Kyiv memorial commemoration: Selenky, Macron, and Starmer pay tribute to deceased Ukrainian soldiers at the "Mural of Remembrance"
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During a historic visit to the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, along with other prominent European leaders, paid their respects at the Memorial Wall for fallen Ukrainian soldiers on Mychajliwska Square. Macron and Starmer honored the bravery and relentless spirit of the Ukrainians who had laid down their lives in the war, as reported by Ukrainian state media.
21:19 Defending Controversial Talks
Hot on the heels of recent criticism, former SPD parliamentary group leader Rolf Mützenich has defended the private talks held by SPD politician Rolf Stegner in Baku, Azerbaijan's capital, with key Russian contacts. Mützenich believes such meetings are crucial for understanding potential avenues for future discussions, warding off further escalation in current tensions with Russia. The recent clandestine meeting in question centered around discussions on the future of the "Petersburg Dialogue," a diplomatic forum, first initiated in 2001 by former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Amidst these debates, the SPD's Greens and Union have urged for Stegner's dismissal from the Parliamentary Control Panel for the surveillance of German intelligence services, whereas Stegner stands firm, arguing that every meeting with Russia is advantageous.
20:51 Van Aken Praises Leaders' Visit to Kyiv
Germany's Left Party leader Jan van Aken applauded Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to Kyiv, accompanied by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. "I believe it's a fantastic step that Friedrich Merz ventured to Kyiv," van Aken told the RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland (RND). Van Aken praises Merz's collaboration with Starmer and Macron in pursuing a 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine war, criticizing America's potential impositions upon Ukraine. He further suggests that Merz should take his diplomatic efforts one step further by visiting Beijing. "That's where the key to negotiations with Putin lies," van Aken asserts.
20:10 Merz in Kyiv: Pursuing a 30-Day Ceasefire
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, during his visit to Kyiv, emphasized the importance of unity shared by Germany, France, the UK, and Poland in demanding a truce in the ongoing Ukraine war. "This is the largest diplomatic initiative in recent years to end the war in Ukraine," Merz said to Germany's ZDF. The ceasefire, he continues, is unconditional with no negotiations planned, merely an offer for a cessation of hostilities on both sides. Ukraine, too, does not demand conditions in return.
19:23 Russian State Media: Kremlin Considers Ceasefire Proposal
Russian state media discloses that the Kremlin is considering the proposition for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. The Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitri Peskov, tells American broadcaster CNN that the Kremlin will delve into the details of the offer, expressing a cautious stance amidst repeated pressure from Western allies. Earlier, Dmitri Medvedev, deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, wrote on X: "They can shove their peace plans up their ass."
19:11 Russia Keeps Options Open After Ceasefire Demand
With mounting pressure from European states and the US, Russia is open to analyzing the demand for a 30-day ceasefire while continuing to maintain its stance on the matter. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov tells the Russian state news agency Tass that they are deliberating on the issue, offering an ambiguous position in response to Western demands.
18:44 Merz Plans to Hush Up Military Aid Announcements
During his visit to Kyiv, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has confirmed that the German government, under his leadership, will stop disclosing military aid supplied to Ukraine. "Under my directive, the discourse on weapons deliveries, calibers, weapon systems, etc., will be taken out of the public eye," Merz noted to ntv. Merz neither confirmed nor denied possible plans for Taurus cruise missile deliveries to Ukraine.
Politics Concealing Arms Deliveries to Save Face
18:09 Turkey Offers to Monitor Potential Ceasefire
According to an insider from the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Turkey has proposed to monitor a possible ceasefire in Russia's ongoing attack on Ukraine. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan relayed this offer during a phone call with leaders of the UK, France, Germany, and Poland. Fidan reiterated Turkey's commitment to preserving Ukraine's territorial integrity. Turkey, a NATO member, maintains significant relationships with both Ukraine and Russia.
17:30 Ukrainian Corruption Probe Unearthed
The Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs has halted six senior officials from the logistics department of the National Guard following a widespread corruption investigation. An internal probe has commenced in response to multiple reports of corruption, according to The New Voice of Ukraine, citing the ministry. The ministry is working in parallel with law enforcement agencies. Further details remain undisclosed.
