LIVE
Home Blog Page 182

Reps Urge CBN to Lower Interest Rates to Support Manufacturing, SMEs

Olaosun Rebecca
-
0
Reps Urge CBN to Lower Interest Rates to Support Manufacturing, SMEs

As the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) prepares for its 300th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting this week, the House of Representatives Committee on National Planning and Economic Development has expressed concern over the negative impact of high interest rates on key sectors of the economy.

Speaking during a meeting in Abuja with Adeyemi Adeniran, the Statistician General of the Federation and CEO of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Committee Chairman Hon. Gboyega Isiaka warned that elevated interest rates—implemented to tackle inflation—are placing undue pressure on the manufacturing, agriculture, and small and medium enterprise (SME) sectors.

Isiaka acknowledged that the current administration’s bold economic reforms are beginning to yield tangible results, citing improved economic stability and renewed investor confidence. He noted significant progress, including a 100% growth in the capital market over the past two years and a rise in external reserves—the highest in over three years. The CBN also posted a profit of N38.8 billion, a sharp recovery from the N1.15 trillion loss reported in 2023.

Despite these gains, Isiaka stressed that high interest rates are stifling growth in productive sectors that drive employment. “The Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) has been raised 10 times since January 2023—from 16.5% to 27.5%—as a tool to curb demand-driven inflation. However, its effectiveness appears limited due to structural bottlenecks and supply chain disruptions,” he explained.

He called on the CBN to adopt a more balanced and growth-friendly approach at its upcoming meeting, recommending policies that not only address inflation but also foster economic expansion and job creation.

President Tinubu, Peter Obi At Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration: What This Means For Nigeria

Ohiomoje Margaret
-
0
President Tinubu, Peter Obi At Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration: What This Means For Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu joined other world leaders in Rome on Sunday for the historic inauguration of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected Bishop of Rome and head of the Roman Catholic Church.

The event, held at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, marked the beginning of a new papal era, drawing dignitaries from across the globe in a show of unity and reverence.

Upon arrival at the military airport in Rome around 5 p.m. local time, President Tinubu was received by senior Nigerian government officials based in Europe. His visit came at the formal invitation of the Vatican, following the election of Pope Leo XIV by the College of Cardinals, making him the 267th Pontiff of the Catholic Church.

Following the inauguration Mass, Pope Leo XIV greeted a crowd of influential world leaders. In attendance for the ceremony were King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, Queen Mathilde and King Philippe of Belgium, U.S. vice president JD Vance and second lady Usha Vance, U.S. secretary of state Marco Rubio, Canadian prime minister Mark Carney, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy and first lady Olena Zelenska, Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese, European commission president Ursula von der Leyen, and Britain’s Prince Edward, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to name a few.

Why Nigeria Was Among the Key Nations Invited to Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration

President Tinubu had a brief but warm exchange with the Pope during their handshake. The Vatican emphasized the significance of the Nigerian President’s presence, especially during a time marked by global conflict and the need for spiritual reflection.

In a personal message, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin conveyed the Pope’s appreciation for Nigeria’s participation, noting his fond memories of serving in Lagos during the 1980s.

“Your presence is significant at this moment of particular importance for the Catholic Church and the world afflicted by many tensions and conflicts,” the Pope wrote. “Your great nation is particularly dear to me.”

Nigerian Delegation to the Inauguration

President Tinubu was accompanied by a high-level Nigerian delegation, including Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria; Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja; Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of Lagos; Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi; and former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria on Tuesday.

Tinubu, Obi, Fayemi Share Warm Exchange During Pope’s Inauguration

The President also shared a lighthearted moment with Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, and former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, during Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration Mass in Rome.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, shared details of the moment in a post on X.

Marked by humour Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration: and civility, the encounter offered a rare glimpse of camaraderie amid Nigeria’s often polarised political landscape.

Onanuga wrote:
“Fayemi sighted President Tinubu, where he sat with other leaders, and asked Obi to follow him to pay homage to the Nigerian leader. Obi agreed.

