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Rubio Signals ‘New Era’ Ahead of Munich Summit

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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has described a “defining moment” in global affairs as he arrived in Europe to lead the American delegation at the Munich Security Conference. His visit comes amid heightened transatlantic tensions following President Donald Trump’s renewed remarks about annexing Greenland. Rubio said the world was entering a “new era in geopolitics” that would require allies to reassess their roles and priorities within the evolving international order.

European leaders have responded with a mix of caution and resolve. Emmanuel Macron has urged Europe to prepare for greater strategic independence from the U.S., while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stressed that transatlantic ties remain vital. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said she would meet Rubio to address U.S. comments regarding Greenland, as concerns grow over Washington’s long-term commitment to NATO and European security.

The conference agenda includes the war in Ukraine, tensions with China and prospects for a renewed U.S.-Iran nuclear deal. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said the gathering could yield “new steps” for shared European security. Meanwhile, German and British leaders, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, are expected to hold key discussions on defence spending and alliance cohesion, as policymakers navigate shifting geopolitical dynamics.

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Macron Brings Ukraine and Allies Together to Push Security Guarantees

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French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and leaders from more than 30 allied nations in Paris as efforts intensify to secure long-term security guarantees for Kyiv in the event of a ceasefire with Russia. The meeting includes members of the so-called “Coalition of the Willing,” as well as US mediators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, amid claims from Zelensky that a US-backed peace plan is largely agreed.

While around 90% of the proposed framework is said to be settled, the remaining disagreements centre on territorial concessions Ukraine is being asked to consider. Russia currently controls most of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions in eastern Ukraine and has shown little willingness to compromise, while continuing intensified attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure during winter. Ukraine, meanwhile, has stepped up drone strikes inside Russia, including on energy facilities.

Talks in Paris are focused on defining post-war security arrangements, including the possibility of a multinational reassurance force, long-term military and economic support for Ukraine, and guarantees in case of renewed Russian aggression. European allies are also seeking a clear US commitment to act if Russia breaches a future peace deal, though broader geopolitical tensions involving recent US actions abroad and disputes over Greenland risk overshadowing the discussions.

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Polish Court Blocks Extradition of Ukrainian Suspect in Nord Stream Explosions

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A Polish court has rejected Germany’s request to extradite a Ukrainian suspect linked to the 2022 Nord Stream gas pipeline blasts, a ruling that aligns with the stance of Poland’s government. The suspect, identified as Volodymyr Z., is wanted by German prosecutors for allegedly helping plant explosives on the undersea pipelines that once transported Russian gas to Europe.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk had earlier stated that while the decision rested with the courts, extraditing Volodymyr Z. was not in Poland’s national interest. He remarked that the issue was not the destruction of the pipelines but their construction, which he said had made Europe overly dependent on Russian energy. The Nord Stream explosions in September 2022 severely disrupted gas supplies from Russia, intensifying the energy crisis amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

According to German investigators, Volodymyr Z. and others allegedly rented a yacht and placed explosives near Denmark’s Bornholm island. He faces charges of conspiring to commit an explosives attack and engaging in “anti-constitutional sabotage.” His Polish lawyer has denied all accusations, questioning whether the case — involving the destruction of Russian property by a Ukrainian during wartime — should even constitute a criminal offense.

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EU Leaders Push for Increased Defence Spending Amid U.S. Uncertainty

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European Union leaders are set to endorse bold measures to boost defence spending and reaffirm support for Ukraine during a high-stakes summit in Brussels on Thursday. The meeting, attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, comes amid growing concerns over the U.S.’s shifting stance on military aid under Donald Trump. French President Emmanuel Macron has stressed the need for Europe to prepare for its own security, even suggesting that France’s nuclear arsenal could be extended to protect EU allies. Meanwhile, Germany is moving to loosen borrowing limits to fund additional defence spending, and the European Commission has proposed mobilizing up to €800 billion for European defence.

Despite widespread European support for Ukraine, internal divisions remain, with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban threatening to veto a statement backing Kyiv. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has proposed a military aid pledge of at least €20 billion for Ukraine in 2025, but disagreements persist over contributions, with Nordic and Baltic nations urging larger commitments from France, Italy, and Spain. Paris, Rome, and Madrid reject claims they are not doing enough, arguing that public figures do not fully reflect their military contributions.

The summit highlights the deepening geopolitical rift as Europe seeks to bolster its security in the face of a potentially reduced U.S. role. Trump’s mixed signals on NATO and Ukraine have fueled concerns about European defence autonomy, prompting urgent discussions on coordinated military efforts. While most EU nations are eager to reassure Ukraine of continued support, Orban’s opposition underscores lingering fractures within the bloc. European leaders are now working to finalize concrete defence measures and financial commitments to safeguard the continent’s security.

