Ukrainian President&nbsp;Volodymyr&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-no-longer-holds-zelensky-responsible-for-russia-ukraine-war-reveals-mineral-deal-to-be-signed-next-thursday-kyiv-and-washington-sign-memorandum-of-intent-8974360">Zelensky </a>claimed on Thursday (April 17) that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/using-tariffs-to-bully-us-china-slams-us-trade-war-asks-trump-to-untie-the-bell-8973978">China</a> is helping <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-plans-to-use-seized-us-company-to-supply-food-to-russian-military-report-8973749">Russia</a> by supplying weapons to Moscow. Zelensky said that Beijing is providing Putin with gunpowder and artillery against Ukraine. He said that Chinese representatives are involved in weapons production on Russian territory.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-no-longer-holds-zelensky-responsible-for-russia-ukraine-war-reveals-mineral-deal-to-be-signed-next-thursday-kyiv-and-washington-sign-memorandum-of-intent-8974360">Trump no longer holds Zelensky 'responsible' for Russia-Ukraine war as Kyiv and Washington sign 'Memorandum of Intent'</a>
The Ukrainian president supported his claims by citing reports from Ukrainian security and intelligence agencies. &ldquo;We are ready to speak in detail about this,&rdquo; Zelensky said, saying that he will share documents to support his claims next week.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have finally received information that China is supplying weapons to the Russian Federation. &hellip; We believe that Chinese representatives are engaged in the production of some weapons on Russian territory &hellip; We see the cooperation between these two countries in this area, and we must acknowledge it is happening," Zelensky said, Associated Press reported, but couldn't confirm the statement.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-federal-judge-temporarily-blocks-elon-musks-doge-from-accessing-personal-social-security-data-of-americans-8974429">US federal judge temporarily blocks Elon Musk's DOGE from accessing personal Social Security data of Americans</a>
Beijing has not responded to the claims but has denied arming Russia previously.&nbsp;
Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv, Zelensky alleges that Russia had reduced the number of strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities but stepped up attacks on civilian infrastructure instead.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/put-pressure-on-the-killers-zelensky-urges-partners-ahead-of-us-eu-talks-in-paris-to-end-ukraine-war-8972393">&lsquo;Put pressure on the killers&rsquo;: Zelensky urges partners ahead of US, EU talks in Paris to end Ukraine war</a>
&ldquo;They reduced their strikes on energy. That&rsquo;s a fact. But I wanted us to pay attention to this &ndash; Russia did not reduce the number of strikes, that was the strategy &hellip; by reducing [strikes on] energy, they are hitting other civilian infrastructure," the Ukrainian president said.&nbsp;
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>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | The Ukrainian president supported his claims by citing reports from Ukrainian security and intelligence agencies. “We are ready to speak in detail about this,” Zelensky said, saying that he will share documents to support his claims next week.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Thursday (April 17) that China is helping Russia by supplying weapons to Moscow. Zelensky said that Beijing is providing Putin with gunpowder and artillery against Ukraine. He said that Chinese representatives are involved in weapons production on Russian territory. Also read: Trump no longer holds Zelensky 'responsible' for Russia-Ukraine war as Kyiv and Washington sign 'Memorandum of Intent' The Ukrainian president supported his claims by citing reports from Ukrainian security and intelligence agencies. “We are ready to speak in detail about this,” Zelensky said, saying that he will share documents to support his claims next week. “We have finally received information that China is supplying weapons to the Russian Federation. … We believe that Chinese representatives are engaged in the production of some weapons on Russian territory … We see the cooperation between these two countries in this area, and we must acknowledge it is happening," Zelensky said, Associated Press reported, but couldn't confirm the statement. Also read: US federal judge temporarily blocks Elon Musk's DOGE from accessing personal Social Security data of Americans Beijing has not responded to the claims but has denied arming Russia previously. Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv, Zelensky alleges that Russia had reduced the number of strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities but stepped up attacks on civilian infrastructure instead. Also read: ‘Put pressure on the killers’: Zelensky urges partners ahead of US, EU talks in Paris to end Ukraine war “They reduced their strikes on energy. That’s a fact. But I wanted us to pay attention to this – Russia did not reduce the number of strikes, that was the strategy … by reducing [strikes on] energy, they are hitting other civilian infrastructure," the Ukrainian president said. Also read: US-led peace talks ‘not easy’: NATO chief Mark Rutte says during meeting with Zelensky in Odesa (With inputs from agencies)

Is China arming Russia and building weapons for it? Zelensky's fresh allegations

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

US President <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">Donald Trump</a> has once again distanced himself from the war between Russia and Ukraine, insisting that the conflict is not of his making and placing the blame on his predecessor, Joe Biden.
Writing on Truth Social on Monday (April 14), Trump said, &ldquo;The War between Russia and Ukraine is Biden&rsquo;s war, not mine. I just got here, and for four years during my term, had no problem in preventing it from happening. President Putin, and everyone else, respected your President! I HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THIS WAR, BUT AM WORKING DILIGENTLY TO GET THE DEATH AND DESTRUCTION TO STOP.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-ukraine-war-trumps-ukraine-peace-plan-isnt-about-peace-its-a-pr-stunt-8862762" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump&rsquo;s Ukraine &lsquo;peace&rsquo; plan isn&rsquo;t about peace. It&rsquo;s a PR stunt</a>
He added that if the 2020 election hadn&rsquo;t been "rigged", the war could have been avoided altogether. &ldquo;If the 2020 Presidential Election was not RIGGED, and it was, in so many ways, that horrible War would never have happened,&rdquo; he wrote. &ldquo;President Zelensky and Crooked Joe Biden did an absolutely horrible job in allowing this travesty to begin... Now we have to get it to STOP, AND FAST. SO SAD!&rdquo; Trump wrote.
<h2>Trump plays down deadly attack on Sumy</h2>
Trump's comments came just a day after a deadly missile strike hit the Ukrainian city of Sumy, killing 34 people, including two children, and injuring over 100 more. The attack, which struck as many were heading to church for Palm Sunday, has been described as the worst attack on civilians this year.
Speaking to reporters, Trump suggested the strike was likely a mistake, saying, &ldquo;I think it was terrible, and I was told they made a mistake, but I think it&rsquo;s a horrible thing. I think the whole war is a horrible thing.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-big-tech-war-what-antitrust-cases-mean-for-google-meta-apple-and-the-future-of-ai-explained-8961485" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump&rsquo;s big tech war: What antitrust cases mean for Google, Meta, Apple and the Future of AI | Explained</a>
He continued to argue that the war would not have occurred under his leadership, adding, &ldquo;This war would never have started if I were president. That war is a shame.&rdquo;
<h2>Zelensky urges Trump to visit Ukraine: &lsquo;Come see it for yourself&rsquo;</h2>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Trump to visit Ukraine and witness the destruction caused by Russia&rsquo;s invasion.
Speaking on CBS&rsquo;s 60 Minutes, Zelensky said, &ldquo;Please, before any kind of decisions, any kind of forms of negotiations, come to see people, civilians, warriors, hospitals, churches, children destroyed or dead.&rdquo;
Also read: <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>
He also pushed back against claims by US Vice President JD Vance that Ukraine staged &ldquo;propaganda tours&rdquo; for international visitors. &ldquo;We will not prepare anything. It will not be theatre. You can go exactly where you want, in any city which [has] been under attacks,&rdquo; Zelensky insisted.

World: Writing on Truth Social on Monday (April 14), Trump said, “The War between Russia and Ukraine is Biden’s war, not mine. I just got here."

US President Donald Trump has once again distanced himself from the war between Russia and Ukraine, insisting that the conflict is not of his making and placing the blame on his predecessor, Joe Biden. Writing on Truth Social on Monday (April 14), Trump said, “The War between Russia and Ukraine is Biden’s war, not mine. I just got here, and for four years during my term, had no problem in preventing it from happening. President Putin, and everyone else, respected your President! I HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THIS WAR, BUT AM WORKING DILIGENTLY TO GET THE DEATH AND DESTRUCTION TO STOP.” Also read: Trump’s Ukraine ‘peace’ plan isn’t about peace. It’s a PR stunt He added that if the 2020 election hadn’t been "rigged", the war could have been avoided altogether. “If the 2020 Presidential Election was not RIGGED, and it was, in so many ways, that horrible War would never have happened,” he wrote. “President Zelensky and Crooked Joe Biden did an absolutely horrible job in allowing this travesty to begin... Now we have to get it to STOP, AND FAST. SO SAD!” Trump wrote. Trump plays down deadly attack on Sumy Trump's comments came just a day after a deadly missile strike hit the Ukrainian city of Sumy, killing 34 people, including two children, and injuring over 100 more. The attack, which struck as many were heading to church for Palm Sunday, has been described as the worst attack on civilians this year. Speaking to reporters, Trump suggested the strike was likely a mistake, saying, “I think it was terrible, and I was told they made a mistake, but I think it’s a horrible thing. I think the whole war is a horrible thing.” Also read: Trump’s big tech war: What antitrust cases mean for Google, Meta, Apple and the Future of AI | Explained He continued to argue that the war would not have occurred under his leadership, adding, “This war would never have started if I were president. That war is a shame.” Zelensky urges Trump to visit Ukraine: ‘Come see it for yourself’ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Trump to visit Ukraine and witness the destruction caused by Russia’s invasion. Speaking on CBS’s 60 Minutes, Zelensky said, “Please, before any kind of decisions, any kind of forms of negotiations, come to see people, civilians, warriors, hospitals, churches, children destroyed or dead.” Also read: ‘This is Biden’s war’: EU convenes emergency talks after Trump calls Russian strike on Ukraine a ‘mistake’ He also pushed back against claims by US Vice President JD Vance that Ukraine staged “propaganda tours” for international visitors. “We will not prepare anything. It will not be theatre. You can go exactly where you want, in any city which [has] been under attacks,” Zelensky insisted.

‘I just got here’: Trump insists Russia-Ukraine War ‘not his war,’ slams Zelensky, Biden for ‘absolutely horrible job’

EU foreign ministers are meeting in Luxembourg on Monday (April 14), with Ukraine topping the agenda, following a deadly Russian strike on the city of Sumy that left at least 34 people dead and more than 100 injured.
The attack, which took place on Palm Sunday, has drawn strong condemnation from European leaders, many of whom see it as a direct response to recent peace efforts. Russia has so far dismissed the proposed ceasefire, and EU leaders say this only proves why Ukraine must be fully supported.
&ldquo;It reminds us why we must keep maximum pressure on Russia,&rdquo; said EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas, warning against letting up as President Vladimir Putin continues to reject diplomatic overtures.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-russian-strike-on-ukrainian-city-of-sumy-that-killed-at-least-34-a-horrible-thing-8959164" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump says Russian strike on Ukrainian city of Sumy, that killed at least 34, 'a horrible thing'</a>
Poland&rsquo;s foreign minister Radosław Sikorski called the strike a &ldquo;heinous&rdquo; act, describing it as &ldquo;Russia&rsquo;s mocking answer&rdquo; to President Trump&rsquo;s attempts at brokering peace. &ldquo;I hope the US administration realises that the leader of Russia is mocking their goodwill,&rdquo; Sikorski added.
<h2>'The Russian version of a ceasefire'</h2>
The airstrike on Sumy has rattled Europe, coming at a time when talks of peace are still on the table. German Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz accused Moscow of &ldquo;serious war crimes&rdquo; and &ldquo;perfidy&rdquo; in how the attack was carried out.
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French President Emmanuel Macron said Russia&rsquo;s actions show a &ldquo;blatant disregard for human lives, international law, and the diplomatic efforts of President Trump.&rdquo; Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was even more scathing, saying the bombing was &ldquo;the Russian version of a ceasefire.&rdquo;
Despite widespread outrage in Europe, US President Donald Trump offered a much more subdued response.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-teen-kills-parents-to-fund-trump-assassination-plot-and-bring-in-some-chaos-8957670" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Getting rid of the president': US teen kills parents to fund Trump assassination plot and &lsquo;bring in some chaos&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Trump: 'This is not my war'</h2>
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump described the Sumy attack as &ldquo;terrible,&rdquo; but suggested it may have been unintentional. &ldquo;I was told they made a mistake,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;But I think it&rsquo;s a horrible thing. I think the whole war&rsquo;s a horrible thing,&rdquo; he added.
Pressed to clarify if he believed the bombing was accidental, Trump said, &ldquo;They made a mistake, I believe it was, look, you gotta ask them.&rdquo; He then shifted blame, insisting, &ldquo;This is Biden&rsquo;s war. This is not my war.&rdquo;
Trump repeated his longstanding claim that the war would not have happened under his presidency. &ldquo;That war would have never taken place. But remember this: This is Biden&rsquo;s war,&rdquo; he said during a brief outburst that notably avoided mentioning either Putin or Russia by name.
<h2>Zelensky urges Trump to see the devastation</h2>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview with CBS, warned that &ldquo;Russian narratives are prevailing in the US,&rdquo; and appeared to criticise US Vice President JD Vance for seemingly defending Moscow during a recent clash in the Oval Office.
Zelensky also made a direct appeal to Trump, asking him to witness the destruction before making any further decisions on peace talks. &ldquo;Before any kind of decisions, any kind of forms of negotiations, come to see people, civilians, warriors, hospitals, churches, children destroyed or dead,&rdquo; he pleaded.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zelensky-wants-trump-to-visit-ukraine-8959192">Zelensky wants Trump to visit Ukraine</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Poland’s foreign minister Radosław Sikorski called the strike a “heinous” act, describing it as “Russia’s mocking answer” to President Trump’s attempts at brokering peace.

EU foreign ministers are meeting in Luxembourg on Monday (April 14), with Ukraine topping the agenda, following a deadly Russian strike on the city of Sumy that left at least 34 people dead and more than 100 injured. The attack, which took place on Palm Sunday, has drawn strong condemnation from European leaders, many of whom see it as a direct response to recent peace efforts. Russia has so far dismissed the proposed ceasefire, and EU leaders say this only proves why Ukraine must be fully supported. “It reminds us why we must keep maximum pressure on Russia,” said EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas, warning against letting up as President Vladimir Putin continues to reject diplomatic overtures. Also read: Trump says Russian strike on Ukrainian city of Sumy, that killed at least 34, 'a horrible thing' Poland’s foreign minister Radosław Sikorski called the strike a “heinous” act, describing it as “Russia’s mocking answer” to President Trump’s attempts at brokering peace. “I hope the US administration realises that the leader of Russia is mocking their goodwill,” Sikorski added. 'The Russian version of a ceasefire' The airstrike on Sumy has rattled Europe, coming at a time when talks of peace are still on the table. German Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz accused Moscow of “serious war crimes” and “perfidy” in how the attack was carried out. Also read: 'Correct your mistakes': China demands US ‘completely cancel’ Trump’s reciprocal tariffs after electronics exemption French President Emmanuel Macron said Russia’s actions show a “blatant disregard for human lives, international law, and the diplomatic efforts of President Trump.” Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was even more scathing, saying the bombing was “the Russian version of a ceasefire.” Despite widespread outrage in Europe, US President Donald Trump offered a much more subdued response. Also read: 'Getting rid of the president': US teen kills parents to fund Trump assassination plot and ‘bring in some chaos’ Trump: 'This is not my war' Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump described the Sumy attack as “terrible,” but suggested it may have been unintentional. “I was told they made a mistake,” he said. “But I think it’s a horrible thing. I think the whole war’s a horrible thing,” he added. Pressed to clarify if he believed the bombing was accidental, Trump said, “They made a mistake, I believe it was, look, you gotta ask them.” He then shifted blame, insisting, “This is Biden’s war. This is not my war.” Trump repeated his longstanding claim that the war would not have happened under his presidency. “That war would have never taken place. But remember this: This is Biden’s war,” he said during a brief outburst that notably avoided mentioning either Putin or Russia by name. Zelensky urges Trump to see the devastation Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview with CBS, warned that “Russian narratives are prevailing in the US,” and appeared to criticise US Vice President JD Vance for seemingly defending Moscow during a recent clash in the Oval Office. Zelensky also made a direct appeal to Trump, asking him to witness the destruction before making any further decisions on peace talks. “Before any kind of decisions, any kind of forms of negotiations, come to see people, civilians, warriors, hospitals, churches, children destroyed or dead,” he pleaded. Watch: Zelensky wants Trump to visit Ukraine (With inputs from agencies)

‘This is Biden’s war’: EU convenes emergency talks after Trump calls Russian strike on Ukraine a ‘mistake’