“On getting to the President, Fayemi broke the ice between Obi and Tinubu. He said: ‘Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.’

“President Tinubu, ever quick-witted, responded: ‘I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the head of the Nigerian delegation.’

“The President’s response cracked up Obi, who agreed with the President. He said, ‘Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.’”

Both Obi and Fayemi are devout Catholics and Papal knights.

What This Means for Nigeria

President Tinubu’s attendance underscores Nigeria’s commitment to interfaith dialogue, religious diplomacy, and global peace efforts.

His presence at such a significant global religious event signals the country’s continued engagement with international faith communities and reflects Nigeria’s strategic diplomatic outreach to the Vatican.

Joe Biden’s Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: What You Should Know About The Disease

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Joe Biden’s Prostate Cancer Diagnosis: What You Should Know About The Disease

Former US President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, a statement from his office said on Sunday.
Biden, who left office in January, received the diagnosis on Friday after seeing a doctor last week because of urinary symptoms.


The cancer is a more aggressive type, with a Gleason score of 9 out of 10. This means his illness is considered “high-grade” and the cancer cells could spread quickly, according to Cancer Research UK. Biden and his family are currently looking into treatment options. His office said the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which means it can likely be managed.

In Sunday’s statement, Biden’s office said:
“Last week, President Joe Biden was seen for a new finding of a prostate nodule after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms.
“On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterised by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone. “While this represents a more aggressive form of the disease, the cancer appears to be hormone-sensitive which allows for effective management.”

What Is Prostate Cancer

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate, a small walnut-shaped gland which sits between the penis and the bladder in males. This tiny gland secretes fluid that mixes with semen, keeping sperm healthy for conception and pregnancy.

What Are The Causes Of Prostate Cancer?

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but researchers know many things can increase a man’s risk for the disease.

Age: As men age, their risk of getting prostate cancer goes up. Harm to the DNA (or genetic material) of prostate cells is more likely for men over the age of 55.

Ethnicity: African American men have a higher rate of the disease. One in six African American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer occurs less often in Asian American and Hispanic/Latino men than in non-Hispanic white men.

Family History: Men who have a grandfather, father or brother with prostate cancer face a higher risk of getting the disease. Having family members with breast and ovarian cancer also raises a man’s risk for prostate cancer.

Weight: Studies link being overweight in your 50s and later to a greater risk of advanced prostate cancer. Doctors advise keeping to a healthy weight to reduce risk.

Symptoms Of The Cancer

There are often no symptoms during the early stages of prostate cancer, but screening can detect changes that may indicate cancer. 

People with advanced prostate cancer may also show no symptoms. Potential signs will depend on the size of the cancer and where it has spread in the body.

When symptoms do occur, they can be urinary symptoms like those of an enlarged prostate or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).

  • Dull pain in the lower pelvic zone
  • Frequent need to pass urine
  • Trouble passing urine, pain, burning or weak urine flow
  • Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  • Painful ejaculation
  • Pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs
  • Loss of hunger
  • Loss of weight
  • Bone pain

Treatments For Prostate Cancer

There are several options for treatment. Your treatment plan will consider:

  • The stage and grade of the cancer (Gleason score and TNM stage)
  • Your risk category (whether the cancer is low-, intermediate- or high-risk
  • Your age and health
  • Your preferences about side effects and long-term effects of treatment
  • Your treatment goals
  • Results from other diagnostic tests

The two main treatments for early-stage prostate cancer are surgery and radiation therapy. 

Surgery which is radical prostatectomy, a removal of the prostate, seminal vesicles and nearby tissue. Often the lymph nodes in the pelvis that drain from the prostate are also removed. This procedure calls for anesthesia and a short hospital stay. While the radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill the cancer cells.

NBA Launches Anti-Corruption Committees Across All 130 Branches

Olaosun Rebecca
-
0
NBA Launches Anti-Corruption Committees Across All 130 Branches

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has unveiled plans to establish anti-corruption committees across all 130 of its branches, as part of a coordinated effort to combat corruption and promote transparency within the legal profession and wider society.

