Ukraine Conflict: continually evolving updates on the ground
22:54 Wadephul Arrives in Ukraine for First Visit - Ceasefire Awaited
Ukrainian soil currently hosts Foreign Minister Wadephuhl, lending a diplomatic presence.
The German Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, has touched down in Ukraine for his first visit on these tense times. Tomorrow, he will attend an unofficial meeting of EU foreign ministers in Lviv, Ukraine's western city. Walephul's Ukrainian counterpart, Andrij Sybiha, is also slated to be present.
Earlier today, while en route to the EU foreign ministers' conference in Warsaw, Merz assured Zelensky of Germany's solidarity. Both leaders agreed that Russia must agree to a ceasefire, as announced by the government spokesman Stefan Kornelius. They also acknowledged the mediation efforts by US President Donald Trump. Merz emphasized the unity with France, Britain, and other European partners in supporting Ukraine and exerting pressure on Russia.
21:40 Marsalek's Suspected Weapons Deals - Spy Ring Involved
According to British court documents, the fugitive Wirecard manager Jan Marsalek may have been involved in discussions with Russian spies about weapons deals, with other transactions like blood diamonds and mercenaries in Africa. This information allegedly exchanged between Marsalek and Orlin Roussev, head of a spy ring, includes the procurement of drones for the war in Ukraine, as Roussev reportedly said that weapons could also be ordered along with wheat deliveries to Cameroon. In response to a question about the purchase of wheat, Marsalek purportedly said, "We can organize pretty much anything they need, except for nuclear weapons (...), even nuclear weapons if they pay."
20:25 Putin and Zelensky Exchange Congratulations for Pope Leo XIV
In a telegram released by the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated newly elected Pope Leo XIV on his appointment. Putin expressed his trust that the constructive dialogue and interaction between Russia and the Vatican based on Christian values will continue to develop. He also wished the new Pope success in fulfilling his high task and good health. Zelensky, on the other hand, congratulated Pope Leo XIV and stated that Ukraine values the consistent stance of the Holy See in upholding international law, condemning the Russian invasion, and protecting innocent civilians.
19:55 Zelensky and Merz - Exchanged Words Over the Phone
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has congratulated Friedrich Merz over the phone following his election as Germany's Chancellor. "We rely on Germany continuing to play a key role in supporting Ukraine - both in protecting our people and in post-war reconstruction," Zelensky wrote on Twitter, referring to the conflict with Russia. He spoke of the great potential for a German-Ukrainian partnership and announced that they had agreed to work on many important matters. Zelensky did not share any further details as the conversation was private.
19:30 Visiting Ukraine Together - EU Foreign Ministers Travel to the Frontlines
Based on EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas' statements, European foreign ministers will travel to Ukraine on Friday. According to Kallas, they will provide a billion euros for the Ukrainian defense industry during their visit. Meanwhile, Russia is preparing for a massive military parade on Moscow's Red Square to commemorate its victory over Nazi Germany and the end of World War II in 1945. This display of military might is viewed as a significant show of power by Moscow.
19:01 Billion Euro Loan to Ukraine - Fourth Installment Disbursed
The European Commission has disbursed the fourth tranche of its macro-financial assistance (MFA) loan for Ukraine. "The EU continues to support Ukraine politically, financially, economically, and militarily," said EU Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis in a statement. "Today, we are paying out another billion euros as part of the exceptional G7 initiative, which amounts to up to 45 billion euros."
18:16 30-Day Ceasefire for Peace Talks - Ukraine's Stance
Ukraine is advocating for a 30-day ceasefire as a prerequisite for peace talks after consultations with Western security advisors. "We have emphasized: A full and unconditional ceasefire must be the first step towards a just and lasting peace," writes Kyiv's chief of staff Andrij Jermak on Telegram. According to Jermak, the three-day ceasefire announced by the Kremlin around Victory Day on May 9 is manipulation to ensure safety during the Moscow military parade. If Moscow truly wants peace, Jermak argues, it's time to act seriously.
17:42 Ukrainian Drones Cause Chaos - Preparations for Victory Parade
As preparations for the Victory Day parade in Moscow get underway, chaos erupts at Russian airports due to fears of Ukrainian drones.
17:01 Zelensky - Emphasizing Ukraine's Role in WWII Liberation
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has underscored his country's critical role in liberating Europe from Nazism on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. He stated that a whopping eight million Ukrainians lost their lives during the fight for freedom, as he walked the streets of Kyiv with passersby. Today, he expressed, the evil must be fought together, referring to Russia's invasion of his country. If Russia doesn't change its ways, it would need "denazification and demilitarization," said Zelensky, alluding to the planned military parade on Moscow's Red Square this Friday. In addition, Zelensky released footage of previous Moscow military parades on May 9, which he describes as "parades of fear, cynicism, and lies" with "marching murderers."
