France Denies Readiness to Talk with Russia over Ukraine
French Defense Minister refutes Russian claims of potential talks
France has denied showing readiness for potential talks with Russia over Ukraine, refuting Moscow’s account of a call on Wednesday between French Defense Minister Sebastian Lecornu and his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu. Russia’s defense ministry claimed that “readiness for a dialog on Ukraine was noted” and that “the starting points could be based on the Istanbul peace initiative.” However, no such details were present in the French readout, which focused on discussions about the heightened terror threat following the recent ISIS-K claimed mass shooting in Moscow. Reuters subsequently quoted a French government source as saying the Russian account was “not true” and that no mention was made of future talks over Ukraine.
Russia’s Grushko Assures No Intention of Open Conflict with NATO
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister dismisses possibility of open conflict
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated that dialog with Moscow had been reduced to a “critical zero” by Washington and Brussels as NATO foreign ministers gather in Brussels to mark the defense alliance’s 75th anniversary. Grushko emphasized that although relations were predictably deteriorating, Russia has no intention of entering into open conflict with any NATO member.
Russian Drone Strike Kills Rescue Workers in Kharkiv
Drone attack leads to casualties in Ukraine
Russian drone strikes on Kharkiv resulted in the death of four people, including three rescue workers. Twelve others were injured in the attack, which targeted a 14-story residential apartment block. The Kharkiv Mayor confirmed that Iranian-made shahed drones were responsible for destroying several floors of the building. Ukrainian officials expressed their condolences and condemned the attack.
Images Show the Latest from the Russia-Ukraine War
Impact of Russian shelling and Ukrainian patriotism captured in photos
Photos from the Sumy region in northern Ukraine document the aftermath of Russian shelling and the resilience of the Ukrainian people. The images depict individuals responding to Russian shelling, including salvaging goods from a damaged store, standing amid the ruins of a warehouse, and grieving the loss of a loved one. Additionally, a military band is seen performing in Lviv to commemorate the 34th anniversary of raising the Ukrainian flag.
Russian Prosecutor General’s Office Sends Inquiries to Western Countries
Russia suspects foreign involvement in recent terror attacks
Russia’s Prosecutor General’s Office has sent official requests for information to the U.S., France, Germany, and Cyprus, suspecting potential Western involvement in recent terror attacks within Russia. Requests were prompted by members of Russia’s State Duma who sought investigations into potential foreign participation in incidents such as the attack on Moscow’s Crocus City concert hall, which resulted in numerous casualties. The Russian authorities call upon the mentioned countries to consider the requests and adhere to their international obligations to combat terrorism.
NATO Explores Greater Involvement in Aid Delivery to Ukraine
NATO Secretary-General advocates for increased support to Ukraine
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg proposes a more direct role for the alliance in the delivery of military aid to Ukraine. Stoltenberg suggests that NATO takes on a greater role in coordinating the provision of weapons and equipment to Kyiv, which has primarily been supported by a U.S.-led contact group. Urging the need to shift the dynamics of support, Stoltenberg highlights the importance of reliable and predictable security assistance to Ukraine, aiming for a stronger NATO commitment.
Ukraine Expresses Gratitude for Finnish Military Aid Package
Defense cooperation and support agreement signed
Ukraine’s defense minister extends gratitude to Finland for a military aid package valued at up to €188 million. The aid package includes long-term military and financial support, alongside strengthened defense cooperation and a commitment to political, financial, humanitarian, and reform cooperation. Ukraine views the collaboration as a testament to their strengthened alliance and acknowledges the importance of Finland’s steadfast support.
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