EU

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the Russian deployment of the “Oreshnik” intermediate-range ballistic missile in Kyiv, following Moscow’s acknowledgment of a retaliatory launch. The missile’s use has drawn sharp condemnation from European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, who denounced the escalation.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reaffirmed Ukraine’s demand for full EU membership, countering German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s proposal for “associate membership” during accession talks. Zelenskyy emphasised Ukraine’s vital role in defending Europe and urged swift progress in its membership negotiations.

EUROPE MORNING BRIEFING

Humanitarian funding continues to decline, with Germany and Sweden announcing significant budget cuts this morning. The EU’s negotiations for its 2028-2034 budget will see a proposed 75% increase in development aid dedicated to Ukraine and other candidate countries.

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