16:29 Ukrainian Soldiers - Return Fire Only in Response
Several Ukrainian units stationed at the front have reportedly been given orders to only return fire in response to Russian attacks, according to Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne. This results in a decrease in artillery attacks and Russian activity in some areas. One brigade fighting in the Kherson region informed Suspilne that Russian FPV drones have been active in their area since the ceasefire began at midnight, but there have been no artillery strikes so far. Another defense unit operating in the south confirmed the order to only shoot in response, yet noted that positional fighting has continued since midnight, with Russian drones and artillery still active in the area.
15:58 Soviet Memorial - Nationalist "Night Wolves" Lay Wreaths
Pro-Russian bikers belonging to the nationalist "Night Wolves" group have paid their respects at two Soviet memorial sites in Brandenburg, Germany. Members of the motorcycle group laid wreaths in Schönwalde and Baruth before heading towards Berlin. Police were present at the scene. Earlier, the approximately 60 bikers with 50 motorcycles halted in Dresden. The Russian "Night Wolves" are well known for their support of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the annexation of Crimea, and their extreme nationalist views.
15:21 Weapons Blunder - Russian Tanks Break Apart during Rehearsals
In Sterlitamak, a Russian city, large celebratory events with military parades are being held to mark the end of World War II. However, a blunder occurs during rehearsals, with two old Soviet-era tanks collapsing.
14:51 Attempted Incursion - Ukraine Tries to Break Through Russian Borders
Ukrainian forces are attempting to break through the border into the Russian region of Kursk, according to Russian reports. Since the three-day ceasefire initiated by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, Ukrainian soldiers have reportedly made two such incursion attempts, as per the Russian Defense Ministry. Both sides accuse each other of ceasefire violations.
14:20 Numerous Violations - Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Sybiha
Ukraine alleges hundreds of violations of the ceasefire unilaterally declared by Moscow by the Russian army along the entire front. The ceasefire announced in Moscow has turned out to be "a farce," says Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha. "The Russian forces continue to attack along the entire front," he insists. Since midnight to noon, 734 violations of the ceasefire and "63 attack operations" by the Russian army have been documented.
13:51 Parliament Ratifies Agreement - US Resources for Ukraine
The Ukrainian parliament has ratified the resource agreement with the United States, with 338 parliamentarians voting in favor and none against. Deputy Prime Minister Julija Swyrydenko describes it as an "historic economic partnership agreement." "This document is not just a legal construct - it is the foundation for a new model of cooperation with an important strategic partner," she writes on Twitter. The US will have preferential access to Ukrainian raw materials, including sought-after rare earths, which are critical to the high-tech and defense industries. However, Ukraine retains control over all its resources and now hopes for further U.S. military aid.
13:13 Possible Tank Sale - Ruag Discussions with Rheinmetall
Switzerland's state-owned defense conglomerate Ruag is reportedly discussing the possibility of selling 96 Leopard 1 tanks parked in Italy to German defense conglomerate Rheinmetall, as per Swiss broadcaster SRF. Two years ago, the deal to sell the tanks to Ukraine was halted by the government due to Switzerland's strict neutrality concerning military conflicts. This time, the German company has pledged that the tanks will not be directly sent to Ukraine and could be used as a parts depot instead.
12:48 Meeting in Moscow - Putin-Xi Cooperation Enhancement
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping aim to deepen their cooperation through a series of bilateral agreements, during a meeting in Moscow. The updated investment agreement is set to be updated, while China expressed its desire to intensify its strategic cooperation with Russia. Amid trade disputes with the US, Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of working with Russia to safeguard the global multilateral trade system and industry chains. Putin welcomed the transfer of Chinese technology to Russia.
12:14 Network Shutdown - Increased Security for Victory Day Parade
In anticipation of the military parade on "Victory Day" on May 9, Moscow is upping its security measures throughout the city due to fears of attacks and drone strikes, to the extent of shutting down the entire mobile network.
11:38 Liberated Area - Chyntya Brigade Clears Kharkiv Region
On the eve of the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazism, the Ukrainian Chyntya Brigade claims to have liberated a forest area in the Kharkiv region, which the Russians call "Berlin." The press service of the National Guard unit reports that soldiers of the brigade, cooperating with other units, have cleared 200 hectares of forest north of the village of Lypci after months of fighting. The Ukrainian military-affiliated blog "DeepState" confirms the reports. A video is planned for release tomorrow offering insights into the operation.
10:59 Silent Observance - Ukraine Monitors Ceasefire
Despite some conflicting statements, Ukraine is purportedly observing the three-day ceasefire declared by Russia in silence, according to opposition parliamentarian Olexiy Honcharenko. "Ukraine is officially silent, but it has also joined the ceasefire. Corresponding instructions have been issued to the armed forces," writes Honcharenko on Telegram. However, there are no official confirmations from the leadership in Kyiv. Nevertheless, no mutual drone attacks have been reported since midnight local time, in contrast to the situations that occurred in the days leading up to the ceasefire.
