World leaders gathered at the G7 summit in France on Monday, rallying behind Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowed to intensify sanctions against Russia, aiming to "choke off" its revenue, and pledged hundreds of millions of pounds in energy support for Ukraine, including enriched uranium for its nuclear plants.
Macron and Trump Discuss Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron, the summit host, said he wanted the United States to "stand with Ukraine" and increase pressure on Russia for meaningful negotiations. He emphasized that any talks should include Ukraine, Russia, Europeans, and Americans. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed hope for a diplomatic opening, while US President Donald Trump noted positive conversations with both Zelenskyy and Putin, suggesting both sides are open to a resolution.
Drone Attacks and Military Developments
In Russia's Krasnodar region, a drone set fire to an oil depot, and authorities closed a road near the Kerch Strait bridge. Ukraine struck two bridges linking Russian-held Kherson to Crimea. A Russian Tu-22M3 bomber crashed in Siberia during a training flight, with the crew safely ejecting. Zelenskyy accused Russia of deliberately targeting Kyiv's Pechersk Lavra monastery with drones, killing 11 people and sparking international condemnation.
Fuel Crisis in Russia
Russia is reportedly allowing the sale of substandard fuel as Ukrainian attacks disrupt oil infrastructure. Kommersant reported that refineries can now sell gasoline and diesel with sulfur levels 15 times higher than European norms, along with elevated aromatic hydrocarbons. In Udmurtia, temporary gasoline limits were imposed after a Tatneft refinery shut down due to drone strikes. Long queues formed in Sevastopol, Crimea, as drivers faced shortages.
EU Membership Talks Begin
Ukraine officially began European Union membership negotiations on Monday, a landmark step requiring years of reforms. Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka described it as a "Rubicon" moment, reflecting Ukraine's commitment to joining the EU. Moldova also launched its membership talks.
