In a significant development regarding the ongoing conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but only during the final stages of peace negotiations. This comes as Zelensky urges for increased pressure on Moscow to agree to a ceasefire.
Putin has indicated readiness for discussions with Zelensky but cast doubt on the legitimacy of Zelensky’s presidency.
During a meeting with major news agency representatives in Saint Petersburg, Putin stated, “I am prepared to meet with Zelensky, but only in the final phase of talks.”
He added that former U.S. President Donald Trump was correct in suggesting that the Russian-Ukrainian conflict would not have occurred if Trump had been in office at the time.
Putin emphasized that any resolution to end the current conflict in Ukraine must be capable of preventing future disputes for the long term.
He warned of severe repercussions for Russo-German relations if the German government were to supply Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine.
Putin explained that the operation of such missiles relies on German military officers and satellite data, implying Germany’s direct involvement in the conflict through their use.
Additionally, he stated that the Taurus missiles would not alter the course of the war, asserting that the Russian military maintains the initiative along the front lines. He remarked, “Even if Ukraine obtains these weapons from Germany, it will not change the dynamics of Russian forces,” highlighting the strategic advantages of Russian troops.
Putin further declared that NATO’s increased defense spending does not pose a threat to Russia, stating, “We will counter any threats that may arise, without a doubt.”
He affirmed that Russian troops continue to advance in Ukraine and achieve battlefield successes.
Calls for Pressure
In response, Zelensky described the recent missile strike by Russia on a nine-story residential building in Kyiv as a clear signal for the international community to apply more pressure on Moscow for a ceasefire agreement.
Accompanying Zelensky were the head of the presidential office Andriy Yermak and Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko, as they visited the site of the apartment building in the Solomianskyi district to pay their respects to the 23 individuals who lost their lives there.
Zelensky took to Telegram, stating, “This attack serves as a reminder to the world that Russia refuses to agree to a ceasefire and chooses death,” expressing gratitude to Ukraine’s partners who are willing to exert pressure on Russia to feel the true cost of the war.
Kyiv’s military administration chief, Tymur Tkachynko, reported that the missile and drone attack in the city early Tuesday resulted in 28 deaths and injuries to 142 others.
Prisoner Exchange
Officials from both Russia and Ukraine announced that another exchange of prisoners of war took place between the two sides.
Zelensky shared images of released Ukrainian soldiers smiling and draping the Ukrainian flag over their shoulders.
The Ukrainian council coordinating war prisoners’ matters clarified that the exchanged group included individuals who were injured or ill.
The Russian Defense Ministry also stated that the released Russian prisoners would be transferred for medical treatment and rehabilitation.
On the ground, the Russian Defense Ministry announced yesterday that its forces had gained control of the village of Novomykolaivka in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region.
Additionally, the Ukrainian Air Force stated that it had neutralized 88 out of 104 drones launched by Russia on Ukrainian territory overnight.
According to their statement, Russian forces executed drone strikes against Ukraine using 104 drones launched from several locations, including Milorovo, Kursk, Oryol, and the Crimean region.
In turn, the Russian Defense Ministry reported that its air defense systems shot down 81 Ukrainian drones over various areas during the previous night.
The ministry’s statement confirmed that air defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed 81 Ukrainian drones that were operational during the night before last.