Ukrainian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mole-inside-volodymyr-zelensky-ukraine-lie-detectors-us-mineral-deal-with-trump-leaks-8930450" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Volodymyr Zelensky</a> has said that two Chinese nationals have been captured by Ukrainian forces while fighting for Russia in eastern Ukraine. 
Writing in a social media post on Tuesday, Zelensky wrote, &ldquo;Our military captured two Chinese citizens who fought in the Russian army. This happened on the territory of Ukraine, in the Donetsk region.&rdquo;
He added that Ukrainian authorities are in possession of the men&rsquo;s documents, bank cards, and personal information. A video clip of one of the captured Chinese fighters was also shared in the post.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mole-inside-volodymyr-zelensky-ukraine-lie-detectors-us-mineral-deal-with-trump-leaks-8930450" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mole inside Zelensky&rsquo;s inner circle? Ukraine breaks out 'lie detectors' after Trump' mineral deal draft leaks</a>
<h2>Ukraine demands answers from China</h2>
Zelensky said he had instructed Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha to urgently contact Chinese officials for an explanation. &ldquo;I have instructed the foreign minister of Ukraine to immediately contact Beijing and find out how China is going to respond to this,&rdquo; he said.
Kyiv has also called on allies to respond. &ldquo;A reaction from the United States, Europe, and everyone in the world who wants peace&rdquo; is needed, Zelensky added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-zelensky-weak-us-response-russian-strike-kills-9-children-8929974" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'They are afraid to say Russian': Zelensky blasts 'weak' US response after Russian strike kills 9 children in his home city</a>
<h2>More Chinese fighters in Russian ranks?</h2>
According to Zelensky, there is evidence that the involvement of Chinese nationals is not limited to the two men captured. "We have information suggesting that there are many more Chinese citizens in the occupier's units than just these two. We are currently verifying all the facts&mdash;intelligence, the Security Service of Ukraine, and the relevant units of the Armed Forces are working on it," he said.
"Russia's involvement of China, along with other countries, whether directly or indirectly, in this war in Europe is a clear signal that Putin intends to do anything but end the war. He is looking for ways to continue fighting. This definitely requires a response," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-18-including-9-children-killed-in-zelenskys-hometown-moscow-says-was-targeting-military-8927675" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ukraine war: 18, including 9 children, killed in Zelensky's hometown, Moscow says was targeting 'military'</a>
Zelensky said that Ukrainian troops encountered a group of six Chinese soldiers near the villages of Tarasivka and Bilohorivka in the Donetsk region.
At a joint press conference with Belgian Prime Minister Bart de Wever, Zelensky said, &ldquo;There is a difference: the North Koreans fought against us in the Kursk direction, the Chinese are fighting on the territory of Ukraine.&rdquo;
<h2>Diplomatic fallout between Ukraine and China</h2>
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that Ukraine has summoned China's charge d'affaires to voice condemnation and demand an official response.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sybiha wrote, &ldquo;Chinese citizens fighting as part of Russia&rsquo;s invasion army in Ukraine puts into question China&rsquo;s declared stance for peace and undermines Beijing&rsquo;s credibility as a responsible permanent member of the UN Security Council.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-did-russias-slush-fund-head-kirill-dmitriev-become-putins-mouthpiece-to-trump-8929564" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">How did Russia's 'slush fund' head Kirill Dmitriev become Putin's mouthpiece to Trump?</a>
While China has repeatedly insisted it remains neutral in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and claims not to be arming either side, it remains a close ally of Moscow. The Chinese government has never condemned the invasion, and NATO countries have labelled Beijing a &ldquo;decisive enabler&rdquo; of the war.
Zelensky has long urged China to use its influence over Moscow to help end the war. So far, however, Beijing has taken no such steps, despite mounting pressure.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Zelensky wrote, “Our military captured two Chinese citizens who fought in the Russian army. This happened on the territory of Ukraine, in the Donetsk region.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that two Chinese nationals have been captured by Ukrainian forces while fighting for Russia in eastern Ukraine. Writing in a social media post on Tuesday, Zelensky wrote, “Our military captured two Chinese citizens who fought in the Russian army. This happened on the territory of Ukraine, in the Donetsk region.” He added that Ukrainian authorities are in possession of the men’s documents, bank cards, and personal information. A video clip of one of the captured Chinese fighters was also shared in the post. Also read: Mole inside Zelensky’s inner circle? Ukraine breaks out 'lie detectors' after Trump' mineral deal draft leaks Ukraine demands answers from China Zelensky said he had instructed Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha to urgently contact Chinese officials for an explanation. “I have instructed the foreign minister of Ukraine to immediately contact Beijing and find out how China is going to respond to this,” he said. Kyiv has also called on allies to respond. “A reaction from the United States, Europe, and everyone in the world who wants peace” is needed, Zelensky added. Also read: 'They are afraid to say Russian': Zelensky blasts 'weak' US response after Russian strike kills 9 children in his home city More Chinese fighters in Russian ranks? According to Zelensky, there is evidence that the involvement of Chinese nationals is not limited to the two men captured. "We have information suggesting that there are many more Chinese citizens in the occupier's units than just these two. We are currently verifying all the facts—intelligence, the Security Service of Ukraine, and the relevant units of the Armed Forces are working on it," he said. "Russia's involvement of China, along with other countries, whether directly or indirectly, in this war in Europe is a clear signal that Putin intends to do anything but end the war. He is looking for ways to continue fighting. This definitely requires a response," he added. Also read: Ukraine war: 18, including 9 children, killed in Zelensky's hometown, Moscow says was targeting 'military' Zelensky said that Ukrainian troops encountered a group of six Chinese soldiers near the villages of Tarasivka and Bilohorivka in the Donetsk region. At a joint press conference with Belgian Prime Minister Bart de Wever, Zelensky said, “There is a difference: the North Koreans fought against us in the Kursk direction, the Chinese are fighting on the territory of Ukraine.” Diplomatic fallout between Ukraine and China Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that Ukraine has summoned China's charge d'affaires to voice condemnation and demand an official response. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sybiha wrote, “Chinese citizens fighting as part of Russia’s invasion army in Ukraine puts into question China’s declared stance for peace and undermines Beijing’s credibility as a responsible permanent member of the UN Security Council.” Also read: How did Russia's 'slush fund' head Kirill Dmitriev become Putin's mouthpiece to Trump? While China has repeatedly insisted it remains neutral in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and claims not to be arming either side, it remains a close ally of Moscow. The Chinese government has never condemned the invasion, and NATO countries have labelled Beijing a “decisive enabler” of the war. Zelensky has long urged China to use its influence over Moscow to help end the war. So far, however, Beijing has taken no such steps, despite mounting pressure. (With inputs from agencies)

'How is China going to respond?': Ukraine captures Chinese soldiers fighting for Russia; Zelensky demands answers from Beijing

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ordered a formal investigation into the leak of a recent US proposal concerning profits from Ukraine&rsquo;s energy and mineral assets, the Financial Times reported. The probe, led by Ukraine&rsquo;s domestic security service, includes the use of polygraph tests on government staff, according to officials.
The leak comes as tensions grow between Kyiv and the Trump administration over the conditions of a proposed agreement involving critical energy and mineral resources.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-zelensky-weak-us-response-russian-strike-kills-9-children-8929974" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'They are afraid to say Russian': Zelensky blasts 'weak' US response after Russian strike kills 9 children in his home city</a>
<h2>Trump accuses Zelensky of stalling on asset deal</h2>
US President Donald Trump recently claimed that Zelensky was &ldquo;trying to back out&rdquo; of the agreement and warned that he would face &ldquo;big problems&rdquo; if he did not sign it soon.
Ukrainian officials told the Financial Times that lie detector tests have been carried out across several ministries. They did not specify how many people were tested or share further details. While the reliability of polygraph tests is disputed, Ukraine regularly uses them in investigations and military screening.
<h2>Opposition MP reveals details of US draft proposal</h2>
The draft agreement was made public on 26 March by opposition MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak, who claimed to have obtained a copy. Speaking at a press briefing on 28 March, Zelensky called the leak &ldquo;strange&rdquo; and questioned how the information had been passed on. &ldquo;I wonder who is transmitting this information,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ai-donald-trump-us-treasury-secretary-scott-bessent-deepseek-us-stock-market-reciprocal-tariffs-8930105">&lsquo;Blame China&rsquo;s AI, not Trump&rsquo;: US Treasury Secretary claims DeepSeek responsible for tanking stock market,&nbsp;not&nbsp;tariffs</a>
<h2>New US proposal expands on earlier deal with Kyiv</h2>
The leaked document outlines a new US proposal that goes beyond a previous framework agreed upon in February. That deal was later dropped following a fallout between Zelensky and Trump, along with Vice President JD Vance, during a meeting at the White House.
Despite the broader terms in the latest proposal, it still offers Ukraine no formal security guarantees, a sticking point for Kyiv.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cant-stomach-trumps-absurd-tariff-math-trumps-treasury-secy-looking-for-exit-door-after-tariffs-ruin-his-credibility-8930074">'Can&rsquo;t stomach Trump&rsquo;s absurd tariff math': US treasury secretary 'looking for exit door' after tariffs ruin his credibility</a>
<h2>Trump administration sees investment as deterrent to Russia</h2>
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has claimed that security guarantees aren&rsquo;t necessary, suggesting that American investment in Ukraine&rsquo;s mineral sector alone would discourage future Russian aggression. However, Ukrainian officials have expressed strong disagreement with this view.
Trump&rsquo;s plan ties into his wider strategy to bring an end to Russia&rsquo;s invasion and to reclaim what he sees as billions owed by Kyiv for previous US military support.
<h2>Kyiv rejects repayment demands, seeks revised deal</h2>
Last week, Zelensky pushed back against Trump&rsquo;s claim that US military aid should be treated as a loan to be paid back through the proposed deal.
The current draft suggests creating a joint supervisory board to oversee revenues from major oil, gas, and mineral projects, a condition that Ukrainian officials fear could weaken the country&rsquo;s sovereignty and clash with its ambitions to join the EU.
&ldquo;We cannot accept any arrangement that undermines our EU path,&rdquo; Zelensky said.
<h2>Ukraine prepares response ahead of Washington talks</h2>
Speaking from his office on Friday, Zelensky said Ukrainian officials and legal teams are working on a new version of the proposal, which they hope the Trump administration will consider. A Ukrainian delegation is expected to travel to Washington next week for further discussions.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: US President Donald Trump recently claimed that Zelensky was “trying to back out” of the agreement and warned that he would face “big problems” if he did not sign it soon.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ordered a formal investigation into the leak of a recent US proposal concerning profits from Ukraine’s energy and mineral assets, the Financial Times reported. The probe, led by Ukraine’s domestic security service, includes the use of polygraph tests on government staff, according to officials. The leak comes as tensions grow between Kyiv and the Trump administration over the conditions of a proposed agreement involving critical energy and mineral resources. Also read: 'They are afraid to say Russian': Zelensky blasts 'weak' US response after Russian strike kills 9 children in his home city Trump accuses Zelensky of stalling on asset deal US President Donald Trump recently claimed that Zelensky was “trying to back out” of the agreement and warned that he would face “big problems” if he did not sign it soon. Ukrainian officials told the Financial Times that lie detector tests have been carried out across several ministries. They did not specify how many people were tested or share further details. While the reliability of polygraph tests is disputed, Ukraine regularly uses them in investigations and military screening. Opposition MP reveals details of US draft proposal The draft agreement was made public on 26 March by opposition MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak, who claimed to have obtained a copy. Speaking at a press briefing on 28 March, Zelensky called the leak “strange” and questioned how the information had been passed on. “I wonder who is transmitting this information,” he said. Also read: ‘Blame China’s AI, not Trump’: US Treasury Secretary claims DeepSeek responsible for tanking stock market, not tariffs New US proposal expands on earlier deal with Kyiv The leaked document outlines a new US proposal that goes beyond a previous framework agreed upon in February. That deal was later dropped following a fallout between Zelensky and Trump, along with Vice President JD Vance, during a meeting at the White House. Despite the broader terms in the latest proposal, it still offers Ukraine no formal security guarantees, a sticking point for Kyiv. Also read: 'Can’t stomach Trump’s absurd tariff math': US treasury secretary 'looking for exit door' after tariffs ruin his credibility Trump administration sees investment as deterrent to Russia US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has claimed that security guarantees aren’t necessary, suggesting that American investment in Ukraine’s mineral sector alone would discourage future Russian aggression. However, Ukrainian officials have expressed strong disagreement with this view. Trump’s plan ties into his wider strategy to bring an end to Russia’s invasion and to reclaim what he sees as billions owed by Kyiv for previous US military support. Kyiv rejects repayment demands, seeks revised deal Last week, Zelensky pushed back against Trump’s claim that US military aid should be treated as a loan to be paid back through the proposed deal. The current draft suggests creating a joint supervisory board to oversee revenues from major oil, gas, and mineral projects, a condition that Ukrainian officials fear could weaken the country’s sovereignty and clash with its ambitions to join the EU. “We cannot accept any arrangement that undermines our EU path,” Zelensky said. Ukraine prepares response ahead of Washington talks Speaking from his office on Friday, Zelensky said Ukrainian officials and legal teams are working on a new version of the proposal, which they hope the Trump administration will consider. A Ukrainian delegation is expected to travel to Washington next week for further discussions. (With inputs from agencies)

Mole inside Zelensky’s inner circle? Ukraine breaks out 'lie detectors' after Trump' mineral deal draft leaks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (April 05) criticised the United States for what he called a "weak" reaction to a deadly Russian missile strike on Kryvyi Rih that claimed the lives of nine children and nine adults.
The missile, launched from the Taganrog region, hit a residential area near a children's playground in the central Ukrainian city on Friday evening.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-ukraine-war-trumps-ukraine-peace-plan-isnt-about-peace-its-a-pr-stunt-8862762" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump&rsquo;s Ukraine &lsquo;peace&rsquo; plan isn&rsquo;t about peace. It&rsquo;s a PR stunt</a>
In a post on X, Zelensky named each child who lost their life: &ldquo;Three-year-old Timofey, unfortunately, died today in the hospital. Seven-year-old Radyslav. Arina, who will forever be seven as well. Nine-year-old Herman. Fifteen-year-old Danylo. Fifteen-year-old Mykyta. Fifteen-year-old Alina. Kostiantyn, who will forever be sixteen. Nikita &ndash; seventeen.&rdquo;
The attack left 72 people injured, including 12 children. Local officials have declared three days of mourning.
<h2>'Such a weak reaction'</h2>
Zelensky voiced frustration at the US Embassy&rsquo;s reaction, saying it failed to directly name Russia as the aggressor. &ldquo;Unfortunately, the reaction of the American Embassy is unpleasantly surprising: such a strong country, such a strong people, and such a weak reaction,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;They are even afraid to say the word &lsquo;Russian&rsquo; when talking about the missile that killed the children,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-18-including-9-children-killed-in-zelenskys-hometown-moscow-says-was-targeting-military-8927675" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ukraine war: 18, including 9 children, killed in Zelensky's hometown, Moscow says was targeting 'military'</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com"></a>In a separate message, Zelensky confirmed that he had spoken to US President Donald Trump about the need for more air defence systems. &ldquo;We are counting on our agreements with the President of the United States, who promised to help with the search for additional Patriots,&rdquo; he said.
Zelensky also condemned the use of drones during rescue efforts, calling it an act of "deep cynicism, meanness, and hatred of people."
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The Ukrainian leader was responding to a post by US Ambassador to Ukraine, Bridget Brink, who wrote on X, "Horrified that tonight a ballistic missile struck near a playground and restaurant." Brink, who was appointed under President Joe Biden, added, &ldquo;This is why the war must end.&rdquo;
Zelensky ended his statement by calling on the international community to speak clearly and truthfully: &ldquo;We must not be afraid to call things by their proper names.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-zelensky-of-trying-to-back-out-of-rare-earth-deal-8910941" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'He&rsquo;s got big, big problems': Trump accuses Zelensky of trying to 'back out' of rare earth deal</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “Unfortunately, the reaction of the American Embassy is unpleasantly surprising: such a strong country, such a strong people, and such a weak reaction,” he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (April 05) criticised the United States for what he called a "weak" reaction to a deadly Russian missile strike on Kryvyi Rih that claimed the lives of nine children and nine adults. The missile, launched from the Taganrog region, hit a residential area near a children's playground in the central Ukrainian city on Friday evening. Also read: Trump’s Ukraine ‘peace’ plan isn’t about peace. It’s a PR stunt In a post on X, Zelensky named each child who lost their life: “Three-year-old Timofey, unfortunately, died today in the hospital. Seven-year-old Radyslav. Arina, who will forever be seven as well. Nine-year-old Herman. Fifteen-year-old Danylo. Fifteen-year-old Mykyta. Fifteen-year-old Alina. Kostiantyn, who will forever be sixteen. Nikita – seventeen.” The attack left 72 people injured, including 12 children. Local officials have declared three days of mourning. 'Such a weak reaction' Zelensky voiced frustration at the US Embassy’s reaction, saying it failed to directly name Russia as the aggressor. “Unfortunately, the reaction of the American Embassy is unpleasantly surprising: such a strong country, such a strong people, and such a weak reaction,” he said. “They are even afraid to say the word ‘Russian’ when talking about the missile that killed the children,” he added. Also read: Ukraine war: 18, including 9 children, killed in Zelensky's hometown, Moscow says was targeting 'military' In a separate message, Zelensky confirmed that he had spoken to US President Donald Trump about the need for more air defence systems. “We are counting on our agreements with the President of the United States, who promised to help with the search for additional Patriots,” he said. Zelensky also condemned the use of drones during rescue efforts, calling it an act of "deep cynicism, meanness, and hatred of people." Also read: US mineral deal details will be ready next week, says Ukraine's Zelensky The Ukrainian leader was responding to a post by US Ambassador to Ukraine, Bridget Brink, who wrote on X, "Horrified that tonight a ballistic missile struck near a playground and restaurant." Brink, who was appointed under President Joe Biden, added, “This is why the war must end.” Zelensky ended his statement by calling on the international community to speak clearly and truthfully: “We must not be afraid to call things by their proper names.” Also read: 'He’s got big, big problems': Trump accuses Zelensky of trying to 'back out' of rare earth deal (With inputs from agencies)

'They are afraid to say Russian': Zelensky blasts 'weak' US response after Russian strike kills 9 children in his home city

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is attempting to withdraw from a rare earth minerals agreement with the United States.
Speaking to reporters on Air Force One on Sunday, Trump warned that if Zelenskyy tries to renegotiate the deal, he will face &ldquo;big, big problems.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I think Zelensky, by the way, he&rsquo;s trying to back out of the rare earth deal, and if he does that, he&rsquo;s got some problems, big, big problems,&rdquo; Trump stated.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-couldnt-care-less-zelensky-calls-for-tough-measures-on-moscow-after-trumps-warning-to-russia-8910487">Putin &lsquo;couldn&rsquo;t care less&rsquo;: Zelensky calls for &lsquo;tough measures&rsquo; on Moscow after Trump&rsquo;s warning to Russia</a>
The agreement, which was expected to grant the US access to Ukraine&rsquo;s oil, gas, and mineral resources through a joint investment fund, was originally set to be signed on 28 February. However, the signing was postponed following a dispute at the White House, where US Vice President JD Vance reportedly criticised Zelenskyy for being ungrateful.
<h2>Zelensky insists on protecting Ukraine&rsquo;s EU accession</h2>
Zelensky has maintained that Ukraine will not accept any agreement that could jeopardise its bid to join the European Union.
&ldquo;Nothing that could endanger&hellip;Ukraine&rsquo;s accession to the EU can be accepted,&rdquo; he said at a press conference in Kyiv on Friday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trumps-angry-remarks-kremlin-says-putin-open-to-call-with-us-president-if-deemed-necessary-8910343">After Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;angry&rsquo; remarks, Kremlin says Putin &lsquo;open&rsquo; to call with US president &lsquo;if deemed necessary&rsquo;</a>
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reinforced this stance on Sunday, stating, &ldquo;We can see this Russian strategy and will never accept anything that leaves Ukraine weak or defenceless.&rdquo;
&ldquo;To the contrary, a real and fair peace requires strong and long-term security guarantees to preserve it,&rdquo; he added.
Ukraine Seeks Changes to Deal, Russia Engages in Minerals Talks with US
According to Ukrainian reports, the latest draft of the minerals agreement included provisions that had not been discussed previously, as well as some that had already been rejected by both sides.
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Bloomberg reported that Ukraine is seeking modifications that would require the US to commit more investment while also clarifying how the joint reconstruction fund would function.
Meanwhile, Russian state media has reported that Moscow and Washington have begun discussions on their own rare earth minerals cooperation.
&ldquo;Rare earth metals are an important area for cooperation, and we have certainly started discussions about various rare earth metals and projects in Russia,&rdquo; said Kirill Dmitriev, Putin&rsquo;s envoy on international economic and investment cooperation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-pissed-off-over-anti-zelensky-comments-secondary-oil-tariffs-on-russia-8907533">&lsquo;Putin knows I&rsquo;m angry&rsquo;: Trump &lsquo;pissed off&rsquo; over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “I think Zelensky, by the way, he’s trying to back out of the rare earth deal, and if he does that, he’s got some problems, big, big problems,” Trump stated.

