As the one-year anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia approaches, concerns are growing about a potential “final push” from Russia in the coming weeks. In light of these developments, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has been warned against joining the war. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been in discussions with German Chancellor Frank-Walter Steinmeier about the possibility of increasing defense support for Ukraine. Zelenskyy has thanked Germany for their “new defense decisions” taken at the start of the year and for the financial and comprehensive assistance that has made the Ukrainian army stronger.
The two leaders also discussed the situation on the frontlines and the diplomatic process for implementing the Ukrainian Peace Formula. Western powers, including the UK, have provided Ukraine with significant military and humanitarian aid since the war with Russia began 11 months ago. Additionally, Ukrainian troops are currently in the US learning how to use the Patriot air defense system, which Ukraine has been requesting for months. Keep up to date with the latest developments in the Ukraine War by listening to the Ukraine War Diaries podcast.