Global Response to Russia-Ukraine Conflict Intensifies

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has acknowledged that Europe was previously free-riding on US defense and security, but stated that Germany is now taking steps to increase its own defense spending and cooperation with other European countries. Merz met with US President Donald Trump three times and discussed trade debates and tariffs, as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Merz also signed a friendship treaty with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, aiming to boost defense ties and economic cooperation between the two countries. The treaty also addresses irregular migration and promotes youth exchanges.

The war between Israel and Iran has ended after 12 days, with a ceasefire announced by Donald Trump on social media. The news caught both countries off guard, and they took hours to confirm it. The impact of the war is still uncertain, particularly regarding the damage to Iran's nuclear program caused by America's bombs.

The article discusses Donald Trump's recent change in stance on supporting Ukraine, from threatening to cut off weapon supplies to showing enthusiasm for supporting Ukraine. The author views this U-turn as cynical but potentially beneficial for Ukraine's defense. The article highlights the ambiguity and theatrical nature of Trump's pivot, emphasizing that it creates an opportunity for Ukraine and its supporters to stabilize their weakening position.

The article discusses escalating tensions between Russia and the West as the US and NATO increase defensive support for Ukraine. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has threatened 'preemptive strikes' against the West, while President Trump has announced plans to send Patriot missiles to NATO nations for Ukraine and imposed secondary tariffs on Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has named Yuliia Svyrydenko as the country's new prime minister, replacing Denys Shmyhal, who will now serve as defense minister. Svyrydenko, 39, was confirmed by a comfortable majority in the Ukrainian parliament and has previously served as economy minister and deputy prime minister. The appointment is seen as a significant restructuring of the Ukrainian government since Russia's invasion in 2022, with some opposition lawmakers viewing it as a power consolidation by Zelenskyy.

The European Union has agreed on its 18th sanctions package against Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine, targeting Russia's oil exports, banking sector, and military capabilities. The measures include lowering the price cap on Russian oil exports to third countries and blacklisting over 100 vessels in Russia's 'shadow fleet' of tankers. The EU and Britain are joining forces to pressure Russia into halting the war, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stating that 'Europe will not back down in its support for Ukraine.' The sanctions come as US President Donald Trump has threatened to punish Moscow if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not move forward on a truce.