Alexander Stubb canceled his trip to the US to join the Ukrainian negotiation team in Berlin instead of Paris, as previously expected. The talks will focus on the peace plan for Ukraine, the possible creation of a demilitarized zone, and security guarantees.
According to Bloomberg, Western partners are wary of a "Trojan horse" scenario—conditions for covert Russian deployments in special zones. Final decisions regarding territorial matters should be made by the Ukrainian people via elections or referendum.
The Washington Post highlights that Putin is surrounded by a narrow circle of loyalists and does not intend to compromise, believing in Russia's strength and victory. The West is assessing whether Moscow will support the latest US peace plan, regarded by many as too Russia-friendly.
The Odessa region remains without power due to Russian strikes, while energy crews work on restoration. The US is lifting some sanctions on Belarus, possibly paving the way for the release of around 120 prisoners of war.
Ukraine is discussing the appointment of new First Deputy Prosecutor General Mariia Vdovychenko, whose relatives have connections to Russia. The EU advises diplomats to avoid joint events with Russians.
President Zelensky, Macron, Starmer, and Kushner will attend the conference in Berlin, hosted by Merz. Both public and private meetings are expected with further negotiations updates to follow.
