Zelensky's appeal: Ukraine needs Germany more than ever!

Zelensky's appeal: Ukraine needs Germany more than ever!

On June 11, 2025, a variety of historical and current events took place at the colloquium, allowing a look into the past as well as the current geopolitical situation. Today is the name day of Adelheid, Alice, Barnabas, Jolenta and Rosa. A look back at the events shows that June 11th produced numerous striking events.

In 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave a significant speech in the German Bundestag calling on allies to end Russia's war of aggression. Observations show that MPs from the AfD and BSW in particular stayed away in large numbers, which underlines the relevance of his message.

Historical reviews

There are several notable events in the history of June 11th. In 2005, former boxing world champion Mike Tyson ended his career after a technical knockout defeat against Kevin McBride. Another important event dates back to 1985, when 25 agents from Western secret services were exchanged for four convicted Eastern spies on the Glienicke Bridge between West Berlin and Potsdam.

A tragic event took place at the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans where 84 lives were lost when a Mercedes driven by Pierre Levegh took off and parts flew into the spectator stands. Ehrenfried von Holleben, ambassador of the Federal Republic, was kidnapped by terrorists in Rio de Janeiro in 1970, which prompted Brazil to fly political prisoners to Algeria.

Current geopolitical situation

On the geopolitical stage, Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed regret over the suspension of US military aid that President Trump is planning. This decision also affects weapons that have already been delivered and is closely related to turbulent diplomatic exchanges between the USA and Ukraine. Zelensky stressed the need to resolve differences to ensure lasting peace. Deutschlandfunk reports, that Zelensky has explicitly put forward a proposal for a ceasefire in the air and at sea to prepare for peace negotiations with Russia.

While exchanging ideas with CDU leader Merz, Zelensky expressed gratitude for the support of Germany, which is the main supplier of air defense systems to Ukraine. Various European politicians, including France's European State Secretary Haddad and Poland's Prime Minister Tusk, have criticized the US decision and emphasize the crucial role of a sovereign Ukraine for European security.

Concern comes from CDU defense politicians who warn that Ukraine's state existence could be at stake. At the same time, it appears that EU states plan to discuss aid for Ukraine at an upcoming special summit, which underlines the continued support for Ukraine even in difficult times.

Remembrance days and birthday greetings

Today we not only look back at historical events, but also remember some important personalities. Christian Streich, the coach of SC Freiburg from 2011 to 2024, is celebrating his 60th birthday today. Also in our thoughts are Wolfgang Bosbach, who turns 73 today, and the legendary oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, who died in 1997 and whose work is still remembered.

Another sad retrospective goes to the French singer Françoise Hardy, who died in 2024 and whose musical legacy continues to inspire many people.