European Union

The US is not planning to send a delegation to the talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul. Trump expects progress, but wants to see the results of the meeting without the participation of the American side.

The EU is preparing a new mobile application for age verification that will allow confirming age without disclosing personal data. This step aims to enhance the protection of children online and will be the first stage towards the launch of the EU digital wallet in 2026.

Russia earns billions from oil exports to the West, which allows it to finance the war. Russia's revenues from fossil fuels fell by only 5% in 2024, despite sanctions.

The administration of US President Donald Trump intends to create a Remigration Office to deport unassimilated foreigners. This step has provoked criticism and accusations of supporting a policy of ethnic cleansing.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Europe must defend its independence by increasing defense spending and accepting Ukraine, Moldova, the Western Balkans, and Georgia into the EU.

Andriy Yermak emphasized the importance of the presence of representatives of the USA and the EU at negotiations with Russia. Ukraine is waiting for a document from the Russian Federation regarding the ceasefire.

The appeals court reinstated the duties imposed by the Trump administration. Plaintiffs have until June 5 to file a position on the suspension, and the US government until June 9.

The Polish Embassy warns foreigners, especially EU citizens, about the risk of being denied entry to Georgia. The reason may be participation in protests or activity on social media.

Ukraine is ready to open Negotiating Cluster 1 on accession to the EU by the end of June. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is confident that there are no obstacles to this step, and it can be taken now.

In the second half of 2024, electricity prices for households increased in 10 EU countries and decreased in 14. The largest increase was in Portugal, and the largest decrease was in Latvia.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been awarded the Charlemagne Prize. The award is given for outstanding contributions to the development and unity of Europe, the promotion of peace and integration.

China has stopped selling drones to Ukraine, but continues to supply them to Russia. Ukraine has found alternative reconnaissance drones, including FPV, and strike drones.

The Ministry of Economy is developing a new export strategy until 2030 with a focus on the production of high value-added products and the "Made in Ukraine" policy. Key goals include increasing exports to $77 billion.

Programs for teaching Ukrainian as a second foreign language are being developed in Poland. The possibility of including it in the list of languages for the eighth-grader exam is also being considered.

The launch of the Special Tribunal over the Russian Federation and other aggressors is already close, implementation can be done this year. The sentences will concern not only Putin, but also others who contribute to aggression.

The Public Health Center is implementing the MISUPH project to create a modern epidemiological surveillance system. The project is being implemented in 2024–2027 with a budget of over EUR 3 million.

2 million border crossings have been recorded through the eQueue system, with the largest number being in the direction of Poland (1. 1 million). The system covers all checkpoints for trucks and buses.

Gold prices fell to a one-week low after Trump's tariff blocking. The court's decision reduced demand for gold as a safe haven, and a strong dollar put pressure on prices.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Julia Klöckner to discuss military support for Ukraine to be provided by Germany, and the possibility of direct investments in the Ukrainian defense industry.

Ukraine and Finland have signed a joint statement on the establishment of the Shelter Coalition. This will attract about 14 billion euros for the construction and modernization of existing facilities.

The EU Council has decided to lift economic sanctions against Syria, with the exception of security-related restrictions. This decision aims to support the Syrian people in rebuilding the country.

Experts discuss the possible end of the "trade visa-free regime" with the EU, which may complicate Ukrainian exports. Negotiations are underway on a transition period and new measures.

The Slovak government has allowed the sale of brown bear meat to the population to prevent waste. Previously, a plan to shoot a quarter of the population was approved due to an increase in the number of attacks.

A citizen of a West Asian country was on the international wanted list and tried to hide in Ukraine. He was detained and extradited.

Russian oil exports have fallen to a two-year low due to falling prices. EU and British sanctions have almost no effect, and US measures are beginning to be ignored.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the preparation of the 18th package of sanctions against Russia. He noted close coordination with the US government and Congress.

The European Union plans to create a maritime security center in the Black Sea to monitor threats and protect infrastructure. The information will be transferred to Ukraine and other countries in the region.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Friedrich Merz are discussing defense support for Ukraine, weapons production, and sanctions against the Russian Federation. Negotiations on Ukraine's membership in the EU and economic recovery are also planned.

Marta Kos stated that all clusters in the negotiations regarding Ukraine's accession to the EU could be opened this year. She is optimistic that Cluster 1 will be opened as early as June.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Turkey for its mediation and identified three realistic locations for negotiations with the Russian Federation. He rejected Russia's proposal regarding Belarus and awaits sanctions from the United States.