URGENT UPDATE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is rallying support from European leaders and Donald Trump in a high-stakes diplomatic push ahead of a crucial summit with Vladimir Putin scheduled for tomorrow in Alaska. This meeting could determine the future of peace negotiations following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine that began in February 2022.
Just hours ago, Zelenskyy concluded a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London, solidifying a united front against Russian aggression. His London visit follows a pivotal discussion with European leaders in Berlin and a virtual call with Trump, where Zelenskyy laid out five key demands for any peace talks.
According to sources, Ukraine will not engage in negotiations without a prior ceasefire, must be included in talks, and will decide on any territorial concessions based on current front lines. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for robust security guarantees, particularly involving the United States, and insisted on further sanctions against Russia should the Alaska summit fail to yield results.
Trump has reportedly agreed to the outlined negotiating terms and issued a stern warning to Putin of “very severe consequences” if he fails to agree to a ceasefire. However, Trump refrained from detailing these consequences, stating only, “I don’t have to say.”
“Putin definitely does not want peace,” Zelenskyy stated. “He wants the occupation of our country. We need further pressure for peace, not only American, but also European sanctions.”
Zelenskyy continued, expressing hope that the central focus of the Alaska meeting will be an immediate ceasefire. “The U.S. president has repeatedly said this,” he added. Following the summit, he anticipates further discussions to outline mutual steps forward.
As tensions rise, the situation remains volatile, with reports emerging of intense military activity overnight. Ukrainian forces reported that Russia launched 45 drones and two missiles across the country, with Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepting 24 of those drones. However, 21 drones struck a total of 12 locations within Ukraine.
Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed to have shot down 52 Ukrainian drones during the same period, highlighting the ongoing conflict’s intensity. The stakes could not be higher as Zelenskyy and his allies push for a breakthrough in negotiations that could ultimately change the course of the war.
As the Alaska summit approaches, all eyes are on the potential for a ceasefire that could end nearly two years of conflict. The world watches as Zelenskyy, alongside Trump and European allies, seeks to hold Putin accountable and secure a safer future for Ukraine.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.