The Ukraine war intensifies as Russia claims to have captured two more settlements in Donetsk while advancing on multiple fronts. Ukraine reports repelling Russian attacks in several regions, including Kharkiv and Kherson. Meanwhile, Moscow accuses Kyiv of damaging the TurkStream pipeline, escalating tensions further. As diplomatic efforts continue, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has spoken to his Turkish counterpart, warning of a strong response to Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: Fierce battles rage across Ukraine as Russia claims gains

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday (March 2) that he does not "trust" Russian President Vladimir Putin, stressing that a ceasefire without a security guarantee would be dangerous and "he would come again" if given the chance.&nbsp;
Hence the critical need for &ldquo;security guarantees&rdquo;, the UK prime minister said. Starmer has been insisting that without a security guarantee, the Russian president could attack Ukraine again and the situation could blow up into a wider war.
On the other hand, he said that he trusts Zelensky and Trump. When asked if Zelensky had done anything wrong, Starmer said, "he didn't", adding that the Ukrainian president has bravely served his country as a wartime leader since Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion was launched in February 2022.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/in-trump-zelensky-fight-over-ukraine-the-winner-is-vladimir-putin-8767033">In Trump-Zelensky fight over Ukraine, the winner is Vladimir Putin</a>
<h2>'Felt uncomfortable'</h2>
Starmer said that he felt "uncomfortable" watching the argument between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.&nbsp;
The UK PM insisted that the focus has to be a "lasting peace" in Ukraine, adding that it is crucial for the security of Europe.&nbsp;
While talking to the BBC, when he was asked about the fiery conversation between Trump and Zelensky, Starmer said, "Nobody wants to see that", adding that he spoke to Trump and Zelensky on the phone after the heated exchange.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-just-trump-biden-also-had-once-raised-his-voice-at-zelensky-heres-what-happened-8770962">Not just Trump, Biden had also raised his voice at Zelensky once. Here&rsquo;s what happened</a>
He said that the purpose has been to "bridge" tensions to get everyone back to the "central focus" of supporting Ukraine to "stop the fighting" in the long run.
While talking about lasting peace, Starmer said that the worst of all outcomes is for Russia to break the terms of an agreed ceasefire deal.&nbsp;
"What I am clear about is that if there is to be a deal, if there is to be a stopping of the fighting, then that agreement has to be defended, because the worst of all outcomes is that there is a temporary pause, and then Putin comes again," he stressed.&nbsp;
Calling it a "real risk", the UK PM said that this has happened in the past. "That is why we must ensure that if there&rsquo;s a deal, it&rsquo;s a lasting deal, not a temporary pause."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/funds-for-weapons-production-in-ukraine-whats-inside-the-starmer-zelensky-loan-agreement-8770003">'Weapons production in Ukraine': What's inside the Starmer-Zelensky&nbsp;$2.84bn loan agreement?</a>
<h2>US security guarantee subject of 'intense discussion'</h2>
Starmer said that he thinks the US president wants to see a lasting peace in Ukraine despite his rhetoric and attitude towards Zelensky.&nbsp;
"Everybody agrees with that, apart from Putin,&rdquo; he told the BBC.&nbsp;
The security guarantee from the US is the subject of &ldquo;intense&rdquo; discussion, Starmer said.
By &ldquo;lasting peace&rdquo;, Starmer means a &ldquo;US backstop&rdquo;, along with &ldquo;security guarantees&rdquo; provided by European countries and a &ldquo;strong Ukraine&rdquo; armed with defensive capabilities to resist the Russian invasion.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antagonistic-us-state-secretary-marco-rubio-demands-apology-from-zelensky-for-white-house-fiasco-8768868">'Antagonistic': US State Secretary Marco Rubio demands 'apology' from Zelensky for White House fiasco</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World: Starmer said that he felt "uncomfortable" watching the argument between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday (March 2) that he does not "trust" Russian President Vladimir Putin, stressing that a ceasefire without a security guarantee would be dangerous and "he would come again" if given the chance. Hence the critical need for “security guarantees”, the UK prime minister said. Starmer has been insisting that without a security guarantee, the Russian president could attack Ukraine again and the situation could blow up into a wider war. On the other hand, he said that he trusts Zelensky and Trump. When asked if Zelensky had done anything wrong, Starmer said, "he didn't", adding that the Ukrainian president has bravely served his country as a wartime leader since Russia’s full-scale invasion was launched in February 2022. Also read: In Trump-Zelensky fight over Ukraine, the winner is Vladimir Putin 'Felt uncomfortable' Starmer said that he felt "uncomfortable" watching the argument between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. The UK PM insisted that the focus has to be a "lasting peace" in Ukraine, adding that it is crucial for the security of Europe. While talking to the BBC, when he was asked about the fiery conversation between Trump and Zelensky, Starmer said, "Nobody wants to see that", adding that he spoke to Trump and Zelensky on the phone after the heated exchange. Also read: Not just Trump, Biden had also raised his voice at Zelensky once. Here’s what happened He said that the purpose has been to "bridge" tensions to get everyone back to the "central focus" of supporting Ukraine to "stop the fighting" in the long run. While talking about lasting peace, Starmer said that the worst of all outcomes is for Russia to break the terms of an agreed ceasefire deal. "What I am clear about is that if there is to be a deal, if there is to be a stopping of the fighting, then that agreement has to be defended, because the worst of all outcomes is that there is a temporary pause, and then Putin comes again," he stressed. Calling it a "real risk", the UK PM said that this has happened in the past. "That is why we must ensure that if there’s a deal, it’s a lasting deal, not a temporary pause." Also read: 'Weapons production in Ukraine': What's inside the Starmer-Zelensky $2.84bn loan agreement? US security guarantee subject of 'intense discussion' Starmer said that he thinks the US president wants to see a lasting peace in Ukraine despite his rhetoric and attitude towards Zelensky. "Everybody agrees with that, apart from Putin,” he told the BBC. The security guarantee from the US is the subject of “intense” discussion, Starmer said. By “lasting peace”, Starmer means a “US backstop”, along with “security guarantees” provided by European countries and a “strong Ukraine” armed with defensive capabilities to resist the Russian invasion. Also read: 'Antagonistic': US State Secretary Marco Rubio demands 'apology' from Zelensky for White House fiasco (With inputs from agencies)

