EU rejects Putin’s idea of role for ex-German leader in future security talks

The European Union has rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal for former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder to act as a mediator in Ukraine peace talks. Putin suggested Schröder, a longtime ally with past ties to Russian energy companies, as a potential negotiator to restart talks with Europe. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that allowing Russia to appoint a negotiator for the EU would be unwise, citing Schröder's history as a lobbyist for Russian state-owned firms, making him not an impartial figure. This proposal comes as Putin hinted at a potential end to the conflict, though Russia maintains demands for Ukraine to withdraw troops from the Donbas region as a precondition for negotiations. Ukraine has rejected this demand, and analysts believe a diplomatic breakthrough is unlikely given the current battlefield dynamics and exhaustion of both armies.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder as a potential mediator for peace talks with the European Union regarding the Ukraine conflict. Schroeder, who led Germany from 1998 to 2005, has maintained close ties with Putin. This suggestion has been met with skepticism by EU officials. Putin also indicated that the four-year war might be nearing its end and expressed readiness for direct talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but only after peace agreement terms are settled. The article explores Schroeder's background and his potential suitability as a mediator amid stalled US-backed peace talks.

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, and Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna have criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent calls for a ceasefire in Ukraine. Both officials rejected Putin's suggestion that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder could act as a mediator for peace talks between Russia and the EU. Tsahkna specifically stated that Schröder is a "Putin idea" and would not represent Europe, highlighting their close relationship. This occurred as EU officials gathered for a meeting in Brussels, where the ongoing conflict and potential diplomatic avenues were discussed. The EU's stance indicates a lack of trust in Schröder's impartiality as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict.

A U.S.-brokered 72-hour ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine was set to expire Monday, with both nations accusing each other of violations. Ukraine reported Russian drone, bomb, and artillery attacks on civilian areas in Kharkiv and Kherson, resulting in casualties. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed it had strictly observed the ceasefire and accused Ukraine of breaches. The ceasefire, intended to coincide with Russia's Victory Day, followed previous failed attempts to halt the conflict. U.S. and European officials were considering next steps for further negotiations, while the Institute for the Study of War noted that ceasefires without enforcement mechanisms are unlikely to hold.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated the war in Ukraine is nearing its end, despite stalled broader negotiations. Speaking after Victory Day events on May 10, 2026, Putin blamed the West for prolonging the conflict and expressed readiness for direct talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. These remarks follow a US-backed three-day ceasefire and ongoing prisoner-swap discussions, though fighting continues. The comments reflect increasing pressure on both nations after over four years of devastating conflict. Putin stated he would only meet Zelenskyy once peace agreement terms were settled, and expressed willingness to negotiate new security arrangements with Europe, preferring former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder as a partner.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the war in Ukraine is "coming to an end," despite acknowledging it as a serious matter. These remarks followed a scaled-back Victory Day parade where he vowed to defeat Ukraine. Putin expressed willingness to negotiate new European security arrangements, preferring former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a mediator. He criticized Western support for Kyiv, suggesting Western nations are unable to extricate themselves from their current stance. Putin also reiterated his condition for meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which is that all conditions for a peace agreement must be settled beforehand. The conflict, Europe's deadliest since World War II, has resulted in significant casualties and destruction, with Russia currently controlling nearly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested the war in Ukraine is nearing its end and expressed openness to meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a third country if a long-term peace deal is reached. These statements were made on Saturday, following a scaled-back Victory Day parade where Putin reiterated his justification for the conflict, blaming Western "globalist elites" and NATO expansion. The remarks coincide with a reported three-day ceasefire and an agreement to exchange 1,000 prisoners between Russia and Ukraine, sparking cautious optimism for diplomatic progress. The Victory Day parade itself was notably subdued, with the inclusion of North Korean troops.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated he believes the conflict in Ukraine is nearing its end. He indicated a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would only occur after a lasting peace deal is finalized, potentially in a third country. Putin expressed willingness to negotiate new European security arrangements, suggesting former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a preferred partner. While a prisoner exchange was agreed upon as part of a US-led ceasefire, Putin noted Russia had not yet received confirmation from Ukraine regarding any exchanges. Notably, this year's Red Square parade lacked the usual military hardware display.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Saturday, May 10, 2026, that he believes the conflict in Ukraine is nearing its conclusion. Speaking to reporters at the Kremlin following a scaled-back Victory Day parade, Putin expressed his view that the war is "coming to an end." He also indicated that a meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky would only be possible after a lasting peace agreement is achieved. The article notes that Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine has caused the most significant crisis in Russia-West relations since the Cuban Missile Crisis. Despite the ongoing conflict, Russia's Victory Day celebration commemorates the Soviet Union's World War II victory.

