Zelensky accuses Russia of blocking peace talks with Putin
Zelensky urges fresh sanctions and NATO-style security guarantees as Russia resists diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of blocking efforts to meet with President Vladimir Putin and end the war.
Diplomatic push stalls
Recent diplomacy by US President Donald Trump aimed to arrange a summit with both leaders, but Trump described them as "like oil and vinegar" that "don't get along too well." Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said a meeting must wait until Ukraine accepts key demands, accusing Zelensky of rejecting every proposal.
Security guarantees sought
Zelensky insists on NATO-style guarantees to deter future aggression, seeking commitments that an attack on Ukraine would be treated as an attack on all allies. Nato Secretary-General Mark Rutte said the alliance is working with the US and Europe to define robust measures to ensure Ukraine's long-term security.
Fighting intensifies
Despite diplomatic efforts, Russia launched a heavy assault, involving 574 drones and 40 missiles in a single night. A Ukrainian drone struck an oil pumping station in Russia's Bryansk region, halting oil flows on the Druzhba pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia.
Hungary and Slovakia, heavily reliant on the Druzhba pipeline, expect a five-day disruption before supplies resume. The EU plans to phase out Russian oil and gas by 2027.
In a letter to Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Trump wrote: "Viktor - I do not like hearing this - I am very angry about it! Tell Slovakia. You are my great friend."
Zelensky warns that Russia is undermining peace efforts while Ukraine seeks strong security guarantees to end the war.
This topic was reported by BBC.
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