Overview
- Finnish President Alexander Stubb told the Associated Press he is not optimistic about a ceasefire or peace talks this year and sees March as a more realistic point to make progress.
- Stubb called on President Donald Trump and European leaders to apply maximum pressure on Vladimir Putin, arguing the Kremlin seeks to deny Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity.
- He outlined three prerequisites for any ceasefire: credible security guarantees for Ukraine, economic rebuilding, and an understanding on territorial claims.
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is working to restart negotiations and resume prisoner exchanges, citing ongoing meetings and calls.
- A reported $100 million kickback scheme in Ukraine’s energy sector is eroding goodwill with partners as Kyiv presses for a proposed €140 billion loan backed by frozen Russian assets.