said. Recently, the ruling Georgian Dream party passed a law on foreign agents that mirrors repressive Russian legislation used against Kremlin critics.
07:42 Ukraine Slams Poland's Crimea Compromise ProposalThe Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has slammed a Polish proposal regarding Crimea's status, denying any room for compromise. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski suggested a referendum as part of a potential negotiation strategy with Russia. "All efforts should be diverted towards liberating the peninsula, not catering to the Kremlin's cravings at the expense of Ukraine's interests and international law," Kyiv's ministry explained.
06:29 von der Leyen's Upcoming Visit to Kyiv - Talks with ZelenskyyEU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to visit Kyiv today. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has scheduled talks with her, focusing on winter preparations. "Clearly, energy issues take center stage," Zelenskyy said. Discussions on the frontline situation, weapons deliveries, joint defense projects, Ukraine's path to EU membership, and additional financial support for the nation attacked by Russia will also take place.
05:32 Ukraine Joins NATO Exercise for the First TimeUkraine is taking part in a NATO exercise led by the Netherlands for the first time. The exercise, aimed at testing anti-drone systems, is ongoing, according to NATO's press office. "Over 60 anti-drone systems and technologies such as sensors, drone-to-drone systems, jammers, and cyber interceptors were put to the test live," the alliance shared. Ukraine's participation is part of the NATO-Ukraine action plan for innovation cooperation, agreed upon during the July summit.
04:28 Transgender Activist's Fatal Stabbing in Georgia
In Georgia, a transgender activist, Kesaria Abramidze, was fatally stabbed in her apartment just after an international LGBTQ law's contentious passage. According to the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs, Abramidze, who was known as a model, actress, and influencer, was killed with multiple stab wounds. Her boyfriend was apprehended as the primary suspect, charged with murder, allegedly committed with extreme cruelty, and due to the victim's gender. The killing occurred a day after the passage of a "family values" law, criticized by the EU and human rights organizations as an infringement on LGBTQ rights.
03:25 Lufthansa Mulls Suspending Frankfurt-Peking Flights Due to Russia Sanctions
Lufthansa is considering discontinuing its daily flight connection between Frankfurt and Beijing. A decision is expected in October. A spokesperson attributed this to an "unfair playing field" for European airlines compared to regional ones benefiting from low operating costs, subpar social standards, and large-scale government investments in aviation. Furthermore, these airlines can still utilize Russian airspace, which has been closed to European and American airlines since the introduction of sanctions versus Russia due to the Ukraine conflict, pushing them to fly around it with increased fuel costs.
02:27 Russian Assault on Sumy Targets Power Grid
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Russian forces launched airstrikes on a geriatric center and the power grid in the Ukrainian city of Sumy, resulting in at least one civilian death. The UN monitoring authority declared that the power grid attacks likely breached international humanitarian law. The International Energy Agency stated that Ukraine might experience power supply gaps amounting to one-third of peak demand during crucial winter months.
01:25 Over 1.18 Million Ukrainians in Germany
The number of refugees in Germany has reached an all-time high. According to the Foreigners' Registration Office, the figure was around 3.48 million by mid-2024, a 60,000 increase from the previous year's end. This is the highest number since the 1950s, according to NOZ, with 1.18 million of these refugees being Ukrainian, accounting for a 45,000 increase compared to the previous year. The total includes all individuals, regardless of residence status, from asylum seekers to recognized refugees to tolerated persons.
00:22 Lindner: Ukraine Aid Not a Reason to Suspend Debt Brake
SPD and Green politicians argue that an agreement in the traffic light coalition exists to suspend the debt brake for extensive Ukraine aid. However, Christian Lindner, FDP leader and Finance Minister, disagrees:" I'm unaware of such an agreement. I would not have approved such a resolution." Lindner asserts that while the Ukraine situation is dire, it is not considered an emergency under the Basic Law. "For Ukraine, we are collaborating along with our bilateral aid on a $50 billion program of the G7 nations," he adds.
23:23 Bulgaria Calls for EU Ban on Ukrainian Egg Imports
Bulgaria will propose a suspension of egg imports from Ukraine at a September 23 EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting in Brussels. Bulgarian Agriculture Minister Georgi Takhov announced this, signaling ongoing disputes between Ukraine and Eastern EU member states over agricultural trade. These disputes have previously led to border barricades, import bans on Ukrainian corn and wheat, and farmer protests in Poland and Bulgaria.
22:13 Merz Dismisses "Path to Peace Process" with Russia
CDU head Friedrich Merz voices worries over Ukraine's predicament and mentions: "I don't think we can spark a peace negotiation process right now." Russia will cease its actions only when a violent conflict appears unpromising or if Kyiv succumbs. In the long term, Germany will need to carry on arming Ukraine militarily. "I reckon we need to safeguard liberty and tranquility from Russia, not alongside Russia," Merz remarks. This is a tough pill to swallow. "There's no other move up for grabs at the moment, at least as long as Putin and his administration remain in charge."
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The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, is planning to present a "Strategic Victory Plan" against Russian aggression during his US trip, aiming to draw attention to the ongoing Ukrainian conflict in New York.
The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, has decided not to attend Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum's inauguration, potentially due to Western sanctions or the International Criminal Court arrest warrant issued against him.