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Zelenskyy Seeks US Investments to Strengthen Ukraine’s Energy Sector Amid Winter Concerns

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with business leaders in New York to seek investments in Ukraine’s energy sector, as the country braces for potential power outages during the winter months. The meeting included representatives from energy, finance, and insurance sectors, as well as USAID chief Samantha Power and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma. Zelenskyy proposed special incentives, emphasizing that securing energy stability is key to Ukraine’s victory strategy.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukrainian cities have been repeatedly targeted by Russian airstrikes, particularly on critical energy infrastructure. The United Nations and Ukraine have condemned the strikes as violations of international humanitarian law, and the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Russian officials responsible for attacks on civilian power facilities. Moscow, however, claims that energy infrastructure is a legitimate military target.

As Ukraine prepares for the harsh winter, forecasts suggest that power outages could last up to 18 hours a day. European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have pledged financial assistance, with the EU offering a €35 billion loan to help Ukraine restore its energy grid and improve heating capacity ahead of the cold months.

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Poland considers downing Russian missiles over Ukraine

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Poland’s Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski has revealed that Warsaw is actively considering a proposal from Kyiv to intercept Russian missiles over Ukrainian airspace before they reach Polish territory. This initiative emerged from a joint defense agreement signed during President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent visit to Warsaw. The aim is to address concerns about Russian missiles inadvertently breaching Polish airspace while targeting Ukrainian locations near the Polish border.

Sikorski emphasized that the proposal is currently in the exploration phase. It seeks to mitigate risks posed by missile debris falling into Polish territory, which could endanger citizens and property. The Foreign Minister noted the brief window of time Poland has to react when missiles traverse western Ukraine towards its borders. He stressed the need for consultation with NATO allies, particularly highlighting the importance of U.S. support in any decision to implement such intercepts.

Defense analysts have cautioned that without strong allied backing, the proposal could expose Poland to potential Russian retaliation. The effectiveness and safety of such intercept operations remain critical considerations amidst ongoing tensions and military maneuvers in the region.

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NATO Commits to “Irreversible Path” for Ukraine’s Membership

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NATO members have pledged support for an “irreversible path” to future membership for Ukraine and more aid. Although a formal timeline for Ukraine’s NATO membership wasn’t agreed upon at the Washington DC summit, the 32 members expressed “unwavering” support for Ukraine’s war effort. NATO announced further integration with Ukraine’s military and committed €40 billion in aid over the next year, including F-16 fighter jets and air defense support. Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized that supporting Ukraine is in NATO’s own security interest.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed the transfer of US-built F-16 jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands, expected to be operational this summer. NATO members also agreed to establish a new unit to coordinate military aid and training for the Ukrainian army, aiming to deepen ties with Ukraine. The joint statement highlighted Ukraine’s “concrete progress” on necessary reforms but stated that a formal membership invitation would be extended only when certain conditions are met.

The summit’s declaration identified Russia as the most significant threat to security and criticized China for supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine. Beijing responded angrily, accusing NATO of fabricating disinformation and provoking confrontation. China also urged NATO to stay out of the Asia-Pacific region, accusing the alliance of undermining regional peace and stability by strengthening military ties with China’s neighbors.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attended the summit, meeting with world leaders, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and US politicians, to secure continued support for Ukraine. NATO leaders aimed to present a united front on Ukraine, despite recent Russian gains on the battlefield and the absence of a clear timeline for Ukraine’s NATO membership. The summit, marking NATO’s 75th anniversary, occurred amid political challenges for US President Joe Biden and concerns over potential impacts of US domestic politics on the alliance. Biden reaffirmed support for Ukraine and called for increased defense investment from NATO members.

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Children’s hospital hit as Russian strikes kill dozens in Ukraine

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A children’s hospital in Kyiv has been severely damaged by Russian strikes, resulting in 33 fatalities across Ukraine in an early morning attack. In Kyiv alone, 19 people were killed, including two at Ohmatdyt Children’s Hospital, Ukraine’s largest pediatric facility, which suffered extensive damage. Kryvyi Rih saw at least 10 deaths, three people were killed in Pokrovsk, and one in Dnipro. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, currently in Poland signing a security pact, has vowed retaliation.

