Updated Live Ticker on Ukraine War
Gonna Keep it Hush-Hush: 19:03 New Federal Government to Hide Weapons Deliveries to Ukraine
Arms Deliveries to Ukraine Cease Being Public Information from the Federal Government
In a variance from the openness shown under former Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the current administration under Friedrich Merz plans to go covert with the disclosure of military aid to Ukraine. The motive behind this change is to contain Russia's military upper hand by keeping the specifics of arms deliveries confidential[2][4][5]. This new approach contrasts the previous government's transparency, where extensive details about military assistance were made public[4][5]. This shift in secrecy, that appears to be a part of the new government's strategy, aims to support Ukraine while denying advantages to Russia derived from public disclosure[2][5]. However, it's worth noting that there hasn't been an explicit confirmation on this topic from Merz himself, as the latest reports mention a broader change in the government's approach, rather than a direct announcement by the Chancellor.
Turkey Looks to Step Up: 18:09 Turkey Apparently Ready to Monitor a Ceasefire
According to sources from the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Turkey has shown readiness to monitor a potential ceasefire in Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine[3]. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan further reaffirmed Turkey's commitment to the territorial integrity of Ukraine during a conversation with the heads of the so-called "coalition of the willing," which included Germany, the UK, France, and Poland[3]. As a fellow NATO member, Turkey maintains partnership relations with both Ukraine and Russia.
Personnel Shakeup in Ukraine: 17:30 Ukraine Suspends National Guard Officials Amidst Alleged Corruption
The Ministry of Internal Affairs in Ukraine has temporarily suspended six high-ranking officials of the logistics department in the National Guard. The decision follows an investigation into allegations of widespread corruption, as reported by digital newspaper "The New Voice of Ukraine," citing the ministry[1]. The ministry is working closely with law enforcement agencies on this matter[1]. Though details are scarce in the official statement, preliminary reports suggest investigators may have uncovered around 190 million hryvnia (approximately four million euros) in bribes and nearly 200 million hryvnia (around 4.3 million euros) embezzled from state funds[1].
Ceasefire Smokescreen: 16:56 Zelensky: Russia Only Simulated Ceasefire
On the brink of a unilaterally declared Russian-initiated ceasefire ending, Ukrainian President Zelensky raised concerns over massive violations of the truce. "Attacks on the front line continue," Zelensky said during a meeting with the "Coalition of the Willing," consisting of allied countries[1]. Russia, allegedly, has not stopped attacking Ukrainian positions and border communities from the air during the ceasefire. Russian President Putin is said to have only simulated a ceasefire for the Victory Day parade on Friday[1]. Zelensky responded, "If Moscow doesn't want to kill, they can stop."
Confrontational Stance: 16:35 Kremlin Criticizes the Europeans
Following the call for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, the Kremlin rejected the Europeans' approach as confrontational[3]. However, the Kremlin spokesman for President Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Peskov, did not directly address the Europeans' demand for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine starting Monday[3].
Colorful Language: 15:55 Medvedev: "You Can Shove Your Peace Plans Up Your Ass"
In response to the Ukrainian demand for a 30-day ceasefire starting Monday, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, expressed his disapproval using brash language. In a post on X, he slammed the meeting between the "Coalition of the Willing" in Kyiv, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as a fruitless exercise[3]. Medvedev questioned the wisdom of putting Russia in a position of choosing between a ceasefire for the "hordes" or new sanctions[3].
Carrot and Stick: 15:33 Merz Open to Phone Call with Putin
Shouldering the responsibility of leadership, Chancellor Friedrich Merz is open to a phone call with Putin. Such a conversation would only occur in coordination with European partners and the US[3]. Merz underlined the need to make Putin understand that he can't win the Ukraine war militarily[3]. "We may be approaching that point," Merz told ntv.
Cautious Optimism: 15:12 Merz sees "small chance" for end of Ukraine war
Expressing guarded optimism, Chancellor Friedrich Merz believes an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is attainable. "This war must stop. And I believe there is now a small chance. But there is this chance," Merz said in an interview with ARD's "Tagesthemen" conducted from Kyiv[3]. Merz emphasized the need for Putin to recognize that continuing the war is futile.
European Support for Ukraine: 15:00 Macron: USA to Monitor Ukraine Ceasefire with European Assistance
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that the US would primarily supervise the 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict with European backing[3]. Macron made this statement during a press conference in Kyiv with Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the heads of government of Britain and Poland, Keir Starmer and Donald Tusk[3]. At the same time, he threatened Russia with "massive sanctions" if it violated the planned ceasefire.
