Kyiv 'not rushing to resolve conflict by peaceful means,' Putin says
Russia Claims Control Over Cities in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia Regions
Russia Claims Control Over Cities in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia Regions
On Sat, Russian officials announced that their military forces have secured control over two Ukrainian cities, Myrnohrad in the Donetsk region and Huliaipole in the Zaporizhzhia region. This announcement was made by Russia's General Staff chief, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, to President Vladimir Putin, who was seen in military uniform receiving reports from top military officials.
According to President Putin, the capture of these cities marks a significant milestone in the ongoing military operations. He stated, "The liberation of Myrnohrad and Huliaipole are important results of the combat operations and a serious step towards the complete liberation of the Donetsk People's Republic."
Ukraine's General Staff reported ongoing efforts by Russian forces to displace Ukrainian defenders from various positions, including Myrnohrad, while Ukrainian forces continue to resist advances in the areas of Huliaipole and Bilohiria.
Valery Gerasimov, to President Vladimir Putin, who was seen in military uniform receiving reports from top military officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump on Sun at Mar-a-Lago, located in Palm Beach, Florida. The primary agenda of the meeting is to discuss a potential peace agreement that aims to conclude the conflict that commenced with Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. President Zelenskyy plans to address security, economic agreements, and territorial issues concerning the ongoing disputes over the Donbas region.
Recent escalations have seen Russia intensifying its attacks on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, utilizing missiles and drones. In response, President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for strength at the negotiating table, stating, "Ukraine is willing to do whatever it takes to stop this war."
During a recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, it was announced that Canada would provide an additional US$1.8 billion in economic assistance to aid Ukraine in its rebuilding efforts. Prime Minister Carney highlighted the importance of international support in achieving a lasting peace.
The discussions between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy underscore progress in the peace negotiations, with reports indicating that a 20-point draft proposal is nearing completion. The US has proposed security guarantees to Ukraine, akin to those offered to NATO members, contingent upon Ukraine's willingness to forego its bid to join the alliance.
Based on reporting by Africanews.