Can a Ceasefire with Russia Bring Peace? Ukrainians Weigh In
The sentiment in Kyiv is mixed as residents consider whether a ceasefire agreement might pave the way to ending the conflict with Russia. Recently, Ukraine consented to a 30-day ceasefire following discussions with the United States. Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed support for the ceasefire but noted that several issues still need addressing. He also outlined stringent conditions for achieving peace. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Putin's stance as "manipulative" and advocated for increased sanctions against Russia.
The conflict began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, following the annexation of Crimea in 2014, and has persisted since then. Meanwhile, various international events continue to unfold: Micheál Martin presented US President Donald Trump with shamrocks at the White House, and the UK will be represented by the country trio Remember Monday at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2025. In the Czech Republic, firefighters are battling a large blaze caused by a train derailment.
President Trump has claimed that the US has spent over $200 billion more than Europe on aid to Ukraine, a statement scrutinized by BBC Verify's Nick Eardley. In Germany, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is poised to become the second-largest political force. Christian Democrats leader Friedrich Merz expressed gratitude to supporters for their trust.
Ihor Brusylo voiced concerns about President Trump's position on the conflict, describing it as "alarming." In Madrid, firefighters rescued a goat stuck on a tower block window sill. A Ukrainian participant on BBC Question Time shared how her family has been divided since the 2022 invasion.
The BBC's Analysis Editor Ros Atkins explored the US interest in Ukraine's mineral resources. The Russian ambassador was asked if Zelensky stepping down is among Russia's peace conditions. European leaders convened at the Elysee Palace in Paris for an urgent summit on Ukraine.
In other news, Danielle McLaughlin from County Donegal was found dead in Goa in March 2017. Drone footage captured smoke and lava from Europe's most active volcano. In Munich, a car incident injured at least 28 people. The BBC's Defence correspondent analyzed a significant change in Washington's stance on the Ukraine conflict.
Speed limits in parts of the Republic of Ireland will be reduced to 60km/h on Friday. Following a controversial election, Alexander Lukashenko faced questions from the BBC's Russia editor. Holocaust survivors commemorated 80 years since Auschwitz's liberation. In Greece, tens of thousands gathered to demand action in memory of the victims of the country's worst railway disaster.