Ukraine is directly targeting Russian territories in retaliatory attacks. Russia's defense ministry claims that it intercepted or destroyed 71 Ukrainian drones overnight that targeted six separate Russian regions. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian drone strike kills 3, injures 30 in Dnipro

The United States voted against a UNGA resolution condemning Russian aggression against Ukraine. The 12-page resolution on cooperation between the UN and the Council of Europe was initiated by Luxembourg and Lithuania. Watch in for more details!

US votes against UN resolution over language on Russia's war

The 30-day moratorium on attacking Ukrainian energy targets ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin has "expired", the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-call-possible-says-kremlin-after-russian-leaders-talks-with-us-envoy-witkoff-on-ukraine-8951898">Kremlin </a>said on Friday (April 18).&nbsp;
Putin last month announced the truce, after holding call with US President Donald Trump, however, the two sites did not stop targeting, and accused each other of breaking the truce.&nbsp;
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Friday, "The month has indeed expired. As of this time, there have been no other instructions from the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, President Putin."
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-drones-strike-six-different-moscow-regions-takes-revenge-8974438">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv drones strike six different Moscow regions, takes revenge</a>
Trump took the promise from Russia as he attempted to break a ceasefire deal in the three-year Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;
Following separate meetings with US officials, the White House said both Ukraine and Russia had "agreed to develop measures for implementing" an "agreement to ban strikes against energy facilities of Russia and Ukraine".
Earlier today, a Russian missile attack on Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv killed one person, while injuring 82 others.
"This is how Russia began this Good Friday &ndash; with ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, Shaheds &ndash; maiming our people and cities," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-trump-tired-rubio-says-us-should-move-on-in-days-if-war-not-ending-says-its-not-our-war-8975571">'Move on...not our war': Will US exit efforts to end Russia-Ukraine war? What Marco Rubio said as Trump gets frustrated</a>
Zelensky said Russia was never serious about the moratorium, adding that Moscow was continuing to strike Ukraine's energy targets "despite Putin's words".
Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister Andrii Sybiha called Russia "a terror machine", adding, "It will only stop if we confront it with true strength."
On Thursday, Zelensky also said that Russia was launching the same number of missiles and drones at Ukraine as before the agreement.
Moreover, on Friday, Russia's morning drone attack on Sumy, another northeastern city, also killed one person and injured another at a factory baking Easter cakes, officials said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-china-arming-russia-and-building-weapons-for-it-zelenskys-fresh-allegations-8974459">Is China arming Russia and building weapons for it? Zelensky's fresh allegations</a>

Putin last month announced the truce, after holding call with Trump, however, the two sites did not stop targeting, and accused each other of breaking the truce. WORLD

The 30-day moratorium on attacking Ukrainian energy targets ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin has "expired", the Kremlin said on Friday (April 18). Putin last month announced the truce, after holding call with US President Donald Trump, however, the two sites did not stop targeting, and accused each other of breaking the truce. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Friday, "The month has indeed expired. As of this time, there have been no other instructions from the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, President Putin." WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv drones strike six different Moscow regions, takes revenge Trump took the promise from Russia as he attempted to break a ceasefire deal in the three-year Russia-Ukraine war. Following separate meetings with US officials, the White House said both Ukraine and Russia had "agreed to develop measures for implementing" an "agreement to ban strikes against energy facilities of Russia and Ukraine". Earlier today, a Russian missile attack on Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv killed one person, while injuring 82 others. "This is how Russia began this Good Friday – with ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, Shaheds – maiming our people and cities," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on X. Also read: 'Move on...not our war': Will US exit efforts to end Russia-Ukraine war? What Marco Rubio said as Trump gets frustrated Zelensky said Russia was never serious about the moratorium, adding that Moscow was continuing to strike Ukraine's energy targets "despite Putin's words". Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister Andrii Sybiha called Russia "a terror machine", adding, "It will only stop if we confront it with true strength." On Thursday, Zelensky also said that Russia was launching the same number of missiles and drones at Ukraine as before the agreement. Moreover, on Friday, Russia's morning drone attack on Sumy, another northeastern city, also killed one person and injured another at a factory baking Easter cakes, officials said. Also read: Is China arming Russia and building weapons for it? Zelensky's fresh allegations

Putin's 30-day order 'expires': Will Russia get a 'freehand' in resuming attack on Ukrainian energy infrastructure?

In a revenge strike, Ukrainian drones struck the city of Shuya deep inside Russian territory for the second day in a row. The strike came in response to overnight Russian strikes killing 35 people in Ukraine's Sumy on Sunday. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv drones strike six different Moscow regions, takes revenge

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine launches at least 71 drones towards Russia

Ukrainian leaders push for support in high-stakes Paris talks as Russia-Ukraine bomb one another