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is attempting to withdraw from a rare earth minerals agreement with the United States. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One on Sunday, Trump warned that if Zelenskyy tries to renegotiate the deal, he will face “big, big problems.” “I think Zelensky, by the way, he’s trying to back out of the rare earth deal, and if he does that, he’s got some problems, big, big problems,” Trump stated. Also read: Putin ‘couldn’t care less’: Zelensky calls for ‘tough measures’ on Moscow after Trump’s warning to Russia The agreement, which was expected to grant the US access to Ukraine’s oil, gas, and mineral resources through a joint investment fund, was originally set to be signed on 28 February. However, the signing was postponed following a dispute at the White House, where US Vice President JD Vance reportedly criticised Zelenskyy for being ungrateful. Zelensky insists on protecting Ukraine’s EU accession Zelensky has maintained that Ukraine will not accept any agreement that could jeopardise its bid to join the European Union. “Nothing that could endanger…Ukraine’s accession to the EU can be accepted,” he said at a press conference in Kyiv on Friday. Also read: After Trump’s ‘angry’ remarks, Kremlin says Putin ‘open’ to call with US president ‘if deemed necessary’ Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reinforced this stance on Sunday, stating, “We can see this Russian strategy and will never accept anything that leaves Ukraine weak or defenceless.” “To the contrary, a real and fair peace requires strong and long-term security guarantees to preserve it,” he added. Ukraine Seeks Changes to Deal, Russia Engages in Minerals Talks with US According to Ukrainian reports, the latest draft of the minerals agreement included provisions that had not been discussed previously, as well as some that had already been rejected by both sides. Also read: ‘Not joking’ about third term: Trump says there are ‘methods’ to stay in power beyond 2028 Bloomberg reported that Ukraine is seeking modifications that would require the US to commit more investment while also clarifying how the joint reconstruction fund would function. Meanwhile, Russian state media has reported that Moscow and Washington have begun discussions on their own rare earth minerals cooperation. “Rare earth metals are an important area for cooperation, and we have certainly started discussions about various rare earth metals and projects in Russia,” said Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s envoy on international economic and investment cooperation. Also read: ‘Putin knows I’m angry’: Trump ‘pissed off’ over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia (With inputs from agencies)

'He’s got big, big problems': Trump accuses Zelensky of trying to 'back out' of rare earth deal

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is still willing to engage in discussions with US President Donald Trump despite Trump's recent criticism over the lack of progress on a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "The president remains open to contact with President Trump." However, he noted that no phone call had been scheduled between the two leaders at present. "When it is necessary, their conversation will be promptly organised," Peskov added.
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<h2>Trump's frustration over Ukraine conflict</h2>
Trump, in a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday, voiced his displeasure at Putin&rsquo;s recent comments regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He described himself as &ldquo;very angry&rdquo; and &ldquo;pissed off,&rdquo; saying, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not going in the right location.&rdquo;
Putin had suggested on Friday that Ukraine should form a transitional government, which could potentially remove Zelensky from power. Trump responded by threatening economic action against Russia, saying, &ldquo;If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trump-pissed-off-over-anti-zelensky-comments-secondary-oil-tariffs-on-russia-8907533">&lsquo;Putin knows I&rsquo;m angry&rsquo;: Trump &lsquo;pissed off&rsquo; over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia</a>
He further elaborated that these tariffs would range between 25% and 50% and would apply to any country purchasing Russian oil.
Despite his frustration, Trump acknowledged that he maintains a "very good relationship" with Putin. &ldquo;Putin knows I am angry,&rdquo; he said, adding, &ldquo;the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.&rdquo;
Peskov said that discussions between Russia and the US are ongoing, focusing on both bilateral relations and efforts to address the Ukraine conflict.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-third-term-8907961">&lsquo;Not joking&rsquo; about third term: Trump says there are &lsquo;methods&rsquo; to stay in power beyond 2028</a>
So far, there have been two confirmed phone calls between Putin and Trump this year, on 12 February and 18 March. However, speculation persists that the two leaders have been in more frequent contact, including reports of conversations before Trump&rsquo;s re-election.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-will-be-bombing-like-never-before-trump-threatens-iran-with-strikes-tariffs-over-nuclear-deal-refusal-8907621">'There will be bombing like never before': Trump threatens Iran with strikes, tariffs over nuclear deal refusal</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "The president remains open to contact with President Trump."

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is still willing to engage in discussions with US President Donald Trump despite Trump's recent criticism over the lack of progress on a ceasefire in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "The president remains open to contact with President Trump." However, he noted that no phone call had been scheduled between the two leaders at present. "When it is necessary, their conversation will be promptly organised," Peskov added. Also read: 'Don't withhold explosive, bullet, knife, or stone': Hamas leader urges supporters to fight Trump's 'sinister' Gaza plan Trump's frustration over Ukraine conflict Trump, in a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday, voiced his displeasure at Putin’s recent comments regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He described himself as “very angry” and “pissed off,” saying, “It’s not going in the right location.” Putin had suggested on Friday that Ukraine should form a transitional government, which could potentially remove Zelensky from power. Trump responded by threatening economic action against Russia, saying, “If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia’s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia.” Also read: ‘Putin knows I’m angry’: Trump ‘pissed off’ over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia He further elaborated that these tariffs would range between 25% and 50% and would apply to any country purchasing Russian oil. Despite his frustration, Trump acknowledged that he maintains a "very good relationship" with Putin. “Putin knows I am angry,” he said, adding, “the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.” Peskov said that discussions between Russia and the US are ongoing, focusing on both bilateral relations and efforts to address the Ukraine conflict. Also read: ‘Not joking’ about third term: Trump says there are ‘methods’ to stay in power beyond 2028 So far, there have been two confirmed phone calls between Putin and Trump this year, on 12 February and 18 March. However, speculation persists that the two leaders have been in more frequent contact, including reports of conversations before Trump’s re-election. Also read: 'There will be bombing like never before': Trump threatens Iran with strikes, tariffs over nuclear deal refusal (With inputs from agencies)

After Trump’s ‘angry’ remarks, Kremlin says Putin ‘open’ to call with US president ‘if deemed necessary’

President Donald Trump on Sunday (March 30) voiced his anger over recent comments made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who questioned the leadership of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and suggested a transitional government in Ukraine.
<h2>'Very angry, pissed off'</h2>
In a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday morning, Trump said he was &ldquo;very angry&rdquo; and &ldquo;pissed off&rdquo; at Putin&rsquo;s comments, adding, &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not going in the right location.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-ukraine-war-trumps-ukraine-peace-plan-isnt-about-peace-its-a-pr-stunt-8862762">Trump&rsquo;s Ukraine &lsquo;peace&rsquo; plan isn&rsquo;t about peace. It&rsquo;s a PR stunt</a>
Putin&rsquo;s comments, delivered on Friday, included a call for a new governing body in Ukraine, a move that could potentially sideline Zelensky.
Trump responded by warning of possible economic consequences. &ldquo;If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia&rsquo;s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-assassination-bid-on-putin-limousine-explosion-in-moscow-sparks-speculations-8906067">Assassination bid on Putin? Limousine explosion in Moscow sparks speculations</a>
He explained that any country buying Russian oil would face consequences. &ldquo;That would be that if you buy oil from Russia, you can&rsquo;t do business in the United States. There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil,&rdquo; he added.
Trump said that the tariffs would include Russian oil and other products sold in the US, saying they would come into effect within a month if a ceasefire is not reached. &ldquo;There will be a 25% tariff on oil and other products sold in the United States, secondary tariffs,&rdquo; he said.
He also mentioned that he maintains a &ldquo;very good relationship&rdquo; with Putin despite his frustration. &ldquo;Putin knows I am angry,&rdquo; he said, adding that &ldquo;the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.&rdquo;
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According to Trump, he and Putin are expected to speak again later this week.
Ending the conflict in Ukraine has been a central part of Trump&rsquo;s foreign policy agenda in his second term. In the early months of his return to office, meetings were held between US, Ukrainian, and Russian officials.
Last week, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a limited ceasefire, allowing safe passage through the Black Sea and pausing attacks on each other&rsquo;s energy infrastructure.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wants-to-divide-europe-us-zelensky-stresses-washington-stance-on-russia-should-be-stronger-8897747">'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington's stance on Russia should be stronger</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In a phone interview on Sunday morning, Trump said he was “very angry” and “pissed off” at Putin’s comments, adding, “It’s not going in the right location.”

President Donald Trump on Sunday (March 30) voiced his anger over recent comments made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who questioned the leadership of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and suggested a transitional government in Ukraine. 'Very angry, pissed off' In a phone interview with NBC News on Sunday morning, Trump said he was “very angry” and “pissed off” at Putin’s comments, adding, “It’s not going in the right location.” Also read: Trump’s Ukraine ‘peace’ plan isn’t about peace. It’s a PR stunt Putin’s comments, delivered on Friday, included a call for a new governing body in Ukraine, a move that could potentially sideline Zelensky. Trump responded by warning of possible economic consequences. “If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault, which it might not be, but if I think it was Russia’s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,” he said. Also read: Assassination bid on Putin? Limousine explosion in Moscow sparks speculations He explained that any country buying Russian oil would face consequences. “That would be that if you buy oil from Russia, you can’t do business in the United States. There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil,” he added. Trump said that the tariffs would include Russian oil and other products sold in the US, saying they would come into effect within a month if a ceasefire is not reached. “There will be a 25% tariff on oil and other products sold in the United States, secondary tariffs,” he said. He also mentioned that he maintains a “very good relationship” with Putin despite his frustration. “Putin knows I am angry,” he said, adding that “the anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing.” Also read: 'This isn't paranoia': Anonymous claims Trump and Putin are in a 'love fest' According to Trump, he and Putin are expected to speak again later this week. Ending the conflict in Ukraine has been a central part of Trump’s foreign policy agenda in his second term. In the early months of his return to office, meetings were held between US, Ukrainian, and Russian officials. Last week, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a limited ceasefire, allowing safe passage through the Black Sea and pausing attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure. Also read: 'Putin wants to divide Europe, US': Zelensky stresses Washington's stance on Russia should be stronger (With inputs from agencies)

‘Putin knows I’m angry’: Trump ‘pissed off’ over anti-Zelensky remarks, warns of secondary oil tariffs on Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that Russian disinformation is affecting American leaders in an interview with Time magazine published on Monday (March 24).
Zelensky said that some members of the US administration appear to be placing more trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin than in their intelligence services.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/were-still-waiting-for-you-zelensky-says-he-invited-jd-vance-again-to-visit-ukraine-8886895">&lsquo;We&rsquo;re still waiting for you&rsquo;: Zelensky says he invited JD Vance again to visit Ukraine</a>
"I believe Russia has managed to influence some people on the White House team through information," Ukraine's Zelensky said. "Their signal to the Americans was that the Ukrainians do not want to end the war, and something should be done to force them," he added.
Military aid and intelligence support from the US to Ukraine were briefly suspended following a tense meeting between Zelensky, US President Donald Trump, and Vice President JD Vance at the White House which ended in a heated exchange. Although assistance later resumed after further talks between US and Ukrainian officials, the interruption raised concerns in Kyiv about the reliability of American backing.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/10-hours-3-breaks-high-stakes-us-russia-talks-on-ukraine-ceasefire-drag-on-behind-closed-doors-in-saudi-8886864">10 hours, 3 breaks: High-stakes US-Russia talks on Ukraine ceasefire drag on behind closed doors in Saudi</a>
In a separate interview on 21 March with far-right US commentator Tucker Carlson, US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff appeared to repeat Russian talking points, which further deepened doubts about the direction of US policy.
"(Russia) reclaimed these five regions. They have Crimea, and they've gotten what they want. So why do they need more?" Witkoff said.
Zelensky also addressed another instance he said reflected the Russian propaganda which was Trump&rsquo;s comments about the alleged encirclement of Ukrainian troops in Russia&rsquo;s Kursk Oblast.
"That was a lie," Zelensky stated.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-wants-to-restore-black-sea-grain-deal-with-ukraine-what-is-it-and-why-did-moscow-back-out-the-first-time-8885784">Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time?</a>
Trump made those claims just before a scheduled phone call with Putin on 18 March. The purpose of the call was to discuss a possible peace agreement, including a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine had already agreed to.
Putin initially indicated a willingness to consider the ceasefire but then added conditions, including the end of all foreign military and intelligence support for Ukraine.
During his conversation with Trump, Putin once again refused to agree to a full ceasefire, offering instead a temporary 30-day halt in attacks on energy infrastructure. However, that limited ceasefire was reportedly broken by Russian forces shortly afterwards.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-russia-talks-on-ukraine-peace-deal-underway-in-saudi-arabia-trump-brokered-ceasefire-in-sight-8885431">US and Russia talks on Ukraine peace deal underway in Saudi Arabia: Trump-brokered ceasefire in sight?</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "I believe Russia has managed to influence some people on the White House team through information," Ukrainian President Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that Russian disinformation is affecting American leaders in an interview with Time magazine published on Monday (March 24). Zelensky said that some members of the US administration appear to be placing more trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin than in their intelligence services. Also read: ‘We’re still waiting for you’: Zelensky says he invited JD Vance again to visit Ukraine "I believe Russia has managed to influence some people on the White House team through information," Ukraine's Zelensky said. "Their signal to the Americans was that the Ukrainians do not want to end the war, and something should be done to force them," he added. Military aid and intelligence support from the US to Ukraine were briefly suspended following a tense meeting between Zelensky, US President Donald Trump, and Vice President JD Vance at the White House which ended in a heated exchange. Although assistance later resumed after further talks between US and Ukrainian officials, the interruption raised concerns in Kyiv about the reliability of American backing. Also read: 10 hours, 3 breaks: High-stakes US-Russia talks on Ukraine ceasefire drag on behind closed doors in Saudi In a separate interview on 21 March with far-right US commentator Tucker Carlson, US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff appeared to repeat Russian talking points, which further deepened doubts about the direction of US policy. "(Russia) reclaimed these five regions. They have Crimea, and they've gotten what they want. So why do they need more?" Witkoff said. Zelensky also addressed another instance he said reflected the Russian propaganda which was Trump’s comments about the alleged encirclement of Ukrainian troops in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. "That was a lie," Zelensky stated. Also read: Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time? Trump made those claims just before a scheduled phone call with Putin on 18 March. The purpose of the call was to discuss a possible peace agreement, including a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine had already agreed to. Putin initially indicated a willingness to consider the ceasefire but then added conditions, including the end of all foreign military and intelligence support for Ukraine. During his conversation with Trump, Putin once again refused to agree to a full ceasefire, offering instead a temporary 30-day halt in attacks on energy infrastructure. However, that limited ceasefire was reportedly broken by Russian forces shortly afterwards. Also read: US and Russia talks on Ukraine peace deal underway in Saudi Arabia: Trump-brokered ceasefire in sight? (With inputs from agencies)

'Russia has influenced some in White House': Zelensky accuses US of falling for Russian propaganda

Talks between the United States and Russia over a possible ceasefire in Ukraine have resumed in Riyadh following a third break, according to Russian state news agency Ria Novosti, which cited an unnamed source.
The discussions between both delegations have been ongoing for nearly ten hours.
These latest talks come a day after a meeting between US and Ukrainian officials, with the current round expected to centre on Washington's push for a ceasefire in the Black Sea and a broader truce.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-wants-to-restore-black-sea-grain-deal-with-ukraine-what-is-it-and-why-did-moscow-back-out-the-first-time-8885784">Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time?</a>
The talks are being held behind closed doors, as journalists were asked to leave the hotel where the meeting is taking place, Ukrainian outlet Suspilne reported.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "The matter of the Black Sea Initiative and everything related to the initiative's renewal are on the agenda today." 
Moscow had pulled out of the Black Sea Grain Initiative in 2023, although Ukraine has since reopened a shipping corridor through continued attacks on Russian naval forces.
According to Reuters, the US delegation is being led by Andrew Peek, a senior director at the US National Security Council, and Michael Anton from the State Department, though the source remains unnamed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-russia-talks-on-ukraine-peace-deal-underway-in-saudi-arabia-trump-brokered-ceasefire-in-sight-8885431">US and Russia talks on Ukraine peace deal underway in Saudi Arabia: Trump-brokered ceasefire in sight?</a>
On 23 March, US officials also met with Ukrainian representatives in Riyadh. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the meeting as &ldquo;constructive and beneficial.&rdquo;
Another round of talks between the US and Ukraine is expected to follow.
These diplomatic efforts come as US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> continues to push for a ceasefire deal and wider peace deal in Ukraine. Following phone calls last week with Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Zelensky, the Kremlin announced a 30-day halt on strikes targeting Ukraine&rsquo;s energy infrastructure.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-shuttlecock-diplomacy-and-why-is-the-us-using-it-to-broker-ceasefire-between-russia-and-ukraine-8883063">What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine?</a>
While Kyiv voiced support for a mutual pause on energy-related attacks, it accused Russia of failing to uphold the agreement.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: These latest talks come a day after a meeting between US and Ukrainian officials, with the current round expected to centre on Washington's push for a ceasefire in the Black Sea and a broader truce.

Talks between the United States and Russia over a possible ceasefire in Ukraine have resumed in Riyadh following a third break, according to Russian state news agency Ria Novosti, which cited an unnamed source. The discussions between both delegations have been ongoing for nearly ten hours. These latest talks come a day after a meeting between US and Ukrainian officials, with the current round expected to centre on Washington's push for a ceasefire in the Black Sea and a broader truce. Also read: Russia wants to restore 'Black Sea Grain deal' with Ukraine: What is it and why did Moscow back out the first time? The talks are being held behind closed doors, as journalists were asked to leave the hotel where the meeting is taking place, Ukrainian outlet Suspilne reported. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "The matter of the Black Sea Initiative and everything related to the initiative's renewal are on the agenda today." Moscow had pulled out of the Black Sea Grain Initiative in 2023, although Ukraine has since reopened a shipping corridor through continued attacks on Russian naval forces. According to Reuters, the US delegation is being led by Andrew Peek, a senior director at the US National Security Council, and Michael Anton from the State Department, though the source remains unnamed. Also read: US and Russia talks on Ukraine peace deal underway in Saudi Arabia: Trump-brokered ceasefire in sight? On 23 March, US officials also met with Ukrainian representatives in Riyadh. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the meeting as “constructive and beneficial.” Another round of talks between the US and Ukraine is expected to follow. These diplomatic efforts come as US President Donald Trump continues to push for a ceasefire deal and wider peace deal in Ukraine. Following phone calls last week with Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Zelensky, the Kremlin announced a 30-day halt on strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Also read: What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine? While Kyiv voiced support for a mutual pause on energy-related attacks, it accused Russia of failing to uphold the agreement. (With inputs from agencies)

10 hours, 3 breaks: High-stakes US-Russia talks on Ukraine ceasefire drag on behind closed doors in Saudi

US and Russian officials have begun talks in Saudi Arabia marking another step in US President Donald Trump's attempts to negotiate a limited ceasefire in Ukraine, a move Washington hopes could be the first step towards lasting peace.
Following talks with both Ukrainian and Russian leaders last week, Trump helped secure an agreement in principle for a one-month halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. 
However, questions remain over when the ceasefire will begin and whether it will cover more than just power plants, such as hospitals, bridges, and other key services.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ukraine-hold-talks-in-riyadh-as-us-envoy-expresses-optimism-on-ending-war-before-russia-meeting-8883474">US-Ukraine hold talks in Riyadh as US envoy expresses optimism on ending war before Russia meeting</a>
<h2>US-Ukraine meet</h2>
The initial meeting between US and Ukrainian officials took place on Sunday evening, with American delegates holding separate talks with Russian representatives on Monday. 
US officials are expected to move between the two delegations to finalise the agreement, and also discuss separate arrangements for securing shipping routes in the Black Sea. 
&ldquo;The ultimate goal is a 30-day ceasefire, during which time we discuss a permanent ceasefire. We&rsquo;re not far away from that,&rdquo; said US special envoy Steve Witkoff in an interview with far-right commentator Tucker Carlson over the weekend.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-shuttlecock-diplomacy-and-why-is-the-us-using-it-to-broker-ceasefire-between-russia-and-ukraine-8883063">What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine?</a>
Ukraine&rsquo;s defence minister confirmed that the talks included proposals aimed at protecting the country&rsquo;s energy and critical infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the Sunday meeting as &ldquo;quite useful,&rdquo; and said Ukraine&rsquo;s delegation was working in &ldquo;a completely constructive manner.&rdquo;
Zelenskyy also said that he had given the United States a list of energy facilities that should be off-limits to Russian attacks. Additional meetings between Ukrainian and American officials could take place on Monday. 
&ldquo;We are implementing the President of Ukraine&rsquo;s directive to bring a just peace closer and to strengthen security,&rdquo; said Rustem Umerov, Ukraine&rsquo;s defence minister, in a Facebook post.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preposterous-trump-envoy-witkoff-dismisses-starmers-ukraine-plan-as-zelensky-urges-new-pressure-on-russia-8882862">&lsquo;Preposterous&rsquo;: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer&rsquo;s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia</a>
<h2>Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine</h2>
Meanwhile, Russia appears to be intensifying its attacks before any agreement is reached. Over the weekend, a large-scale drone assault on Kyiv killed at least three people, highlighting the continuing danger on the ground.
Moscow continues to demand conditions that Kyiv and its allies have rejected outright, such as ending all foreign military aid, reducing the size of Ukraine&rsquo;s armed forces, and recognising Russia&rsquo;s annexation of the four occupied regions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
The Kremlin has also made it clear that it would not tolerate any presence of Western troops in Ukraine, while Kyiv sees such forces as essential for ensuring lasting security.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Following talks with both Ukrainian and Russian leaders last week, Trump helped secure an agreement in principle for a one-month halt to attacks on energy infrastructure.