16:56 Zelensky: Russia Simulating a Ceasefire Once More
Shortly before a unilateral ceasefire declared by Russia was set to expire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced massive violations of the truce. "Attacks on the front line persist," Zelensky stated during a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing," a group of allied states in Kyiv. Zelensky alleges that despite declaring a ceasefire for Victory Day parade festivities, Putin intentionally simulated the peace only for show. "If Moscow isn't intent on killing, then they must stop," Zelensky declared.
16:35 Kremlin Criticizes Western Escalation
Amidst the push for a 30-day ceasefire by European allies and the US, the Kremlin voiced harsh criticism against the escalating actions from Europe. “There's growing discord from the west, which tends to be less about seeking a peacemaking route and more about sustaining a confrontational stance,” states Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov. Peskov avoids addressing the European demand for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine head-on.
15:55 Medvedev: West's Peace Plans are Insulting
In response to the demand for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, beginning on May 12, Dmitri Medvedev, deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, expresses utter contempt. "You can shove your peace plans up your ass," write Medvedev on X, reacting negatively to a meeting among the "Coalition of the Willing" in Kyiv, which included Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Medvedev questions the wisdom of putting Russia in a position to choose between a ceasefire for the hordes or new sanctions.
Ukrainian President Zelensky threatens to Impose Sanctions if Russia Refuses Ceasefire by Monday
Politics Obstinate Language from Moscow’s Top Leaders
15:33 Merz Willing to Speak with Putin if Coordinated with Allies
Facing mounting pressure to bring about an end to the Ukraine war, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expresses a willingness to converse with Vladimir Putin. However, such a conversation would only be possible if coordinated with European partners and the US. "There's an option, of course," says Merz to ntv. "But it's essential that everyone - before and after - is aware," Merz explains.
15:12 Merz Remains Hopeful for End to Ukraine War
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz exhibits cautious optimism over a conceivable termination to the Russian attack on Ukraine. "This war must be brought to an end. I have a small faith that it's possible now, but there is that minimal possibility," Merz states in an interview with ARD's Tagesthemen from Kyiv. Merz impresses upon Putin the futility of persisting in the war and predicts that they're reaching a critical juncture.
15:00 Violence Negotiated through European-led Support and US Supervision
According to French President Emmanuel Macron, the expected 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine war, advocated by Europeans, will primarily be overseen by the US. "This global cessation of hostilities will be led, essentially, by the United States. All Europeans will contribute, as well," Macron expresses in Kyiv to European leaders. Simultaneously, Macron promises severe consequences if Russia violates the ceasefire.
14:39 Merz Stresses Importance of Close Weapons Collaboration
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz underscores continuous military backing for Ukraine, emphasizing strategic cooperation with European allies and the US. When questioned about the potential delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, Merz replies: "We're rallying behind Ukraine to the extent we can and are responsible to do so. And we're aiming to end this war." In the future, Merz declares, discussions on specific weaponry deliveries will be held privately.
Politics Strategic Ambiguity in Arms Deliveries
14:32 Moscow Maintaining Calm Response to New Sanctions Threat
Russia displays a restrained reaction to the demand for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine and accompanying new sanctions from the West. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov says in Moscow that Russia will not shy away from penalties and has become accustomed to them. "There are attempts to scare us with sanctions, but they're futile," Peskov informs Russia's state television.
13:55 Merz and Macron Increase Pressure on Kremlin
Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron exert increased pressure on Russia in response to its refusal to agree to a 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine war. In Kyiv, the two leaders call for an immediate peaceful resolution, threatening Russia with harsh consequences if negotiations are unsuccessful.
13:24 Phone Call with Trump Leads to Ukrainian Ceasefire Offer to Putin
During their telephone discussion, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha announced that Ukraine would propose a full, unconditional ceasefire on land, air, and sea for at least 30 days commencing Monday to US President Donald Trump.