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Apr 17) urged to &ldquo;put pressure&rdquo; on Russian &ldquo;killers&rdquo; to end the three-year war. Ukrainian leader&rsquo;s remarks come ahead of the Paris visit by his top aide for talks with US and EU officials on the conflict.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Russia uses every day and every night to kill. We must put pressure on the killers ... to end this war and guarantee a lasting peace,&rdquo; Zelensky said in a Telegram post. This comes after Russia carried out overnight strikes across Ukraine, including a drone attack on Dnipro that killed three and injured more than 30 late Wednesday (Apr 16).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peace-talks-not-easy-nato-chief-mark-rutte-says-during-meeting-with-zelensky-in-odesa-8965818">US-led peace talks &lsquo;not easy&rsquo;: NATO chief Mark Rutte says during meeting with Zelensky in Odesa</a>
Russia&rsquo;s latest strikes in Ukraine include attacks in the cities of Sumy and Kryvyi Rig that killed dozens, including children. Despite a series of diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire, the fighting has continued.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-vances-relationship-hits-new-low-us-vp-hits-back-after-ukraine-accuses-us-of-siding-with-russia-8965615">'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance&rsquo;s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia</a>
<h2>US, EU Paris talks</h2>
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg arrived in Paris on Thursday (Apr 17) to hold meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron. US envoy Steve Witkoff is also expected to join them.
Top Ukrainian officials are also to meet US and EU delegations in the French capital, said Zelensky's chief of staff, without specifying who they were meeting.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
The talks will focus on crafting a Ukraine ceasefire, as Washington and Europe seek common ground on ending the war in Ukraine. The latest diplomatic initiative comes as US President Donald Trump pushes for a ceasefire to quickly end the war.
The Ukrainian president has urged Paris talks participants to lean on Russia to agree to a ceasefire.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin &amp; brickbats from Trump
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1504_ARJUN_ZELENSKY_830PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1504_ARJUN_ZELENSKY_830PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=316&amp;tags=Russia, Ukraine, World News, WION" title="Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin &amp; brickbats from Trump" id="PL_iframe_block-m9l9tpov-juhho64u-9ivcsdmk"></iframe>
Macron has taken the lead in seeking to form a coordinated European response to defending Ukraine.
According to his office, the purpose of the Paris talks was to &ldquo;review progress on peace negotiations aimed at ending the Russian aggression in Ukraine.&rdquo;

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Paris on Thursday (Apr 17) to hold meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron. The talks will focus on crafting a Ukraine ceasefire. World

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Apr 17) urged to “put pressure” on Russian “killers” to end the three-year war. Ukrainian leader’s remarks come ahead of the Paris visit by his top aide for talks with US and EU officials on the conflict. “Russia uses every day and every night to kill. We must put pressure on the killers ... to end this war and guarantee a lasting peace,” Zelensky said in a Telegram post. This comes after Russia carried out overnight strikes across Ukraine, including a drone attack on Dnipro that killed three and injured more than 30 late Wednesday (Apr 16). Also read | US-led peace talks ‘not easy’: NATO chief Mark Rutte says during meeting with Zelensky in Odesa Russia’s latest strikes in Ukraine include attacks in the cities of Sumy and Kryvyi Rig that killed dozens, including children. Despite a series of diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire, the fighting has continued. Also read | 'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance’s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia US, EU Paris talks US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg arrived in Paris on Thursday (Apr 17) to hold meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron. US envoy Steve Witkoff is also expected to join them. Top Ukrainian officials are also to meet US and EU delegations in the French capital, said Zelensky's chief of staff, without specifying who they were meeting. Also read | ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war The talks will focus on crafting a Ukraine ceasefire, as Washington and Europe seek common ground on ending the war in Ukraine. The latest diplomatic initiative comes as US President Donald Trump pushes for a ceasefire to quickly end the war. The Ukrainian president has urged Paris talks participants to lean on Russia to agree to a ceasefire. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin & brickbats from Trump Macron has taken the lead in seeking to form a coordinated European response to defending Ukraine. According to his office, the purpose of the Paris talks was to “review progress on peace negotiations aimed at ending the Russian aggression in Ukraine.”

‘Put pressure on the killers’: Zelensky urges partners ahead of US, EU talks in Paris to end Ukraine war

A Russian drone strike on Dnipro has caused extensive damage, killing two and injuring multiple people including three children. Ukraine accuses Moscow of deliberately targeting critical energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, US-Ukraine talks on mineral cooperation are progressing, and American officials head to Europe to strengthen diplomatic efforts.

Russia-Ukraine war: US Secretary Marco Rubio heads to France for Ukraine talks

A Russian drone attack in Ukraine's southern city of Odesa has injured at least about three civilians and has left behind a trail of destruction.

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims three injured in drone attack on Odesa

At a time when Washington is pushing for peace the war in Ukraine is only getting deadlier both Moscow and Kiev are accusing each other of breaking truce and targeting civilian areas. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Heavy battles rage in Kursk, Kyiv strikes Russian missile brigade

