War in Ukraine: Days 541
By Rishika Yadav

War on Ground
On 18 August, according to Ukrinform, Oleksii Makeiev, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Germany, expressed hope for a swift decision on the transfer of German Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine. Speaking after a meeting in Dresden, Makeiev emphasized the need for defensive weapons amid the ongoing conflict, stressing their importance for Ukraine's victory, which he stated is in Germany and Europe's interests. Michael Kretschmer, Ukraine’s Minister President of Saxony, reiterated strong solidarity with Ukraine and labelled the war a "terrible crime."
 
On 18 August, according to Ukrinform, Germany dispatched military aid to Ukraine, as detailed on the official German government website. The assistance encompasses vital equipment such as the Patriot air defence system, along with 16 Zetros trucks (part of a larger consignment of 76) and two border protection vehicles (totalling 122 sent). Notably, Germany verifies the delivery once the weaponry is within Ukraine's borders and en route to deployment. The aid package also includes Leopard 2A6 tanks, Marder IFVs, and specialized mine-clearing tanks, demonstrating Germany's commitment to bolstering Ukraine's defence capabilities.

The Moscow View
Claims by Russia
On 18 August, according to Barron’s, Russia imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor, who sought the arrest of  Vladimir Putin, Russia’s President and UK ministers critical of Russia's Ukraine offensive. Russia accused London of steadfast military support for Kyiv and an "anti-Russian policy" over 18 months of conflict. Karim Khan, the ICC's British prosecutor, issued an arrest warrant for Putin in March, alleging unlawful deportation of children from Ukraine. Although Russia, not an ICC member, calls the warrant against Putin "void," the ICC remains resolute. Moscow's sanctions target 54 Britons, including ministers, journalists, and BBC, Guardian, and Daily Telegraph reporters.

On 18 August, according to the Russia's defence ministry, two Russia's warships thwarted a Ukraine's attack using an unmanned boat near Crimea. The patrol vessels, Pytlivy and Vasili Bykov, engaged and eliminated the Ukraine's boat through gunfire.

The West View
Responses from the US and Europe  
On 18 August, according to the Associated Press, Ukraine and Romania have inked a pact to enhance Kyiv's grain exports through Romania, following Russia's termination of a crucial wartime shipping accord. Denys Shmyhal, Ukraine’s Prime Minister and Marcel Ciolacu, Romania’s Prime Minister, met in Bucharest, discussing ways to bolster Ukraine's grain exports and improve transportation infrastructure, including at borders. Ukraine relies heavily on farming, with its grain vital for global wheat, barley, and sunflower oil supplies. Ciolacu aims for Romania to handle over 60 per cent of Ukraine's grain exports.

On 18 August, according to Reuters, the British court denied billionaire Eugene Shvidler's bid to overturn UK sanctions linked to his association with Roman Abramovich, a Russia's businessman. The oil tycoon, worth USD 1.6 billion, was sanctioned after Russia's Ukraine invasion; his jets were seized. Shvidler claimed unfair targeting, emphasizing his distance from Russia. UK Foreign Office praised the judgment and sanctions' strength. Shvidler plans to appeal, asserting the absence of UK government guidance. Over 1,600 individuals, including Abramovich, were UK-sanctioned following the invasion, freezing USD 23 billion. Shvidler's legal team argued he gained no financial benefits from Abramovich, and sanctions impacted his assets and reputation.

On 18 August, according to Reuters, the US has granted approval to transfer F-16 fighter jets from Denmark and the Netherlands to Ukraine for defense against Russia's forces once pilot training concludes, according to a US official. The move follows Ukraine's active pursuit of F-16s to counter Russia's air superiority. Denmark and the Netherlands were assured expedited transfer approval after pilot training. A coalition of 11 nations will train Ukraine's pilots in Denmark. Despite doubts about the F-16s' immediate impact, NATO allies Denmark and the Netherlands have led training initiatives to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities against ongoing Russia's aggression.

On 18 August, according to Euronews, amid concerns over the Russia's mercenary group Wagner, Lithuania closed two border crossings with Belarus, citing security and smuggling concerns. The closures are driven by rising tensions and allegations of Belarusian provocations. The move comes as Lithuania seeks to limit cross-border journeys due to fears of potential espionage recruitment and amid strained relations due to the disputed 2020 Belarusian election and the Ukraine's conflict. Belarus criticized Lithuania's decision, deeming it "far-fetched."