US and Russian officials have begun talks in Saudi Arabia marking another step in US President Donald Trump's attempts to negotiate a limited ceasefire in Ukraine, a move Washington hopes could be the first step towards lasting peace. Following talks with both Ukrainian and Russian leaders last week, Trump helped secure an agreement in principle for a one-month halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. However, questions remain over when the ceasefire will begin and whether it will cover more than just power plants, such as hospitals, bridges, and other key services. Also read: US-Ukraine hold talks in Riyadh as US envoy expresses optimism on ending war before Russia meeting US-Ukraine meet The initial meeting between US and Ukrainian officials took place on Sunday evening, with American delegates holding separate talks with Russian representatives on Monday. US officials are expected to move between the two delegations to finalise the agreement, and also discuss separate arrangements for securing shipping routes in the Black Sea. “The ultimate goal is a 30-day ceasefire, during which time we discuss a permanent ceasefire. We’re not far away from that,” said US special envoy Steve Witkoff in an interview with far-right commentator Tucker Carlson over the weekend. Also read: What is 'shuttlecock diplomacy', and why is the US using it to broker ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine? Ukraine’s defence minister confirmed that the talks included proposals aimed at protecting the country’s energy and critical infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the Sunday meeting as “quite useful,” and said Ukraine’s delegation was working in “a completely constructive manner.” Zelenskyy also said that he had given the United States a list of energy facilities that should be off-limits to Russian attacks. Additional meetings between Ukrainian and American officials could take place on Monday. “We are implementing the President of Ukraine’s directive to bring a just peace closer and to strengthen security,” said Rustem Umerov, Ukraine’s defence minister, in a Facebook post. Also read: ‘Preposterous’: Trump envoy Witkoff dismisses Starmer’s Ukraine plan as Zelensky urges 'new pressure' on Russia Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine Meanwhile, Russia appears to be intensifying its attacks before any agreement is reached. Over the weekend, a large-scale drone assault on Kyiv killed at least three people, highlighting the continuing danger on the ground. Moscow continues to demand conditions that Kyiv and its allies have rejected outright, such as ending all foreign military aid, reducing the size of Ukraine’s armed forces, and recognising Russia’s annexation of the four occupied regions. Also read: ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting The Kremlin has also made it clear that it would not tolerate any presence of Western troops in Ukraine, while Kyiv sees such forces as essential for ensuring lasting security. (With inputs from agencies)

US and Russia talks on Ukraine peace deal underway in Saudi Arabia: Trump-brokered ceasefire in sight?

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed that he faced pressure from Washington to criticise President Volodymyr Zelensky after the latter&rsquo;s showdown with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office led to the Ukrainian president walking out of the White House early.
Starmer said in an interview with the New York Times (NYT) that was published March 23, that the U.K. is acting as a bridge between Ukraine and the U.S. and that President Donald Trump&rsquo;s actions, such as rebuking Zelensky, have caused &ldquo;a degree of disorientation&rdquo;. He added that the best response is not to get provoked.
&ldquo;On the day in which the Oval Office meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky didn&rsquo;t go particularly well, we were under pressure to come out very critically with, you know, flowery adjectives to describe how others felt,&rdquo; Starmer told the NYT in the interview.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/difficult-negotiations-ahead-russia-downplays-ukraine-peace-talks-before-us-meeting-8882678" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Difficult negotiations&rsquo; ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting</a>
Starmer said that instead of doing what was desired, and withstanding the pressure, he decided to call both sides to &ldquo;try and get them back on the same page&rdquo;. He added that he has a good relationship with Trump and understands &ldquo;what he&rsquo;s trying to achieve&rdquo;.
Following the heated Oval Office clash, Starmer sent his national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, to Kyiv to counsel Zelensky on how to mend the frayed ties with Trump. The British leader later updated Trump on Kyiv&rsquo;s progress, helping set up a call between the two presidents that saw Zelensky openly back Trump&rsquo;s peace efforts. Washington restored military aid and intelligence support to Kyiv and, at times, threatened Russia with sanctions.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-prayed-for-trump-after-assassination-attempt-says-top-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-8880576" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff</a>
Starmer, who is a strong supporter of Ukraine, has called for countries to join a &ldquo;coalition of the willing&rdquo; to support Ukraine with a peacekeeping force. He warned that Putin will breach any peace deal unless security guarantees are in place.&nbsp; Starmer is trying to build a multinational military force with the goal of keeping Ukraine&rsquo;s skies, ports, and borders secure after any peace settlement.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-have-to-come-to-the-table-starmers-plan-b-for-ukraine-ceasefire-8857525" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire</a> &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t trust Putin,&rdquo; Starmer said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m sure Putin would try to insist that Ukraine should be defenseless after a deal because that gives him what he wants, which is the opportunity to go in again.&rdquo; &ldquo;It needs to be clear to Putin that there will be severe consequences if he breaches the lines,&rdquo; the UK PM said on March 20.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-call-underway-white-house-says-talks-going-well-russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-8866815" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS</a> Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials are quite sceptical of Washington&rsquo;s attempts to broker a ceasefire. A U.S.-orchestrated 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure was agreed by Moscow and Kyiv on March 18, but Russia has continued to launch hundreds of drones at Ukraine, killing dozens of civilians.
U.S. negotiators are scheduled to meet Ukrainian and Russian delegates separately in Riyadh on March 24 to discuss the partial ceasefire proposal.

World: Following the heated Oval Office clash, Starmer sent his national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, to Kyiv to counsel Zelensky on how to mend the frayed ties with Trump. He later helped set up a call between the two presidents.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has revealed that he faced pressure from Washington to criticise President Volodymyr Zelensky after the latter’s showdown with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office led to the Ukrainian president walking out of the White House early. Starmer said in an interview with the New York Times (NYT) that was published March 23, that the U.K. is acting as a bridge between Ukraine and the U.S. and that President Donald Trump’s actions, such as rebuking Zelensky, have caused “a degree of disorientation”. He added that the best response is not to get provoked. “On the day in which the Oval Office meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky didn’t go particularly well, we were under pressure to come out very critically with, you know, flowery adjectives to describe how others felt,” Starmer told the NYT in the interview. Also read: ‘Difficult negotiations’ ahead: Russia downplays Ukraine peace talks before US meeting Starmer said that instead of doing what was desired, and withstanding the pressure, he decided to call both sides to “try and get them back on the same page”. He added that he has a good relationship with Trump and understands “what he’s trying to achieve”. Following the heated Oval Office clash, Starmer sent his national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, to Kyiv to counsel Zelensky on how to mend the frayed ties with Trump. The British leader later updated Trump on Kyiv’s progress, helping set up a call between the two presidents that saw Zelensky openly back Trump’s peace efforts. Washington restored military aid and intelligence support to Kyiv and, at times, threatened Russia with sanctions. Also read: Putin prayed for Trump after assassination attempt, says top US envoy Steve Witkoff Starmer, who is a strong supporter of Ukraine, has called for countries to join a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine with a peacekeeping force. He warned that Putin will breach any peace deal unless security guarantees are in place. Starmer is trying to build a multinational military force with the goal of keeping Ukraine’s skies, ports, and borders secure after any peace settlement. Also read: 'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire “I don’t trust Putin,” Starmer said. “I’m sure Putin would try to insist that Ukraine should be defenseless after a deal because that gives him what he wants, which is the opportunity to go in again.” “It needs to be clear to Putin that there will be severe consequences if he breaches the lines,” the UK PM said on March 20. Also read: Trump-Putin call ends after over two hours, White House and Kremlin confirm | Key HIGHLIGHTS Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials are quite sceptical of Washington’s attempts to broker a ceasefire. A U.S.-orchestrated 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure was agreed by Moscow and Kyiv on March 18, but Russia has continued to launch hundreds of drones at Ukraine, killing dozens of civilians. U.S. negotiators are scheduled to meet Ukrainian and Russian delegates separately in Riyadh on March 24 to discuss the partial ceasefire proposal.

Starmer faced pressure from US to slam Zelensky after Oval Office clash with Trump: Report

US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin will be having a phone call on Tuesday (March 18) to discuss a ceasefire on Ukraine war. Speaking to reporters while flying from Florida to Washington on Air Force One on Sunday evening, the US president said "a lot of work&rsquo;s been done over the weekend" and in the Tuesday discussions, he would "see" if the war (ongoing for over three years now) could be brought to an end.&nbsp;
Trump hinted that there is a "very good chance" that he would have "something to announce".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-confirms-will-call-putin-on-tuesday-for-ukraine-ceasefire-talks-8860368">Trump and Putin to have a phone call on Tuesday to 'bring that war to an end'</a>
<h2>Putin 'dragging his feet'</h2>
Last week, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed to a 30-day ceasefire after talks with US officials in Jeddah but Putin simply rejected it.&nbsp;
The Russian president said he would agree to end the war but warned he had "serious questions" about how the ceasefire would be implemented. He had said he wanted to discuss this with Trump.&nbsp;
"There is such a conversation being prepared for Tuesday," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-set-for-talks-with-russian-president-vladimir-putin-on-ending-ukraine-war-witkoff-says-8859381">&lsquo;Positive discussion this week&rsquo;: Trump set for talks with Putin on ending Ukraine war, Witkoff says</a>
Putin's rejection of the ceasefire drew criticism Ukraine, accusing him of "dragging his feet" rather than ending the conflict.&nbsp;
Zelensky even said that Putin does not want to end the war.&nbsp;
<h2>'Dividing up certain assets'</h2>
Trump said on Sunday that in the scheduled call with Putin, he would discuss to divide some "assets" between the two nations.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We will be talking about land. We will be talking about power plants,&rdquo; Trump said.&nbsp;
"I think we have a lot of it already discussed very much by both sides, Ukraine and Russia. We are already talking about that, dividing up certain assets," he said. &nbsp;
This was possibly in the context of Moscow-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in south Ukraine.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-combat-guy-zelensky-replaces-army-chief-of-general-staff-to-increase-efficiency-of-management-8860126">'A combat guy': Zelensky replaces army chief of general staff to 'increase efficiency of management'</a>
However, Zelensky has consistently rejected the idea of giving up land, and some European leaders have expressed concerns that making such concessions would effectively reward Russia for its invasion.
<h2>Europe's largest nuclear power plant</h2>
The power plant at the centre of discussion is Europe's largest nuclear plant. It has six units with a capacity of 1 gigawatt each. It was shut down in 2022 after some hostilities&nbsp; near it. Now, the units are maintained with power from Ukraine.&nbsp;
Ukraine has claimed the real state of the power plant is unknown, but if the Russia occupies it, Ukraine would face "serious disaster".&nbsp;
Apart from the power plant, Ukraine has lost generation capacity from gas-fired, coal-fired and hydroelectric plants.&nbsp; 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-lying-to-everyone-zelensky-demands-strong-pressure-on-russia-blasts-moscows-delaying-tactics-8856653">&lsquo;Putin is lying to everyone&rsquo;: Zelensky demands &lsquo;strong pressure&rsquo; on Russia, blasts Moscow&rsquo;s &lsquo;delaying tactics&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Trump's eye on gas storage facilities</h2>
A large part of Europe's underground gas storage facilities are located in Ukraine. The country has even offered various European and American companies access to utilise one-third of the storage facilities to store their gas.&nbsp;
Now, these facilities are in focus, especially after Trump came back to power.&nbsp;
<h2>Putin, Trump want 'land expansion'&nbsp;</h2>
Monica Duffy Toft, a professor of international politics at Tufts University, wrote in Foreign Affairs recently, &ldquo;Today&rsquo;s geopolitical landscape particularly resembles the close of World War II&rdquo; because &ldquo;major powers are seeking to negotiate a new global order primarily with each other, much as Allied leaders did when they redrew the world map&rdquo; at Yalta.
In an interview with The New York Times, Toft said that land expansion &ldquo;is what Putin wants, and it&rsquo;s obviously what Trump wants &mdash; just look at Greenland and Panama and Canada.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-instructed-elon-musk-to-bring-abandoned-astronauts-sunita-williams-and-butch-wilmore-back-8863553">Trump says he instructed Elon Musk to bring &lsquo;abandoned&rsquo; astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore back</a>
&ldquo;This is what these leaders think they need to do to make their countries great again," she added.&nbsp;
In a nutshell, she said, there are big chances that Putin will get what he wants.
And that raises questions in the context China's territorial ambitions, according to he
"What will happen if Xi Jinping decides he wants to take Taiwan?" she asked.
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | The Russian president said he would agree to end the war but warned he had "serious questions" about how the ceasefire would be implemented. He had said he want to discuss this with Trump.

US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin will be having a phone call on Tuesday (March 18) to discuss a ceasefire on Ukraine war. Speaking to reporters while flying from Florida to Washington on Air Force One on Sunday evening, the US president said "a lot of work’s been done over the weekend" and in the Tuesday discussions, he would "see" if the war (ongoing for over three years now) could be brought to an end. Trump hinted that there is a "very good chance" that he would have "something to announce". Also read: Trump and Putin to have a phone call on Tuesday to 'bring that war to an end' Putin 'dragging his feet' Last week, the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed to a 30-day ceasefire after talks with US officials in Jeddah but Putin simply rejected it. The Russian president said he would agree to end the war but warned he had "serious questions" about how the ceasefire would be implemented. He had said he wanted to discuss this with Trump. "There is such a conversation being prepared for Tuesday," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Also read: ‘Positive discussion this week’: Trump set for talks with Putin on ending Ukraine war, Witkoff says Putin's rejection of the ceasefire drew criticism Ukraine, accusing him of "dragging his feet" rather than ending the conflict. Zelensky even said that Putin does not want to end the war. 'Dividing up certain assets' Trump said on Sunday that in the scheduled call with Putin, he would discuss to divide some "assets" between the two nations. “We will be talking about land. We will be talking about power plants,” Trump said. "I think we have a lot of it already discussed very much by both sides, Ukraine and Russia. We are already talking about that, dividing up certain assets," he said. This was possibly in the context of Moscow-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in south Ukraine. Also read: 'A combat guy': Zelensky replaces army chief of general staff to 'increase efficiency of management' However, Zelensky has consistently rejected the idea of giving up land, and some European leaders have expressed concerns that making such concessions would effectively reward Russia for its invasion. Europe's largest nuclear power plant The power plant at the centre of discussion is Europe's largest nuclear plant. It has six units with a capacity of 1 gigawatt each. It was shut down in 2022 after some hostilities near it. Now, the units are maintained with power from Ukraine. Ukraine has claimed the real state of the power plant is unknown, but if the Russia occupies it, Ukraine would face "serious disaster". Apart from the power plant, Ukraine has lost generation capacity from gas-fired, coal-fired and hydroelectric plants. Also read: ‘Putin is lying to everyone’: Zelensky demands ‘strong pressure’ on Russia, blasts Moscow’s ‘delaying tactics’ Trump's eye on gas storage facilities A large part of Europe's underground gas storage facilities are located in Ukraine. The country has even offered various European and American companies access to utilise one-third of the storage facilities to store their gas. Now, these facilities are in focus, especially after Trump came back to power. Putin, Trump want 'land expansion' Monica Duffy Toft, a professor of international politics at Tufts University, wrote in Foreign Affairs recently, “Today’s geopolitical landscape particularly resembles the close of World War II” because “major powers are seeking to negotiate a new global order primarily with each other, much as Allied leaders did when they redrew the world map” at Yalta. In an interview with The New York Times, Toft said that land expansion “is what Putin wants, and it’s obviously what Trump wants — just look at Greenland and Panama and Canada.” Also read: Trump says he instructed Elon Musk to bring ‘abandoned’ astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore back “This is what these leaders think they need to do to make their countries great again," she added. In a nutshell, she said, there are big chances that Putin will get what he wants. And that raises questions in the context China's territorial ambitions, according to he "What will happen if Xi Jinping decides he wants to take Taiwan?" she asked. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump and Putin to discuss 'asset division’ – What’s at stake on Ukraine war?

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-want-a-stronger-position-zelensky-reveals-why-russia-is-stalling-a-ceasefire-8856724">Donald Trump</a> has confirmed that he will talk to his Russian counterpart Vladimir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-have-to-come-to-the-table-starmers-plan-b-for-ukraine-ceasefire-8857525">Putin</a> on Tuesday (March 18) in a push to end the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;
Trump confirmed the date to reporters while flying from Florida to Washington on Air Force One on Sunday evening, AP news agency reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-set-for-talks-with-russian-president-vladimir-putin-on-ending-ukraine-war-witkoff-says-8859381">&lsquo;Positive discussion this week&rsquo;: Trump set for talks with Putin on ending Ukraine war, Witkoff says</a>
&ldquo;We will see if we have something to announce maybe by Tuesday. I will be speaking to President Putin on Tuesday,&rdquo; Trump said.
&ldquo;A lot of work&rsquo;s been done over the weekend. We want to see if we can bring that war to an end," he added.
The US president further said that the major topics of discussion would be "land and power plants" that would play a big role in ending the over three-year long war.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-have-to-come-to-the-table-starmers-plan-b-for-ukraine-ceasefire-8857525">'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire</a>
&ldquo;We will be talking about land. We will be talking about power plants,&rdquo; Trump said, as per the AP report.
Trump described it as &ldquo;dividing up certain assets.&rdquo;
"I think we have a lot of it already discussed very much by both sides, Ukraine and Russia. We are already talking about that, dividing up certain assets,' he said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sick-degenerates-trump-slams-fake-news-over-claim-putin-made-us-envoy-witkoff-wait-9-hours-8857093">&lsquo;Sick degenerates&rsquo;: Trump slams &lsquo;fake news&rsquo; over claim Putin made US envoy Witkoff wait 9 hours</a>
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently rejected the idea of giving up land, and some European leaders have expressed concerns that making such concessions would effectively reward Russia for its invasion.
Efforts are underway to convince the Russian president to agreeon a 30-day ceasefire deal that was accepted by Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky last week. &nbsp;
There are chances that Russia will seek guarantees that NATO countries will exclude Ukraine from membership and that Ukraine will remain neutral in any peace deal, a Russian Deputy Foreign Minister said in remarks published on Monday.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-war-would-leave-putin-with-nothing-zelensky-urges-us-to-use-strength-of-america-to-convince-russia-8854181">'Ending war would leave Putin with nothing': Zelensky urges US to use 'strength of America' to convince Russia</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | The discussion between Trump and Putin may address pressing global issues, but details remain under wraps until the official conversation takes place.