Coordination on Weapons Deliveries: 14:39 Merz emphasizes close coordination on arms deliveries
Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged continued military support for Ukraine, emphasizing close coordination with European partners and the US[3]. Regarding potential Taurus cruise missile deliveries, Merz told ntv: "We are supporting Ukraine militarily to the extent that we can and are responsible for"[3]. Merz underlined the need for discretion in future discussions about specific arms deliveries, as debates about arms deliveries, calibers, weapon systems, and such will be taken out of the public eye from now on[3].
Tightening the Screws: 14:32 Moscow Reacts Calmly to New Sanctions Threat
Russia has responded calmly to the proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, including the sanctions threat from the West[3]. Russia has already become accustomed to sanctions, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov[3]. "Trying to scare us with sanctions is futile," Peskov stated[3].
Merz and Macron Up the Ante: 13:55 Merz and Macron Increase Pressure on Kremlin
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have increased pressure on Russia if it refuses a 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict and subsequent peace talks[3]. During their visit to Kyiv, Merz, Macron, as well as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, are pushing for such a ceasefire to open up opportunities for peace talks with Russia[3].
Ceasefire Offer: 13:24 Ukraine Offers Kremlin 30-Day Ceasefire
Following a "productive" phone call with US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Selenskyj has made an offer for a full, unconditional 30-day ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea, starting Monday[3].
Child Abductions: 12:58 Strack-Zimmermann Calls for Taurus for Ukraine
In the ongoing debate about future support for Ukraine, calls for the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles are gaining momentum. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, chairwoman of the defense committee in the European Parliament, expects the new federal chancellor "to not hide behind formula compromises, but to take on the leadership responsibility that our partners have long expected, which his predecessor [Olaf Scholz] has failed to do." This includes the rapid and adequate delivery of military equipment, "including modern weapons systems like Taurus – in addition to humanitarian and economic aid," Strack-Zimmermann said[3].
Evidence of Destruction: 12:43 Ukrainian Forces Show Wovchanśk, Reduced to Rubble
A battalion of Ukrainian soldiers has shared photographs of the formerly Russian-occupied city of Wovchanśk in the Kharkiv Oblast. Since the start of the Russian offensive a year ago, the city has been almost completely destroyed[3]. According to the soldiers, they face an almost impossible urban battle in the crumbling ruins[3]. They describe the urban warfare as follows: "If we see enemy movement, the infantry comes out and fires at them. That's the whole tactic."
EU Willing to Impose Harsh Sanctions: 12:21 EU Also Ready for Hard Sanctions if Necessary
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed the European Union's readiness to impose further harsh sanctions against Russia if it breaks a previously agreed ceasefire with Ukraine[3]. She supports the proposal for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire.
Threatening Tone: 11:39 Merz threatens Russia with tougher sanctions if no to ceasefire
In his conversation with the British newspaper Bild, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has threatened Russia with severe consequences if it refuses a 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine war and subsequent peace negotiations[3]. "There will then be a significant tightening of sanctions, and there will be further massive support for Ukraine – politically, financially, and militarily," Merz said[3]. The US supports this tightening, according to Merz[3]. He underlined the fact that Donald Trump is losing patience with Russian President Vladimir Putin and that the matter is now in Putin's hands[3].
Arrival in Kyiv: 10:09 Jäger: "One word from Putin and it's over"
Upon their visit to Kyiv, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk are attempting to advocate for a temporary ceasefire in the Ukraine war[3]. However, even with a peace treaty, Ukraine "would not trust Russia an inch," political scientist Thomas Jäger said on ntv[3].
Civilian Casualties: 09:55 Ukraine Reports at Least Four Dead after Russian Attacks on Civilian Targets
Since yesterday, at least four people have been killed in Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities. An enemy drone killed a resident of Kherson in the morning, resulting in instant death. In the Sumy region, three people were killed as a result of Russian attacks[3].
Respects Paid: 09:20 Merz, Macron, and Starmer at the Maidan
During their visit to Kyiv, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer paid their respects at the Memorial to the Fallen in the Ukraine war on Maidan Nezalezhnosti square. Ukrainians have placed small flags there for their fallen relatives and friends killed at the front, often accompanied by a photo of the deceased[3]. The three European leaders placed red candles there.
Preconditions for Ceasefire: 08:51 Russia Demands End to Arms Aid for Ceasefire
In order to secure a 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine war, Russia has demanded an end to arms supplies from the US and EU as a precondition[3]. "Otherwise, it would give Ukraine an advantage," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told US broadcaster ABC[3]. Ukraine would use a ceasefire to keep its forces energized and prepare them for further battles, Peskov said[3]. He also warned that Moscow would not hesitate to take advantage of the break in fighting[3].