On 18 August, according to the latest intelligence update by the UK's Ministry of Defence, Sergey Kiriyenko, the Russia's Presidential Administration's First Deputy Head, visited Donetsk, occupied Ukraine. He assessed school integration into Russia's education. Zaporizhzhia Oblast received Russia's instructions for new educational standards. Russia's journalists join occupied regions' media, and a pro-Kremlin history textbook praising Russia's military operation will be used in occupied areas and Russia from 01 September. 

The Global Fallouts
Implications of the War 
On 18 August, according to the Associated Press, leaders of the US, Japan, and South Korea convened at Camp David to strengthen security and economic ties, addressing regional challenges posed by China and North Korea. The "Camp David Principles'' were established, including a communications hotline for threat response. Although the summit emphasized broader security concerns, leaders criticized China's "dangerous and aggressive" actions in the South China Sea, opposing unilateral changes to the Indo-Pacific's status quo. The three nations pledged to consult and share information in times of Pacific security crises. Despite historical differences, Japan and South Korea are seeking rapprochement amid shared security challenges from North Korea and China.

References
“Ukrainian ambassador to Germany hopes for quick decision on Taurus missiles,” Ukrinform, 18 August 2023
“Germany delivered Patriot air defense system to Ukraine,” Ukrinform, 18 August 2023
“Russia Sanctions ICC Prosecutor, UK Ministers: Foreign Ministry,” Barron’s, 18 August 2023
“Russian war ships thwart Ukraine's attack near Crimea -Russian military,” Reuters, 18 August 2023
“Neighbors Ukraine and Romania sign accord to boost Kyiv’s grain exports through Romanian territory,” Associated Press, 18 August 2023
Michael Holden, “Businessman Shvidler loses court bid to overturn UK sanctions,” Reuters, 18 August 2023
Steve Holland and Idrees Ali, “US approves sending F-16s to Ukraine from Denmark and Netherlands,” Reuters, 18 August 2023
“Lithuania shuts two Belarus border crossings over threat from Wagner group,” Euronews, 18 August 2023
“Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 18 August 2023,” Twitter, 18 August 2023
Aamer Madhani, Darlene Superville, and Matthew Lee, “US, Japan and South Korea agree to expand security ties at summit amid China, North Korea worries,” Associated Press, 18 August 2023

In Brief
By Rishika Yadav

AUSTRIA
Former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz  charged with false evidence in corruption inquiry
On 18 August, according to Le Monde, Sebastian Kurz, Austria's ex-chancellor, faced charges of providing false testimony in a parliamentary inquiry related to alleged corruption during his first government, leading to his trial on 18 October. The indictment also involves Kurz's former chief of staff and another individual. The case centers on Kurz's role in setting up a holding company and its leadership appointments. Despite denials, Kurz stepped down in 2021 due to a separate investigation into suspected bribery. Austria's next election is scheduled for next year, and recent polls indicate the Freedom Party leading. The charges against Kurz mark a significant development in Austria's political landscape, potentially affecting the upcoming elections and underscoring ongoing concerns about corruption in the government. (“Former Austrian leader Kurz charged with giving false evidence in corruption inquiry,” Le Monde, 18 August 2023)
 
GERMANY
Interior Minister urges telecoms to get away from the Chinese 5G gear
On 18 August, according to Politico, Nancy Faeser, Germany's Interior Minister, urged telecoms providers to move away from using Chinese company Huawei's equipment if it poses security risks. She emphasized that security authorities have long warned against dependency on such equipment. The government is conducting security checks on Chinese technology in telecom networks and plans to ban components with serious security risks. This move aligns with the European Commission's call for member countries to address security concerns posed by Chinese 5G vendors. Germany's stance reflects growing global concerns about potential risks associated with Chinese telecoms equipment. Germany's shift away from Chinese 5G equipment underscores the ongoing debate about the security implications of relying on such technology, highlighting the challenges in balancing technological advancement with national security concerns. (Mathieu Pollet, “Time to cut back on Huawei, German minister tells telecoms giants,” Politico, 18 August 2023)
 
POLAND
Referendum planned on key issues amid opposition
On 18 August, according to Euronews, Poland's Law and Justice party (PiS) seeks a nationwide referendum in October on topics including migration, border security, retirement age, and state company privatization. The opposition "Civic Platform" party criticizes PiS for biased questions. The referendum's approval is yet to be confirmed, but the opposition's boycott suggests concern about potential outcomes. The proposed referendum highlights political polarization in Poland, with the ruling party aiming to engage the public on critical issues. However, the opposition's skepticism underscores suspicions of a biased approach and fears of results favoring the ruling party's agenda. (“Poland to hold referendum on accepting migrants as part of EU scheme,” Euronews, 18 August 2023)
 