This initiative was announced by Professor Babafemi Badejo, Chairman of the NBA National Anti-Corruption Committee. According to Prof. Badejo, the decision was endorsed at the recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Ilorin, where a motion was passed mandating every NBA branch to set up a local anti-corruption committee.

“These committees will be tasked with addressing corruption-related issues within their respective jurisdictions,” he explained. “They will engage with local stakeholders—including law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and community organizations—to reduce corruption at the grassroots level.”

Prof. Badejo emphasized that the branch-level committees will collaborate with the NBA National Anti-Corruption Committee to ensure a unified and impactful approach to anti-corruption efforts across the country.

He also noted that the national anti-corruption committee, chaired by Mr. Afam Osigwe (SAN), was formed earlier this year to spearhead NBA’s anti-corruption agenda.

“Each branch will have the autonomy to develop initiatives tailored to their local contexts while benefiting from national-level coordination,” Prof. Badejo said. “Through this approach, the NBA aims to send a strong message that corruption should not be normalized.”

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, he added, “The NBA is stepping up as a champion of accountability and the rule of law. This proactive stance is not just a professional duty but a national necessity. By advancing anti-corruption efforts, we are upholding the very foundation of the rule of law, which is the core principle of the NBA.”

Nelfund Expands Access To Vocational Skills With Loan Programme

Mary Oluwabamise
-
0
Nelfund Expands Access To Vocational Skills With Loan Programme

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced the expansion of its loan programme to some vocational skills centres across the country.

The Executive Director of Operations at NELFUND, Iyal Mustapha, who disclosed this during a sensitisation campaign in Enugu, revealed that the FUND aims to support vocational training through loans, helping individuals access technical education at various skill centres, including fashion design and other trades.

In a statement, NELFUND confirmed that Enugu is one of the first states where the initiative will begin, noting that the plan includes covering training costs, providing upkeep support, and supplying tools after training.

NELFUND also stated that the exact amount for upkeep is still being finalised, and institutional charges related to transport will be part of the loan, emphasizing that it has expanded the initiative to over 10 states, with Enugu being a standout.

The sensitisation tour included visits by the NELFUND management to the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu College of Education (Technical), a technical school, and the MSME Clinics Fashion and Garment Hub in Enugu.

Building A Business From Scratch: Lessons From A Venture Builder Coach 

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Building A Business From Scratch: Lessons From A Venture Builder Coach 

Starting a business from the ground up can be challenging, but with the right mindset, strategy, and guidance, it’s entirely achievable and success often begins with clarity.

On LN247’s morning show, Dr. Helen Emore highlighted the importance of truly understanding the business you’re interested in before diving in. She explained that it’s not just about having a great idea you need to know the industry, the product or service you’re offering, the problem you’re solving, and, crucially, the potential for profitability.

Dr. Emore also pointed out that if you’re just starting out, there’s a real chance of failure, especially without adequate knowledge and preparation. One useful approach is to identify and connect with people already working in that space they can offer practical insight, mentorship, or help you avoid common mistakes.

In addition to desk research, she advised aspiring entrepreneurs to conduct field research visiting markets, talking to potential customers, or observing competitors. You can also start small, right where you are, and run experimental tests to see how your idea performs in the real world. This way, you can learn, and grow steadily with less risk.

Dr. Emore further encouraged putting yourself out there create professional profiles, talk about your business idea, and let people know what you’re working on. She stressed the importance of gaining real experience by going for internships or volunteering to serve others already in the business. Learning directly from those who are doing it successfully can build your confidence and give you clarity about what it takes to grow a business.

Curriculum Overhauling For 21st Century Skills And Competitiveness 

Enyosa Favour
-
0
Curriculum Overhauling For 21st Century Skills And Competitiveness 

Nigeria’s education system is struggling to keep pace with the demands of the 21st century. Many university students today lack the foundational skills needed to succeed in higher education and beyond, while a large number of teachers are ill-equipped to deliver modern, relevant content. This disconnect is a major reason Nigerian graduates often face challenges in the job market.

