Ukraine Accuses Putin of Avoiding Peace Talks as Russian Strikes and Internal Challenges Persist

Zelensky claims Putin fears negotiations, while Russian advances and a defense ministry crisis test Ukraine's resilience.

Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that Russian President Putin is avoiding direct peace talks, calling him 'afraid of negotiations' and unwilling to engage with him personally.
Two women were killed in a Russian missile strike on Mykolaiv, highlighting continued civilian casualties in southern Ukraine.
Russian forces made gains in eastern regions, including Kharkiv and Donetsk, putting pressure on Ukrainian defenses in key areas like Kupiansk and Chasiv Yar.
Internal disputes within Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, including the dismissal of a deputy minister, are reportedly hindering critical arms procurement efforts.
U.S. and EU diplomatic leaders discussed maintaining pressure on Russia and coordinated strategies for addressing shared geopolitical challenges.