Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that his government is seeking to revive stalled peace negotiations with Russia, aiming to bring an end to the ongoing conflict.
In his nightly address, Zelensky revealed that top security official Rustem Umerov has extended an invitation to Russian representatives for a meeting next week. “Everything must be done to achieve a ceasefire,” Zelensky emphasized.
He also reiterated his willingness to meet directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating, “Only a high-level dialogue can truly secure lasting peace.”
The announcement followed another night of heavy Russian aerial bombardment across Ukraine, which left at least three people dead and multiple regions affected.
According to Ukrainian officials, ten regions, including major urban centers, were struck between Friday night and Saturday morning. The Ukrainian military reported that over 340 drones — including decoys — along with 35 cruise and ballistic missiles, were launched. Most, they claimed, were successfully intercepted.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump declared earlier this week that if he returns to office, the U.S. will provide Ukraine with advanced weaponry through NATO allies. He also warned of a 50-day deadline for peace, threatening sweeping tariffs on Russia and any nations continuing trade with Moscow should a resolution not be reached.
Despite multiple prior attempts at negotiation — including two rounds of talks in Istanbul — little headway has been made. While prisoner swaps and repatriation of soldiers’ remains were agreed upon, a broader ceasefire deal has remained elusive.
Following the latest round of failed talks in early June, Ukraine accused Russia of refusing to commit to an unconditional ceasefire, a demand backed by Kyiv’s Western allies.
Moscow, in contrast, has demanded that Ukraine surrender more territory and halt all cooperation with NATO and Western military support — conditions Ukraine has flatly rejected.
Zelensky has accused the Kremlin of deliberately obstructing diplomatic progress, saying Russia appears intent on preventing any future negotiations from bearing fruit.
Since launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia has seized and now occupies roughly 20% of Ukrainian land, including Crimea, which was annexed back in 2014.