Politics
Ukraine Offers Ceasefire Proposal to Putin
13:10 Alarming Child Abduction Figures in Ukraine
As result of the full-scale Russian invasion, Ukrainian human rights organizations claim at least 19,456 children were abducted from their homes. This is suspected to be a significant underestimate, with the true figure considered to be much higher. Records suggest that the alleged abduction efforts began before the invitation of wholesale warfare, and Have been designed to deplete Ukraine of its future generation and assimilate them into the Russian population.
12:58 Calls for Taurus Delivery Increasing
Clamor for the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles intensifies, as Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, the chair of the EU Parliament's Defense Committee, urges newly-elected German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to supply Ukraine with the modern weaponry to end their war.
12:43 Wovchanśk – Ruins of a War-Torn City
Fighting in Wovchanśk in the Kharkiv Oblast has left the city almost entirely destroyed, according to Ukrainian soldiers. Since a year ago, the city, initially targeted by a Russian offensive, lies crumbled in ruins. For infantrymen, urban warfare is nearly impossible, with tunnels running beneath the wreckage, inhabited by both troops and occupiers. "If we detect enemy movement, the infantry swiftly emerges and engages the enemy," Ukrainian forces disclose.
12:21 EU Prepared to Impose Harsh Sanctions
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declares that the European Union stands ready to impose more severe sanctions on Russia in response to a potential rupture in the ceasefire agreement supported by Ukraine. Von der Leyen supports the idea of a thirty-day truce, predicting trouble for Russia should they refuse.
12:04 Macron Threatens Further Pressure on Moscow
In addition to the sanctions threats made by Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron issues his own warning against Russia, stating that, should the Kremlin reject the 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine war, "we will ramp up the pressure – together, as Europeans, and in close coordination with the United States."
11:39 Royal Navy Intercepts Russian Submarine in English Channel
A Russian submarine currently operating in the Moscow fleet crosses the English Channel on its way back from the Mediterranean. A British helicopter maintains surveillance of the submerged vessel, and the British warship HMS Tyne intercepts the Russian Krasnodar off the French coast. The incident was confirmed through a video they posted Yesterday.
Politics Royal Navy Halts Russian Submarine in English Channel
11:24 Iran Expected to Supply Russia with Missile Carriers
Iran is anticipated to furnish Russia with missile carriers for its short-range Fath-360 missiles in the near future, according to Reuters sources. No public evidence exists to back this claim. If this prediction materializes, it would indicate an intensification of ties between the Kremlin and the Mullahs. Russia has been purchasing long-range drones from Iran for quite some time.
10:48 Merz Threatens Tougher Sanctions if Russia Denies Ceasefire
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz threatens Russia with far-reaching consequences should the Kremlin reject a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine and any ensuing peace talks. "Should tensions escalate, resulting in a refusal to engage in talks, there will be a significant escalation of sanctions," Merz informs the Bild newspaper in Kyiv. Merz affirms US support for these tightened measures, hinting at patience from President Donald Trump.
Politics
Merz, Macron, Starmer, and Tusk Converge in Kyiv – Merz Stands Firm Against Russia
10:09 Military Expert: End to Ukraine War is Imminent
Political scientist Thomas Jäger anticipates that an end to the Ukraine war is imminent with just a "word from Putin." Jäger stresses that, for Ukraine to fully trust Russia, they would require a concrete withdrawal from occupied territories and clear assurances regarding the future of the region. Ukraine's aim lies in a sustainable peace, free from Russian domination, concludes Jäger.
10:03 Ukrainian Losses Reported
Following Russian attacks since yesterday, Ukraine reports at least four civilian fatalities, with a resident of Kherson killed by an enemy drone and three casualties in the Sumy area, allegedly as a result of Russian artillery fire.
09:20 Merz, Macron, Starmer, and Tusk in Kyiv – Paying Tribute to Fallen Soldiers
While in Kyiv, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer consoled the families of fallen Ukrainian soldiers during a visit to the Maidan Nezalezhnosti Memorial for the Deceased in the Ukraine war. The European leaders, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, placed red lanterns at the memorial, in memory of soldiers who sacrificed their lives for Ukraine's liberty.