This year's Victory Day parade in Moscow was significantly scaled back, with fewer journalists and world leaders attending. The most notable difference was the absence of military hardware, including tanks and missiles, which are typically displayed to project Russian military strength. Russian authorities cited security concerns, specifically the fear of drone attacks from Ukraine, as the reason for the reduced spectacle. President Vladimir Putin reportedly made the decision to pare back the parade due to these fears, despite its usual role in showcasing national power. The parade ultimately proceeded without incident, with a last-minute ceasefire reportedly brokered by Donald Trump and a decree from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky permitting the event.

At a scaled-back Victory Day parade in Moscow on Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Russia would "always be victorious," drawing parallels between World War II sacrifices and current soldiers in Ukraine. The event, held under heavy security amid fears of Ukrainian attacks, was notably stripped of its usual military hardware display, featuring instead a video of drone and nuclear capabilities. The parade, half its usual length, included foreign leaders from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and a contingent of North Korean soldiers. This year's reduced pageantry and heightened security underscore the challenges Russia faces in the ongoing conflict, which it euphemistically calls a "special military operation."

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that he believes the war in Ukraine is nearing its end. This declaration coincided with the commencement of a three-day ceasefire, brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which began on Saturday and will conclude on Monday. The ceasefire includes a suspension of all military actions and a significant prisoner exchange, with 1,000 individuals to be swapped from each side. Trump announced this initiative on Truth Social, noting it was requested directly by him and agreed upon by both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The prisoner exchange was confirmed by Zelenskyy. Putin also indicated a preference for speaking with German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder regarding talks with European leaders and would only consider engaging with Zelenskyy after a peace deal is reached.

On May 9, 2026, Russia observed Victory Day with a military parade on Moscow's Red Square, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. President Vladimir Putin presided over the event, which was conducted under heightened security measures. During his address, Putin stated that Russian troops engaged in the conflict in Ukraine are confronting an "aggressive force" that is armed and backed by NATO. The parade took place amidst a three-day ceasefire brokered by the United States, which had reportedly eased concerns about potential Ukrainian disruptions.

US President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, scheduled for May 9th, 10th, and 11th. This agreement follows US-mediated talks and includes a prisoner exchange. The ceasefire coincides with Russia's Victory Day, a commemoration of the Soviet Union's World War II victory. Trump stated that negotiations to end the conflict are ongoing and progressing. The pause in fighting aims to facilitate these diplomatic efforts.

Donald Trump announced on social media a three-day ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war, scheduled from May 9th to 11th. This ceasefire, confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, includes a suspension of all "kinetic activity" and a prisoner exchange of 1,000 individuals from each side. The announcement comes as Russia had previously declared a unilateral two-day ceasefire for its Victory Day celebrations on May 9th. Ukraine had also proposed a truce, which it claims Moscow ignored. This development marks a potential step towards ending the conflict, though both nations have a history of accusing each other of violating previous ceasefire agreements. Russia has not yet officially commented on Trump's announcement.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war, scheduled to begin Saturday, May 9th, and conclude Monday, May 11th. Both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Kremlin confirmed the truce, which was arranged through U.S. diplomatic efforts to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict. The ceasefire will involve a suspension of all military actions and a prisoner exchange, with 1,000 prisoners to be swapped from each country. Trump stated that talks are continuing to end the war, expressing hope that this ceasefire marks the beginning of the end of the conflict. This development comes as Russia had previously announced a unilateral ceasefire for Victory Day.