Expected Weapon Deliveries: 08:02 Ukraine Expects New Weapon Deliveries from Allies
Ukrainian Ambassador to Germany Oleksii Makeiev anticipates German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to pledge new weapon deliveries to Ukraine during his visit to Kyiv[3]. "I am sure," the ambassador said upon Merz's arrival in Kyiv[3]. No further details have been provided.
Arrival in Kyiv: 07:17 Merz, Starmer, Macron, Tusk Arrive in Kyiv
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, have arrived in Kyiv by train[3]. Their purpose is to advocate for a full, unconditional 30-day ceasefire, which would provide a window for peace talks with Russia.
Military Losses: 07:15 Ukraine Reports 1,310 Russian Losses Since Yesterday
Ukrainian military forces claim to have killed 1,310 Russian soldiers since yesterday, bringing the total casualties from the start of the full-scale invasion to 964,580[3]. In addition, Ukraine claims to have destroyed four Russian tanks, seven armored personnel carriers, 49 artillery systems, one air defense system, and 106 tank and transport vehicles in the past 24 hours[3].
Potential Airstrike Warning: 06:57 US Embassy in Kyiv Warns of Potential Comprehensive Russian Missile Strike
The US Embassy in Kyiv has received information about a possible extensive air strike that could happen at any time in the coming days, as stated in a warning from the embassy[3]. Such a strike would resemble an event that occurred in November, a day before Russia attacked Dnipro with a medium-range ballistic missile[3]. Recent reports indicate that Russia has closed the airspace around its military testing ground in Kapustin Yar, the launch site for the aforementioned missiles[3]. With an Oreshnik air strike, Russia could attempt to disrupt a joint US and European plan for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire.
Strong Support: 05:08 Heusgen: New Government "Setting the Right Signals" in Ukraine Policy
Former Munich Security Conference chief Christoph Heusgen sees the new government on the right track in Ukraine policy. The intended joint approach "in close coordination with France, Poland, and Britain" is "correct," Heusgen said[3]. The important factor is the outcome: Europeans must "show both unity and strength." He cited Chancellor Merz's announced decision to "deliver guided missiles to Ukraine together with partners" as an example[3]. Before taking office, Merz had made similar promises, but his predecessor Scholz always refused to send Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine[3].
Increased Security: 03:32 Wadephul Wants to Increase Security in the Baltic Region
Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul intends to raise security in the entire Baltic region due to recent suspected acts of sabotage in the Baltic Sea. Wadephul refers to blatantly destroyed data cables between the Baltic countries and Scandinavia, removed border buoys, and violations of EU and NATO countries' airspaces by Russia, as well as the unprovoked aggressive behavior of the Russian navy[3]. Wadephul emphasized that the situation is precarious.
North Korea's Involvement: 01:25 Kim Jong Un: Participation in War is "Sovereign Right of Our Republic"
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un justifies North Korea's participation in the war between Russia and Ukraine. "Our participation in the conflict was justified and falls under the sovereign rights of our republic," the state news agency KCNA quoted Kim as saying[3]. Kim Jong Un praised his soldiers who participated in the Kursk operation as heroes. "I consider all the brave soldiers who participated in the Kursk operation as heroes and the highest representatives of the honor of our nation," Kim added[3]. Kim expects North Korea to authorize military force if the US continues its "military provocations against Russia." North Korea confirmed, at the end of April, that it had dispatched more than 10,000 soldiers and weapons to Russia[3].
Peacekeeping Troops: 00:38 Visit to Kyiv: Virtual Meeting on Peacekeeping Troops Planned
Merz, Tusk, Starmer, and Macron plan to lay wreaths on the Maidan in Kyiv for fallen Ukrainian soldiers and victims of the Russian invasion during their joint visit. They also plan a virtual meeting with dozens of other states, together with Ukrainian President Selenskyj, to discuss plans for a supportive European troop contingent following a peace agreement. France and the UK, with a "coalition of the willing," have begun planning such a unit[3]. Merz has previously stated that such considerations are premature, and decisions regarding a German contribution will only be made once a peace agreement is in place[3].
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz has decided to conceal the disclosure of military aid to Ukraine, in a change from the transparency shown under former Chancellor Olaf Scholz, as part of the new government's strategy, to support Ukraine while denying advantages to Russia derived from public disclosure.
- Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has reportedly shown readiness to monitor a potential ceasefire in Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine, as confirmed by sources from the Turkish Foreign Ministry.
- The Ministry of Internal Affairs in Ukraine has temporarily suspended six high-ranking officials of the logistics department in the National Guard, following an investigation into allegations of widespread corruption.
- Ukrainian President Zelensky raised concerns over massive violations of the truce during a supposed Russian-initiated ceasefire, stating that attacks on the front line continue and that Russia has not stopped attacking Ukrainian positions and border communities from the air during the ceasefire.
