Poland is considering sending Ukrainian men who have sought refuge within its borders back to Ukraine to fight, amid intensified military conflicts there. Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz indicated that this step could support Ukraine in handling its conscription needs as the country is currently bolstering its forces in anticipation of a significant Russian offensive. Approximately 152,000 Ukrainian men have relocated to Poland following the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022. This development follows reports of severe casualties in the Ukrainian forces and measures such as lowering the draft age and restricting passport renewals for military-aged men.

In cultural news, Ukrainian musical duo, rapper alyona alyona and singer Jerry Heil, are using the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, Sweden, as a platform to showcase Ukraine’s cultural vibrancy amid wartime. Their song “Maria & Teresa” seeks to empower women and contribute to Ukraine’s image on the international stage, continuing Ukraine’s tradition of using Eurovision for cultural diplomacy since the Russian invasion.

Meanwhile, in France, President Emmanuel Macron criticized Europe’s response to global threats including Russian aggression in a speech at the Sorbonne University in Paris. Macron advocated for European autonomy from the U.S. and stressed the need for enhanced defense capabilities and bureaucracy reduction within the EU. He emphasized that the EU should strengthen its technological and economic sectors and called for Europe to expedite processes to manage existential challenges effectively. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has backed Macron’s vision, marking a collaborative approach towards European politics and strategic autonomy.