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violating a temporary ceasefire declared by Moscow for Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany. Russia claimed to have downed numerous Ukrainian drones, including attempts targeting Moscow and the Perm region, and reported that 13 southern Russian airports suspended operations due to drone attacks. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy stated that Russian forces continued to attack overnight, deeming the ceasefire ineffective. The truce, intended to cover celebrations from May 8 to May 10, was announced by Russia, which had warned of a large-scale missile response to any disruptions.

Russia is scaling back its annual Victory Day celebrations on May 9, a significant holiday commemorating the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany. For the first time in nearly two decades, the traditional military parade in Moscow's Red Square will exclude tanks, missiles, and junior cadets. This reduction in military displays is attributed to heightened security concerns amid ongoing Ukrainian assaults, which have increasingly targeted Russian territory with drones. While ground troops from higher military academies will still march, the aerial aerobatic show is expected to proceed as usual. The Kremlin cited "the current operational situation" and threats of "Ukrainian terrorist activity" as reasons for the altered celebrations.

Ukraine has criticized Russia for launching over 100 combat drones and three missiles on Ukrainian cities, killing at least 28 civilians, despite a unilateral 24-hour ceasefire proposed by President Zelenskyy. The attacks occurred overnight, with significant strikes reported in Donetsk, Poltava, and Dnipro regions. Ukraine's foreign minister stated that Russia's actions demonstrate a rejection of peace and that President Putin prioritizes military parades over human lives. These strikes are the deadliest in weeks and come as Russia's battlefield advances have stalled. Meanwhile, Russia has implemented security measures for its upcoming Victory Day parade, including transferring air defense systems to Moscow and shutting down mobile internet.

Russia has continued its attacks across Ukraine, disregarding Kyiv's unilateral ceasefire announcement for May 9th. On Tuesday, 27 people were killed nationwide, with 12 fatalities in Zaporizhzhia. Ukraine's Foreign Minister stated Russia's actions demonstrate a lack of diplomatic intent, prioritizing military parades over human lives. Russia has not responded to Ukraine's ceasefire demand but has threatened a "massive missile strike" on Kyiv if Ukraine violates Russia's truce. Meanwhile, Ukraine has successfully targeted Russian cities, including an attack on Cheboksary, over 1,500 km from its border, killing two people. Russia has cited "terrorist threats" from Kyiv for scaling down its May 9th military parade and warned of mobile internet disruptions in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Russian drone and missile strikes killed at least 22 people and wounded over 80 across Ukraine on Tuesday, just before a planned Ukrainian ceasefire and ahead of a unilateral pause announced by Moscow for Victory Day. Cities including Kramatorsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Chernihiv were hit, with glide bombs causing civilian casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks as "absolute cynicism," stating Russia could end the war at any time. Russia's Defense Ministry had previously announced a ceasefire for Friday and Saturday, warning of retaliation if Ukraine disrupted events. The United Nations welcomed the planned pauses and urged a full, immediate ceasefire.

Russia's Foreign Ministry has advised diplomatic missions in Kyiv to evacuate their staff due to the possibility of retaliatory mass strikes. This warning comes in response to potential Ukrainian attacks aimed at disrupting Russia's May 9th Victory Day commemorations. Russian officials cited President Zelenskyy's "aggressive and threatening statements" regarding these commemorations as a basis for the warning. The Russian Defence Ministry had previously issued a similar warning about a potential strike on Kyiv. The move highlights heightened tensions surrounding the upcoming Victory Day events and Russia's stated concerns about Ukrainian actions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned Russia's "utter cynicism" for launching deadly attacks while simultaneously proposing a ceasefire. Russia announced a unilateral ceasefire for May 8th and 9th, coinciding with World War Two victory celebrations, and threatened Kyiv with missile strikes if the truce was violated. Ukraine, however, declared its own open-ended ceasefire starting May 6th, stating it would respond symmetrically to any violations. Overnight attacks across Ukraine killed five people and injured dozens, occurring as these ceasefire proposals were made. Zelensky criticized Russia's actions as propaganda-driven, urging them to disarm and engage in genuine diplomacy. The proposed ceasefires appear unilateral, lacking mutual agreement on terms or monitoring.