Politics
Leaders in Unity — Visit to Maidan Nezalezhnosti
08:51 Russia Insists on End to Arms Aid as Ceasefire Precondition
Russia demands an end to arms deliveries from the US and EU as a mandatory prerequisite for the proposed 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine war, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov. He reasons that terminating weaponry transfers would grant Ukraine a strategic advantage, maintaining that this condition is a necessity for the truce.
Politics
Russia – No Ceasefire Without End to Arms Aid
08:02 Ukraine Imminent Additional Weaponry Deliveries Expected
Ukrainian Ambassador to Germany Oleksii Makeiev anticipates additional weaponry shipments from new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to Ukraine, during a joint visit to Kyiv with other major European leaders. Makeiev did not specify the type or amount of the projected supplies.
07:17 Visiting Leaders Converge in Kyiv
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, arrive in Kyiv for a joint visit aimed at advocating for a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire in the Ukraine war.
Read all previous Ukraine War Live Ticker developments here.
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Enrichment Data:
Throughout the latest developments in Ukraine, leaders from France, Germany, the UK, and Poland have come together to voice their united support for a ceasefire in the Ukraine war, calling on Russian President Vladimir Putin to accept the proposal without conditions. This historic solidarity trip marks a significant show of unity as the allies advocate for an end to hostilities in Ukraine.
The Demand for a Ceasefire
- Ukraine and Allies' Position: Ukrainian leaders have collectively proposed a 30-day "full unconditional ceasefire" in hopes of paving the way for peaceful negotiations with Russia.
- US and EU Support: American and EU leaders have shown unwavering backing for this ceasefire proposal, expressing their intentions to work collaboratively to implement monitoring measures to ensure the cessation of hostilities.
- Russia’s Response: Russia's replies to this proposal have varied from refusing to engage in negotiations without preferred conditions to setting up short-lived, unilateral ceasefires that are soon disrupted by continued attacks on Ukrainian territory.
Major Leaders' Actions
- Unified Diplomatic Effort: The leaders of these four European countries have taken a resolute approach, conducting a joint visit to Kyiv to display their dedication to Ukraine and to relay a coordinated message to Russia.
- Sanctions and Pressure: These nations, in conjunction with the US, have threatened to impose intensified sanctions on Russia, should their refusal to negotiate or cease hostilities persist.
- Support for Monitoring: Integrating US-led monitoring efforts, European allies like France, Germany, the UK, and Poland are prepared to support the implementation of peacekeeping troops after a potential resolution between Russia and Ukraine.
Summary
- European leaders from France, Germany, the UK, and Poland, alongside the US, are actively pushing for a 30-day full and unconditional ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine war.
- The joint declaration delivered by these leaders presents an ultimatum, warning Russia that continued rejection of peace talks and continued aggression will result in increased sanctions.
- Despite intense international pressure, Russia remains steadfast in its position, often spurred by conditions favorable to its strategic goals.
- These European nations are collaborating strategically to exert diplomatic pressure on Russia, while the US contributes by coordinating monitoring efforts and imposing sanctions when necessary.
Our joint goal is to provide accurate, up-to-date information on this dynamic situation in Eastern Europe. Keep checking our Live Ticker for continuing updates.
- Ukrainian President Zelensky advocated for employment policies that actively seek to reduce corruption and improve the transparency of the government, as was demonstrated during the investigation of the National Guard's logistics department.
- Dmitri Medvedev, in a controversial statement, reaffirmed his disdain for politics that include calls for a ceasefire, suggesting that such negotiations could ultimately lead to the weakening of Russia's position.
- Parents and advocates in Kyiv, appealing to the community policy, are demanding ballistic evidence in child abduction cases related to the ongoing war, in an effort to bring accountability and justice for affected families.
- During the visit to Kyiv, Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron, alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and several other European leaders, expressed their intent to reaffirm their employment policies, pledging continued support to Ukraine and advocating for a 30-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.