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that he will talk to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (March 18) in a push to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump confirmed the date to reporters while flying from Florida to Washington on Air Force One on Sunday evening, AP news agency reported. Also read: ‘Positive discussion this week’: Trump set for talks with Putin on ending Ukraine war, Witkoff says “We will see if we have something to announce maybe by Tuesday. I will be speaking to President Putin on Tuesday,” Trump said. “A lot of work’s been done over the weekend. We want to see if we can bring that war to an end," he added. The US president further said that the major topics of discussion would be "land and power plants" that would play a big role in ending the over three-year long war. Also read: 'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire “We will be talking about land. We will be talking about power plants,” Trump said, as per the AP report. Trump described it as “dividing up certain assets.” "I think we have a lot of it already discussed very much by both sides, Ukraine and Russia. We are already talking about that, dividing up certain assets,' he said. Also read: ‘Sick degenerates’: Trump slams ‘fake news’ over claim Putin made US envoy Witkoff wait 9 hours However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently rejected the idea of giving up land, and some European leaders have expressed concerns that making such concessions would effectively reward Russia for its invasion. Efforts are underway to convince the Russian president to agreeon a 30-day ceasefire deal that was accepted by Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky last week. There are chances that Russia will seek guarantees that NATO countries will exclude Ukraine from membership and that Ukraine will remain neutral in any peace deal, a Russian Deputy Foreign Minister said in remarks published on Monday. Also read: 'Ending war would leave Putin with nothing': Zelensky urges US to use 'strength of America' to convince Russia (With inputs from agencies)

Trump and Putin to have a phone call on Tuesday to 'bring that war to an end'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has replaced the chief of general staff of the armed forces, according to a decree issued Sunday, as Kyiv's frontline troops continue to struggle.&nbsp;
According to a communique, Anatoliy Bargylevych has been replaced by Andriy Gnatov, who "has been tasked with increasing the efficiency of the management."&nbsp;
"He is a combat guy," Zelensky said of Gnatov.
"His task is to bring more combat experience, the experience of our brigades in planning operations, defensive and offensive, as well as more active development of the corps system," he added.
"Everything that our brigades have learned from the war should be implemented one hundred percent at the planning level."&nbsp;
The Ukrainian military, which has grown since mobilising to repel Russia's February 2022 invasion, is in the process of reorganising its army corps to improve coordination.
Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said on his Facebook page: "We are systematically transforming the Armed Forces of Ukraine to enhance their combat effectiveness.
"This involves restructuring the command system and implementing clear standards."
Gnatov, he said, had "more than 27 years of military experience".
Bargylevych has been appointed as the chief inspector of the defence ministry, he added.
In the eastern region of Donetsk, the epicentre of the fighting, the larger and better equipped Russian army has been advancing slowly for more than a year, despite heavy losses.
<div class="post-content">
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

WORLD | According to a communique, Anatoliy Bargylevych has been replaced by Andriy Gnatov, who "has been tasked with increasing the efficiency of the management."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has replaced the chief of general staff of the armed forces, according to a decree issued Sunday, as Kyiv's frontline troops continue to struggle. According to a communique, Anatoliy Bargylevych has been replaced by Andriy Gnatov, who "has been tasked with increasing the efficiency of the management." "He is a combat guy," Zelensky said of Gnatov. "His task is to bring more combat experience, the experience of our brigades in planning operations, defensive and offensive, as well as more active development of the corps system," he added. "Everything that our brigades have learned from the war should be implemented one hundred percent at the planning level." The Ukrainian military, which has grown since mobilising to repel Russia's February 2022 invasion, is in the process of reorganising its army corps to improve coordination. Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said on his Facebook page: "We are systematically transforming the Armed Forces of Ukraine to enhance their combat effectiveness. "This involves restructuring the command system and implementing clear standards." Gnatov, he said, had "more than 27 years of military experience". Bargylevych has been appointed as the chief inspector of the defence ministry, he added. In the eastern region of Donetsk, the epicentre of the fighting, the larger and better equipped Russian army has been advancing slowly for more than a year, despite heavy losses. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'A combat guy': Zelensky replaces army chief of general staff to 'increase efficiency of management'

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer shined some light on his "plan B" if the Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree upon the ceasefire with Ukraine. Starmer along with French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, took part in a virtual "coalition of the willing" meeting on Saturday (March 15).
In the meeting, Starmer urged Putin to drop his "unreasonable" demands and commit to the peace. He asked the Russian president to &ldquo;let the guns fall silent&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-resume-military-aid-and-intelligence-support-to-ukraine-after-uk-pm-starmers-appeal-to-trump-8841299">US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump</a>
But, reporters asked him what is his "plan B" for the "worst case scenario". They asked Starmer what if Putin stays still on his demands or denies coming to the negotiation table at all - what in that case?&nbsp;
The UK PM said a &ldquo;coalition of the willing&rdquo; must be prepared to help Ukraine into a strong position even if peace talks fall apart.
&ldquo;We will build up Ukraine&rsquo;s own defenses and armed forces, and be ready to deploy as a &lsquo;coalition of the willing&rsquo; in the event of a peace deal, to help secure Ukraine on the land, at sea, and in the sky," Starmer said.&nbsp;
"We need to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for whatever comes next. Whether that's around the table, which is what I hope it will be, or if that doesn't come to pass," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-support-needed-uk-pm-starmer-announces-2bn-to-ukraine-for-air-missiles-after-eu-summit-8772002">&lsquo;US support needed&rsquo;: Starmer announces $2bn package to Ukraine for air missiles after defence summit</a>
<h2>'Putin will have to come to the table'</h2>
&ldquo;Sooner or later, Putin will have to come to the table,&rdquo; Starmer told the Downing Street press conference.&nbsp;
&ldquo;So, this is the moment, let the guns fall silent, let the barbaric attacks on Ukraine, once and for all, stop and agree to a ceasefire now," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/would-come-again-if-given-chance-uk-pm-starmer-says-he-doesnt-trust-putin-calls-for-security-guarantees-8771054">&lsquo;He would come again&rsquo;: UK PM Starmer says he doesn&rsquo;t trust Putin, calls for &lsquo;security guarantees&rsquo;</a>
<h2>'Strong and robust plans'</h2>
Starmer further revealed that military chiefs would hold a meeting on Thursday (March 20) to "put strong and robust plans in place to swing in behind a peace deal and guarantee Ukraine's future security".&nbsp;
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>
He said this after claiming that plans for a peacekeeping force in Ukraine move into an "operational phase".&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | British Prime Minister Keir Starmer shined some light on the "plan B" if the Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree upon the ceasefire with Ukraine

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer shined some light on his "plan B" if the Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree upon the ceasefire with Ukraine. Starmer along with French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, took part in a virtual "coalition of the willing" meeting on Saturday (March 15). In the meeting, Starmer urged Putin to drop his "unreasonable" demands and commit to the peace. He asked the Russian president to “let the guns fall silent”. Also read: US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump But, reporters asked him what is his "plan B" for the "worst case scenario". They asked Starmer what if Putin stays still on his demands or denies coming to the negotiation table at all - what in that case? The UK PM said a “coalition of the willing” must be prepared to help Ukraine into a strong position even if peace talks fall apart. “We will build up Ukraine’s own defenses and armed forces, and be ready to deploy as a ‘coalition of the willing’ in the event of a peace deal, to help secure Ukraine on the land, at sea, and in the sky," Starmer said. "We need to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for whatever comes next. Whether that's around the table, which is what I hope it will be, or if that doesn't come to pass," he added. Also read: ‘US support needed’: Starmer announces $2bn package to Ukraine for air missiles after defence summit 'Putin will have to come to the table' “Sooner or later, Putin will have to come to the table,” Starmer told the Downing Street press conference. “So, this is the moment, let the guns fall silent, let the barbaric attacks on Ukraine, once and for all, stop and agree to a ceasefire now," he added. Also read: ‘He would come again’: UK PM Starmer says he doesn’t trust Putin, calls for ‘security guarantees’ 'Strong and robust plans' Starmer further revealed that military chiefs would hold a meeting on Thursday (March 20) to "put strong and robust plans in place to swing in behind a peace deal and guarantee Ukraine's future security". Also read: 'Weapons production in Ukraine': What's inside the Starmer-Zelensky $2.84bn loan agreement? He said this after claiming that plans for a peacekeeping force in Ukraine move into an "operational phase". (With inputs from agencies)

'Putin will HAVE to come to the table': Starmer's 'Plan B' for Ukraine ceasefire

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, took part in a virtual "coalition of the willing" meeting on Saturday (March 15). The leaders discussed ongoing support for Ukraine and the urgent need for Russia to commit to peace.
<h2>Starmer condemns Russia&rsquo;s attacks</h2>
During the meeting, Starmer denounced Russia&rsquo;s continued aggression, calling its actions in Ukraine &ldquo;barbaric.&rdquo; He said that if Russian President Vladimir Putin was genuinely committed to peace, he should agree to an immediate ceasefire.
"President Zelensky, who&rsquo;s with us this morning, has shown once again that Ukraine is the party of peace, because he has agreed to and committed to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire," Starmer said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-calls-on-ukraine-army-to-surrender-in-kursk-region-after-trumps-strong-appeal-8854315">Putin calls on Ukraine army to 'surrender' in Kursk region after Trump's 'strong' appeal</a>
He further added, "Now what we see, and this is centrepiece for our discussions today, is that Putin is the one trying to delay. In a sense, and you will know this, if Putin is serious about peace, it&rsquo;s very simple, he has to stop his barbaric attacks on Ukraine and agree to a ceasefire."
<h2>Call for stronger measures against Russia</h2>
Following the meeting, Starmer released a statement reaffirming the coalition&rsquo;s commitment to supporting Ukraine in the long term. He stressed the importance of security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and ensure lasting peace.
"We underlined our unwavering commitment to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine, both now and long into the future," he said.
The leaders welcomed the progress made in recent negotiations, particularly the breakthrough achieved in Jeddah, where President Zelensky accepted the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. However, they insisted that Russia must now demonstrate its willingness to end hostilities by agreeing to the ceasefire on equal terms.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-war-would-leave-putin-with-nothing-zelensky-urges-us-to-use-strength-of-america-to-convince-russia-8854181">'Ending war would leave Putin with nothing': Zelensky urges US to use 'strength of America' to convince Russia</a>
"The Kremlin&rsquo;s dithering and delay over President Trump&rsquo;s ceasefire proposal, and Russia&rsquo;s continued barbaric attacks on Ukraine, run entirely counter to President Putin&rsquo;s stated desire for peace," Starmer said.
<h2>Strengthening Ukraine&rsquo;s defence</h2>
The coalition also discussed plans to bolster Ukraine&rsquo;s security, ensuring that it can defend itself against future threats. Military planners are set to meet in the UK this week to develop strategies for supporting Ukraine&rsquo;s armed forces.
"We will build up Ukraine&rsquo;s own defences and armed forces, and be ready to deploy as a &lsquo;coalition of the willing&rsquo; in the event of a peace deal, to help secure Ukraine on the land, at sea and in the sky," Starmer added.
To enforce any potential ceasefire, leaders stressed the need for strong monitoring mechanisms to detect and call out violations. If Russia refuses to accept the ceasefire, Starmer said, the coalition would escalate its efforts to strengthen Ukraine while weakening Russia&rsquo;s war capabilities.
"We agreed that in the case that President Putin refused to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, we would need to increase our efforts to strengthen Ukraine, weaken Russia&rsquo;s war machine and ratchet up pressure on President Putin to convince him to come to the negotiating table," he said.
<h2>Sanctions and military aid</h2>
In addition to military support, Starmer outlined plans to tighten economic sanctions against Russia and explore legal avenues to ensure Moscow pays for the destruction caused in Ukraine.
"We will accelerate our military support, tighten our sanctions on Russia&rsquo;s revenues and continue to explore all lawful routes to ensure that Russia pays for the damage it has done to Ukraine," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: During the meeting, Starmer denounced Russia’s continued aggression, calling its actions in Ukraine “barbaric.” He said that if Russian President Vladimir Putin was genuinely committed to peace, he should agree to an immediate ceasefire.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, took part in a virtual "coalition of the willing" meeting on Saturday (March 15). The leaders discussed ongoing support for Ukraine and the urgent need for Russia to commit to peace. Starmer condemns Russia’s attacks During the meeting, Starmer denounced Russia’s continued aggression, calling its actions in Ukraine “barbaric.” He said that if Russian President Vladimir Putin was genuinely committed to peace, he should agree to an immediate ceasefire. "President Zelensky, who’s with us this morning, has shown once again that Ukraine is the party of peace, because he has agreed to and committed to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire," Starmer said. Also read: Putin calls on Ukraine army to 'surrender' in Kursk region after Trump's 'strong' appeal He further added, "Now what we see, and this is centrepiece for our discussions today, is that Putin is the one trying to delay. In a sense, and you will know this, if Putin is serious about peace, it’s very simple, he has to stop his barbaric attacks on Ukraine and agree to a ceasefire." Call for stronger measures against Russia Following the meeting, Starmer released a statement reaffirming the coalition’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in the long term. He stressed the importance of security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression and ensure lasting peace. "We underlined our unwavering commitment to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine, both now and long into the future," he said. The leaders welcomed the progress made in recent negotiations, particularly the breakthrough achieved in Jeddah, where President Zelensky accepted the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. However, they insisted that Russia must now demonstrate its willingness to end hostilities by agreeing to the ceasefire on equal terms. Also read: 'Ending war would leave Putin with nothing': Zelensky urges US to use 'strength of America' to convince Russia "The Kremlin’s dithering and delay over President Trump’s ceasefire proposal, and Russia’s continued barbaric attacks on Ukraine, run entirely counter to President Putin’s stated desire for peace," Starmer said. Strengthening Ukraine’s defence The coalition also discussed plans to bolster Ukraine’s security, ensuring that it can defend itself against future threats. Military planners are set to meet in the UK this week to develop strategies for supporting Ukraine’s armed forces. "We will build up Ukraine’s own defences and armed forces, and be ready to deploy as a ‘coalition of the willing’ in the event of a peace deal, to help secure Ukraine on the land, at sea and in the sky," Starmer added. To enforce any potential ceasefire, leaders stressed the need for strong monitoring mechanisms to detect and call out violations. If Russia refuses to accept the ceasefire, Starmer said, the coalition would escalate its efforts to strengthen Ukraine while weakening Russia’s war capabilities. "We agreed that in the case that President Putin refused to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, we would need to increase our efforts to strengthen Ukraine, weaken Russia’s war machine and ratchet up pressure on President Putin to convince him to come to the negotiating table," he said. Sanctions and military aid In addition to military support, Starmer outlined plans to tighten economic sanctions against Russia and explore legal avenues to ensure Moscow pays for the destruction caused in Ukraine. "We will accelerate our military support, tighten our sanctions on Russia’s revenues and continue to explore all lawful routes to ensure that Russia pays for the damage it has done to Ukraine," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Will build Ukraine’s own defences':  UK, France, NATO unite to push Russia into ceasefire as Putin 'stalls'

The United States and Ukraine finalised a 30-day ceasefire plan for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war on Tuesday (March 11). However, the Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected the plan finalised after the nine-hour long meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;
Although, the full details of the plan is yet to be released, here's what we know so far.&nbsp;
<h2>'A total ceasefire'?&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-considers-bringing-back-conscription-for-the-first-time-since-ww2-as-fears-of-putins-growing-aggression-mount-report-8852527">UK considers bringing back conscription for the first time since WW2, as fears of Putin's growing aggression mount - Report</a>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed to &ldquo;enact an immediate, interim 30-day ceasefire which can be extended&rdquo; after the Tuesday meeting.&nbsp;
But the US President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters outside the White House after the meeting, said the deal was for &ldquo;a total ceasefire&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/surrender-or-die-putin-issues-chilling-ultimatum-to-ukrainian-troops-as-zelensky-exposes-russian-presidents-real-ukraine-war-plan-8852256">Putin gives ultimatum to Ukrainian troops to 'surrender or die'; Zelensky exposes Russian president's 'real' war plan</a>
<h2>Improved US-Ukraine relations?&nbsp;</h2>
The Jeddah talks were also in many context focused to create a better US-Ukraine relationship - especially after Zelesnky-Trump heated meeting in the White House.&nbsp;
After the White House brawl, the Trump administration suspended all the military aid, including deliveries of ammunition apart from cutting off vital intelligence sharing for Ukraine.
After the talks were over, the US agreed to immediately lift the pause on intelligence sharing and resume security assistance to Ukraine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/promising-but-not-complete-trump-reacts-to-putins-remark-on-ukraine-ceasefire-says-will-talk-to-him-8851730">'Promising but not complete': Trump reacts to Putin's remark on Ukraine ceasefire, says 'will talk to him'</a>
<h2>No minerals deal so far&nbsp;</h2>
The Jeddah talks were also expected to open doors for the pending minerals deal between Ukraine and US - a discussion which led to a heated argument between the supremos of both nations.&nbsp;
According to the Tuesday deal Trump and Zelensky &ldquo;agreed to conclude as soon as possible a comprehensive agreement for developing Ukraine&rsquo;s critical mineral resources&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-meets-saudi-crown-prince-in-jeddah-rubio-says-no-military-solution-to-ukraine-conflict-8841369">Zelensky meets Saudi crown prince in Jeddah; Rubio says 'no military solution' to Ukraine conflict</a>
<h2>Ball in Russia's court?</h2>
After the talks, Zelensky issued a televised statement saying Ukraine was committed to seeking peace but that it was &ldquo;up to the United States to convince Russia to do the same&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the US state secretary Marco Rubio said the ball was &ldquo;now in Russia&rsquo;s court&rdquo;.
Putin thanked Trump for trying to get a truce done, but suggested that he would not agree to it in its current form.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-massive-drone-strike-at-moscow-as-zelensky-prepares-to-talk-truce-with-us-in-saudi-arabia-8841823">Ukraine launches 'massive' drone strike at Moscow as Zelensky prepares to talk truce with US in Saudi Arabia</a>
"We agree with the proposal for a ceasefire to cease hostilities, but we proceed from the fact that this ceasefire should lead to an enduring peace, and should remove the root causes of this crisis," said the Russian President.
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | The Jeddah talks were also in many context focused to create a better US-Ukraine relationship - especially after Zelesnky-Trump heated meeting in the White House.