Ukrainian ambassador Oleksandr Polishchuk said on Wednesday (Apr 16) that an Indian-owned pharmaceutical firm in Kyiv was deliberately targeted by a Russian drone last week because the company supported Ukraine by providing vital humanitarian aid. The attack resulted in losses of nearly $25 million.
<h2>Drone strike on Indian pharma company</h2>
On April 12, the warehouse of Gladpharm, part of Kusum Group, was targeted by a drone early in the day when staff weren&rsquo;t present. Medical products and newly installed equipment were present at the warehouse.
&ldquo;If the drone strike was later in the day, the building would have had more people, and the destruction could have been greater,&rdquo; Polishchuk said.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-warships-docked-at-bangladeshi-waters-for-four-days-now-what-it-means-for-india-china-8967739">Russian warships docked at Bangladeshi waters for four-days now: What it means for India, China</a>
&ldquo;Russia is launching attacks with Shahed drones at night because they are intercepted in the day, and it is targeting critical infrastructure and locations, including pharmaceutical units.&rdquo;
He added that the directors of the company, who are Indian citizens, &ldquo;have a good reputation and didn&rsquo;t leave Ukraine during Russia&rsquo;s invasion, demonstrating solidarity with Ukrainians.&rdquo;
&ldquo;The attack came on the day that marked the anniversary of India-Russia diplomatic ties,&rdquo; he noted.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-develops-star-wars-style-laser-weapon-to-destroy-drones-missiles-joins-elite-list-watch-8958583">India develops &lsquo;Star Wars&rsquo;-style laser weapon to destroy drones, missiles, joins elite list&nbsp;| WATCH</a>
Kusum Group continued its operations throughout the war and produces life-saving and critical drugs to treat diabetes and heart and neurological conditions.
In a video message, the company said that the destruction of the warehouse was a significant financial loss for it, and it is doing everything possible to restore the supply of medicines as soon as possible.
&ldquo;But the spirit of the Ukrainian people cannot be broken,&rdquo; it said.&nbsp;
Polishchuk said that the Indian firm was apparently targeted because it supported the emergency services of Ukraine. Last year, the company was part of humanitarian activities, providing 45 sets of body armour and helmets to the emergency rescue service and volunteer movement in Sumy and Kyiv. It also provided bulletproof vests and ballistic protective helmets to the State Emergency Service.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
Kusum Group has also been recognised by the Kyiv city administration with the badge &ldquo;For Assistance in Defence of Kyiv&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Hundreds of other Indians, especially former medical students and doctors, stayed back to help Ukraine in the time of Russia&rsquo;s full-scale aggression. We highly appreciate their stance,&rdquo; Polishchuk said.
<h2>&lsquo;Nullifying all previous efforts&rsquo;</h2>
Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s visit to Kyiv last year in August, both countries are implementing a decision made by the Indian leader and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to carry out community projects.
&ldquo;The first project will be for setting up computer classes in a school and this can open the way for bigger projects linked to Ukraine&rsquo;s reconstruction. It is important because India usually does such projects in neighbouring countries but this is being mirrored in Ukraine. We are deeply grateful for such support,&rdquo; Polishchuk said.
&ldquo;We appreciate that the Indian embassy in Kyiv joined other ambassadors and diplomats to visit President Zelensky&rsquo;s hometown of Kryvyi Rih last week after it was targeted by a Russian cluster warhead strike that killed 20 people, including nine children,&rdquo; he added.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Odesa buildings reduced to rubble in overnight strikes by Russia
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On Modi&rsquo;s plans to attend Russia&rsquo;s Victory Day celebrations next month, Polishchuk said it would be &ldquo;strange if, after this brutal strike that affected an Indian business, a representative of India were to be in Moscow, greeting those who ordered these attacks&rdquo;.
&ldquo;We are grateful that India always stands on the side of peace, but by participating in the propaganda show on May 9, it risks nullifying all previous efforts toward establishing peace and indirectly sending a signal to the world that it has chosen a side to support.&rdquo;
India has urged Russia and Ukraine to engage in dialogue and diplomacy to reach a peace deal, stressing that solutions can&rsquo;t be found on the battlefield.

On April 12, the warehouse of Gladpharm, part of Kusum Group, was targeted by a drone early in the day when staff weren’t present. Medical products and newly installed equipment were present at the warehouse. World | India News

Ukrainian ambassador Oleksandr Polishchuk said on Wednesday (Apr 16) that an Indian-owned pharmaceutical firm in Kyiv was deliberately targeted by a Russian drone last week because the company supported Ukraine by providing vital humanitarian aid. The attack resulted in losses of nearly $25 million. Drone strike on Indian pharma company On April 12, the warehouse of Gladpharm, part of Kusum Group, was targeted by a drone early in the day when staff weren’t present. Medical products and newly installed equipment were present at the warehouse. “If the drone strike was later in the day, the building would have had more people, and the destruction could have been greater,” Polishchuk said. Also read | Russian warships docked at Bangladeshi waters for four-days now: What it means for India, China “Russia is launching attacks with Shahed drones at night because they are intercepted in the day, and it is targeting critical infrastructure and locations, including pharmaceutical units.” He added that the directors of the company, who are Indian citizens, “have a good reputation and didn’t leave Ukraine during Russia’s invasion, demonstrating solidarity with Ukrainians.” “The attack came on the day that marked the anniversary of India-Russia diplomatic ties,” he noted. Also read | India develops ‘Star Wars’-style laser weapon to destroy drones, missiles, joins elite list | WATCH Kusum Group continued its operations throughout the war and produces life-saving and critical drugs to treat diabetes and heart and neurological conditions. In a video message, the company said that the destruction of the warehouse was a significant financial loss for it, and it is doing everything possible to restore the supply of medicines as soon as possible. “But the spirit of the Ukrainian people cannot be broken,” it said. Polishchuk said that the Indian firm was apparently targeted because it supported the emergency services of Ukraine. Last year, the company was part of humanitarian activities, providing 45 sets of body armour and helmets to the emergency rescue service and volunteer movement in Sumy and Kyiv. It also provided bulletproof vests and ballistic protective helmets to the State Emergency Service. Also read | ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war Kusum Group has also been recognised by the Kyiv city administration with the badge “For Assistance in Defence of Kyiv”. “Hundreds of other Indians, especially former medical students and doctors, stayed back to help Ukraine in the time of Russia’s full-scale aggression. We highly appreciate their stance,” Polishchuk said. ‘Nullifying all previous efforts’ Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kyiv last year in August, both countries are implementing a decision made by the Indian leader and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to carry out community projects. “The first project will be for setting up computer classes in a school and this can open the way for bigger projects linked to Ukraine’s reconstruction. It is important because India usually does such projects in neighbouring countries but this is being mirrored in Ukraine. We are deeply grateful for such support,” Polishchuk said. “We appreciate that the Indian embassy in Kyiv joined other ambassadors and diplomats to visit President Zelensky’s hometown of Kryvyi Rih last week after it was targeted by a Russian cluster warhead strike that killed 20 people, including nine children,” he added. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Odesa buildings reduced to rubble in overnight strikes by Russia On Modi’s plans to attend Russia’s Victory Day celebrations next month, Polishchuk said it would be “strange if, after this brutal strike that affected an Indian business, a representative of India were to be in Moscow, greeting those who ordered these attacks”. “We are grateful that India always stands on the side of peace, but by participating in the propaganda show on May 9, it risks nullifying all previous efforts toward establishing peace and indirectly sending a signal to the world that it has chosen a side to support.” India has urged Russia and Ukraine to engage in dialogue and diplomacy to reach a peace deal, stressing that solutions can’t be found on the battlefield.

‘Attacked on anniversary of India-Russia diplomatic ties’: Ukraine envoy slams Russia after missile hits Indian pharma firm

Russian President Vladimir Putin's top spy chief has publicly accused NATO of increasing its military activity near Russia and Belarus. This he said has prompted both Russian and Belarusian security services to prepare for 'preemptive’ measures against NATO countries.

