On April 4, during his broadcast, Valeriy Kluchok highlighted that Russia fears Ukraine's accession to the EU due to potential transformation of the Union into a military bloc. Dmitry Medvedev stated that Ukraine should not join the EU, arguing that it could create an alliance posing a greater threat to Russia than NATO.
The US is trying to negotiate a ceasefire with Iran through intermediary countries, but talks are deadlocked, similar to Russia-Ukraine negotiations. Meanwhile, escalation continues in the Middle East: Iraq’s air defenses intercept US aircraft, and Iran categorizes countries as friendly, neutral, or hostile in terms of passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The US is reportedly preparing a ground operation, which could have serious implications for the region.
Ukraine's energy infrastructure is affected by Middle East conflict, as a shortage of components and delayed donor support complicate preparations for the heating season. Oil price hikes due to shortages benefit Russia, but its deep economic problems remain unresolved.
Mobilization tension persists in Ukraine. Presidential office head Budanov stressed that the army needs manpower—if volunteers are lacking, conscription will be enforced. The military is not preparing to conscript women, but the mobilization rate among men is increasing.
Germany implemented new exit regulations for men aged 17 to 45, as part of Bundeswehr modernization measures.
Overnight, Ukraine and Russia exchanged drone attacks, causing damage and fires in Kyiv, Sumy, and Russian industrial sites.