The United States and Ukraine finalised a 30-day ceasefire plan for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war on Tuesday (March 11). However, the Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected the plan finalised after the nine-hour long meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Although, the full details of the plan is yet to be released, here's what we know so far. 'A total ceasefire'? Also read: UK considers bringing back conscription for the first time since WW2, as fears of Putin's growing aggression mount - Report Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed to “enact an immediate, interim 30-day ceasefire which can be extended” after the Tuesday meeting. But the US President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters outside the White House after the meeting, said the deal was for “a total ceasefire”. Also read: Putin gives ultimatum to Ukrainian troops to 'surrender or die'; Zelensky exposes Russian president's 'real' war plan Improved US-Ukraine relations? The Jeddah talks were also in many context focused to create a better US-Ukraine relationship - especially after Zelesnky-Trump heated meeting in the White House. After the White House brawl, the Trump administration suspended all the military aid, including deliveries of ammunition apart from cutting off vital intelligence sharing for Ukraine. After the talks were over, the US agreed to immediately lift the pause on intelligence sharing and resume security assistance to Ukraine. Also read: 'Promising but not complete': Trump reacts to Putin's remark on Ukraine ceasefire, says 'will talk to him' No minerals deal so far The Jeddah talks were also expected to open doors for the pending minerals deal between Ukraine and US - a discussion which led to a heated argument between the supremos of both nations. According to the Tuesday deal Trump and Zelensky “agreed to conclude as soon as possible a comprehensive agreement for developing Ukraine’s critical mineral resources”. Also read: Zelensky meets Saudi crown prince in Jeddah; Rubio says 'no military solution' to Ukraine conflict Ball in Russia's court? After the talks, Zelensky issued a televised statement saying Ukraine was committed to seeking peace but that it was “up to the United States to convince Russia to do the same”. Meanwhile, the US state secretary Marco Rubio said the ball was “now in Russia’s court”. Putin thanked Trump for trying to get a truce done, but suggested that he would not agree to it in its current form. Also read: Ukraine launches 'massive' drone strike at Moscow as Zelensky prepares to talk truce with US in Saudi Arabia "We agree with the proposal for a ceasefire to cease hostilities, but we proceed from the fact that this ceasefire should lead to an enduring peace, and should remove the root causes of this crisis," said the Russian President. (With inputs from agencies)

What’s in Trump's Ukraine ceasefire deal and why Russian President Putin rejected it?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman early on Tuesday (Mar 11) ahead of the crucial talks between Ukrainian and US officials to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is in Saudi Arabia, said there is "no military solution" to the conflict in Ukraine. US is hoping that diplomacy will deliver substantial progress towards ending Russia's war with Ukraine.&nbsp;
The Saudi state news agency SPA reported that during the meeting with Zelensky in Jeddah, the crown prince emphasised support for international efforts to resolve Ukraine's crisis and achieve peace.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-resume-military-aid-and-intelligence-support-to-ukraine-after-uk-pm-starmers-appeal-to-trump-8841299">US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump</a>
After the meeting, Zelensky took to his X account and wrote that he is "grateful" for the crown prince's "wise perspective" on global affairs and support for Ukraine.&nbsp;
"It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine&rsquo;s future," the Ukrainian president wrote.&nbsp;
"We discussed all key issues on the agenda&mdash;both bilateral matters and cooperation with other partners. I acknowledged the Crown Prince&rsquo;s efforts in bringing true peace closer. Saudi Arabia provides a crucial platform for diplomacy, and we appreciate this," he wrote.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-us-trade-war-ontario-premier-doug-ford-slaps-25-per-cent-surcharge-on-us-electricity-new-canada-pm-mark-carney-us-president-donald-trumps-trade-war-8840877">&lsquo;Feeling terrible for American people&rsquo;: Ontario slaps 25% surcharge on US electricity amid Trump&rsquo;s trade war</a>
"The Ukrainian delegation remains in Jeddah to work with the U.S. team on Tuesday, March 11, and we hope for practical outcomes. Ukraine&rsquo;s position in these talks will be fully constructive," he further added.&nbsp;
"With the Crown Prince, we had a detailed discussion on the steps and conditions needed to end the war and secure a reliable and lasting peace."&nbsp;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vances-cousin-who-fought-in-ukraine-slams-donald-trump-us-vice-president-for-ambushing-zelensky-vladimir-putin-8841069">&lsquo;Putin&rsquo;s useful idiots&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s cousin who fought in Ukraine slams Trump, VP for &lsquo;ambushing&rsquo; Zelensky</a>&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m83xv3f4-faax0heo-3a7qt4fl">
I had a good meeting with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman. I am grateful for his wise perspective on global affairs and support for Ukraine. It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine&rsquo;s future. We discussed all key issues on the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/BiBnaKViPl">pic.twitter.com/BiBnaKViPl</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1899237896055615605?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>What does the US want?&nbsp;</h2>
Rubio was on his way to Jeddah when he said that there was a need to check Kyiv&rsquo;s readiness to make concessions in order to reach peace.&nbsp;
"The most important thing that we have to leave here with is a strong sense that Ukraine is prepared to do difficult things, like the Russians are going to have to do difficult things, to end this conflict or at least pause it in some way, shape or form," he told reporters on the plane.&nbsp;
"I think both sides need to come to an understanding that there's no military solution to this situation. The Russians can't conquer all of Ukraine, and obviously it'll be very difficult for Ukraine in any reasonable time period to sort of force the Russians back all the way to where they were in 2014," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-pro-palestinian-campus-protester-first-arrest-of-many-to-come-8841026">Trump says pro-Palestinian campus protester &lsquo;first arrest of many to come&rsquo;</a>
<h2>Russia-Ukraine war latest&nbsp;</h2>
A Ukrainian strike on a village store in the Russian region of Kursk on Monday killed three people and wounded nine, the regional governor said.&nbsp;Ukrainian forces have occupied a part of Kursk region since last August.&nbsp;
"The Ukrainian armed force hit the Dobrynia shop in the village of Belaya in Belovski district. This happened at a time when people were grocery shopping after work," regional governor Alexander Khinshtein said on Telegram.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

World | US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stresses there is no military solution to the Ukraine conflict, urging diplomatic efforts for substantial progress towards peace.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman early on Tuesday (Mar 11) ahead of the crucial talks between Ukrainian and US officials to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is in Saudi Arabia, said there is "no military solution" to the conflict in Ukraine. US is hoping that diplomacy will deliver substantial progress towards ending Russia's war with Ukraine. The Saudi state news agency SPA reported that during the meeting with Zelensky in Jeddah, the crown prince emphasised support for international efforts to resolve Ukraine's crisis and achieve peace. Also read: US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump After the meeting, Zelensky took to his X account and wrote that he is "grateful" for the crown prince's "wise perspective" on global affairs and support for Ukraine. "It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine’s future," the Ukrainian president wrote. "We discussed all key issues on the agenda—both bilateral matters and cooperation with other partners. I acknowledged the Crown Prince’s efforts in bringing true peace closer. Saudi Arabia provides a crucial platform for diplomacy, and we appreciate this," he wrote. Also read: ‘Feeling terrible for American people’: Ontario slaps 25% surcharge on US electricity amid Trump’s trade war "The Ukrainian delegation remains in Jeddah to work with the U.S. team on Tuesday, March 11, and we hope for practical outcomes. Ukraine’s position in these talks will be fully constructive," he further added. "With the Crown Prince, we had a detailed discussion on the steps and conditions needed to end the war and secure a reliable and lasting peace." Also read: ‘Putin’s useful idiots’: JD Vance’s cousin who fought in Ukraine slams Trump, VP for ‘ambushing’ Zelensky I had a good meeting with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman. I am grateful for his wise perspective on global affairs and support for Ukraine. It was especially important to hear words of confidence in Ukraine’s future. We discussed all key issues on the… pic.twitter.com/BiBnaKViPl — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 10, 2025 What does the US want? Rubio was on his way to Jeddah when he said that there was a need to check Kyiv’s readiness to make concessions in order to reach peace. "The most important thing that we have to leave here with is a strong sense that Ukraine is prepared to do difficult things, like the Russians are going to have to do difficult things, to end this conflict or at least pause it in some way, shape or form," he told reporters on the plane. "I think both sides need to come to an understanding that there's no military solution to this situation. The Russians can't conquer all of Ukraine, and obviously it'll be very difficult for Ukraine in any reasonable time period to sort of force the Russians back all the way to where they were in 2014," he added. Also read: Trump says pro-Palestinian campus protester ‘first arrest of many to come’ Russia-Ukraine war latest A Ukrainian strike on a village store in the Russian region of Kursk on Monday killed three people and wounded nine, the regional governor said. Ukrainian forces have occupied a part of Kursk region since last August. "The Ukrainian armed force hit the Dobrynia shop in the village of Belaya in Belovski district. This happened at a time when people were grocery shopping after work," regional governor Alexander Khinshtein said on Telegram. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Zelensky meets Saudi crown prince in Jeddah; Rubio says 'no military solution' to Ukraine conflict

In a significant policy reversal, US President Donald Trump is set to lift his ban on military aid and intelligence support for Ukraine following a last-ditch appeal by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, reports said.&nbsp;
The move, if it happens, marks a significant shift from Trump's recent suspension of all aid and intelligence-sharing with Kyiv, a decision that had also barred allies like the UK from sharing US intelligence with Ukraine as it continues to battle Russia.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-savvy-putins-russia-with-large-scale-sanctions-after-moscow-strikes-ukraine-8832564">Ukraine's battlefield losses rise as Trump pulls Kyiv's access to US intelligence and satellite imagery</a>
<h2>Trump-Starmer talks</h2>
Starmer, as per a Mirror UK report, spoke directly with Trump for approximately 20 minutes ahead of scheduled peace talks in Saudi Arabia, pressing for the reinstatement of intelligence-sharing and military assistance. UK officials have also worked behind the scenes to encourage Ukraine to meet US conditions to secure the resumption of support. A spokesperson for Downing Street confirmed that the prime minister hoped for a "positive outcome" from the discussions.
"The prime minister said he hoped there would be a positive outcome to the talks that would enable US and intelligence to be restarted," said the Downing Street spokesperson.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vances-cousin-who-fought-in-ukraine-slams-donald-trump-us-vice-president-for-ambushing-zelensky-vladimir-putin-8841069">&lsquo;Putin&rsquo;s useful idiots&rsquo;: JD Vance&rsquo;s cousin who fought in Ukraine slams Trump, VP for &lsquo;ambushing&rsquo; Zelensky</a>
Furthermore, Starmer is reportedly preparing to host a new meeting of countries willing to join his "coalition of the willing" to help protect Ukraine after any potential peace deal.
Addressing the Parliamentary Labour Party, Starmer emphasised the situation's urgency: The "real world is moving quickly and people look to their government to seize it and shape it for the benefit of the British people."&nbsp;
"That's why I have been clear the security of Ukraine is the future of Europe and our support for Ukraine is unwavering. Our defence and security must come first. That is what we owe to the British people," he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-president-donald-trump-zelensky-what-to-expect-from-us-ukraine-talks-in-saudi-after-trump-zelensky-fallout-8840380">&lsquo;Ceasefire in sky and sea&rsquo;: What to expect from US-Ukraine talks in Saudi after Trump-Zelensky fallout</a>
<h2>Vital Saudi peace talks</h2>
Ahead of the high-stakes negotiations in Saudi Arabia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism, remarking: "I think the notion of the pause in aid, broadly, is something I hope we can resolve. Obviously, what happens [today] will be key to that."
However, he also signalled that any restoration of US support would come with conditions, adding that Ukraine must be prepared to do difficult things, like the Russians will.&nbsp;
One potential requirement includes ceding territory to Russia as part of a broader peace agreement.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | US President Trump is set to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal, marking a major policy shift amid ongoing tensions.

In a significant policy reversal, US President Donald Trump is set to lift his ban on military aid and intelligence support for Ukraine following a last-ditch appeal by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, reports said. The move, if it happens, marks a significant shift from Trump's recent suspension of all aid and intelligence-sharing with Kyiv, a decision that had also barred allies like the UK from sharing US intelligence with Ukraine as it continues to battle Russia. Also read | Ukraine's battlefield losses rise as Trump pulls Kyiv's access to US intelligence and satellite imagery Trump-Starmer talks Starmer, as per a Mirror UK report, spoke directly with Trump for approximately 20 minutes ahead of scheduled peace talks in Saudi Arabia, pressing for the reinstatement of intelligence-sharing and military assistance. UK officials have also worked behind the scenes to encourage Ukraine to meet US conditions to secure the resumption of support. A spokesperson for Downing Street confirmed that the prime minister hoped for a "positive outcome" from the discussions. "The prime minister said he hoped there would be a positive outcome to the talks that would enable US and intelligence to be restarted," said the Downing Street spokesperson. Also read | ‘Putin’s useful idiots’: JD Vance’s cousin who fought in Ukraine slams Trump, VP for ‘ambushing’ Zelensky Furthermore, Starmer is reportedly preparing to host a new meeting of countries willing to join his "coalition of the willing" to help protect Ukraine after any potential peace deal. Addressing the Parliamentary Labour Party, Starmer emphasised the situation's urgency: The "real world is moving quickly and people look to their government to seize it and shape it for the benefit of the British people." "That's why I have been clear the security of Ukraine is the future of Europe and our support for Ukraine is unwavering. Our defence and security must come first. That is what we owe to the British people," he added. Also read | ‘Ceasefire in sky and sea’: What to expect from US-Ukraine talks in Saudi after Trump-Zelensky fallout Vital Saudi peace talks Ahead of the high-stakes negotiations in Saudi Arabia, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism, remarking: "I think the notion of the pause in aid, broadly, is something I hope we can resolve. Obviously, what happens [today] will be key to that." However, he also signalled that any restoration of US support would come with conditions, adding that Ukraine must be prepared to do difficult things, like the Russians will. One potential requirement includes ceding territory to Russia as part of a broader peace agreement. (With inputs from agencies)

US to resume military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine after UK PM Starmer's appeal to Trump

The Trump administration has come under fire after its recent decision to withdraw military and intelligence support for Ukraine, with Vice President JD Vance&rsquo;s own cousin branding him and President Donald Trump as &ldquo;Vladimir Putin&rsquo;s useful idiots.&rdquo;
Nate Vance, a Texan who spent three years fighting on the front lines against Russia, voiced his disappointment in an interview with Le Figaro published on Sunday. He described his cousin as &ldquo;good&rdquo; and &ldquo;intelligent&rdquo; but criticised the administration&rsquo;s sudden shift away from aiding Ukraine, calling it a betrayal.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-zelensky-us-us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-russia-ukraine-war-us-ukraine-talks-mineral-deal-us-aid-8840748">From US aid to mineral deal: Much at stake as Zelensky, Rubio arrive in Saudi for crucial US-Ukraine talks</a>
<h2>'Ambush of absolute dishonesty'</h2>
&ldquo;When [JD Vance] criticised aid to Ukraine, I thought it was because he needed to appeal to his electorate, that it was part of the political game. But what they did to Zelensky was an ambush of absolute dishonesty,&rdquo; Nate Vance told Le Figaro.
Nate Vance said, "Donald Trump and my cousin clearly think they can placate Vladimir Putin. They are wrong. The Russians are not about to forget our support for Ukraine. We are Vladimir Putin&rsquo;s useful idiots.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-slams-ungrateful-zelensky-for-extorting-us-ahead-of-talks-on-russia-ukraine-war-8837577">&lsquo;Took money like candy from baby&rsquo;: Trump slams &lsquo;ungrateful&rsquo; Zelensky for extorting US ahead of talks with Kyiv</a>
<h2>'Not going to accept you killing my comrades'</h2>
A former US Marine, Nate Vance served in Ukraine&rsquo;s Da Vinci Wolves First Motorised Battalion from 2022 until January this year. He and JD Vance share grandparents and have spent family holidays together. However, he said his attempts to contact his cousin about the situation have gone unanswered.
&ldquo;Being your family doesn&rsquo;t mean I&rsquo;m going to accept you killing my comrades,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-miffed-with-uk-after-king-charles-welcomes-zelensky-trudeau-to-his-home-8837379">&lsquo;Makes him feel less special&rsquo;: Trump miffed with UK after King Charles welcomes Zelensky, Trudeau to his home</a>
JD Vance is believed to be at the centre of a heated Oval Office exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last month. During the meeting, both he and Trump berated Zelensky, allegedly for not showing enough gratitude for US military assistance. In the days following the confrontation, Trump suspended military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-us-president-donald-trump-makes-sarcastic-joke-about-white-house-suit-criticism-8837663">&lsquo;Sorry I&rsquo;m not in a suit&rsquo;: Ukraine&rsquo;s Zelensky makes sarcastic joke about Trump&rsquo;s attire criticism</a>
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has taken steps to strengthen its ties with Russia. On Friday, Trump said that the US was &ldquo;doing very well with Russia&rdquo; but admitted that dealing with Ukraine was proving more difficult.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Nate Vance, who spent three years fighting on the front lines against Russia, criticised the Trump administration’s shift away from aiding Ukraine, calling it a betrayal.

The Trump administration has come under fire after its recent decision to withdraw military and intelligence support for Ukraine, with Vice President JD Vance’s own cousin branding him and President Donald Trump as “Vladimir Putin’s useful idiots.” Nate Vance, a Texan who spent three years fighting on the front lines against Russia, voiced his disappointment in an interview with Le Figaro published on Sunday. He described his cousin as “good” and “intelligent” but criticised the administration’s sudden shift away from aiding Ukraine, calling it a betrayal. Also read: From US aid to mineral deal: Much at stake as Zelensky, Rubio arrive in Saudi for crucial US-Ukraine talks 'Ambush of absolute dishonesty' “When [JD Vance] criticised aid to Ukraine, I thought it was because he needed to appeal to his electorate, that it was part of the political game. But what they did to Zelensky was an ambush of absolute dishonesty,” Nate Vance told Le Figaro. Nate Vance said, "Donald Trump and my cousin clearly think they can placate Vladimir Putin. They are wrong. The Russians are not about to forget our support for Ukraine. We are Vladimir Putin’s useful idiots.” Also read: ‘Took money like candy from baby’: Trump slams ‘ungrateful’ Zelensky for extorting US ahead of talks with Kyiv 'Not going to accept you killing my comrades' A former US Marine, Nate Vance served in Ukraine’s Da Vinci Wolves First Motorised Battalion from 2022 until January this year. He and JD Vance share grandparents and have spent family holidays together. However, he said his attempts to contact his cousin about the situation have gone unanswered. “Being your family doesn’t mean I’m going to accept you killing my comrades,” he said. Also read: ‘Makes him feel less special’: Trump miffed with UK after King Charles welcomes Zelensky, Trudeau to his home JD Vance is believed to be at the centre of a heated Oval Office exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last month. During the meeting, both he and Trump berated Zelensky, allegedly for not showing enough gratitude for US military assistance. In the days following the confrontation, Trump suspended military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv. Also read: ‘Sorry I’m not in a suit’: Ukraine’s Zelensky makes sarcastic joke about Trump’s attire criticism Meanwhile, the Trump administration has taken steps to strengthen its ties with Russia. On Friday, Trump said that the US was “doing very well with Russia” but admitted that dealing with Ukraine was proving more difficult. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Putin’s useful idiots’: JD Vance’s cousin who fought in Ukraine slams Trump, VP for ‘ambushing’ Zelensky

Kyiv is set to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire with Russia during discussions with US officials in Saudi Arabia this week, according to media reports. President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to arrive in the kingdom as the negotiations take place.
The talks, scheduled for Tuesday, mark the first meeting between Ukrainian and US representatives since a heated exchange at the White House between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. The dispute led to Zelensky leaving without signing a minerals agreement that Washington had been pushing for. Zelensky later described the incident as "regrettable" and expressed willingness to work with Trump's "strong leadership."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-confirms-us-in-talks-with-four-different-groups-interested-in-acquiring-tiktok-8839995">Trump confirms US in talks with four different groups interested in acquiring TikTok</a>
<h2>Proposal for a partial ceasefire</h2>
A Ukrainian official told AFP on Monday, "We do have a proposal for a ceasefire in the sky and ceasefire at sea." The official added, "Because these are the ceasefire options that are easy to install and to monitor, and it's possible to start with them."
A report in The Financial Times, which cited a source familiar with the preparations, said Kyiv hopes that a partial ceasefire could encourage Washington to resume military aid and intelligence sharing.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-wont-negotiate-under-intimidation-as-donald-trump-ramps-up-pressure-8839146">Iran won't negotiate under 'intimidation' as Donald Trump ramps up pressure</a>
<h2>Seeking path to peace</h2>
Ukrainian and American officials are set to explore ways to bring an end to the conflict, which has continued for more than three years since Russia&rsquo;s full-scale invasion.
Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine's only aim is peace, stressing that Russia remains the sole reason for the war&rsquo;s continuation. "Ukraine has been seeking peace since the very first second of the war, and we have always said that the only reason that the war is continuing is because of Russia," he wrote on social media.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-wants-peace-zelensky-says-russia-is-the-only-reason-war-continues-ahead-of-key-talks-with-us-8839786">&lsquo;Ukraine wants peace&rsquo;: Ahead of talks with US, Zelensky says Russia is the &lsquo;only reason&rsquo; war continues</a>
On Monday, Zelensky was scheduled to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before Ukrainian officials held talks with their US counterparts the following day.
<h2>US seeks peace framework</h2>
US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff stated that Washington aims to use the talks "to get down a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire as well." He also revealed that Trump had received a letter from Zelensky, calling it "a very positive first step" and "an apology."
When asked whether Ukraine would sign a deal during the talks in Saudi Arabia, Witkoff said, "I think Zelensky has offered to sign it, and we'll see if he follows through."
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is also expected to arrive in Jeddah on Monday, along with Mike Waltz, Trump's national security adviser, according to the US State Department.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-slams-ungrateful-zelensky-for-extorting-us-ahead-of-talks-on-russia-ukraine-war-8837577">&lsquo;Took money like candy from baby&rsquo;: Trump slams &lsquo;ungrateful&rsquo; Zelensky for extorting US ahead of talks with Kyiv</a>
<h2>US pressure on Ukraine</h2>
Washington has halted military aid, intelligence-sharing, and access to satellite imagery for Ukraine to push Kyiv towards negotiations.
Trump has recently reestablished communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin while criticising Zelensky, raising concerns in Kyiv and among European allies that the US leader might seek a settlement that benefits Russia.
Last month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Rubio met in Riyadh, where they agreed to resume dialogue and begin talks on the Ukraine conflict.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The talks, scheduled for Tuesday, mark the first meeting between Ukrainian and US representatives since a heated exchange at the White House between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump.