Russia gets ready for war against NATO

Russia-Ukraine war: Odesa buildings reduced to rubble in overnight strikes by Russia

Kyiv said on Wednesday that it had made &nbsp;&lsquo;significant&rsquo; progress in the long-running and fraught talks with Washington over a minerals deal intended to secure further US support for Ukraine. Kyiv and Washington had planned to sign a deal on extracting Ukraine&rsquo;s strategic minerals, until a clash between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky temporarily derailed work on the agreement.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-soldiers-fighting-for-russia-against-ukraine-warn-of-death-racism-and-endless-contracts-8954687" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Don&rsquo;t come, there&rsquo;s nothing good here&rsquo;: Chinese soldiers fighting for Russia warn of death, racism, and endless contracts</a>
&ldquo;Our technical teams have worked very thoroughly together on the agreement, and there is significant progress,&rdquo; Ukraine&rsquo;s Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko wrote on social media. She said that the Ukrainian side had &ldquo;adjusted several items within the draft agreement&rdquo; and that the two sides would sign a &ldquo;memorandum of intent&rdquo; soon. The Ukrainian parliament would vote on any final accord, she added.
&ldquo;It will create opportunities for investment and development in Ukraine and establish conditions for tangible economic growth for both Ukraine and the United States,&rdquo; Svyrydenko said.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-just-got-here-trump-insists-russia-ukraine-war-not-his-war-slams-zelensky-biden-for-absolutely-horrible-job-8961927" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;I just got here&rsquo;: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War &lsquo;not his war,&rsquo; slams Zelensky, Biden for &lsquo;absolutely horrible job&rsquo;</a>
A senior official with knowledge of the talks earlier said talks were moving forward &ldquo;quite fast&rdquo;.
Trump wants the deal&mdash;designed to give the US royalty payments on profits from Ukrainian mining of resources and rare minerals&mdash;as compensation for the aid given to Ukraine by his predecessor, Joe Biden.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-bidens-war-eu-convenes-emergency-talks-after-trump-calls-russian-strike-on-ukraine-a-mistake-8960870" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;This is Biden&rsquo;s war&rsquo;: EU convenes emergency talks after Trump calls Russian strike on Ukraine a &lsquo;mistake&rsquo;</a>
The source told AFP that newer drafts of the accord appeared not to recognise US aid as a debt owed by Ukraine. That assessment echoed an earlier report from Bloomberg News that said Washington had eased a demand that Kyiv pay back aid delivered since Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022.
It reported that US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had said in Argentina on Monday that a deal could be signed as early as &ldquo;this week&rdquo;.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-threatening-china-warns-after-us-slaps-beijing-with-whopping-245-tariffs-donald-trump-trade-war-imports-8968395">'Stop threatening': China warns after US slaps Beijing with whopping 245% tariffs</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-threatening-china-warns-after-us-slaps-beijing-with-whopping-245-tariffs-donald-trump-trade-war-imports-8968395">&nbsp;</a>

World: Trump wants the deal—designed to give the US royalty payments on profits from Ukrainian mining of resources and rare minerals—as compensation for the aid given to Ukraine by his predecessor, Joe Biden.

Kyiv said on Wednesday that it had made ‘significant’ progress in the long-running and fraught talks with Washington over a minerals deal intended to secure further US support for Ukraine. Kyiv and Washington had planned to sign a deal on extracting Ukraine’s strategic minerals, until a clash between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky temporarily derailed work on the agreement. Also read: ‘Don’t come, there’s nothing good here’: Chinese soldiers fighting for Russia warn of death, racism, and endless contracts “Our technical teams have worked very thoroughly together on the agreement, and there is significant progress,” Ukraine’s Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko wrote on social media. She said that the Ukrainian side had “adjusted several items within the draft agreement” and that the two sides would sign a “memorandum of intent” soon. The Ukrainian parliament would vote on any final accord, she added. “It will create opportunities for investment and development in Ukraine and establish conditions for tangible economic growth for both Ukraine and the United States,” Svyrydenko said. Also read: ‘I just got here’: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War ‘not his war,’ slams Zelensky, Biden for ‘absolutely horrible job’ A senior official with knowledge of the talks earlier said talks were moving forward “quite fast”. Trump wants the deal—designed to give the US royalty payments on profits from Ukrainian mining of resources and rare minerals—as compensation for the aid given to Ukraine by his predecessor, Joe Biden. Also read: ‘This is Biden’s war’: EU convenes emergency talks after Trump calls Russian strike on Ukraine a ‘mistake’ The source told AFP that newer drafts of the accord appeared not to recognise US aid as a debt owed by Ukraine. That assessment echoed an earlier report from Bloomberg News that said Washington had eased a demand that Kyiv pay back aid delivered since Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022. It reported that US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had said in Argentina on Monday that a deal could be signed as early as “this week”. Also read | 'Stop threatening': China warns after US slaps Beijing with whopping 245% tariffs

Ukraine signals ‘significant progress’ in minerals talks with US

The Ukrainian parliament has extended martial law and general mobilization. Martial law and mobilization will be extended for 90 days, from May 9 to August 6. The bill on mobilization passed with the support of 346 deputies… while the bill on extending martial law was adopted with 347 votes in favor. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine extends martial law until August 6, lawmaker confirms | WION Originals

Russia is building a massive drone army as part of its new war strategy, aiming to deploy up to one million drone operators by 2030. As Ukraine also ramps up its drone capabilities, the battlefield is shifting toward unmanned warfare at an unprecedented scale.

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow's war strategy, builds the world's largest drone army

Russia launched one of its deadliest strikes on Ukraine's Sumy city which is located just 25 kilometers away from Russian border. The Russian attacks on Ukraine's eastern front is a part of North Korea's elaborate plan to help Moscow in its war.

