Overview
- President Donald Trump stated that Ukraine and Russia are 'very close to a deal,' urging high-level talks to finalize a peace agreement.
- Trump reiterated that 'Crimea will stay with Russia,' pressuring Ukraine to make territorial concessions, which President Zelensky has labeled a red line.
- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described ongoing negotiations as 'moving in the right direction,' though key details remain unresolved.
- Despite diplomatic progress, Russian forces continued attacks on Ukraine, including a deadly strike on Kyiv that killed 12 people and injured 87.
- U.S. officials warned that military aid to Ukraine might be suspended if a settlement is not reached promptly, adding urgency to the talks.