‘He would come again’: UK PM Starmer says he doesn’t trust Putin, calls for ‘security guarantees’

US President Donald Trump hosted UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for high-stakes talks on Ukraine and a potential US-UK trade deal. Trump suggested a Ukraine peace deal is at a crucial stage and emphasized that Putin "keeps his word." Meanwhile, discussions on a trade agreement could help Britain avoid tariffs.

US President Trump and UK PM Starmer discuss Ukraine, trade and security commitments

Donald Trump has made his stance pretty clear: Europe must defend itself. He has now launched a fresh attack on the EU, and this comes as European capitals feel ignored after Washington sidelined them and opened a direct line with their enemy number one at the moment, Moscow.

Trump dodges Ukraine security guarantee plea

US President Trump believes that Putin will keep his word on peace deal

With Trump threatening to pull back US troops, Europe faces a growing security crisis. Russia’s defense spending has surpassed Europe's, and its weapons production is outpacing NATO. As tensions rise, can Europe stand alone against Moscow, or is NATO still a formidable force without US support?

Europe's security at risk as Trump threatens troop withdrawal

Ukraine's President Zelensky heads to Washington amidst battlefield losses and diplomatic uncertainty. The mineral rights agreement promises American access to rare earth minerals, but security guarantees for Kyiv remain conspicuously absent. So, is this a lifeline, or is this some kind of last-ditch losing gamble for Zelensky?

Zelensky to sign minerals deal with US but no security guarantee from US

US President Trump is hopeful for Ukraine peace deal and UK trade deal

US President Trump and UK PM Starmer discuss Ukraine war and trade deal

US president Donald Trump hosted UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for high-stakes talks on Ukraine and a potential US-UK trade deal. Trump suggested a Ukraine peace deal is at a crucial stage and emphasized that Putin "keeps his word." Meanwhile, discussions on a trade agreement could help Britain avoid tariffs.

US President Trump says negotiations on deal to end Ukraine war at crucial stage

US President Donald Trump hosted French leader Emmanuel Macron at the White House on the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Both leaders discussed the 'progress' made between countries on peace talks concerning the Russia-Ukraine war. Watch to know more!