Russia has launched attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure while truce talks are reportedly underway. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia could end the war at any moment by ceasing fire. Concurrently, mobile internet services in Moscow have been restricted for many users. Russian authorities cited security concerns and the heightened risk of Ukrainian drone attacks as the reason for these limitations, which are in preparation for the May 9th Victory Parade. These restrictions have reportedly caused difficulties for Russians with payments, navigation, and communication.

Russian air attacks targeted Ukrainian state-run gas facilities in the Poltava and Kharkiv regions overnight, resulting in the deaths of five people. The victims included three Naftogaz employees and two emergency service rescuers, with an additional 37 individuals wounded. Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretskyi reported significant damage and production losses, stating the attack involved drones and ballistic missiles, and cut gas supply to nearly 3,500 customers. This occurred shortly after both Ukraine and Russia announced unilateral ceasefires to take effect later in the week. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the strikes as "utter cynicism" from Russian authorities, emphasizing Ukraine's commitment to peace but also its readiness to respond.

Moscow has intensified security measures ahead of its annual Victory Day parade on May 9th, a significant national celebration. Airports in the capital were temporarily shut down, and mobile internet access was disrupted for many residents on Tuesday. These actions are being taken amid concerns of potential Ukrainian drone strikes, particularly after a recent drone incident near the Kremlin. Russia has also proposed a unilateral ceasefire with Ukraine for May 8th-9th, which Ukraine has dismissed as a tactic to protect the parade. The parade itself will be scaled back, notably excluding heavy military hardware for the first time in nearly two decades due to these security fears.

Russia has announced a two-day ceasefire in Ukraine on May 8 and 9, coinciding with Victory Day, which commemorates the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. The Russian Ministry of Defence stated that President Vladimir Putin ordered the truce and expects Ukraine to observe it. The ministry also warned that if Ukraine attempts to disrupt the Victory Day celebrations, Russian armed forces will launch a retaliatory missile strike on Kyiv. This announcement comes as Russia prepares to mark the 81st anniversary of the Great Patriotic War.

Moscow conducted a rehearsal for its annual Victory Day parade, scheduled for May 9th, which commemorates the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. In conjunction with the celebrations, Russia announced a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine. This annual parade is a significant event for Russia, showcasing its military might and honoring the sacrifices made during the war. The ceasefire in Ukraine is intended to allow for the uninterrupted observance of Victory Day. The rehearsal and the ceasefire announcement highlight the importance Russia places on this historical commemoration.

A Ukrainian drone struck an upscale residential building in Moscow early Monday, causing visible facade damage but no casualties. This marks the third consecutive night of drone attacks on the Russian capital ahead of Victory Day celebrations. Two other drones were intercepted, and operations at Vnukovo and Domodedovo airports were temporarily suspended. The Russian defense ministry reported intercepting 117 drones across several regions, with 60 targeting the St. Petersburg area. The Moscow building hit is located in a wealthy neighborhood near the Kremlin, and while drone attacks on Moscow have occurred previously, strikes this close to the city center are uncommon.

Russia and Ukraine have declared competing unilateral ceasefires in their ongoing conflict. Russia announced a truce from May 8-9, coinciding with its traditional Victory Day celebrations and a military parade in Moscow, hoping Ukraine would reciprocate. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated he received no official notification from Russia and announced Ukraine's own ceasefire would begin at midnight on May 5-6. Zelenskyy emphasized the value of human life over anniversaries and urged Russian leaders to take real steps to end the war. The competing declarations highlight the ongoing tensions and differing approaches to de-escalation.