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Russia ‘ready’ for talks, but demands recognition of occupied territories
Russia has indicated its willingness to engage in discussions with Ukraine ‘without any preconditions,’ as reported by AFP. This statement comes after US President Donald Trump expressed skepticism regarding Vladimir Putin’s commitment to ending the ongoing three-year military campaign.
However, in a contrasting statement also reported by AFP, the Russian foreign minister underscored that recognition of five Ukrainian regions, including Crimea, is critical for any constructive negotiations.
“Acknowledgment of Russia’s sovereignty over Crimea, Sevastopol, the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Luhansk People’s Republic, as well as the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, remains essential,” stated Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in comments made to the Brazilian outlet O Globo.
In the interview, found here, Lavrov claimed that the responsibility lay with Kyiv to offer concessions to advance the dialogue.
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Bardella ready to stand in for Le Pen in 2027 race
In other news from Europe, National Rally leader Jordan Bardella announced his readiness to assume the role of the French far-right presidential candidate in 2027, should Marine Le Pen be ineligible to run.
Le Pen is currently facing a five-year ban from public office after being convicted along with other party members for fund misappropriation in March.
A Paris appeals court is expected to deliver a verdict on her case by summer, which could either allow her to participate in the elections or confirm the ban.
In a conversation with Le Parisien, he asserted that “Marine is presumed innocent and we will continue to assert our innocence throughout this process.”
He added:
“There’s no question that Marine Le Pen is my candidate. If she is barred from running, I would be ready to step up as the candidate. I could not be clearer.”
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Vatican expected to set timeline for pope election
In the Vatican, cardinals are expected to convene on Monday to select a date for the conclave to elect the next leader of the Catholic Church, following the passing of Pope Francis.
According to established protocols, a conclave should be held between 15 and 20 days after the death or resignation of a pope, suggesting an early May timeframe.
Out of more than 250 cardinals, only 135 are eligible to participate in the conclave, as those over the age of 80 are excluded. Most of the eligible cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis himself.
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Updated at 11.16 CEST
Russia ‘ready’ for talks, but demands recognition of occupied territories
Russia has indicated its willingness to engage in discussions with Ukraine ‘without any preconditions,’ as reported by AFP, following remarks from US President Donald Trump questioning Vladimir Putin’s intent to cease hostilities.
However, in nearly simultaneous comments, Russia’s foreign minister emphasized that the acknowledgment of Russian control over five Ukrainian territories, including Crimea, is non-negotiable for any potential talks.
“It is essential that the international community recognizes Russia’s claims to Crimea, Sevastopol, the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Luhansk People’s Republic, as well as the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions,” stressed Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in statements to O Globo.
Lavrov further noted in the interview, available here, that the initiative for dialogue rests with Kyiv to make necessary concessions.
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Pro-Ukraine politician picked to lead German diplomacy in Merz’s government
In a positive development for Kyiv, Johann Wadephul, a long-time advocate for Ukraine from the conservative CDU, has been appointed as Germany’s new foreign minister, according to an official statement from the party.
At 62, Wadephul has been a trusted advisor to incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz on foreign policy and is known for advocating increased military aid to Ukraine.
His appointment marks the first time since 1966 that a CDU member will hold the foreign minister position.
Other notable appointments include Katherina Reiche for the economy portfolio and Karsten Wildberger, CEO of MediaMarktSaturn Retail Group, who will oversee the new digital ministry aimed at accelerating the digital transformation of public services.
These appointments depend on the formal confirmation of the coalition agreement by SPD members, with their vote concluding tomorrow and the results expected on Wednesday.
If proceedings go smoothly, Merz could be instated as Chancellor, replacing Olaf Scholz, by early May.
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Updated at 11.18 CEST
Morning opening: What’s next for Ukraine?
US President Donald Trump recently suggested that Volodymyr Zelenskyy might be prepared to relinquish control of Crimea, despite Zelenskyy’s previous statements asserting Ukraine’s claim to the peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014.
It remains unclear how Zelenskyy or the Ukrainian government will respond to this assertion.
During remarks made over the weekend following their meeting at Pope Francis’s funeral in the Vatican, Trump responded positively when asked whether he believed Zelenskyy was ready to cede territory, saying “Oh, I think so.”
In response, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius criticized the notion of Ukraine surrendering territory to Russia, calling the US proposal “akin to capitulation.”
In an interview with ARD, he acknowledged that while Kyiv understands peace may require some territorial compromises, he stated that “these concessions will not extend as far as proposed by the US president,” emphasizing that Ukraine could have reached such a deal a year ago without the current terms being offered.
Despite the implications regarding Crimea, Trump expressed understanding for Zelenskyy, stating that he “wants to do something good for his country” and is “working hard.”
When asked what he wanted from Putin, Trump replied: “I want him to stop shooting. Sit down and sign the deal. We have the contours of an agreement, I believe, and I want him to sign it and end this.”
In response to inquiries about trusting President Putin, Trump remarked, “I’ll let you know in about two weeks.”
This morning, Putin thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for the “feat” of Pyongyang’s troops aiding in reclaiming territory previously held by Ukraine in Russia’s Kursk region.
“The Korean friends acted with a sense of solidarity, justice, and true camaraderie,” the Kremlin quoted Putin as stating.
Further updates are anticipated throughout the day, including developments in the new German government formation, the visit of Danish royalty to Greenland, and timelines regarding the appointment of Pope Francis’s successor.
It’s Monday, 28 April 2025, and this has been Europe Live.
Good morning.
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www.theguardian.com