At the heart of the issue is an outdated curriculum that has not evolved to reflect global advancements in technology, innovation, or workforce expectations. While the world is embracing creativity, digital literacy, and critical thinking, Nigeria’s education system continues to rely heavily on rote learning and theory with little real-world application.

Digital skills like computer literacy, data analysis, and even basic online communication are now fundamental, yet many teachers lack the training and access to modern tools needed to teach them. Schools are also severely underfunded, lacking basic infrastructure such as electricity, internet access, computers, and science labs. 

Frequent power outages further disrupt learning and make it difficult to implement any form of digital or technical education effectively.

In many cases, teachers themselves need to unlearn old methods and relearn modern teaching approaches to remain relevant. But with limited professional development opportunities, their ability to evolve with the times is restricted. This, in turn, affects students, who are left to fill the gap on their own.

As a result, many students are forced to go out of their way to learn critical skills outside the school environment through online courses, internships, mentorships, or informal training just to stay competitive. While this shows resilience, it also highlights how much the formal education system is failing them.

There is a need to urgently revamp Nigeria’s curriculum, invest heavily in infrastructure and teacher training, and prioritize digital education. Without these changes, the country risks leaving a whole generation unprepared for the demands of the global economy.

Tinubu Declares National Sports Festival Open

Tosin Onisuuru
-
0
Tinubu Declares National Sports Festival Open

On Sunday, President Bola Tinubu officially opened the 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed “Gateway Games 2024,” in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu urged athletes to compete with integrity and embody true sportsmanship during the event.

The opening ceremony, held at the main bowl of MKO Abiola International Stadium in Kuto, Abeokuta, was attended by notable figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Nobel Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka, and the Governors of Anambra, Osun, and Ekiti States—Prof Charles Soludo, Abiodun Oyebamiji, and Sen Ademola Adeleke, respectively.

Other prominent attendees included Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, former Ogun State governors Chief Olusegun Osoba and Otunba Gbenga Daniel (now a senator for Ogun East), former international footballer Dr Segun Odegbami, and various political figures and sports enthusiasts from across Nigeria.

The festival, running from May 16 to May 30, 2025, is expected to draw over 10,000 athletes. In his opening remarks, Tinubu highlighted sports as a unifying force for Nigeria, emphasizing its role in fostering national cohesion.

He said the government recognised sport as a way of life, hence the reorganisation of sport administration to become a stand-alone National Sport Commission.

Tinubu noted that his administration has freed sports administration from vested interests and political interference.

“We want it to thrive, autonomous, innovative, and focussed because we recognised it critical role in making the nation healthier, stronger and more united Nigeria,” he said.

He emphasized that sports remain a key driver of national unity.

“Indeed, nothing has brought the nation together like sport, whether on the pitch, in the court, or on the track. We are reminded daily that we’re not strangers to one another, we are compatriots drawn from different roots but drinking from the same well of national pride,” he said.

Governor Abiodun, speaking at the event, described the opening ceremony as world-class and reflective of Ogun State’s high standards. He noted that hosting the National Sports Festival is not only an honor but also a demonstration of Ogun’s commitment to national development.

Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, praised the Ogun State government for hosting the festival, highlighting its dedication to sports development.

He emphasized that sports serve as a powerful tool for celebrating Nigeria’s diversity and unity.

“It is not just a sporting event; it is a celebration of our diversity, our unity, and our shared aspiration to build a stronger Nigeria through the power of sport,” he said.

Dikko commended President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and steadfast support for the sports sector, noting that the establishment of the National Sports Commission has laid the foundation for sustainable growth and professionalism in the industry.

“This decision has also strengthened sports to be one of the key drivers of our economy.

“Indeed, this clearly underlines the futuristic vision of Mr President and a clear propensity to take bold decisions, so long he believes they are right and for the collective good of all.

