Zelenskyy calls for Putin talks as Ukraine strikes deepen; Russia reports casualties
Ukraine's President Zelenskyy issued a public letter proposing direct negotiations with Putin to end the war, while Ukrainian forces conducted strikes on Russian military and energy infrastructure. Russia reported civilian casualties in Belgorod and continued military operations in eastern Ukraine, with both sides exchanging prisoners.
Why it matters
Zelensky's direct appeal and Putin's flat rejection underscore that, despite repeated US-brokered overtures, the warring sides remain far apart, with Moscow holding to maximalist demands including Ukrainian neutrality and recognition of annexed territory. The economic coercion against Armenia reflects the Kremlin's broader struggle to retain influence in its traditional sphere as former partners drift westward.