Trump-Macron Meet: Macron Makes A Case For Ukraine, Trump Seemed Deeply Estranged

The United Nations General Assembly on Monday adopted two resolutions calling for an end to the war while rejecting a US draft that never mentioned Moscow's aggression. Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: US Refuses To Blame Putin For War During UN Resolution Voting

Russian President Vladimir Putin was presented with a sword and a shield on the third anniversary of the Ukraine conflict. The weapons were brought by Grand Mufti Talgat Tadzhuddin on Monday (Feb 24).
The president met Tadzhuddin on Monday and expressed gratitude to him and all Muslims. He is also the Chairman of the Central Spiritual Administration of the Muslims of Russia.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosives-thrown-at-russian-consulate-in-marseille-on-ukraine-war-anniversary-8752019">Explosives thrown at Russian consulate in Marseille on Ukraine war anniversary</a>
<h2>&lsquo;Full support&rsquo; of Russian Muslims</h2>
Tadzhuddin said that the gift was ordered on February 24, 2022, after Russian Muslims showed &ldquo;full support&rdquo; to what Russia calls a &ldquo;special military operation&rdquo; in Ukraine, reported Reuters.
According to a statement by the Kremlin, Putin expressed his gratitude to Tadzhuddin, saying, &ldquo;First of all, I am very glad to see you. Secondly, I would like to thank you personally and all Muslims&mdash;all people who profess Islam are an organic, natural part of Russia and Russian society&mdash;for the contribution that you and other spiritual leaders make to the interfaith unity and harmony among the peoples of the Russian Federation.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-announcement-on-war-anniversary-russia-to-declare-victory-over-ukraine-on-feb-24-claims-kyiv-intel-8744703">'Big announcement on war anniversary': Russia to declare 'victory' over Ukraine on Feb 24, claims Kyiv intel</a>
&ldquo;At first sight, we may appear to be a very complicated country, but in fact, it is our diversity that makes us stronger, especially when Russia is facing difficulties, particularly external ones. Muslims have always made a significant contribution to this cause&mdash;to our unity and common strength that effectively counteract all challenges and threats and ensure Russia&rsquo;s progress. Thank you very much,&rdquo; he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-proposes-all-for-all-pow-swap-as-start-of-ending-war-8752452">Zelensky proposes &lsquo;all for all&rsquo; POW swap with Russia as &lsquo;start&rsquo; of ending war</a>
&ldquo;We have not just agreed; we have been together from the very first day when you announced the special military operation. It is very difficult for a head of state to make such a decision. On his shoulders lies the responsibility before God, the Lord of the worlds, and before the peoples of his country, and in the eyes of all mankind. It was not easy,&rdquo; Tadzhuddin said, as cited by Kremlin.
On February 24, 2022, Putin announced a &ldquo;special military operation&rdquo; in Ukraine, ordering tens of thousands of Russian troops into Ukraine and declaring war. This marked Europe&rsquo;s largest land war since World War II.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The president met Tadzhuddin on Monday and expressed gratitude to him and all Muslims. He is also the chairman of the Central Spiritual Administration of the Muslims of Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was presented with a sword and a shield on the third anniversary of the Ukraine conflict. The weapons were brought by Grand Mufti Talgat Tadzhuddin on Monday (Feb 24). The president met Tadzhuddin on Monday and expressed gratitude to him and all Muslims. He is also the Chairman of the Central Spiritual Administration of the Muslims of Russia. Also read | Explosives thrown at Russian consulate in Marseille on Ukraine war anniversary ‘Full support’ of Russian Muslims Tadzhuddin said that the gift was ordered on February 24, 2022, after Russian Muslims showed “full support” to what Russia calls a “special military operation” in Ukraine, reported Reuters. According to a statement by the Kremlin, Putin expressed his gratitude to Tadzhuddin, saying, “First of all, I am very glad to see you. Secondly, I would like to thank you personally and all Muslims—all people who profess Islam are an organic, natural part of Russia and Russian society—for the contribution that you and other spiritual leaders make to the interfaith unity and harmony among the peoples of the Russian Federation.” Also read | 'Big announcement on war anniversary': Russia to declare 'victory' over Ukraine on Feb 24, claims Kyiv intel “At first sight, we may appear to be a very complicated country, but in fact, it is our diversity that makes us stronger, especially when Russia is facing difficulties, particularly external ones. Muslims have always made a significant contribution to this cause—to our unity and common strength that effectively counteract all challenges and threats and ensure Russia’s progress. Thank you very much,” he said. Also read | Zelensky proposes ‘all for all’ POW swap with Russia as ‘start’ of ending war “We have not just agreed; we have been together from the very first day when you announced the special military operation. It is very difficult for a head of state to make such a decision. On his shoulders lies the responsibility before God, the Lord of the worlds, and before the peoples of his country, and in the eyes of all mankind. It was not easy,” Tadzhuddin said, as cited by Kremlin. On February 24, 2022, Putin announced a “special military operation” in Ukraine, ordering tens of thousands of Russian troops into Ukraine and declaring war. This marked Europe’s largest land war since World War II. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Putin presented with sword, shield on third anniversary of Ukraine war