10:15 Lithuania Leaves Treaty Prohibiting Anti-Personnel Mines
Lithuania is leaving the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits anti-personnel mines. The decision was made by the Lithuanian parliament following a committee proposal. This marks the second European country to withdraw from the convention, after Latvia did so earlier in the month. In response to the military threat posed by Russia, Poland, Estonia, and Finland have also announced that they intend to depart the convention. All five countries border Russia, which is not a member of the treaty and used it in its invasion of Ukraine.
09:34 Four to Five Years - European Defense Readiness
In light of Russia's attack on Ukraine, European defense capabilities are being scrutinized more closely. French President Macron has stated that it will take another ten years for Europe to achieve full sovereignty in defense matters. However, political scientist Carlo Masala warns in ntv's Early Start, "We don't have ten years."
08:40 Missile Attack - Accusations against Russia
The Ukrainian air force reportedly fired guided missiles at the Sumy region in northern Ukraine. The missiles were fired three hours after the entry into force of the three-day ceasefire announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
08:04 Communication Disruptions - Partisans Interfere in Moscow Region
Partisans of the Ukrainian resistance movement Atesh claim to have disrupted military communication facilities in the Moscow region.
07:14 Military Equipment Destroyed - KN-09 North Korean Multiple Rocket Launcher
Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a North Korean multiple rocket launcher (KN-09) in the Russian region of Kursk near the village of Pervomaiskii, marking the first confirmed destruction of this type of weapon.
06:32 Criticism of Russia - US Ambassador to the UN, Dorothy Shea
The USA has sharply criticized Russia in the UN Security Council for supporting North Korea. It is evident that Moscow is "cynically hindering the implementation of UN sanctions against North Korea," says Dorothy Shea, the US Ambassador to the United Nations. North Korea continues to violate the resolutions of the UN Security Council by exporting coal and iron ore to China, thereby directly funding its "illegal programs for weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missiles."
05:56 New European Sanctions Package - Preparations
Representatives of the 27 EU member states have been discussing new proposals from the European Commission since the middle of this week, with a view to tightening sanctions against Russia. These proposals include targeting dozens of companies that circumvent existing sanctions or support the Russian defense industry, not only Russian, but also Turkish and Chinese companies.
04:12 Commitment - Germany to Defend Ukraine "with All Means"
New German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has reaffirmed German and European support for Ukraine. "Europe will defend and support Ukraine with all means," says Wadephul on the sidelines of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Warsaw. "Everyone in Moscow must know that they have to reckon with us," the German minister emphasizes, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin." Regarding the financing of defense spending in the EU and possible joint debts, Wadephul says. "I think we are all agreed that more needs to be done to support Ukraine." The focus is on making means available to support Ukraine.
03:18 Russian Attack - Shelling Shuts Down Power Circuit at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant
Shelling has forced the shutdown of another power circuit at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, according to the Ukrainian energy ministry. The plant is currently receiving power from only one power line, putting the external power supply needed for safe operation at risk.
02:18 Drone Attacks - Third Night in a Row on Moscow
Ukrainian drones have attacked Moscow for the third night in a row. Air raid alerts continue today, particularly in the Moscow metropolitan area. Ukraine is using drone attacks to hit Russia economically and militarily, mainly targeting oil refineries, military airports, or oil depots.
01:47 Merz's Negative Response - No Deployment of German Troops in Ukraine after Potential Peace Deal
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has indicated that he does not foresee deploying German troops in Ukraine after a potential peace agreement. "We're far from a ceasefire and even further from a peace agreement," Merz told Welt TV. "We are not trading our independence. Our red lines are the constitution, international law, and the UN Charter." The three-day ceasefire declared by Russian President Putin to mark the end of World War II could potentially be extended, Merz said. However, the extension is "solely in the hands of the Russian government."
00:34 Currency Changes - Closer Ties between EU and Ukraine
Ukraine may consider a gradual shift away from the US dollar by increasing the ties between its currency, the Ukrainian hryvnia, and the euro. Central Bank Chief Andriy Pyschnyi has indicated that the move could be made as Ukraine moves towards EU membership to adapt to a more fractured global trade landscape and increasing ties with Europe
- The German Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, has an employment policy regarding his visit to Ukraine, aiming to discuss critical issues, including a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.
- In a suspected weapons deal case, Jan Marsalek, a fugitive Wirecard manager, is thought to have communicated with Russian spies about weapons deals, potentially including drones for the war in Ukraine.
- The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, and the newly elected German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, share a common employment policy, agreeing on the need for Russia to agree to a ceasefire and for continued German support for Ukraine.
- European foreign politicians have an employment policy of traveling to Ukraine to provide financial aid and discuss peace initiatives during their visits to the war-stricken country.
