Putin Renews His Threat Over Donbas
Vladimir Putin demands a full Ukrainian withdrawal from the Donbas. He warns that Russia will seize the region by force if Kyiv resists. He tells India Today that Moscow controls about 85% of the territory. Volodymyr Zelensky firmly rejects any concession of land.
US Envoys Report Mixed Signals After Kremlin Visit
Putin’s comments follow Donald Trump’s claim that his envoys sensed a desire from Moscow to end the conflict. Negotiator Steve Witkoff plans follow-up meetings with Ukraine in Florida. Trump calls the Kremlin talks “reasonably good” but says results will take time. The Kremlin waits for Washington’s reply. Adviser Yuri Ushakov says no call between Putin and Trump is planned and that no new date exists for a further round with Witkoff.
Revised US Plan Highlights Ongoing Disputes
The original US proposal suggested shifting Kyiv-held areas of Donbas to Russian control. Witkoff’s delegation brings a revised plan to Moscow. Putin says he had not reviewed it before meeting Witkoff and Jared Kushner. He says they examined each point in detail and notes Russia disagrees with several parts. He avoids naming the sticking points. Two issues dominate: the status of occupied Ukrainian land and security guarantees for Kyiv. Ushakov says the talks delivered “no compromise”. He claims Russia’s position has strengthened because of reported battlefield gains.
Kyiv Warns Against Delays and Hidden Risks
Ukraine accuses Moscow of stalling to seize more territory. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybhia says Putin is wasting global time. Kyiv demands firm security guarantees. Zelensky says the world sees a real chance for peace but insists that strong pressure on Russia must support any negotiation. He says Ukraine introduced major changes to the original US plan during meetings in Geneva. US and Ukrainian teams say they produced an updated peace framework, though they released no details.
