Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continued through the night. The European Union also decided on new sanctions on Russia early Friday morning. We gathered the four most significant events from Ukraine during the night.
News coverage of Ukraine has continued through the night. We put together the four most important things that happened last night in one story.
1. Order on mobilization in Ukraine
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi has signed an order for a general launch in Ukraine. The order applies to conscripts and reservists. It is valid for 90 days.
According to Zelensky, at least 137 Ukrainians have died in the first day of fighting, with more than 300 wounded.
The president says Ukraine has been left alone to fight Russia.
2. Russian soldiers advanced into the area of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant
Spokesman for the White House Jen Psaki has spoken at a news conference about reports that Russian soldiers are holding hostages at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant hostage. Psaki says taking hostages is illegal and dangerous.
According to Psak, the taking of Russian hostages could jeopardize the maintenance and protection of nuclear waste facilities and is very worrying. The United States condemns the action and demands the release of the hostages.
In 1986, the Chernobyl nuclear power plant was hit by one of the worst nuclear power plant accidents in history, with one of its four reactors exploding.
3. New EU sanctions hit the banking sector, technology exports and individuals
At their late-night emergency meeting, EU leaders agreed on new sanctions on Russia.
The EU’s new sanctions will hit the banking sector and technology exports in particular. Prime minister Sanna Marin (sd.) described the sanctions package as heavier and stronger than before. Personal sanctions are also being extended.
– The aim is to restrict visa-free travel for diplomats and to increase the number of oligarchs and actors in the Russian administration on sanctions lists.
Details of the sanctions will be announced in the coming days, Marin said.
The EU is also banning the export to Russia of equipment and technology needed to upgrade refineries. In addition, the EU bans the export of aircraft and, for example, aircraft parts to Russia.
According to Mari, EU leaders are also ready to discuss additional sanctions.
4. Macron called on Putin to end hostilities
According to the Office of the President of France, the President Emmanuel Macron called the president on Thursday To Vladimir Putin and urged him to immediately cease hostilities in Ukraine. Macron had told Putin about the upcoming “massive sanctions” ahead of the EU summit.
Russian news agency Tass said Putin had explained in the debate the reasons why he decided to launch a military operation in Ukraine.
As the only Western leader, Macron has sought to keep in touch with Putin in recent days. According to Tassi, the leaders agreed on communication.