President Zelensky detailed on social media that multiple cities, including Kyiv, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, Sloviansk, and Kramatorsk, were hit by over 40 missiles, damaging residential buildings, infrastructure, and the children’s hospital. Dr. Lesia Lysytsia from Ohmatdyt described the missile strike as resembling a scene from a film, with a bright light followed by a deafening sound, resulting in 60-70% of the hospital being damaged. Images showed children with IV drips being evacuated. The hospital, which provides cancer treatments and organ transplants, is currently evacuating patients, though many on ventilators cannot be moved easily.

Hospital officials reported to Ukrainian TV that around 20 children were being treated in the ward that was hit. A subsequent explosion nearby forced hundreds to seek shelter in an underpass. President Zelensky mentioned on social media that people were trapped under the hospital rubble, with doctors and civilians assisting in the rescue efforts.

Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko described the bombardment as one of the worst attacks on the capital since the war began. Ukraine’s State Emergency Service revealed that a separate maternity unit in Kyiv was also partly destroyed, killing four and injuring three. Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina will wear a black ribbon at her Wimbledon match to honor the victims.

In Kryvyi Rih, the attack killed at least 10 and wounded 31, with 10 in serious condition, according to military administration head Oleksandr Vilkul. Kryvyi Rih, Zelensky’s hometown, has faced repeated attacks since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Dnipro regional head Sergiy Lysak reported one death and six injuries in Dnipro, with a high-rise building and a business hit. Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region saw three deaths amid recent Russian advances.

The bombardment coincides with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Moscow, where he is set to meet President Vladimir Putin. Russia claimed the strikes targeted military facilities, not civilian infrastructure. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov called for increased air defense support from allies, citing insufficient current capabilities. The UN’s human rights mission in Ukraine noted a rise in civilian casualties, with May being the deadliest month in almost a year due to renewed Russian air attacks.

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Hungary’s Orban Calls for Ceasefire During Visit to Kyiv

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Viktor Orban arrived in Ukraine on Tuesday for an unannounced visit shortly after assuming the role of rotating president of the European Union. While in Kyiv, the Hungarian prime minister suggested that a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine could expedite negotiations to end the ongoing conflict, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

Orban, known for his critical stance on Western support for Ukraine and close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has not visited Ukraine in 12 years but has met with Putin several times. During his joint appearance with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, their body language was notably reserved, and neither took questions from the media.

Orban previously delayed the agreement on a €50 billion EU aid package meant to support Ukraine against Russia. However, his new role as head of the European Council for the next six months grants him significant influence as a European figurehead. He emphasized the need to resolve past disagreements and focus on future cooperation during his discussions in Ukraine.

Zelensky stressed the importance of maintaining Europe’s support for Ukraine and fostering meaningful, mutually beneficial cooperation among European neighbors. Orban highlighted the necessity of collaboration and proposed a ceasefire to hasten peace negotiations with Russia, expressing gratitude for Zelensky’s candid responses.

Orban stated that his visit underscored the importance of peace not just for Ukraine but for all of Europe, acknowledging the war’s profound impact on European security. Zelensky did not publicly respond to Orban’s ceasefire comments but later posted on X, emphasizing the significance of European unity and collective action. He described their discussion as focused on achieving a just, lasting, and fair peace.

Many Ukrainians view a ceasefire as potentially solidifying Russia’s control over seized territories and prefer negotiations from a position of strength. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed openness to working with all parties to solve problems, acknowledging the challenges but emphasizing the potential for tangible results.

During Orban’s visit, he and Zelensky also addressed bilateral issues, including the status of the 100,000 ethnic Hungarians living in Ukraine. Orban expressed optimism about progress on the rights of ethnic Hungarians and wished Ukraine success. The EU had initiated membership talks for Ukraine just before Hungary assumed the EU Council Presidency.

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Zelensky accuses Russia and China of undermining summit

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Ukrainian President Zelensky has accused Russia and China of trying to sabotage his upcoming global peace summit in Switzerland. He claims Russia is pressuring countries not to attend and alleges China is assisting in this effort. Zelensky made these statements at an Asian security forum, where he urged delegates to attend his summit focused on nuclear security, food security, and the release of prisoners of war and Ukrainian children held in Russia.

Despite 106 countries confirming attendance, Russia has not been invited and China is not participating. Zelensky criticized China for being an instrument in Putin’s hands and accused China of supplying elements for Russia’s weaponry. However, China denies supplying weapons to either side of the Ukraine conflict and asserts its commitment to peace.

Zelensky also discussed with US Secretary of Defense Austin the US decision to allow Ukraine to use American weapons on Russian territory, albeit with restrictions. This move by the US and other Western states has drawn warnings from Russia about serious consequences.

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