Kyiv is set to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire with Russia during discussions with US officials in Saudi Arabia this week, according to media reports. President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to arrive in the kingdom as the negotiations take place. The talks, scheduled for Tuesday, mark the first meeting between Ukrainian and US representatives since a heated exchange at the White House between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. The dispute led to Zelensky leaving without signing a minerals agreement that Washington had been pushing for. Zelensky later described the incident as "regrettable" and expressed willingness to work with Trump's "strong leadership." Also read: Trump confirms US in talks with four different groups interested in acquiring TikTok Proposal for a partial ceasefire A Ukrainian official told AFP on Monday, "We do have a proposal for a ceasefire in the sky and ceasefire at sea." The official added, "Because these are the ceasefire options that are easy to install and to monitor, and it's possible to start with them." A report in The Financial Times, which cited a source familiar with the preparations, said Kyiv hopes that a partial ceasefire could encourage Washington to resume military aid and intelligence sharing. Also read: Iran won't negotiate under 'intimidation' as Donald Trump ramps up pressure Seeking path to peace Ukrainian and American officials are set to explore ways to bring an end to the conflict, which has continued for more than three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion. Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine's only aim is peace, stressing that Russia remains the sole reason for the war’s continuation. "Ukraine has been seeking peace since the very first second of the war, and we have always said that the only reason that the war is continuing is because of Russia," he wrote on social media. Also read: ‘Ukraine wants peace’: Ahead of talks with US, Zelensky says Russia is the ‘only reason’ war continues On Monday, Zelensky was scheduled to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before Ukrainian officials held talks with their US counterparts the following day. US seeks peace framework US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff stated that Washington aims to use the talks "to get down a framework for a peace agreement and an initial ceasefire as well." He also revealed that Trump had received a letter from Zelensky, calling it "a very positive first step" and "an apology." When asked whether Ukraine would sign a deal during the talks in Saudi Arabia, Witkoff said, "I think Zelensky has offered to sign it, and we'll see if he follows through." US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is also expected to arrive in Jeddah on Monday, along with Mike Waltz, Trump's national security adviser, according to the US State Department. Also read: ‘Took money like candy from baby’: Trump slams ‘ungrateful’ Zelensky for extorting US ahead of talks with Kyiv US pressure on Ukraine Washington has halted military aid, intelligence-sharing, and access to satellite imagery for Ukraine to push Kyiv towards negotiations. Trump has recently reestablished communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin while criticising Zelensky, raising concerns in Kyiv and among European allies that the US leader might seek a settlement that benefits Russia. Last month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Rubio met in Riyadh, where they agreed to resume dialogue and begin talks on the Ukraine conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Ceasefire in sky and sea’: What to expect from US-Ukraine talks in Saudi after Trump-Zelensky fallout

Elon Musk, who co-chairs the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), issued a warning on Sunday (Mar 9) that the frontline of Ukraine's defence system will collapse if he shuts down his Starlink satellite internet system.&nbsp;
This comes after Musk called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "evil" for pushing what he termed a "forever war" with Russia. Musk's Starlink system has been crucial in maintaining military communications for Ukraine.
Taking to his X handle, Musk said that he is "sickened by" the "years of slaughter in a stalemate that Ukraine will inevitably lose."
"I literally challenged Putin to one-on-one physical combat over Ukraine, and my Starlink system is the backbone of the Ukrainian army. Their entire front line would collapse if I turned it off. What I am sickened by (Th)is years of slaughter in a stalemate that Ukraine will inevitably lose. Anyone who really cares, really thinks and really understands wants the meat grinder to stop. PEACE NOW," he wrote in his X post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m81ngu5p-ohd2hhp8-44niq5rh">
I literally challenged Putin to one on one physical combat over Ukraine and my Starlink system is the backbone of the Ukrainian army. Their entire front line would collapse if I turned it off. What I am sickened by is years of slaughter in a stalemate that Ukraine will&hellip;
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1898612062533956047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>'Place sanctions on top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs'</h2>
US President Donald Trump's billionaire adviser further pushed for sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, "especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately," after protesters unfurled a Ukrainian flag in the vicinity of the White House.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-pushes-for-us-to-exit-nato-doesnt-make-sense-8836843">Also read: Elon Musk pushes for US to exit NATO; 'Doesn&rsquo;t make sense...'</a>
"Place sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately. That is the key to the puzzle," he wrote in response to a tweet that said "not another penny to Ukraine" asking who paid for this MASSIVE Ukrainian flag that was unfurled in front of the White House.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m81nh4mn-2l836b0h-9mvoddsw">
Place sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately. That is the key to the puzzle. <a href="https://t.co/hgw8tQsEs6">https://t.co/hgw8tQsEs6</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1898608186858373428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
Earlier on Tuesday (Mar 4), Musk agreed to a post that slammed Zelensky for stretching the war with Russia to remain in power.
"True. As distasteful as it is, Zelensky should be offered some kind of amnesty in a neutral country in exchange for a peaceful transition back to democracy in Ukraine," he said.
"Zelensky wants a forever war, a never-ending graft meat grinder. This is evil," the Tesla CEO added.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World news: Musk pushed for sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, "especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately," after protesters unfurled a Ukrainian flag in the vicinity of the White House.

Elon Musk, who co-chairs the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), issued a warning on Sunday (Mar 9) that the frontline of Ukraine's defence system will collapse if he shuts down his Starlink satellite internet system. This comes after Musk called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "evil" for pushing what he termed a "forever war" with Russia. Musk's Starlink system has been crucial in maintaining military communications for Ukraine. Taking to his X handle, Musk said that he is "sickened by" the "years of slaughter in a stalemate that Ukraine will inevitably lose." "I literally challenged Putin to one-on-one physical combat over Ukraine, and my Starlink system is the backbone of the Ukrainian army. Their entire front line would collapse if I turned it off. What I am sickened by (Th)is years of slaughter in a stalemate that Ukraine will inevitably lose. Anyone who really cares, really thinks and really understands wants the meat grinder to stop. PEACE NOW," he wrote in his X post. I literally challenged Putin to one on one physical combat over Ukraine and my Starlink system is the backbone of the Ukrainian army. Their entire front line would collapse if I turned it off. What I am sickened by is years of slaughter in a stalemate that Ukraine will… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 9, 2025 'Place sanctions on top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs' US President Donald Trump's billionaire adviser further pushed for sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, "especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately," after protesters unfurled a Ukrainian flag in the vicinity of the White House. Also read: Elon Musk pushes for US to exit NATO; 'Doesn’t make sense...' "Place sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately. That is the key to the puzzle," he wrote in response to a tweet that said "not another penny to Ukraine" asking who paid for this MASSIVE Ukrainian flag that was unfurled in front of the White House. Place sanctions on the top 10 Ukrainian oligarchs, especially the ones with mansions in Monaco, and this will stop immediately. That is the key to the puzzle. https://t.co/hgw8tQsEs6 — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 9, 2025 Earlier on Tuesday (Mar 4), Musk agreed to a post that slammed Zelensky for stretching the war with Russia to remain in power. "True. As distasteful as it is, Zelensky should be offered some kind of amnesty in a neutral country in exchange for a peaceful transition back to democracy in Ukraine," he said. "Zelensky wants a forever war, a never-ending graft meat grinder. This is evil," the Tesla CEO added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘My Starlink is backbone of Ukrainian army’: Elon Musk warns Kyiv would collapse if he ‘turned it off’

US Vice-President JD Vance claimed he was once again heckled by pro-Ukraine protestors, this time while he was on a walk with his three-year-old daughter. Taking to X on Saturday (March 8), Vance said some protestors followed him around and shouted at him and his daughter.&nbsp;
"Today while walking my 3 year old daughter a group of &ldquo;Slava Ukraini&rdquo; protesters followed us around and shouted as my daughter grew increasingly anxious and scared," the US VP said on the social media platform.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rep-al-green-removed-from-trump-speech-for-heckling-8791367">Trump speech : Vance claps as Rep Al Green is ejected from Trump's speech at Congress - Watch</a>
He added that after he approached the protestors&nbsp;to have a discussion, they agreed and the conversation went "mostly respectful".&nbsp;
"I decided to speak with the protesters in the hopes that I could trade a few minutes of conversation for them leaving my toddler alone. (Nearly all of them agreed", Vance wrote.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8161a5u-ala7voyj-hoqglacu">
Today while walking my 3 year old daughter a group of &ldquo;Slava Ukraini&rdquo; protesters followed us around and shouted as my daughter grew increasingly anxious and scared. I decided to speak with the protesters in the hopes that I could trade a few minutes of conversation for them&hellip;
&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1898471709662916636?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
"It was a mostly respectful conversation, but if you&rsquo;re chasing a 3-year-old as part of a political protest, you&rsquo;re a s**t person," he added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m816gt0l-uhz35we1-veyocyex">
Footage of pro-Ukrainian protesters swarming around JD Vance after harassing his 'anxious and scared' 3yo daughter <a href="https://t.co/Ok3NzZdGLh">pic.twitter.com/Ok3NzZdGLh</a>
&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/1898585012309516611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-laments-trumps-lengthy-congress-speech-in-caught-on-mic-moment-watch-8794039">Trump speech: JD Vance laments US president's lengthy Congress speech in hot mic moment | WATCH</a>
<h2>'Vance is a traitor'</h2>
The incident comes just days after Vance and his family were mobbed by Ukrainian protestors while they were on a family trip in &nbsp;Vermont on March 2.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-give-americans-stake-in-ukraine-that-will-be-best-security-guarantee-us-vp-jd-vance-8776042">WATCH | Give Americans stake in Ukraine, that will be 'best security guarantee': JD Vance</a>
People were seen booing him and holding posters that read - "Vance is a traitor. Go ski in Russia," and "JD Vance, Zelensky is 10X the man you are".
Some were even seen alleging via posters that the US President Donald Trump "serves" Russian leader Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;
The series of anti-Vance protests erupted after the disastorous White House meeting of the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and the US President Donald Trump - in presence of Vance.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tawdry-excuse-of-a-president-why-jd-vance-faces-protests-in-vermont-while-zelensky-gets-grand-welcome-in-uk-8770364">'Tawdry excuse of a president': Why JD Vance faces protests in Vermont while Zelensky gets grand welcome in UK?</a>

WORLD | TRENDING | Taking to the social media platform X on Saturday(March 8), Vance said that some protestors followed him around and shouted at him and his daughter.

US Vice-President JD Vance claimed he was once again heckled by pro-Ukraine protestors, this time while he was on a walk with his three-year-old daughter. Taking to X on Saturday (March 8), Vance said some protestors followed him around and shouted at him and his daughter. "Today while walking my 3 year old daughter a group of “Slava Ukraini” protesters followed us around and shouted as my daughter grew increasingly anxious and scared," the US VP said on the social media platform. Also read: Trump speech : Vance claps as Rep Al Green is ejected from Trump's speech at Congress - Watch He added that after he approached the protestors to have a discussion, they agreed and the conversation went "mostly respectful". "I decided to speak with the protesters in the hopes that I could trade a few minutes of conversation for them leaving my toddler alone. (Nearly all of them agreed", Vance wrote. Today while walking my 3 year old daughter a group of “Slava Ukraini” protesters followed us around and shouted as my daughter grew increasingly anxious and scared. I decided to speak with the protesters in the hopes that I could trade a few minutes of conversation for them… — JD Vance (@JDVance) March 8, 2025 "It was a mostly respectful conversation, but if you’re chasing a 3-year-old as part of a political protest, you’re a s**t person," he added. Footage of pro-Ukrainian protesters swarming around JD Vance after harassing his 'anxious and scared' 3yo daughter pic.twitter.com/Ok3NzZdGLh — RT (@RT_com) March 9, 2025 Also read: Trump speech: JD Vance laments US president's lengthy Congress speech in hot mic moment | WATCH 'Vance is a traitor' The incident comes just days after Vance and his family were mobbed by Ukrainian protestors while they were on a family trip in Vermont on March 2. WATCH | Give Americans stake in Ukraine, that will be 'best security guarantee': JD Vance People were seen booing him and holding posters that read - "Vance is a traitor. Go ski in Russia," and "JD Vance, Zelensky is 10X the man you are". Some were even seen alleging via posters that the US President Donald Trump "serves" Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The series of anti-Vance protests erupted after the disastorous White House meeting of the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and the US President Donald Trump - in presence of Vance. Also read: 'Tawdry excuse of a president': Why JD Vance faces protests in Vermont while Zelensky gets grand welcome in UK?

WATCH | Pro-Ukraine protesters chased JD Vance while he was with his 3-year-old daughter

Ukraine on Friday (March 8) lost its access to United States' commercial satellite imagery as Maxar Technologies blocked Kyiv's access following a request from US President Donald Trump.
Kyiv's access to US government-purchased commercial satellite imagery has been "temporarily suspended," said a National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency spokesperson.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/final-strokes-trump-hints-at-final-moments-with-iran-after-his-letter-to-khamenei-gets-lost-in-mail-8832335">'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail'</a>
<h2>Ukraine's intelligence suspended&nbsp;</h2>
Maxar Technologies, one of the companies contracted by the US program that provided the imagery to Kyiv, confirmed the suspension, while saying there is "no change to the way we support our other customers nor their programs or contracts."
The suspension of intelligence sharing comes after Trump previously ordered a halt of key assistance to Kyiv.
With the suspension of Ukraine's access to the satellite imagery, the war-torn nation's battlefield loses are on the rise. To Ukraine&rsquo;s military battling Russian forces, American intelligence is as critical as military supplies. These intelligence briefings had provided Kyiv crucial early warnings of incoming attacks.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-ceasefire-breakthrough-putin-open-to-truce-but-only-if-he-gets-his-way-8832162">Russia-Ukraine ceasefire breakthrough? Putin open to truce, but only if&nbsp;he&nbsp;gets&nbsp;his&nbsp;way</a>
Reports suggest it has already affected Ukraine's military capabilities. The Guardian citing an anonymous source reports that the estimated accuracy of Ukraine's drones&mdash;key assets in its 1,000 km frontline battle&mdash;had dropped by 10-15 per cent.
Meanwhile, North Korea troops, reportedly fighting alongside Russian forces, have gained ground in Russia's Kursk, reports Ukrainian media. Ukrainian combat groups had seized this area seven months ago, but reports now indicate the North Koreans have broken through defences south of Sudzha, cutting a crucial supply route.
<h2>Trump threatens Putin's Russia with sanctions</h2>
Just hours after Moscow on Friday (March 7) launched a wave of missile and drone strikes across Ukraine, US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social warning 'savvy' Vladimir Putin's Russia with sanctions threat.
The strikes hit Ukraine in the early hours of Friday as Ukrainian officials prepared to meet US counterparts in Saudi Arabia for discussions on ending the war.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-difficult-to-deal-with-ukraine-trump-complains-about-zelensky-says-easier-to-deal-with-russia-8832284">'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia</a>
Soon after, Trump took to Truth Social with a stark message aimed at the Kremlin.
"Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely 'pounding' Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED," he wrote.
He followed up with an appeal to both sides: "To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!"
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114121576367163341/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

<h2>Trump's Ukraine-Russia bias</h2>
The US president's remarks stood in contrast to his administration's recent punitive moves, which have piled pressure on Ukraine and his rhetoric for Putin vs Zelensky. Trump has praised previously Putin as "smart" and "savvy," but sought to label Zelensky a "dictator".
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Ukraine's battlefield losses increase as Trump halts Kyiv's access to critical US satellite imagery, impacting military capabilities and strategic operations.