In third year of war, Ukraine is cornered and betrayed by its principal backer US. Donald Trump has trashed the policy of supporting Ukraine and is instead pushing for a deal. Ukraine has been sidelined from negotiations to finalise the deal that will end the war. For that, Trump is pressuring Ukraine to give up land, natural resources, and security guarantees. Watch to know more!

Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky Hails ‘Three Years Of Resistance’ On War Anniversary

For three years, the Ukraine-Russia war has reshaped global geopolitics. As the conflict enters its fourth year, the U.S. and Russia meet for peace talks—but without Ukraine or other European nations at the table. Why were they excluded? Is Europe losing its influence on the world stage? Has this war accelerated the continent’s decline while strengthening Vladimir Putin’s position?

Russia-Ukraine war: 3 years later. Rise of Putin, fall of Europe?

Recent talks between Russian president Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump has sparked speculation about a potential shift in global alliances. The development comes at a time when China has been a crucial economic partner for Russia since western sanctions were imposed following the Ukraine invasion. Now, with the possibility of improved US-Russia relations, China may face uncertainties in its strategic calculus.

'Anything But China' Policy Gaining Traction?

The Trump administration is aggressively resetting Washington's very tense relations with Moscow, pushing to end the Ukraine war in the highest-profile U.S.-Russia engagement in years. Kyiv is isolated and is now pointing fingers at Washington, its biggest backer, while America's European allies are left out in the cold, unnerved by a dramatic policy shift that could potentially redraw the geopolitical landscape. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump reshapes global order, Europe left in the cold

The European Union countries on Wednesday agreed to a new round of sanctions on Russia, diplomats said, as the bloc looks to keep up pressure in the face of US talks with Russia.
The wide-ranging package, which includes a ban on imports of Russian aluminum, will be formally adopted by EU foreign ministers on Monday, the third anniversary of the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine.
The EU's 16th round of sanctions on Russia comes as US President Donald Trump has undercut Kyiv and its European backers by launching efforts with Russia's Vladimir Putin to end the war.
"The EU is clamping down even harder on circumvention by targeting more vessels in Putin's shadow fleet and imposing new import and export bans," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobody-excluding-ukraine-from-talks-putin-says-negotiations-key-priority-for-russia-8737304">'Nobody excluding Ukraine from talks', Putin says negotiations 'key priority for Russia'</a>
"We are committed to keep up the pressure on the Kremlin."
Beyond targeting Russia's lucrative aluminum sector, the new measures target the so-called "shadow fleet" used to skirt restrictions on Russian oil exports by blacklisting 73 more ageing vessels.
The EU will also disconnect a further 13 Russian banks from the global SWIFT payment system and ban eight further Russian media outlets from broadcasting in Europe.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-will-probably-meet-putin-this-month-dismisses-ukraine-concerns-8734879">Trump says he will &lsquo;probably&rsquo; meet Putin this month; dismisses Ukraine's concerns</a>
Europe is scrambling to react after Trump upended three years of staunch US support for Kyiv by starting talks with Moscow.
Top US officials and Russian negotiators held a first meeting in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to pave the way towards reaching a deal on Ukraine.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-orders-firing-of-all-biden-era-us-attorneys-in-major-justice-department-shakeup-8734328">Trump orders firing of all Biden-era US attorneys in major Justice Department shakeup: 'We must clean house IMMEDIATELY'</a>
European countries are urgently trying to make their voices heard as they fear a bad deal could leave an emboldened Moscow claiming victory.
The US has said that the EU will eventually have to play a role in the talks due to the sanctions it has imposed on Russia.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: The wide-ranging package, which includes a ban on imports of Russian aluminum, will be formally adopted by EU foreign ministers on Monday.