How is North Korea supplying arms to Russia?

Well Ukraine has carried out a massive drone attack in Russia's Kursk region marking an escalation in the ongoing conflict Moscow claims at least one person died and dozens injured in fresh attack carried out by Ukraine. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: 1 dead, dozens injured in Kursk strike: Russia.

Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin & brickbats from Trump

The United States has reportedly stopped a planned G7 statement condemning Russia&rsquo;s deadly missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumy, Bloomberg reported on 15 April, citing unnamed sources. The move was made to avoid disrupting peace talks between Moscow and Washington.
Russia&rsquo;s attack on Sumy took place on Palm Sunday, 13 April, leaving 35 people dead and 119 injured. It was one of the deadliest assaults on the city since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-rips-china-for-reneging-on-boeing-deal-slams-biden-vows-to-protect-farmers-8965717" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'China was brutal': Trump rips China for &lsquo;reneging&rsquo; on Boeing deal, vows to &lsquo;protect farmers&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Canada says statement blocked without US support</h2>
Canada, which currently holds the G7 presidency, is said to have informed the group that a joint statement could not go forward without American backing. The proposed text would have described the attack as proof that Russia remains intent on continuing the war.
<h2>Trump calls strike &ldquo;terrible,&rdquo; but suggests it was a mistake</h2>
While several European leaders have called the strike a war crime, US President Donald Trump gave a more muted response. He called the attack &ldquo;terrible&rdquo; but suggested it might have happened by &ldquo;mistake,&rdquo; without offering further explanation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-does-putin-wants-now-trump-envoy-witkoff-says-peace-deal-hinges-on-5-territories-and-ukraine-may-have-to-give-them-up-8964993" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">What does Putin want now? Trump envoy Witkoff says peace deal hinges on '5 territories' and Ukraine may have&nbsp;to&nbsp;give&nbsp;them&nbsp;up</a>
<h2>Rubio offers condolences but no push on Moscow</h2>
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed sympathy for the victims, calling it a &ldquo;horrifying Russian missile attack on Sumy,&rdquo; but did not call for stronger action against Moscow.
This isn&rsquo;t the first time the US has held back from G7 unity over the Ukraine war. The Trump administration has previously opposed a joint statement marking the third anniversary of Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion. It also rejected a plan to track Russia&rsquo;s shadow fleet of oil tankers evading sanctions.
Since returning to office in January, President Trump has shifted American policy on the conflict, reopening direct communication with the Kremlin and putting pressure on Kyiv by pausing military aid.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-vances-relationship-hits-new-low-us-vp-hits-back-after-ukraine-accuses-us-of-siding-with-russia-8965615">'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance&rsquo;s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia</a>
Trump has promised to secure a quick ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, but progress has been slow. Moscow has refused a 30-day truce backed by the US and Ukraine and laid out conditions that Kyiv might not agree to, leaving both nations at a stalemate.

World: Russia’s attack on Sumy took place on Palm Sunday, 13 April, leaving 35 people dead and 119 injured. It was one of the deadliest assaults on the city since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

The United States has reportedly stopped a planned G7 statement condemning Russia’s deadly missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumy, Bloomberg reported on 15 April, citing unnamed sources. The move was made to avoid disrupting peace talks between Moscow and Washington. Russia’s attack on Sumy took place on Palm Sunday, 13 April, leaving 35 people dead and 119 injured. It was one of the deadliest assaults on the city since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Also read: 'China was brutal': Trump rips China for ‘reneging’ on Boeing deal, vows to ‘protect farmers’ Canada says statement blocked without US support Canada, which currently holds the G7 presidency, is said to have informed the group that a joint statement could not go forward without American backing. The proposed text would have described the attack as proof that Russia remains intent on continuing the war. Trump calls strike “terrible,” but suggests it was a mistake While several European leaders have called the strike a war crime, US President Donald Trump gave a more muted response. He called the attack “terrible” but suggested it might have happened by “mistake,” without offering further explanation. Also read: What does Putin want now? Trump envoy Witkoff says peace deal hinges on '5 territories' and Ukraine may have to give them up Rubio offers condolences but no push on Moscow US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed sympathy for the victims, calling it a “horrifying Russian missile attack on Sumy,” but did not call for stronger action against Moscow. This isn’t the first time the US has held back from G7 unity over the Ukraine war. The Trump administration has previously opposed a joint statement marking the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. It also rejected a plan to track Russia’s shadow fleet of oil tankers evading sanctions. Since returning to office in January, President Trump has shifted American policy on the conflict, reopening direct communication with the Kremlin and putting pressure on Kyiv by pausing military aid. Also read: 'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance’s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia Trump has promised to secure a quick ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, but progress has been slow. Moscow has refused a 30-day truce backed by the US and Ukraine and laid out conditions that Kyiv might not agree to, leaving both nations at a stalemate.

Brutus at the G7? Trump blocks allies’ plan to condemn Russia over deadly Sumy strike

