On April 1, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced negotiations with the American side on a ceasefire during the Easter holidays in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war. The talks will be held online. The US is currently working with Ukraine on new ideas, including the "Anchorage" proposal, though the details remain unclear even to Russian officials. Russia has not provided a concrete response to ceasefire proposals.
Meanwhile, the United States is preparing to conclude its campaign against Iran within the next 2-3 weeks, regardless of whether Iran agrees to a deal. President Donald Trump made this statement during a press meeting and has announced an additional address on the Iran issue. The United Arab Emirates has stated its readiness to assist the US militarily to open the Strait of Hormuz, though other Gulf allies have not confirmed participation.
Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister Andriy Sebiha stated that Russia deliberately caused the recent drone crashes in the Baltic countries, using electronic warfare systems. These incidents are being discussed with Baltic and Finnish partners. Additionally, drone strikes on Russian ports in the Baltic Sea have caused Russian oil exports to drop to their lowest since the invasion of Ukraine and led to the shutdown of the Kirishi oil refinery for a month. Russia also lost two aircraft—the Su-34 fighter and an An-26 transport plane over Crimea.
Ukraine faced another large-scale drone attack: over 330 drones were launched, of which air defense forces destroyed or neutralized 298. There were hits in several regions, injuring at least four people, as Russian drones targeted strategic sites, warehouses, and residential buildings.
Amidst the drone attacks and escalations around Iran, Europe is experiencing a sharp increase in energy costs: gas prices have risen by 70% and oil by 60%. This is partly due to ongoing military operations by the US and Israel against Iran, now in their second month. EU officials urge the public to reduce energy consumption. Although there is no direct shortage, prices are rising due to global market tensions. The UK has announced it will send additional air defense systems to the Middle East, while Poland refused to provide its Patriot systems for the region.
With the situation unpredictable, experts advise citizens to prepare for possible power supply disruptions. The course of future events will depend on key political decisions and the upcoming address by US President Donald Trump.
