In a significant shift, Russia and Ukraine are set to engage in direct diplomatic talks, with the two sides exploring potential deal options that could bring temporary peace. The international community remains on edge as tensions continue to simmer.
Russia launches drone attacks on Ukraine: The Ukrainian air force reported that 103 Russian drones were launched overnight, targeting five regions in Ukraine. Ukrainian air defense units shot down 41 drones, and 40 additional drones were redirected through electronic warfare.
The Russian-Ukrainian conflict has its roots in the 2014 annexation of Crimea by Russia.
Since then, tensions have escalated with ongoing support for separatist groups in eastern Ukraine.
According to the 'United Nations' , over 13,000 people have been killed and millions displaced.
The conflict has also led to significant economic losses, with Ukraine's GDP declining by nearly 20%.
In recent years, there have been multiple ceasefire agreements, but a lasting resolution remains elusive.
Kyiv mayor says Ukraine may need to cede land for temporary peace: Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said that Ukraine may have to surrender territory to secure ‘temporary’ peace with Russia. He added that the Ukrainian people would ‘never accept occupation‘ by Russia.
Vitali Klitschko is a Ukrainian professional boxer, politician, and former WBC Heavyweight Champion.
Born on July 19, 1971, in Beltsy, Moldavian SSR, he won the WBC title in 2004 and successfully defended it four times.
Klitschko held a record of 45 wins and 2 losses throughout his career.
He also served as the Mayor of Kyiv from 2006 to 2014 and was a key figure in Ukraine's Euromaidan protests.
Klitschko's legacy extends beyond boxing, with his commitment to social justice and community development.
US President Donald Trump puts pressure on Ukraine to accept deal: Trump is urging Ukraine to accept a deal in which it gives up land to Russia. The US President said that not conquering Ukraine is a ‘concession’ made by Russia.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says parts of deal still need work: Lavrov said that parts of the possible deal agreed between Moscow and Washington still need to be ‘fine-tuned’. However, he added that the process is moving in the right direction.
Ukraine recovers from latest Russian bombardment: The city of Kyiv has begun to recover from a recent Russian missile-and-drone attack that killed at least 12 people and injured dozens more.
Latvia on course with building of defensive line: Latvia’s planned building of a defensive line along its border with Russia and Belarus is on course for completion by 2028, according to the country’s Defense Minister Andris Spruds.
Top Russian officer killed in Moscow region car bomb: A high-ranking Russian military officer has been killed after a car explosion in the town of Balashikha in the Moscow region. Authorities have not confirmed the identity of the officer or what happened.
Overall, the situation remains tense, with both sides exchanging blows and neither showing signs of backing down. The international community continues to call for a ceasefire and a negotiated settlement to the conflict.