Ukrainian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Volodymyr Zelensky</a> and US Vice President JD Vance have once again clashed their metaphorical swords, with both leaders trading sharp words over America&rsquo;s role in the war against Russia.
Speaking on 15 April, Vance hit back at recent comments made by Zelensky, calling it &ldquo;absurd&rdquo; to claim that the United States is siding with Moscow. &ldquo;I think it's sort of absurd for Zelensky to tell the (American) government, which is currently keeping his entire government and war effort together, that we are somehow on the side of the Russians,&rdquo; Vance told Reuters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
His comments followed an earlier interview in which Zelensky accused the US vice president of echoing Kremlin narratives and attempting to justify Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
<h2>'A shift in reality'</h2>
Zelensky, in an interview with CBS News, reflected on his strained meeting with Vance at the White House on 28 February. He described a &ldquo;shift in tone, a shift in reality,&rdquo; and criticised Vance&rsquo;s unwillingness to acknowledge the suffering caused by the war.
During the Oval Office meeting, Zelensky invited Vance to Ukraine to witness the devastation firsthand. Vance declined the offer, accusing Kyiv of organising &ldquo;propaganda tours&rdquo; for Western officials to manipulate views on the war.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-just-got-here-trump-insists-russia-ukraine-war-not-his-war-slams-zelensky-biden-for-absolutely-horrible-job-8961927" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;I just got here&rsquo;: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War &lsquo;not his war,&rsquo; slams Zelensky, Biden for &lsquo;absolutely horrible job&rsquo;</a>
<h2>A long-standing divide</h2>
Vance, a key figure in the Trump administration's "America First" agenda, has long argued against US military aid to Ukraine. He says continued support places an unnecessary burden on American taxpayers and distracts from domestic issues.
Ever since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Vance has been criticised for downplaying the conflict&rsquo;s importance and repeating arguments seen as favourable to Russia. Just days after the war began, he said he &ldquo;doesn't care about Ukraine,&rdquo; a comment he has stood by, saying his focus is on protecting US interests.
"That doesn't mean you morally support the Russian cause, or that you support the full-scale invasion," Vance explained. 
"But you do have to try to understand what are their strategic red lines, in the same way that you have to try to understand what the Ukrainians are trying to get out of the conflict," he added.
<h2>Zelensky warns of Russia&rsquo;s true intentions</h2>
Zelensky, however, has remained firm in his warnings. He insists that Russia is not interested in dialogue but in domination and that Ukraine&rsquo;s only hope lies in continued Western backing, military, financial, and political.
The disagreement between the two leaders highlights the growing divide between Kyiv and parts of the Trump administration, with Vance&rsquo;s latest comments marking another low in their troubled relationship.

World: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview with CBS News, reflected on his strained meeting with Vance at the White House on 28 February.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Vice President JD Vance have once again clashed their metaphorical swords, with both leaders trading sharp words over America’s role in the war against Russia. Speaking on 15 April, Vance hit back at recent comments made by Zelensky, calling it “absurd” to claim that the United States is siding with Moscow. “I think it's sort of absurd for Zelensky to tell the (American) government, which is currently keeping his entire government and war effort together, that we are somehow on the side of the Russians,” Vance told Reuters. Also read: ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war His comments followed an earlier interview in which Zelensky accused the US vice president of echoing Kremlin narratives and attempting to justify Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. 'A shift in reality' Zelensky, in an interview with CBS News, reflected on his strained meeting with Vance at the White House on 28 February. He described a “shift in tone, a shift in reality,” and criticised Vance’s unwillingness to acknowledge the suffering caused by the war. During the Oval Office meeting, Zelensky invited Vance to Ukraine to witness the devastation firsthand. Vance declined the offer, accusing Kyiv of organising “propaganda tours” for Western officials to manipulate views on the war. Also read: ‘I just got here’: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War ‘not his war,’ slams Zelensky, Biden for ‘absolutely horrible job’ A long-standing divide Vance, a key figure in the Trump administration's "America First" agenda, has long argued against US military aid to Ukraine. He says continued support places an unnecessary burden on American taxpayers and distracts from domestic issues. Ever since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Vance has been criticised for downplaying the conflict’s importance and repeating arguments seen as favourable to Russia. Just days after the war began, he said he “doesn't care about Ukraine,” a comment he has stood by, saying his focus is on protecting US interests. "That doesn't mean you morally support the Russian cause, or that you support the full-scale invasion," Vance explained. "But you do have to try to understand what are their strategic red lines, in the same way that you have to try to understand what the Ukrainians are trying to get out of the conflict," he added. Zelensky warns of Russia’s true intentions Zelensky, however, has remained firm in his warnings. He insists that Russia is not interested in dialogue but in domination and that Ukraine’s only hope lies in continued Western backing, military, financial, and political. The disagreement between the two leaders highlights the growing divide between Kyiv and parts of the Trump administration, with Vance’s latest comments marking another low in their troubled relationship.

'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance’s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia

Two Chinese nationals captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine said that they were not sent by their government and had no official ties to Beijing. 
Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv on Monday (April 14), the men shared how they ended up on the front line, their experiences under Russian command, and their regrets.
<h2>'Everything the Russians told us was a lie'</h2>
Wang Guangjun, one of the two captured, described being exposed to what he believed was a Russian &ldquo;chemical weapon&rdquo; shortly after his capture. &ldquo;I was losing my strength and fainting&hellip; Then I felt someone grabbing my collar and pulling me out into the fresh air,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-soldiers-fighting-for-russia-against-ukraine-warn-of-death-racism-and-endless-contracts-8954687" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Don&rsquo;t come, there&rsquo;s nothing good here&rsquo;: Chinese soldiers fighting for Russia warn of death, racism, and endless contracts</a>
He claimed that Ukrainian soldiers looked after him during a Russian attack and even helped him survive. &ldquo;(Ukrainian) soldiers protected us and have been treating us well this whole time,&rdquo; Wang added.
Wang and the other captive, Zhang Renbo, were both captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Their detention was made public by President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier in April. Zelensky also said that &ldquo;several hundred&rdquo; Chinese nationals were now fighting for Russia.
<h2>From TikTok to the battlefield</h2>
Wang said he first heard about the chance to join the Russian army while scrolling through TikTok in China. He was unemployed at the time and tempted by what he said was a recruiter&rsquo;s promise of earning 200,000 to 250,000 Russian rubles ($2,000&ndash;$3,000) per month, more than the average wage in China.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-ongoing-tariff-war-china-accuses-us-of-cyberattacks-issues-arrest-warrants-for-3-nsa-agents-8964606" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA &lsquo;agents&rsquo;</a>
The recruiter also claimed travel and paperwork would be sorted. But according to Wang, none of that materialised. Once in Russia, he said, his phone and bank card were taken away, making it impossible for him to access his money.
Zhang said he had come from a well-off family and had previously worked as a firefighter and rescuer. He travelled to Russia in December, initially for a construction job, but was later pushed into military service. &ldquo;I wanted to make money, but I did not expect to end up in the war,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>No links to Chinese state, captives insist</h2>
Neither Wang nor Zhang would say where in China they were from. But both insisted they were not acting under Chinese government orders and had joined the Russian military of their own free will.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-issues-warning-against-trump-tariffs-as-china-eyes-to-cast-itself-as-leader-in-southeast-asia-8961642" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'No winners in trade war': Xi issues warning against Trump tariffs as China eyes to cast itself as leader in Southeast Asia</a>
Both said they served under Russian commanders who used hand gestures to issue orders. Wang added that escaping the base was nearly impossible due to tight security.
<h2>Discouraging others from joining the war</h2>
At the press conference, the two captives urged other Chinese nationals not to get involved. &ldquo;For those (Chinese) citizens who want to take part in the war, we want to say that they should not do so,&rdquo; Wang warned. &ldquo;Everything we heard from the Russians was a lie. It turned out that Russia is not that strong, and Ukraine is not that weak. That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s better not to participate in wars at all,&rdquo; he added.
When asked if Beijing knew of their involvement, both said the Chinese government advises against travelling to war zones. Zhang said that Chinese citizens who fight abroad could face punishment under the law.
Still, both men said they hoped to return to China as part of a future prisoner exchange. &ldquo;I understand that there may be punishment, and I am ready for it. But I still want to return home and to my family,&rdquo; Zhang said.
Wang added, &ldquo;Real war is completely different from what we have seen in movies and on TV. I regret one thing &mdash; I want to apologise to my parents. And my only wish is to go back (to China) and follow all the instructions that will help me do that.&rdquo;