“Indeed, history will be kind to Mr President for this decision, not just in the sports sector but across other political and social sectors of the country.

“For the first time in the history of the sports festival and in line with the agenda of the Tinubu’s government, we introduced the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) and we have over 200 of them participating in this festival,” he said.

Bukola Olopade, Director-General of the National Sports Commission, expressed confidence that the 2024 festival would be the most memorable in Nigeria’s history. He predicted that the event would uncover numerous talented athletes, whose potential would be nurtured to excellence.

Olopade praised Governor Abiodun for his steadfast support in ensuring the festival’s success. Reflecting on his personal connection, he added,

“This is a very emotional speech for me. 19 years ago, I stood on the tracks of this stadium as a sports commissioner in Ogun

“We are sure and very convinced that this would be the best festival you’ll observe in the country. We’re convinced that the festival will produce many champions.”

Arsenal 1-0 Newcastle: Raya, Rice Secure UCL Return

Kwaghza Asema Cephas
-
0
Arsenal 1-0 Newcastle: Raya, Rice Secure UCL Return

Arsenal clinched a vital 1-0 win over Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium, securing second place in the Premier League and a return to the UEFA Champions League. David Raya was exceptional in goal with five first-half saves, while Declan Rice sealed the victory with a brilliant strike set up by Martin Odegaard.

The Gunners now have 71 points, and only Manchester City—with two games in hand—can match that total, though Arsenal’s superior goal difference gives them the edge. Newcastle, meanwhile, will aim to confirm a top-five finish with a win over Everton in their final game.

Relief echoed around the Emirates at the final whistle, marking Arsenal’s first home victory since April 1. Mikel Arteta’s men will confirm second spot behind Liverpool if City fail to beat Bournemouth, or by avoiding defeat against already-relegated Southampton next weekend.

After full-time, the Arsenal squad stayed on the pitch to thank fans, though many had left, with another trophyless season looming. Odegaard admitted: “We’ve not been good enough in the league,” though Rice’s goal—his 19th involvement this season—offered some consolation.

Arteta: “I’ll Give My Life for a Trophy”

Addressing supporters after the match, a passionate Arteta vowed to fight for silverware, saying: “We’re upset not to have a trophy, but we’re on the right path. I’ll give my life to win one and push everyone here to their limits.”

Newcastle’s London Return Ends in Defeat

Newcastle’s return to London, after lifting the Carabao Cup at Wembley, ended in disappointment. Despite a strong opening 17 minutes with five shots on target, they failed to register another for the rest of the game. Still, a win over Everton will likely ensure a Champions League spot, rounding off one of the club’s best seasons in decades.

Osimhen Fires Galatasaray to 25th Turkish Title

Victor Osimhen scored as Galatasaray claimed their record 25th Turkish Super Lig title, beating Kayserispor 3-0. The win moves them eight points clear of Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce with just two games remaining. Goalkeeper Fernando Muslera converted a late penalty to complete the victory.

Osimhen, on loan from Napoli, has scored 25 goals this season, playing a key role in Galatasaray’s title charge. Mourinho, whose side has now finished runners-up four consecutive seasons, may leave Fenerbahce early, according to local reports.

Frustrations boiled over last month when Mourinho confronted Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk after a Turkish Cup loss, highlighting the mounting pressure on the Portuguese boss, whose team failed to win any Istanbul derbies this season.

Nuno Dedicates Forest Win to Awoniyi After Scary Injury

Nottingham Forest’s 2-1 win at West Ham was dedicated to striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who underwent emergency abdominal surgery after crashing into the post last weekend and being placed in an induced coma.

Players wore shirts in support of Awoniyi during warm-up, and Morgan Gibbs-White celebrated his goal by raising the striker’s jersey. “That win was for him,” Gibbs-White said, while manager Nuno Espírito Santo added, “The team wanted to do it for him. We are proud.”

