Pope has called Putin to request supplies and evacuation for occupied city of Oleshky - Europe live

Key Points:

• Pope Leo XIV, still hospitalized after lung surgery, called Russian President Vladimir Putin to urge a ceasefire in the occupied city of Oleshky, Kherson region, to allow humanitarian aid and voluntary evacuation of civilians.
• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted ongoing EU discussions on the next budget, emphasizing the need for a timely agreement and backing Ukraine's strikes on Russian infrastructure as a legitimate defense measure.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy requested an additional €70 billion from the EU for 2027 to fund defense and resilience against Russia, warning that existing funds may run out amid ongoing conflict costs estimated at €155 billion.
• Zelenskyy criticized Russia's use of energy as leverage to distract global attention and called for stronger EU sanctions, while praising European unity and highlighting the existential threat Russia poses to Europe.
• EU leaders shifted focus from Ukraine to migration issues, particularly addressing the sudden influx of arrivals in Ceuta, as discussions continue on broader European security and financial support measures.