World: At the press conference, the two captives urged other Chinese nationals not to get involved. “For those (Chinese) citizens who want to take part in the war, we want to say that they should not do so,” Wang warned.

Two Chinese nationals captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine said that they were not sent by their government and had no official ties to Beijing. Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv on Monday (April 14), the men shared how they ended up on the front line, their experiences under Russian command, and their regrets. 'Everything the Russians told us was a lie' Wang Guangjun, one of the two captured, described being exposed to what he believed was a Russian “chemical weapon” shortly after his capture. “I was losing my strength and fainting… Then I felt someone grabbing my collar and pulling me out into the fresh air,” he said. Also read: ‘Don’t come, there’s nothing good here’: Chinese soldiers fighting for Russia warn of death, racism, and endless contracts He claimed that Ukrainian soldiers looked after him during a Russian attack and even helped him survive. “(Ukrainian) soldiers protected us and have been treating us well this whole time,” Wang added. Wang and the other captive, Zhang Renbo, were both captured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Their detention was made public by President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier in April. Zelensky also said that “several hundred” Chinese nationals were now fighting for Russia. From TikTok to the battlefield Wang said he first heard about the chance to join the Russian army while scrolling through TikTok in China. He was unemployed at the time and tempted by what he said was a recruiter’s promise of earning 200,000 to 250,000 Russian rubles ($2,000–$3,000) per month, more than the average wage in China. Also read: Amid ongoing tariff war, China accuses US of cyberattacks, issues arrest warrants for 3 NSA ‘agents’ The recruiter also claimed travel and paperwork would be sorted. But according to Wang, none of that materialised. Once in Russia, he said, his phone and bank card were taken away, making it impossible for him to access his money. Zhang said he had come from a well-off family and had previously worked as a firefighter and rescuer. He travelled to Russia in December, initially for a construction job, but was later pushed into military service. “I wanted to make money, but I did not expect to end up in the war,” he said. No links to Chinese state, captives insist Neither Wang nor Zhang would say where in China they were from. But both insisted they were not acting under Chinese government orders and had joined the Russian military of their own free will. Also read: 'No winners in trade war': Xi issues warning against Trump tariffs as China eyes to cast itself as leader in Southeast Asia Both said they served under Russian commanders who used hand gestures to issue orders. Wang added that escaping the base was nearly impossible due to tight security. Discouraging others from joining the war At the press conference, the two captives urged other Chinese nationals not to get involved. “For those (Chinese) citizens who want to take part in the war, we want to say that they should not do so,” Wang warned. “Everything we heard from the Russians was a lie. It turned out that Russia is not that strong, and Ukraine is not that weak. That’s why it’s better not to participate in wars at all,” he added. When asked if Beijing knew of their involvement, both said the Chinese government advises against travelling to war zones. Zhang said that Chinese citizens who fight abroad could face punishment under the law. Still, both men said they hoped to return to China as part of a future prisoner exchange. “I understand that there may be punishment, and I am ready for it. But I still want to return home and to my family,” Zhang said. Wang added, “Real war is completely different from what we have seen in movies and on TV. I regret one thing — I want to apologise to my parents. And my only wish is to go back (to China) and follow all the instructions that will help me do that.”

‘Russia lied’: Chinese fighters captured by Ukraine warn 'real war is different from movies'