The European Union countries on Wednesday agreed to a new round of sanctions on Russia, diplomats said, as the bloc looks to keep up pressure in the face of US talks with Russia. The wide-ranging package, which includes a ban on imports of Russian aluminum, will be formally adopted by EU foreign ministers on Monday, the third anniversary of the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine. The EU's 16th round of sanctions on Russia comes as US President Donald Trump has undercut Kyiv and its European backers by launching efforts with Russia's Vladimir Putin to end the war. "The EU is clamping down even harder on circumvention by targeting more vessels in Putin's shadow fleet and imposing new import and export bans," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X. Also read: 'Nobody excluding Ukraine from talks', Putin says negotiations 'key priority for Russia' "We are committed to keep up the pressure on the Kremlin." Beyond targeting Russia's lucrative aluminum sector, the new measures target the so-called "shadow fleet" used to skirt restrictions on Russian oil exports by blacklisting 73 more ageing vessels. The EU will also disconnect a further 13 Russian banks from the global SWIFT payment system and ban eight further Russian media outlets from broadcasting in Europe. Also read: Trump says he will ‘probably’ meet Putin this month; dismisses Ukraine's concerns Europe is scrambling to react after Trump upended three years of staunch US support for Kyiv by starting talks with Moscow. Top US officials and Russian negotiators held a first meeting in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to pave the way towards reaching a deal on Ukraine. Also read: Trump orders firing of all Biden-era US attorneys in major Justice Department shakeup: 'We must clean house IMMEDIATELY' European countries are urgently trying to make their voices heard as they fear a bad deal could leave an emboldened Moscow claiming victory. The US has said that the EU will eventually have to play a role in the talks due to the sanctions it has imposed on Russia. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

EU steps up sanctions on Russia to keep up ‘pressure’ as US prepares for talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump could meet as early as before the end of February. Although an in-person meeting will take time to prepare, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday (Feb 19), Russian news agencies reported.
Peskov said the US-Russia meeting on Tuesday (Feb 18) in Riyadh was a &ldquo;very, very important step&rdquo; toward a settlement in the Ukraine war, which is nearing its third year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-leaders-are-pathological-liars-zelensky-says-they-cant-be-trusted-and-must-be-pressured-8736344">Russian leaders are 'pathological liars': Zelensky says they can't be trusted and 'must be pressured</a>
&ldquo;In order to carry out, figuratively speaking, resuscitation measures, diplomats will now begin to work in light of the agreement (Russian Foreign Minister Sergei) Lavrov reached yesterday with (U.S. Secretary of State Marco) Rubio,&rdquo; Peskov said, as quoted by state media.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/russia-eyes-economic-reset-on-ukraine-peace-talks-8735192">Russia eyes economic reset on Ukraine peace talks</a>
&ldquo;But this is the first step&hellip;Naturally, it&rsquo;s impossible to fix everything in one day or a week. There is a long way to go,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>First US-Russia talks to end Ukraine conflict</h2>
The talks in Saudi Arabia were the first time top US and Russian officials had met to discuss ending the conflict in Europe since World War Two. Kyiv said it would not accept any deal without its consent, as no Ukrainian or European officials were invited to the discussion.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blames-zelensky-for-ukraines-war-with-russia-you-should-have-never-started-it-8734910">Trump blames Zelensky for Ukraine's war with Russia: 'You should have never started it'</a>
Trump said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that he would probably meet Putin this month. He also dismissed Ukraine&rsquo;s concerns about being left out of the talks in Saudi Arabia and suggested Kyiv could have struck a deal with Russia earlier.
The most recent time that US and Russian leaders met face-to-face was when Trump&rsquo;s predecessor Joe Biden and Putin earlier held a summit in Geneva in June 2021. Although Biden and Putin had a phone call in February 2022.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-will-probably-meet-putin-this-month-dismisses-ukraine-concerns-8734879">Trump says he will &lsquo;probably&rsquo; meet Putin this month; dismisses Ukraine's concerns</a>
Trump has overturned Western policy on Russia and Ukraine, holding meetings with Russia without Ukraine or European leaders, speaking to Putin, and talking over bringing down oil prices, of which Russia is a major exporter.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Peskov said the US-Russia meeting on Tuesday (Feb 18) in Riyadh was a “very, very important step” toward a settlement in the Ukraine war, which is nearing its third year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump could meet as early as before the end of February. Although an in-person meeting will take time to prepare, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday (Feb 19), Russian news agencies reported. Peskov said the US-Russia meeting on Tuesday (Feb 18) in Riyadh was a “very, very important step” toward a settlement in the Ukraine war, which is nearing its third year. Also read | Russian leaders are 'pathological liars': Zelensky says they can't be trusted and 'must be pressured “In order to carry out, figuratively speaking, resuscitation measures, diplomats will now begin to work in light of the agreement (Russian Foreign Minister Sergei) Lavrov reached yesterday with (U.S. Secretary of State Marco) Rubio,” Peskov said, as quoted by state media. Also read | Russia eyes economic reset on Ukraine peace talks “But this is the first step…Naturally, it’s impossible to fix everything in one day or a week. There is a long way to go,” he added. First US-Russia talks to end Ukraine conflict The talks in Saudi Arabia were the first time top US and Russian officials had met to discuss ending the conflict in Europe since World War Two. Kyiv said it would not accept any deal without its consent, as no Ukrainian or European officials were invited to the discussion. Also read | Trump blames Zelensky for Ukraine's war with Russia: 'You should have never started it' Trump said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that he would probably meet Putin this month. He also dismissed Ukraine’s concerns about being left out of the talks in Saudi Arabia and suggested Kyiv could have struck a deal with Russia earlier. The most recent time that US and Russian leaders met face-to-face was when Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden and Putin earlier held a summit in Geneva in June 2021. Although Biden and Putin had a phone call in February 2022. Also read | Trump says he will ‘probably’ meet Putin this month; dismisses Ukraine's concerns Trump has overturned Western policy on Russia and Ukraine, holding meetings with Russia without Ukraine or European leaders, speaking to Putin, and talking over bringing down oil prices, of which Russia is a major exporter. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin and Trump could meet before end of February, says Kremlin: Report

