Ukraine's foreign minister

Ukraine's Foreign Minister says the country is ready to implement a ceasefire in its war with Russia 'right now'. The statement, reported by DW, signals Kyiv's willingness to halt hostilities immediately, amid ongoing international pressure and diplomacy over ending the fighting.

Germany's foreign minister has met Russian counterparts in a rare encounter, urging Moscow to abandon what she called a dangerous escalation of the war in Ukraine. The direct appeal highlights renewed diplomatic contact between Berlin and Moscow as fighting continues and Western allies weigh further support for Kyiv.

The German and Russian foreign ministers have held a rare direct meeting at a time of sharply heightened tensions between Berlin and Moscow. Direct high-level contacts between the two governments have become unusual since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, making the talks notable. The meeting suggests both sides see some value in keeping diplomatic channels open, even as political relations remain deeply strained.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov launched a blistering attack on Europe in a speech about the Ukraine war, accusing European governments of deception with remarks translated as 'You think we'll fall for your tricks?'. The address, widely circulated by international outlets, frames Moscow's ongoing confrontation with European capitals over the conflict and escalates the war of words between Russia and the West.