Summary
- A new Russian offensive in Kharkiv and Sumy regions
The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Syrskyi reported intensification of Russian actions in North-Eastern Ukraine. The Institute for the Study of War suggests that the Russian Federation seeks to create a buffer zone, but currently lacks resources for a full-scale offensive.
- Trump and ceasefire by April 20
The US planned a ceasefire before April 20, but the prospects are dim. Trump has no clear position — his rhetoric changes every day, and there are doubts if he really has any strategic plan for Ukraine.
- Ukraine is ready to pay for US aid
Zelenskyy has announced that Ukraine is ready to spend up to UAH 50 billion on US military aid. This may be an argument for Trump, who prefers financial profit to gratuitous help.
- Insufficient support for Ukraine’s defence industry
The Economist journalists note that the potential of the Ukrainian defence sector is underemployed due to lack of funding. Europe could invest in the development of this sector, which would significantly enhance Ukraine's defence capabilities.
- US Defense Secretary still goes to Ramstein
Initially, the US did not plan to participate in the in Ramstein meeting, but the Defense Secretary has changed his mind. This indicates internal disagreements in Trump's team and its reluctance to completely surrender the initiative to European countries.