Trump also suggested that he could meet President Putin shortly. As US overhauls its stance towards Russia, Europe has been alarmed by major shift. European leaders fear US will make major concessions to re-write continent's security arrangement. In shocking development, US President said Ukraine should also hold elections. Watch to know more!

Trump Blames Ukraine For Russia War, Seeks Election In Kyiv To Topple Zelensky?

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he was much more confident of a deal to end the Ukraine war after talks that drew a strong rebuke from Kyiv over its exclusion. Watch this report for more details!

Trump 'more confident' of Ukraine deal after talks with Russia, bashes Zelensky

As tensions rise, the world watches closely to see if Trump will grant the concessions Putin seeks. The meeting between top diplomats of the US and Russia in Riyadh marks a pivotal point for the Trump Administration in reversing US policy on isolating Russia. These talks aim to set the stage for a meeting between Trump and Putin.

What Putin wants from Russia-US talks

US and Russian officials concluded four hours of Ukraine-related talks in Riyadh, with both sides expressing cautious optimism. Despite no European participation, both nations hailed the discussions as positive and crucial for ongoing diplomacy.

Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky insists no agreements without Ukrainian consent

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Feb 18) criticised talks held between US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia about the Ukraine war without Ukrainian presence.&nbsp;
Talks "are taking place between representatives of Russia and representatives of the United States of America. About Ukraine -- about Ukraine again -- and without Ukraine," Zelensky said during an official visit to Turkey.
Zelensky is currently in the Turkish capital, Ankara. In a post on Telegram, he said that he would discuss prisoner exchanges and other issues with Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-us-and-russian-high-ranked-officials-meet-in-riyadh-over-ukraine-war-8731772">Talks conclude in Saudi Arabia Live: Russia says there is &lsquo;mutual desire&rsquo; to start Ukraine peace talks</a>
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (Feb 18) hosted breakthrough US-Russia talks to discuss ways to end the Ukraine war and strengthen American-Russian relations.&nbsp;
However, Ukraine was not part of the talks, with President Zelensky saying that no peace agreement can be reached without Kyiv's presence.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/any-deployment-of-nato-forces-in-ukraine-completely-unacceptable-lavrov-says-8733421">Any deployment of NATO forces in Ukraine 'completely unacceptable,' says Russia</a>
<h2>'Mistakes must be avoided'</h2>
Zelensky while addressing a news conference alongside Turkey's Erdogan, said that the two discussed the global processes in great detail "that could lead to the end of this war".
He added that it is fundamentally important that any talks to end the war "do not happen to the backs of the parties involved".
For lasting peace, he said, "It is important not to make any mistakes."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-one-is-being-sidelined-us-says-end-to-ukraine-conflict-must-be-acceptable-to-all-including-kyiv-europe-8733231">'No one is being sidelined': US says end to Ukraine conflict must be acceptable to all, including Kyiv, Europe</a>
The Ukrainian president stressed that the table of negotiations must have all parties, including America, Europe, and Ukraine.&nbsp;
He further called for &ldquo;fair&rdquo; peace talks, arguing that they should involve the European Union, Turkey, and the UK.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Ukraine, Europe in a broad sense &ndash; and this includes the European Union, Turkey, and the UK &ndash; should be involved in conversations and the development of the necessary security guarantees with America regarding the fate of our part of the world,&rdquo; he said at a press conference in Ankara, AFP reported.&nbsp;
