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Putin’s words on halting infrastructure, energy attacks ‘very different from reality’ of overnight attacks, Zelenskyy says
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has addressed the recent overnight strikes on Ukraine, which targeted vital sectors including transportation and healthcare facilities. He emphasized that “Putin’s words are very different from reality.”
Zelenskyy highlighted these attacks as an urgent reminder of the need for enhanced “defence support and air support” to bolster Ukraine’s capabilities.
The president reiterated that maintaining unity and collaborating to intensify pressure on Russia is essential to pave the way for peace.
He also underscored the necessity of strengthening bilateral ties with Finland, focusing on boosting defence production, aligning procurement efforts, and cooperating on civil protection measures.
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Putin’s words on halting infrastructure, energy attacks ‘very different from reality’ of overnight attacks, Zelenskyy says
US national security adviser confirms plans for further talks with Russia in Riyadh
US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz announced that he and Russian counterpart Yuri Ushakov have agreed to further discussions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aimed at expanding the partial ceasefire that President Trump previously negotiated with Russia.
Waltz stated:
“I spoke today with my Russian counterpart Yuri Ushakov about President Trump’s efforts to end the war in Ukraine. We agreed our technical teams would meet in Riyadh in the coming days to focus on implementing and expanding the partial ceasefire President Trump secured from Russia.”
Russia and Ukraine exchange 372 soldiers in prisoner swap
Russia and Ukraine have completed an exchange of 372 soldiers, facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, as reported by the Russian defense ministry. The Kremlin disclosed the swap following discussions between President Trump and President Putin.
According to Russian officials, the exchange involved the return of 175 Ukrainian prisoners, including 22 severely wounded personnel, while Kyiv returned an equal number of Russian troops.
Trump and Putin ‘likely’ to meet at some point, envoy Witkoff says, as he defends Putin as acting ‘in good faith’
US envoy Steve Witkoff indicated that a meeting between President Trump and President Putin is probable in the future. He expressed confidence in the rapport between the two leaders.
Witkoff commented on their recent discussions, noting:
“You know, I can’t speak for them, but my best bet would be that it’s likely to happen. They have a great rapport together. They had a great rapport in the first Trump administration.”
When asked about the outcomes of their recent conversation and the subsequent Russian attacks on Ukraine, Witkoff emphasized the leaders’ agreement on halting assaults on vital energy and civilian infrastructure. However, he challenged assertions made by President Zelenskyy regarding violations of this agreement.
Witkoff claimed that attacks occurring after the leaders’ agreement had already been in motion before President Putin’s directive to suspend such operations.
Zelensky expected to speak with Trump shortly
President Zelenskyy is anticipated to have a conversation with President Trump imminently, as confirmed by a White House official. The call is scheduled for 10am ET.
We will provide updates on the significance and content of this call as they emerge.
Zelenskyy concluded his press conference with remarks centered on Ukrainian steadfastness in their quest for freedom, asserting that “the most important thing is who will win in the end.”
He reaffirmed Ukraine’s stance against recognizing territories occupied by Russia, despite the challenges in reclaiming them immediately.
In response to inquiries, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Finland’s unwavering support and communicated a vision for future collaboration in rebuilding Ukraine post-conflict.
Discussing European involvement, he suggested that cooperation among nations can lead to fruitful partnerships, especially in defence and infrastructure sectors.
Stubb reinforced the notion that Europe’s collective response to the conflict should be viewed as both a critical moral obligation and an economic opportunity, emphasizing the transformative potential of EU membership.
Stubb commended the remarkable unity displayed by European nations in the face of Russian aggression, noting significant shifts in public sentiment towards NATO in Finland and Sweden as a result of the war.
Furthermore, he underscored that European nations have made substantial strides in defense readiness, highlighting a newfound urgency for collective action.
Zelenskyy concluded by calling on allies to ensure that sanctions against Russia remain robust, as their effectiveness hinges not only on quantity but also on stringent enforcement. He reiterated a commitment to pursuing peace as a vital goal for Ukraine.
Zelenskyy also clarified that while sanctions are essential, their successful implementation is paramount to deterring further Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy indicated openness to continue discussions regarding peace initiatives and the necessity for a broader understanding of international cooperation to achieve lasting stability in the region.
Stubb remarked on the importance of a coordinated effort to counter Russian threats, suggesting that unity among nations is essential for fostering peace and security across Europe.
Source
www.theguardian.com