US Special Envoy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-call-possible-says-kremlin-after-russian-leaders-talks-with-us-envoy-witkoff-on-ukraine-8951898" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Steve Witkoff</a> said that his latest meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on a potential peace agreement centred around five disputed regions in Ukraine.
Speaking to Fox News on Monday (April 14), Witkoff described the 11 April meeting in St. Petersburg as &ldquo;compelling&rdquo; and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards &ldquo;a permanent peace,&rdquo; although, he admitted, &ldquo;it took a while for us to get to&rdquo; that point.
&ldquo;This peace deal is about these so-called five territories,&rdquo; he explained. &ldquo;But there&rsquo;s so much more to it. I think we might be on the verge of something that would be very important for the world at large,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-call-possible-says-kremlin-after-russian-leaders-talks-with-us-envoy-witkoff-on-ukraine-8951898" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Putin-Trump call &lsquo;possible&rsquo;, says Kremlin after Russian leader&rsquo;s talks with US envoy Witkoff on Ukraine</a>
Witkoff did not specify the territories in question, but he appeared to be referencing Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, as well as Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Moscow claimed the annexation of these four regions in 2022, although parts of them remain under Ukrainian control.
<h2>Business ties and diplomatic warnings</h2>
Witkoff also hinted at a broader aim behind the talks, suggesting that economic cooperation could help stabilise relations between Russia and the US. &ldquo;I see a possibility of reshaping the Russian-United States relationship through some very compelling commercial opportunities,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;That gives real stability to the region too,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
However, not everyone in Washington supports the direction of this diplomacy. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg have both urged President Donald Trump not to agree to territorial concessions.
Despite these warnings, Trump is backing Witkoff&rsquo;s approach. According to Reuters, the envoy told the president that recognising Russian control of the four partially occupied regions would be the fastest route to a ceasefire.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-just-got-here-trump-insists-russia-ukraine-war-not-his-war-slams-zelensky-biden-for-absolutely-horrible-job-8961927" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;I just got here&rsquo;: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War &lsquo;not his war,&rsquo; slams Zelensky, Biden for &lsquo;absolutely horrible job&rsquo;</a>
Witkoff, who has made several trips to Russia this year and now leads Trump&rsquo;s plan to broker a ceasefire, has come under fire for closely aligning with the Kremlin&rsquo;s language, particularly around the issue of territory and the suggestion that peace could be achieved by handing over land.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-blames-zelensky-after-sumy-attack-at-least-35-killed-in-sumy-8962838" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy</a>

World: Witkoff described the meeting in St. Petersburg as “compelling” and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards “a permanent peace.”

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said that his latest meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on a potential peace agreement centred around five disputed regions in Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News on Monday (April 14), Witkoff described the 11 April meeting in St. Petersburg as “compelling” and said Putin had shown a willingness to work towards “a permanent peace,” although, he admitted, “it took a while for us to get to” that point. “This peace deal is about these so-called five territories,” he explained. “But there’s so much more to it. I think we might be on the verge of something that would be very important for the world at large,” he added. Also read: Putin-Trump call ‘possible’, says Kremlin after Russian leader’s talks with US envoy Witkoff on Ukraine Witkoff did not specify the territories in question, but he appeared to be referencing Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, as well as Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Moscow claimed the annexation of these four regions in 2022, although parts of them remain under Ukrainian control. Business ties and diplomatic warnings Witkoff also hinted at a broader aim behind the talks, suggesting that economic cooperation could help stabilise relations between Russia and the US. “I see a possibility of reshaping the Russian-United States relationship through some very compelling commercial opportunities,” he said. “That gives real stability to the region too,” he added. Also read: ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war However, not everyone in Washington supports the direction of this diplomacy. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg have both urged President Donald Trump not to agree to territorial concessions. Despite these warnings, Trump is backing Witkoff’s approach. According to Reuters, the envoy told the president that recognising Russian control of the four partially occupied regions would be the fastest route to a ceasefire. Also read: ‘I just got here’: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War ‘not his war,’ slams Zelensky, Biden for ‘absolutely horrible job’ Witkoff, who has made several trips to Russia this year and now leads Trump’s plan to broker a ceasefire, has come under fire for closely aligning with the Kremlin’s language, particularly around the issue of territory and the suggestion that peace could be achieved by handing over land. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy

What does Putin want now? Trump envoy Witkoff says peace deal hinges on '5 territories' and Ukraine may have to give them up

After a deadly Russian strike killed at least 35 people in Ukraine's Sumy region, President Trump placed blame on Ukrainian President Zelensky, reigniting political tensions. Meanwhile, Russia claims it hit a military facility and accuses Ukraine of using civilians as shields. Zelensky urges the global community to ramp up pressure on Moscow.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia claims it struck a military facility in Ukraine's Sumy

Russia has launched devastating airstrikes on Ukraine’s Sumy and Odesa, leaving behind smouldering ruins and civilian casualties. Global leaders, including Trump, Macron, and Germany’s Merz, have condemned the attacks, with Merz calling them a “serious war crime.” Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow bombs Sumy and Odesa, world leaders condemn strikes

Russia-Ukraine war: Trump blames Zelensky after Sumy attack, at least 35 killed in Sumy

Russia claims a major aerial victory after shooting down a Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet, resulting in the pilot's death. Ukraine struggles to match Russia’s superior Su-35s. Kyiv confirms the loss, raising serious questions about Ukraine’s ability to defend its skies. Watch for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: F-16 pilot killed as Ukraine confirms another loss of fighting falcon

Russia continues to sharpen its attack on Ukraine And to counter the Russian aerial attacks Ukraine deployed US-made F-16 fighter jets. Russia claims to have shot down one of these frontline fighter jets. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Outdated F-16 jets struggle against advanced Russian fighters

#GRAVITAS | Russia is all set to transform its Navy and boost its prowess via an ambitious modernization program. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that an amount close to $100 billion will be allocated for the development of the navy over the next 10 years. Watch this video to find out more.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine conflict poses challenges to Russia's naval ambitions

Russia says it hit a Ukrainian officers' meeting in Sumy. Ukraine calls it an act of Terror as 34 people were killed in Sunday's attack and over 100 injured. Russian aerial attacks also target the port city of Odessa. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian missile strike claims 35 lives in Ukraine’s Sumy

US President Donald Trump has slammed his Ukrainian counterpart again. Taking questions from the press during a meeting at the Oval, Trump said that the President of Ukraine is always asking for missiles. Taking a swipe at Zelensky, Trump said that a war should not be started with a bigger country the US president also questioned Zelensky's competency. Watch in for more details!

Breaking | US President Trump blames Putin, Biden & Zelensky for ongoing war

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