Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced signals from the U.S. indicating readiness to continue negotiations aimed at ending the war against Russia.
Zelenskyy Announces U.S. Engagement
President Zelenskyy stated that signals have been received from the U.S. regarding their willingness to resume negotiations in existing formats to end the war with Russia. He noted a pause in talks and expressed a desire to conclude it.
Zelenskyy added that Ukraine is working to ensure negotiations are substantive, and the Ukrainian delegation is en route to the United States for a meeting this week.
Negotiator Visits Regional Capitals
Zelenskyy informed that Rustem Umyerov, the chief negotiator, recently visited key capitals in the Persian Gulf region for consultations regarding air defense. Ukrainian drone defense experts are currently stationed in relevant countries, providing daily reports on their operations.
Trump Meeting Sought, Donbas Remains Key Issue
Zelenskyy previously stated that a meeting with President Donald Trump is necessary for trilateral negotiations with U.S. involvement regarding a potential agreement in the war with Russia. The status of Ukraine’s Donbas region, which Russia seeks to control, remains a central point of contention.
Russian Attacks Claim Civilian Lives
Over the past day, three people were killed and 13 injured in the Sumy region of northeastern Ukraine due to Russian attacks utilizing drones and guided aerial bombs, according to police reports. Russian forces conducted over 800 strikes on 40 settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region.
Ivan Fedorov, head of the Zaporizhzhia regional military administration, reported three deaths, four injuries (including one child), and 864 strikes on 40 settlements.
Further Casualties and Infrastructure Damage
Two people were injured in the Dnipropetrovsk region, with Russian forces attacking the area 16 times using artillery, drones, and aerial bombs, according to regional authorities.
Attacks on Grain Ships in Odesa
In the Odesa region of southern Ukraine, Russian forces struck two cargo ships carrying grain. Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russia launched 156 drones in attacks from Thursday to Friday.