Germany

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said that Russian President Putin is trying to buy time, and the Kremlin's intentions should be assessed by actions. The statements of the Russian Federation have not yet been supported by evidence.

According to the Estonian Foreign Minister, on May 20, the EU will approve the 17th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting the shadow fleet and energy revenues. The 18th package of restrictions is "already moving".

Donald Trump told European leaders about the details of the conversation with Putin, causing concern about a possible deal at the expense of Ukraine's interests. The leaders confirmed their readiness to continue supporting Kyiv.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Europe will introduce a powerful package of sanctions against Russia. The President added that new sanctions will be introduced if the war continues.

American director Wes Anderson has criticised Donald Trump's idea of tariffs on films shot abroad. He doesn't understand how a film can be detained at customs.

US Vice President Vance said that negotiations on Ukraine have reached a dead end and suggested that the US may withdraw from them. Trump plans talks with Putin and Zelensky.

In the first quarter of 2025, global car sales increased by 3. 1%, reaching 20.97 million. China leads with 5.98 million cars sold, increasing the figure by 4.5%.

Emmanuel Macron called on Vladimir Putin to accept Donald Trump's proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. The leaders of the countries discussed this issue on the eve of Trump's conversation with Putin.

The German Chancellor is trying to reconcile Italy and France over Meloni's exclusion from the meeting on Ukraine. Macron accused her of spreading false information.

British Prime Minister discussed the war in Ukraine with the leaders of the USA, Italy, France and Germany. The discussion focused on a ceasefire and sanctions against the Russian Federation in case of refusal to negotiate.

In Rome, Zelenskyy met with representatives from the US and Europe. The cessation of the war in Ukraine was discussed ahead of Trump's talks with Putin and NATO leaders.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the continuation of pressure on Russia due to its aggression in Ukraine. He also called on Italy to take a more active part in European efforts.

During May 17, 167 combat clashes took place at the front. The Russian army carried out almost 4,800 shellings of the Armed Forces of Ukraine positions, including 122 from MLRS and 75 air strikes.

European countries are not planning to send peacekeepers to Ukraine, focusing on negotiations for a ceasefire with Russia. The format of peace talks and security guarantees for Ukraine are a priority.

Rheinmetall plans with Lockheed Martin to produce missiles and aircraft, including for Patriot, in Europe. Investments will reach 5 billion euros, production will start in 2026.

During a flight from Frankfurt to Seville, the co-pilot lost consciousness due to a neurological disease. The Airbus A321 lost control for 10 minutes until the captain returned to the cockpit.

Johann Wadephul stated a security threat due to Russia's "shadow fleet" and confirmed the EU's plans for new sanctions. The 17th package of sanctions will tighten measures against these vessels.

According to media reports, Russia demands that Ukraine renounce territories and reparations, and stated that a ceasefire is possible only after the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from 4 regions that Russia considers its own.

The US President stated that he will likely plan a meeting with Putin, after which a peace agreement will be concluded. However, if there are no results at the negotiations in Turkey, Trump did not rule out the imposition of sanctions.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed disappointment over Russia's lost opportunity to start ceasefire negotiations. During the talks, Russia made unacceptable demands and threatened to seize new territories.

Syria plans to print its national currency in the UAE and Germany, refusing the services of Russia. This is happening against the background of the easing of EU and US sanctions and the conclusion of economic agreements with the UAE.

The negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul had signs of theatricality, where each side promoted its own narratives. Sky News notes that the Russian Federation seeks to show readiness for diplomacy, but does not make concessions.

British Defense Minister John Healey has admitted the possibility of sending troops to Ukraine. He made the statement following a meeting with colleagues in Rome, but did not provide details.

During negotiations in Istanbul, Medinsky tried to put pressure on the Ukrainian delegation with fake quotes from Bismarck and Napoleon. Both of these historical figures never said what Medinsky attributed to them.

A Russian reconnaissance aircraft monitored German troops during the Iron Wolf exercises in Lithuania. This confirms the threat from Moscow and the need to strengthen counterintelligence.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated the need to prepare for a ceasefire in Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and support for Ukraine.

Negotiations in Istanbul ended without a breakthrough on a ceasefire due to unrealistic conditions set by the Russians. European leaders are coordinating actions and condemning Moscow's position.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz assured of further support for Ukraine in the war with Russia after a conversation with Donald Trump. He stressed that Germany will not stop helping Ukraine until the end of the war.

Keir Starmer said European leaders have spoken to Trump about talks between Russia and Ukraine. They are coordinating a response because of Russia's unacceptable position.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with the leaders of France, Germany, Britain, and Poland, held a phone conversation with Donald Trump. Details of the conversation are promised to be released later.