ROMANIA
Prime Minister urges police action against beach violence
On 18 August, according to Politico, Marcel Ciolacu, Romanian Prime Minister, called on law enforcement to address the recent surge of violence at the country's seaside resorts. He emphasized "zero tolerance" for disturbances and expressed support for police and gendarmes. Several incidents, including fights involving tourists, lifeguards, and police, have occurred at the Black Sea coast. Ciolacu's demand for stricter law enforcement reflects growing concerns over safety and order during peak tourist season. The prime minister's strong stance highlights the challenge of maintaining a safe and peaceful environment in tourist destinations, especially during busy periods, and underscores the need for effective policing to ensure a positive experience for visitors. (Laura Hulsemann, “After beach brawls, Romanian PM urges ‘zero tolerance’ from cops,” Politico, 18 August 2023)

SWEDEN
Raises terror threat level after Quran burnings
On 18 August, according to Euronews, Sweden has elevated its terror threat to four out of five due to a series of public Quran burnings by anti-Islam activists, triggering global Muslim protests. Ulf Kristersson, Sweden’s Prime Minister, announced the decision based on law enforcement and security service advice. Recent desecrations of the Quran in Sweden prompted outrage and demonstrations across Muslim nations. Kristersson urged citizens to maintain their daily routines while safeguarding democratic values. Concerns have arisen about potential retaliatory actions from extremist groups like Hezbollah, al-Shabaab, and al-Qaida. This development underscores the global impact of local actions and demonstrates the delicate balance between protecting freedom of expression and preventing radicalization and violence. (“Sweden raises its terror threat to four out of five after Quran burnings,” Euronews, 18 August 2023)
 
THE UK
Immigration policies' negative spiral
On 18 August, according to Le Monde, the UK's tough stance on immigration, including recent policies to deter migrants from crossing the English Channel, has drawn criticism. Despite hostile rhetoric, such policies haven't curbed migration flows, with perilous sea crossings rising. Tragic incidents highlight the human cost. Hostile statements fuel hatred and xenophobia, leading to violence. While debates on immigration need openness, labor shortages must also be addressed. Brexit hindered coordination tools and skewed migration policy. Effective management involves European cooperation and relations with countries of origin. Unless truth is acknowledged, developed nations risk perpetuating powerlessness in their immigration policies. It highlights the potential negative consequences of xenophobia and emphasizes the need for more open debates on immigration while focusing on practical solutions like cooperation and addressing labor shortages. (“The United Kingdom's immigration dead end,” Le Monde, 18 August 2023)
 
REGIONAL
EU gas reserves near full capacity ahead of winter
On 18 August, according to Euronews, the European Commission reported that the European Union's natural gas reserves are at 90.12 per cent of capacity, well ahead of the 01 November target. With 1,024 TWh in storage, EU nations are better prepared for winter, notably following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Kadri Simson, EU Energy Commissione, said that investment in renewable energy and efficiency can further enhance energy stability. While EU nations vary in storage levels, the bloc's efforts to diversify energy sources have contributed to reduced reliance on Russia's gas. The EU's proactive measures to bolster gas reserves and diversify sources have increased energy security, mitigating the impact of geopolitical disruptions. This news underscores the importance of strategic energy planning and investments in reducing dependency on a single supplier. (“EU gas reserves reach 90% ahead of November deadline,” Deutsche Welle, 18 August 2023)
 
INTERNATIONAL
Hungary partners for combat drones
On 18 August, according to the Associated Press, Hungary, collaborating with Israeli and German firms, signed an agreement to manufacture combat drones, bolstering its military capabilities and defence industry. The partnership involves Israeli company UVision and an unnamed German counterpart. Viktor Orban, Hungary’s Prime Minister, highlighted Hungary's commitment to a robust defense industry, including a combat vehicle factory majority-owned by German firm Rheinmetall. The move signifies Hungary's determination to strengthen its defence forces while advocating for peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The country's increasing defence spending aligns with NATO's expectations. Hungary's strategic partnership with Israeli and German companies for combat drone production not only enhances its military prowess but also underlines its commitment to self-sufficiency in defence technology. This move aligns with NATO's defence spending guidelines, reflecting Hungary's focus on both regional stability and national defence capability. (Bela Szandelszky, “Hungary is to produce combat drones in cooperation with Israel and Germany, the prime minister says,” Associated Press, 18 August 2023)