Russian air strikes on Ukraine have persisted, culminating in a massive attack on the city of Kremenchuk shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported a very constructive negotiation session with Donald Trump's team in Florida. The mayor of Kremenchuk, a key industrial center in central Ukraine, described the assault as a 'massive combined strike.' No casualties have been confirmed thus far, but critical infrastructure, including water and electricity, has been severely impacted.
The strikes come amid intensified negotiations aiming for an end to the conflict, with discussions held in Miami targeting a peace settlement that would satisfy both parties involved. Zelensky's talks with Trump's envoy and the president's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, were described as promising, igniting hopes for progress.
Following the discussions, Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine's commitment to work with US officials to secure a stable agreement with Russia. However, air assault activities have continued, defying the peace efforts, as evidenced by Russia's claim that it intercepted 77 Ukrainian drones in various locations.
Despite these challenges, Zelensky has expressed a steadfast optimism in achieving peace and eliminating the threat of further Russian offensives. This determination is echoed by European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who has voiced solidarity with Ukraine and a commitment to fostering de-escalation strategies.
The broader context reveals objections from European leaders regarding early drafts of a US-led peace plan, steering discussions towards enhanced security guarantees for Ukraine post-conflict, which they believe will deter future aggressions.
In addition to ongoing attacks, leaders from the UK and Germany are set to meet soon to unify their stances on supporting Ukraine, focusing on a 'coalition of the willing' approach to maintain defense resources throughout the peace negotiations.