Nikola Milenkovic added Forest’s second before Jarrod Bowen pulled one back. The victory keeps Forest in the Champions League hunt, just one point off fifth place. They must beat Chelsea on the final day and hope both Aston Villa and Manchester City drop points to secure a top-five finish.

The match lasted nearly 113 minutes due to VAR delays and a breakdown in communication with Stockley Park. “I just wanted the game to end,” admitted Nuno.

Trump to Hold Call With Putin in Continued Push for Ukraine Ceasefire

Ohiomoje Margaret
-
0
Trump to Hold Call With Putin in Continued Push for Ukraine Ceasefire

President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin at 10 a.m. ET on Monday, as the White House intensifies efforts to end Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. This follows recent peace talks held in Istanbul, Turkey.

“The subjects of the call will be, stopping the ‘bloodbath’ that is killing, on average, more than 5,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers a week, and trade,” Trump shared on Truth Social on Saturday.

“I will then be speaking to President Zelenskyy of Ukraine and then, with President Zelenskyy, various members of NATO,” he added.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed to reporters that the call would take place at 5 p.m. Moscow time — corresponding to 10 a.m. ET

This call marks the first known direct conversation between Trump and Putin since February and comes after peace efforts in Istanbul were stalled when Putin declined to participate, despite an invitation from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The Istanbul session represented the first official meeting between Ukrainian and Russian delegates since spring 2022, when a similar round of talks was held in the Turkish city but ultimately failed.

In response to Putin’s absence, Trump told the press, “Nothing’s going to happen until Putin and I get together, okay?”

“And obviously he wasn’t going to go,” Trump said. “He was going to go, but he thought I was going to go. He wasn’t going if I wasn’t there. And I don’t believe anything’s going to happen, whether you like it or not, until he and I get together, but we’re going to have to get it solved, because too many people are dying.”

Despite Trump’s ongoing threats of tougher sanctions, Russia’s strategic objectives have remained consistent. Public statements from Moscow continue to demand that Ukraine relinquish four regions — not entirely under Russian control — along with Crimea, and that Kyiv commit to staying out of NATO permanently.

Putin said Sunday that any peace agreement should “eliminate the causes that triggered this crisis” and “guarantee Russia’s security.”

Ukraine and its allies in Europe are pushing for a 30-day ceasefire to create space for real negotiations. Russia has not agreed to this, instead insisting that all Western military assistance to Ukraine be halted as part of any truce.

Diplomatic contacts have continued since the Istanbul meeting. On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that Rubio welcomed the prisoner exchange deal reached in Istanbul and echoed Trump’s call for an immediate halt to fighting.

Vice President JD Vance also met with President Zelenskyy at the Vatican on Saturday, following Pope Leo XIV’s offer to host further peace talks.

Following their meeting, Zelenskyy posted on X that he had “reaffirmed that Ukraine is ready to be engaged in real diplomacy and underscored the importance of a full and unconditional ceasefire as soon as possible.”

“We have also touched upon the need for sanctions against Russia, bilateral trade, defense cooperation, battlefield situation and upcoming prisoners exchange,” Zelenskyy continued. “Pressure is needed against Russia until they are eager to stop the war.”

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote on X that the recent Istanbul meeting exposed a “stark difference” between Ukraine and Russia. “Ukraine is forward-looking, focused on the full and immediate ceasefire to kickstart the real peace process.”

“To the contrary, Russia is completely focused on the past, rejecting the ceasefire and instead talking constantly about the 2022 Istanbul meetings, attempting to make the same absurd demands as three years ago,” Sybiha stated.

“This is yet another reason why pressure on Russia must be increased,” he added. “Moscow must now understand the consequences of impeding the peace process.”

At the same time, hostilities persist. Overnight into Monday, Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched 112 drones, of which 76 were either intercepted or neutralized. Damage was reported in five regions.

Russia’s Defense Ministry said Monday morning that its forces had downed 35 Ukrainian drones overnight.

1...181182183...2,559Page 182 of 2,559
Kingschat

© 2025 LN247. All Rights Reserved