Putin Demands Full Withdrawal from Donbas
Vladimir Putin again insists that Ukrainian forces leave the Donbas. He warns Russia will seize the region by force if Kyiv refuses. He tells India Today that Moscow now controls about 85% of the territory. Volodymyr Zelensky rejects any proposal to surrender land.
Trump Envoys See Only Limited Progress
Putin’s remarks follow Donald Trump’s claim that his envoys detected some willingness from Moscow to end the war. Negotiator Steve Witkoff plans to meet Ukraine’s delegation next in Florida. Trump calls the Kremlin talks “reasonably good” but says both sides must take action. The Kremlin awaits Washington’s response. Adviser Yuri Ushakov says no call between Putin and Trump is planned, and no date exists for another meeting with Witkoff.
Revised US Peace Plan Highlights Divisions
The original US proposal suggested shifting Kyiv-held areas of Donbas under Russian control. Witkoff’s team presents a revised version in Moscow. Putin says he had not seen it before meeting Witkoff and Jared Kushner. He says they reviewed every point and notes Russia disagreed with several elements. He avoids naming the key disputes. Two main issues remain: the future of occupied Ukrainian territory and Kyiv’s demand for security guarantees. Ushakov says the talks produced “no compromise” and claims Russia’s position strengthened after reported battlefield gains.
Kyiv Warns of Delays and Hidden Risks
Ukraine accuses Russia of stalling to seize more territory. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybhia says Putin is wasting the world’s time. Kyiv continues to demand firm security guarantees before any agreement. Zelensky says the world sees a real chance for peace but stresses strong pressure on Moscow is essential. He says Ukraine altered key parts of the original US plan during Geneva talks. US and Ukrainian negotiators say they created an updated peace framework but provide no further details.
Europe Expresses Concern Over US Approach
A German news outlet reports it obtained a call transcript in which European leaders voice concern about the US strategy. One warns that Washington could pressure Ukraine to give up territory without firm guarantees. Another urges Zelensky to act cautiously. A third says Europe must remain close to Ukraine during this sensitive stage. The transcript has not been verified. France denies the reported wording and offers no further detail. Several leaders decline to comment. The White House says its team works to stop the killing and holds productive meetings with both sides to build a lasting peace.
Fighting Continues Amid Diplomatic Slowdown
Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022 and now controls about one-fifth of Ukraine. Russian forces advance slowly in the south-east despite reports of heavy casualties.