<h2>Postpones Saudi trip</h2>
Zelensky said that he postponed his trip to Saudi Arabia, which was expected to happen on Wednesday, saying that he wants to avoid his visit being linked to US-Russia talks.&nbsp;
<h2>Turkey could host future peace talks</h2>
Turkey's President Erdogan offered to host possible future peace talks in Turkey between Russia, Ukraine and the US.
He told the news conference that Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty are "indisputable".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-peace-talks-live-europe-plays-catch-up-in-paris-as-marco-rubio-arrives-in-saudi-arabia-for-talks-with-russia-without-zelensky-8729487">Ukraine peace talks LIVE: 'Emergency Summit' begins in Paris ahead of US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
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World: Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (Feb 18) hosted breakthrough US-Russia talks to discuss ways to end the Ukraine war and strengthen American-Russian relations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Feb 18) criticised talks held between US and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia about the Ukraine war without Ukrainian presence. Talks "are taking place between representatives of Russia and representatives of the United States of America. About Ukraine -- about Ukraine again -- and without Ukraine," Zelensky said during an official visit to Turkey. Zelensky is currently in the Turkish capital, Ankara. In a post on Telegram, he said that he would discuss prisoner exchanges and other issues with Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Also read: Talks conclude in Saudi Arabia Live: Russia says there is ‘mutual desire’ to start Ukraine peace talks Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (Feb 18) hosted breakthrough US-Russia talks to discuss ways to end the Ukraine war and strengthen American-Russian relations. However, Ukraine was not part of the talks, with President Zelensky saying that no peace agreement can be reached without Kyiv's presence. Also read: Any deployment of NATO forces in Ukraine 'completely unacceptable,' says Russia 'Mistakes must be avoided' Zelensky while addressing a news conference alongside Turkey's Erdogan, said that the two discussed the global processes in great detail "that could lead to the end of this war". He added that it is fundamentally important that any talks to end the war "do not happen to the backs of the parties involved". For lasting peace, he said, "It is important not to make any mistakes." Also read: 'No one is being sidelined': US says end to Ukraine conflict must be acceptable to all, including Kyiv, Europe The Ukrainian president stressed that the table of negotiations must have all parties, including America, Europe, and Ukraine. He further called for “fair” peace talks, arguing that they should involve the European Union, Turkey, and the UK. “Ukraine, Europe in a broad sense – and this includes the European Union, Turkey, and the UK – should be involved in conversations and the development of the necessary security guarantees with America regarding the fate of our part of the world,” he said at a press conference in Ankara, AFP reported. Postpones Saudi trip Zelensky said that he postponed his trip to Saudi Arabia, which was expected to happen on Wednesday, saying that he wants to avoid his visit being linked to US-Russia talks. Turkey could host future peace talks Turkey's President Erdogan offered to host possible future peace talks in Turkey between Russia, Ukraine and the US. He told the news conference that Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty are "indisputable". Also read: Ukraine peace talks LIVE: 'Emergency Summit' begins in Paris ahead of US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia (With inputs from agencies)

‘Mistakes must be avoided’: Zelensky slams US, Russia talks in Riyadh, postpones his Saudi trip

Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to talk to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "if necessary", Kremlin said on Tuesday, adding that he again questioned his legitimacy as Ukrainian president.&nbsp;
"Putin himself said that he would be ready to negotiate with Zelensky if necessary, but the legal basis of agreements needs discussion considering the reality that Zelensky's legitimacy can be questioned," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.
This comes as top US and Russian officials have gathered to hold meetings in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to discuss the Ukraine war. However, Kyiv is absent from the meeting.&nbsp;
US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation with Putin last week.&nbsp;
However, Zelensky has stressed that Ukraine would not recognise "any agreements about us without us".&nbsp;
<h2>Ukraine has 'right' to join EU, but not NATO&nbsp;</h2>
Kremlin further said that Ukraine had the "sovereign right" to join the European Union, adding that Russia did not intend to dictate how they should approach.&nbsp;
Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "With regard to Ukraine joining the EU, it is the sovereign right of any country."
"But it is completely different when it comes to security issues and military alliances. Here we have a different approach that is well known," Peskov added.&nbsp;
Saudi Arabia becomes a dealmaker as it is hosting breakthrough US-Russia talks with the two sides expected to discuss ways to end the conflict in Ukraine and restore American-Russian relations.&nbsp;
Earlier in the day, Zelensky said Kyiv was not invited to the discussions in Riyadh. He added that Kyiv "did not know anything about" the talks in Riyadh, according to Ukrainian news agencies, and that it "cannot recognise any things or any agreements about us without us".
He said on social media that any peace deal would need to include "robust and reliable" security guarantees, which France and Britain have called for but not all European powers support.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: This comes as top US and Russian officials have gathered to hold meetings in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, to discuss the Ukraine war. However, Kyiv is absent from the meeting.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to talk to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "if necessary", Kremlin said on Tuesday, adding that he again questioned his legitimacy as Ukrainian president. "Putin himself said that he would be ready to negotiate with Zelensky if necessary, but the legal basis of agreements needs discussion considering the reality that Zelensky's legitimacy can be questioned," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. This comes as top US and Russian officials have gathered to hold meetings in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to discuss the Ukraine war. However, Kyiv is absent from the meeting. US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation with Putin last week. However, Zelensky has stressed that Ukraine would not recognise "any agreements about us without us". Ukraine has 'right' to join EU, but not NATO Kremlin further said that Ukraine had the "sovereign right" to join the European Union, adding that Russia did not intend to dictate how they should approach. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "With regard to Ukraine joining the EU, it is the sovereign right of any country." "But it is completely different when it comes to security issues and military alliances. Here we have a different approach that is well known," Peskov added. Saudi Arabia becomes a dealmaker as it is hosting breakthrough US-Russia talks with the two sides expected to discuss ways to end the conflict in Ukraine and restore American-Russian relations. Earlier in the day, Zelensky said Kyiv was not invited to the discussions in Riyadh. He added that Kyiv "did not know anything about" the talks in Riyadh, according to Ukrainian news agencies, and that it "cannot recognise any things or any agreements about us without us". He said on social media that any peace deal would need to include "robust and reliable" security guarantees, which France and Britain have called for but not all European powers support. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin ready to talk to Zelensky 'if necessary': Kremlin says Kyiv has 'right' to join EU, not NATO

High-stakes US-Russia peace talks in Saudi Arabia, Ukraine reportedly not invited. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and others head to Gulf state for key discussions. Reports claim Saudi will be doing more than just hosting and will be involved in a mediation role. Trump has tasked his senior team to initiate discussions to curb further escalation of the conflict. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine War: Europe Scrambles As US, Moscow Prepare For Peace Talks Without Kyiv

US President Donald Trump said that he believes he could meet "very soon" with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump says talks with Putin "Very soon"

Russian President Vladimir Putin is getting what he wants. Since his hour-long call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday, Europe and Ukraine have been thrown into turmoil, pushing back against comments coming out of Washington. This after Trump's defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, warned NATO allies to spend more on Europe's defence, ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine and dismissed the possibility of restoring all of Ukraine's lost territory. These developments are a big win for Russia. How?

Putin wins on NATO as Europe shivers from Trump's cold shoulder

In a significant development amidst the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Munich, Germany, on February 14, 2024. Meet comes after Trump’s call with Putin alarmed Europe, leaders think a ‘dirty deal’ to sideline Ukraine brewing 
before calling Kyiv. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine War: Trump’s Call With Putin Alarms Europe, Has US 'Sidelined' Ukraine?

U.S. President Donald Trump announces a potential meeting between Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine at the Munich Security Conference, aiming for peace discussions. However, Kyiv denies any planned talks with Russia. This announcement has triggered reactions from global leaders and intensified debates on Ukraine’s independence and peace efforts.

Russia-Ukraine war: Trump’s Ukraine peace plan sparks debate at Munich talks

Trump and Putin's latest phone call has triggered concerns across Europe, with Zelensky reportedly in a panic. Russia mocks the Western response, urging calm. What did the leaders discuss that caused such alarm?

Why is Europe nervous, and Zelensky in panic after Trump Putin talks?

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