Ukraine on Friday (March 8) lost its access to United States' commercial satellite imagery as Maxar Technologies blocked Kyiv's access following a request from US President Donald Trump. Kyiv's access to US government-purchased commercial satellite imagery has been "temporarily suspended," said a National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency spokesperson. Also read | 'Final strokes': Trump hints at 'final moments' with Iran after his letter to Khamenei 'gets lost in mail' Ukraine's intelligence suspended Maxar Technologies, one of the companies contracted by the US program that provided the imagery to Kyiv, confirmed the suspension, while saying there is "no change to the way we support our other customers nor their programs or contracts." The suspension of intelligence sharing comes after Trump previously ordered a halt of key assistance to Kyiv. With the suspension of Ukraine's access to the satellite imagery, the war-torn nation's battlefield loses are on the rise. To Ukraine’s military battling Russian forces, American intelligence is as critical as military supplies. These intelligence briefings had provided Kyiv crucial early warnings of incoming attacks. Also read | Russia-Ukraine ceasefire breakthrough? Putin open to truce, but only if he gets his way Reports suggest it has already affected Ukraine's military capabilities. The Guardian citing an anonymous source reports that the estimated accuracy of Ukraine's drones—key assets in its 1,000 km frontline battle—had dropped by 10-15 per cent. Meanwhile, North Korea troops, reportedly fighting alongside Russian forces, have gained ground in Russia's Kursk, reports Ukrainian media. Ukrainian combat groups had seized this area seven months ago, but reports now indicate the North Koreans have broken through defences south of Sudzha, cutting a crucial supply route. Trump threatens Putin's Russia with sanctions Just hours after Moscow on Friday (March 7) launched a wave of missile and drone strikes across Ukraine, US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social warning 'savvy' Vladimir Putin's Russia with sanctions threat. The strikes hit Ukraine in the early hours of Friday as Ukrainian officials prepared to meet US counterparts in Saudi Arabia for discussions on ending the war. Also read | 'More difficult to deal with Ukraine': Trump complains about Zelensky, says easier to deal with Russia Soon after, Trump took to Truth Social with a stark message aimed at the Kremlin. "Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely 'pounding' Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED," he wrote. He followed up with an appeal to both sides: "To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!" Trump's Ukraine-Russia bias The US president's remarks stood in contrast to his administration's recent punitive moves, which have piled pressure on Ukraine and his rhetoric for Putin vs Zelensky. Trump has praised previously Putin as "smart" and "savvy," but sought to label Zelensky a "dictator". (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine's battlefield losses rise as Trump pulls Kyiv's access to US intelligence and satellite imagery

Days after US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky got into a heated conversation at the White House, the officials from both the countries are now ready to hold a meeting in the near future.&nbsp;
Ukrainian president's chief of staff Andriy Yermak said that he and US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz had discussed the next steps towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, Reuters reported.&nbsp;
Yermak shared a post on X, saying that "they also exchanged views on security issues and the alignment of positions,&rdquo; and scheduled a meeting of Ukrainian and US officials in the near future &ldquo;to continue this important work&rdquo;.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-offers-to-sign-minerals-deal-at-any-time-says-trump-defending-his-position-on-ukraine-8791523">Trump speech: Zelensky offers to sign minerals deal 'any time', says US president</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Had a phone conversation with the U.S. President&rsquo;s National Security Advisor, <a href="https://twitter.com/michaelgwaltz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@michaelgwaltz</a>. We discussed the next steps towards a just and lasting peace.
&mdash; Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndriyYermak/status/1897326659029885243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Zelensky visited the White House last Friday and met with Trump. However, the two leaders had a fiery conversation that did not go well.&nbsp;
At the end of the meeting, the Ukrainian president left and eventually, the leaders cancelled the press conference and signing of the minerals deal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-to-make-things-right-ukraines-zelensky-ready-to-work-under-trumps-strong-leadership-after-us-halts-aid-8790721">&lsquo;Time to make things right&rsquo;: Zelensky ready to work under Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;strong leadership&rsquo; after US halts aid</a>
Earlier in the day, a French government spokeswoman said that President Emmanuel Macron is mulling a joint visit to US along with Zelensky, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.&nbsp;
"It is being considered that President Macron could possibly go again to Washington, with President Zelensky and his English counterpart," Sophie Primas told reporters after a cabinet meeting, referring to UK government chief Starmer.
Earlier today, during the joint session to Congress, Trump said that he received an important letter from his Ukrainian counterpart, who told him Kyiv was ready for talks with Russia and a US minerals deal, days after their White House clash.&nbsp;
"Millions of Ukrainians and Russians have been needlessly killed or wounded in this horrific and brutal conflict with no end in sight. The United States has sent hundreds of billions of dollars to support Ukraine&rsquo;s defense," Trump said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-press-secretary-calls-trump-zelensky-showdown-an-incredibly-refreshing-moment-8790660">White House Press Secretary calls Trump-Zelensky showdown an &lsquo;incredibly refreshing&rsquo; moment</a>
"It's time to stop this. It's time to halt the killing. It's time to end the senseless war," he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Andriy Yermak said that he and US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz had discussed the next steps towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, Reuters reported.

Days after US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky got into a heated conversation at the White House, the officials from both the countries are now ready to hold a meeting in the near future. Ukrainian president's chief of staff Andriy Yermak said that he and US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz had discussed the next steps towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, Reuters reported. Yermak shared a post on X, saying that "they also exchanged views on security issues and the alignment of positions,” and scheduled a meeting of Ukrainian and US officials in the near future “to continue this important work”. Also read: Trump speech: Zelensky offers to sign minerals deal 'any time', says US president Had a phone conversation with the U.S. President’s National Security Advisor, @michaelgwaltz. We discussed the next steps towards a just and lasting peace. — Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) March 5, 2025 Zelensky visited the White House last Friday and met with Trump. However, the two leaders had a fiery conversation that did not go well. At the end of the meeting, the Ukrainian president left and eventually, the leaders cancelled the press conference and signing of the minerals deal. Also read: ‘Time to make things right’: Zelensky ready to work under Trump’s ‘strong leadership’ after US halts aid Earlier in the day, a French government spokeswoman said that President Emmanuel Macron is mulling a joint visit to US along with Zelensky, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "It is being considered that President Macron could possibly go again to Washington, with President Zelensky and his English counterpart," Sophie Primas told reporters after a cabinet meeting, referring to UK government chief Starmer. Earlier today, during the joint session to Congress, Trump said that he received an important letter from his Ukrainian counterpart, who told him Kyiv was ready for talks with Russia and a US minerals deal, days after their White House clash. "Millions of Ukrainians and Russians have been needlessly killed or wounded in this horrific and brutal conflict with no end in sight. The United States has sent hundreds of billions of dollars to support Ukraine’s defense," Trump said. Also read: White House Press Secretary calls Trump-Zelensky showdown an ‘incredibly refreshing’ moment "It's time to stop this. It's time to halt the killing. It's time to end the senseless war," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Scheduled a meeting': US, Ukraine to hold talks once again days after White House spat

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that he is willing to finalise a security and minerals agreement with the United States while adding that he is prepared to work under President Donald Trump&rsquo;s &ldquo;strong leadership.&rdquo;
While accepting that his meeting with Trump &ldquo;did not go the way it was supposed to,&rdquo; Zelensky reiterated Ukraine&rsquo;s commitment to achieving peace and praised the US president for supplying his military with Javelin missiles.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-trying-to-tick-a-box-russia-sends-troops-on-suicide-missions-to-seize-ukrainian-land-ahead-of-talks-8782005" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Putin &lsquo;trying to tick a box&rsquo;: Russia sends troops on &lsquo;suicide missions&rsquo; to seize Ukrainian land&nbsp;ahead&nbsp;of&nbsp;talks</a>
His comments follow Trump&rsquo;s decision to halt all military aid deliveries to Ukraine, a move that came days after their unpleasant meeting at the White House.
<h2>Ukraine committed to peace</h2>
In a statement posted on X, Zelensky stressed Ukraine&rsquo;s desire to end the war, saying, "I would like to reiterate Ukraine&rsquo;s commitment to peace. None of us wants an endless war. Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians. My team and I stand ready to work under President Trump&rsquo;s strong leadership to get a peace that lasts."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-outfit-real-americas-voice-brian-glenn-marjorie-taylor-greene-8778009">&lsquo;They will harm me&rsquo;: US reporter who questioned Zelensky&rsquo;s outfit claims getting &lsquo;thousands of death threats&rsquo;</a>
"We are ready to work fast to end the war, and the first stages could be the release of prisoners and truce in the sky &ndash; ban on missiles, long-ranged drones, bombs on energy and other civilian infrastructure &ndash; and truce in the sea immediately, if Russia will do the same. Then we want to move very fast through all next stages and to work with the US to agree a strong final deal," he added.
<h2>Acknowledging US support</h2>
Zelensky also expressed gratitude for US assistance, particularly recalling Trump&rsquo;s decision to provide Javelin anti-tank missiles to Ukraine.
"We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence. And we remember the moment when things changed when President Trump provided Ukraine with Javelins. We are grateful for this," he said.
Reflecting on his recent meeting in Washington, Zelensky admitted that it had not gone as expected. 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arab-league-summit-egypts-sisi-says-trump-can-bring-peace-as-leaders-meet-to-oppose-his-gaza-plan-8790469">Arab League Summit: Egypt&rsquo;s Sisi says 'Trump can bring peace' as leaders meet to oppose&nbsp;his&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;plan</a>
"Our meeting in Washington, at the White House on Friday, did not go the way it was supposed to be. It is regrettable that it happened this way. It is time to make things right. We would like future cooperation and communication to be constructive," he added.
<h2>Security and minerals agreement</h2>
Zelenskyy also confirmed Ukraine&rsquo;s readiness to sign a security and minerals agreement with the US.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/determined-to-continue-operation-with-us-ukraine-to-not-rule-out-negotiations-after-trump-halts-military-aid-8777917">&lsquo;Determined to continue cooperation with US&rsquo;: Ukraine for negotiations after Trump halts military aid</a>
"Regarding the agreement on minerals and security, Ukraine is ready to sign it at any time and any convenient format. We see this agreement as a step toward greater security and solid security guarantees, and I truly hope it will work effectively," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Zelensky accepted that his meeting with Trump “did not go the way it was supposed to.” His comments follow Trump’s decision to halt all military aid deliveries to Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that he is willing to finalise a security and minerals agreement with the United States while adding that he is prepared to work under President Donald Trump’s “strong leadership.” While accepting that his meeting with Trump “did not go the way it was supposed to,” Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to achieving peace and praised the US president for supplying his military with Javelin missiles. Also read: Putin ‘trying to tick a box’: Russia sends troops on ‘suicide missions’ to seize Ukrainian land ahead of talks His comments follow Trump’s decision to halt all military aid deliveries to Ukraine, a move that came days after their unpleasant meeting at the White House. Ukraine committed to peace In a statement posted on X, Zelensky stressed Ukraine’s desire to end the war, saying, "I would like to reiterate Ukraine’s commitment to peace. None of us wants an endless war. Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians. My team and I stand ready to work under President Trump’s strong leadership to get a peace that lasts." Also read: ‘They will harm me’: US reporter who questioned Zelensky’s outfit claims getting ‘thousands of death threats’ "We are ready to work fast to end the war, and the first stages could be the release of prisoners and truce in the sky – ban on missiles, long-ranged drones, bombs on energy and other civilian infrastructure – and truce in the sea immediately, if Russia will do the same. Then we want to move very fast through all next stages and to work with the US to agree a strong final deal," he added. Acknowledging US support Zelensky also expressed gratitude for US assistance, particularly recalling Trump’s decision to provide Javelin anti-tank missiles to Ukraine. "We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence. And we remember the moment when things changed when President Trump provided Ukraine with Javelins. We are grateful for this," he said. Reflecting on his recent meeting in Washington, Zelensky admitted that it had not gone as expected. Also read: Arab League Summit: Egypt’s Sisi says 'Trump can bring peace' as leaders meet to oppose his Gaza plan "Our meeting in Washington, at the White House on Friday, did not go the way it was supposed to be. It is regrettable that it happened this way. It is time to make things right. We would like future cooperation and communication to be constructive," he added. Security and minerals agreement Zelenskyy also confirmed Ukraine’s readiness to sign a security and minerals agreement with the US. Also read: ‘Determined to continue cooperation with US’: Ukraine for negotiations after Trump halts military aid "Regarding the agreement on minerals and security, Ukraine is ready to sign it at any time and any convenient format. We see this agreement as a step toward greater security and solid security guarantees, and I truly hope it will work effectively," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Time to make things right’: Zelensky ready to work under Trump’s ‘strong leadership’ after US halts aid

Elon Musk has branded Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "evil" for pushing what he referred to as a "forever war" with Russia.&nbsp;
<h2>What did Musk say?</h2>
Reacting to a screenshot of a Truth Social post by US President Donald Trump, the DOGE chief alleged, "Zelensky wants a forever war, a never-ending graft meat grinder."
"This is evil," he remarked.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7u0n0el-65ovtk4l-cs9bbtr2">
Zelensky wants a forever war, a never-ending graft meat grinder. This is evil. <a href="https://t.co/FVaEkIm7Gq">https://t.co/FVaEkIm7Gq</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1896620487046041778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
In the post, Trump slammed Zelensky for his statement that the end to the war with Russia was "still very, very far away".
"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer," said the US president, adding that the Ukrainian leader "doesn't want there to be peace as long as he has America's backing".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-give-americans-stake-in-ukraine-that-will-be-best-security-guarantee-us-vp-jd-vance-8776042">WATCH | Give Americans stake in Ukraine, that will be 'best security guarantee': JD Vance</a>
Musk, in another post, agreed that Zelensky "knows if the war ends, his power ends," and proposed that the Ukrainian leader "should be offered some kind of amnesty in a neutral country in exchange for a peaceful transition back to democracy in Ukraine."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7u0msuk-sfv1tpqr-r6u0ku6y">
True. As distasteful as it is, Zelensky should be offered some kind of amnesty in a neutral country in exchange for a peaceful transition back to democracy in Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/ZpF6nLIDtw">https://t.co/ZpF6nLIDtw</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1896693369948311986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
In yet another post, the X CEO alleged that Zelensky loves his "spotlight".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-guy-doesnt-want-peace-trump-slams-zelenskys-remark-suggesting-ukraine-peace-deal-is-far-away-8775562">&lsquo;This guy doesn&rsquo;t want peace&rsquo;: Trump slams Zelensky&rsquo;s remark suggesting Ukraine peace deal is &lsquo;far away&rsquo;</a>
"Zelensky wants a forever war, because he loses his spotlight on the international stage as soon as peace is achieved". &nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7u0mvee-knep8j1g-wrzwr6tf">
Zelensky wants a forever war, because he loses his spotlight on the international stage as soon as peace is achieved
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1896627860007469253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>The Trump-Zelenksy spat</h2>
These statements come just days after Zelensky and Trump &mdash; backed by his Vice President JD Vance &mdash; engaged in a spat in front of the media at the Oval Office last week. The Ukrainian leader and the US president met at the White House on Friday (Feb 28) to sign a mineral deal. However, that did not happen, and the two leaders ended up having a very public disagreement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-orders-pause-to-military-aid-to-ukraine-amid-war-8775862">Donald Trump pauses military aid to Ukraine amid war: Report</a>
In the aftermath, on Monday (Mar 3), Trump reportedly suspended military aid to Ukraine. Speaking to AFP on the condition of anonymity, a White House official said: "The President has been clear that he is focused on peace. We need our partners to be committed to that goal as well".
"We are pausing and reviewing our aid to ensure that it is contributing to a solution," the official added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | Trending News | Elon Musk criticises Ukraine's President Zelensky as evil for advocating a forever war with Russia, suggesting it sustains his 'international spotlight'.

Elon Musk has branded Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky "evil" for pushing what he referred to as a "forever war" with Russia. What did Musk say? Reacting to a screenshot of a Truth Social post by US President Donald Trump, the DOGE chief alleged, "Zelensky wants a forever war, a never-ending graft meat grinder." "This is evil," he remarked. Zelensky wants a forever war, a never-ending graft meat grinder. This is evil. https://t.co/FVaEkIm7Gq — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 3, 2025 In the post, Trump slammed Zelensky for his statement that the end to the war with Russia was "still very, very far away". "This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer," said the US president, adding that the Ukrainian leader "doesn't want there to be peace as long as he has America's backing". Also read | WATCH | Give Americans stake in Ukraine, that will be 'best security guarantee': JD Vance Musk, in another post, agreed that Zelensky "knows if the war ends, his power ends," and proposed that the Ukrainian leader "should be offered some kind of amnesty in a neutral country in exchange for a peaceful transition back to democracy in Ukraine." True. As distasteful as it is, Zelensky should be offered some kind of amnesty in a neutral country in exchange for a peaceful transition back to democracy in Ukraine. https://t.co/ZpF6nLIDtw — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 3, 2025 In yet another post, the X CEO alleged that Zelensky loves his "spotlight". Also read | ‘This guy doesn’t want peace’: Trump slams Zelensky’s remark suggesting Ukraine peace deal is ‘far away’ "Zelensky wants a forever war, because he loses his spotlight on the international stage as soon as peace is achieved". Zelensky wants a forever war, because he loses his spotlight on the international stage as soon as peace is achieved — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 3, 2025 The Trump-Zelenksy spat These statements come just days after Zelensky and Trump — backed by his Vice President JD Vance — engaged in a spat in front of the media at the Oval Office last week. The Ukrainian leader and the US president met at the White House on Friday (Feb 28) to sign a mineral deal. However, that did not happen, and the two leaders ended up having a very public disagreement. Also read | Donald Trump pauses military aid to Ukraine amid war: Report In the aftermath, on Monday (Mar 3), Trump reportedly suspended military aid to Ukraine. Speaking to AFP on the condition of anonymity, a White House official said: "The President has been clear that he is focused on peace. We need our partners to be committed to that goal as well". "We are pausing and reviewing our aid to ensure that it is contributing to a solution," the official added. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk brands Ukraine President Zelensky 'evil' for pushing 'forever war' with Russia

The United States and Ukraine have agreed to terms on a deal over natural resources and reconstruction, CNN reported citing a Ukrainian official. This comes a day after President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (Feb 25) that his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky wants to come to Washington later this week suggesting a possible end to the three-year-old Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;&nbsp;
This comes amid Washington's dramatic shift of policy that includes Trump reaching out to Russia, angering Europe.&nbsp;
The source said the terms were agreed upon after "everything unacceptable was taken out of the text and it is now more clearly spelt out how this agreement will contribute to Ukraine's security and peace".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostage-bodies-to-be-exchanged-for-palestinian-prisoners-as-tel-aviv-agrees-to-resume-swap-8757150">Israeli hostage bodies to be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners as Tel Aviv agrees to resume swap</a>&nbsp;
The news agency Reuters said in its source-based report that the visit is scheduled for Friday (Feb 28). However, the US has not confirmed whether or not the terms of a deal have been agreed.&nbsp;
"I hear that he's coming on Friday. Certainly it's okay with me if he'd like to, and he would like to sign it together with me. And I understand that&rsquo;s a big deal, very big deal," Trump said from the Oval Office on Tuesday.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-scandal-house-gop-claim-biden-irs-leaked-taxpayer-data-of-405000-americans-including-trump-8756803">'MASSIVE scandal': House Republicans claim IRS leaked taxpayer data of 405,000 Americans, including Trump&nbsp;</a>
<h2>Trump's take on Ukraine war&nbsp;</h2>
Since coming to the office for the second time, Trump has often claimed that had he been the president, the Russia-Ukraine war would never have started.&nbsp;
He has now demanded that Ukraine give access to its rare earth minerals to compensate for the billions of dollars of wartime aid it received under Joe Biden.&nbsp;
A senior Ukrainian source told the news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity late Tuesday that the deal would see the US jointly develop Ukraine's mineral wealth, with revenues going to a newly created fund that would be "joint for Ukraine and America".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-pledges-to-spend-25-percent-of-gdp-on-defence-by-2027-8756993">UK PM pledges to spend 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence by 2027&nbsp;</a>
The source further added that the draft of the deal included a reference to "security". However, it did not set out America's commitments -- one of Kyiv's prior demands for an agreement.&nbsp;
"There is a general clause that says America will invest in a stable and prosperous sovereign Ukraine, that it works for a lasting peace, and that America supports efforts to guarantee security."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pressure-mounts-as-white-house-official-pushes-for-canadas-exit-from-five-eyes-intelligence-group-8756971" rel="dofollow">Pressure mounts as White House official pushes for Canada's exit from Five Eyes alliance</a>
Earlier, Zelensky had denied Trump's demands to give the United States $500 billion worth of valuable minerals used in aerospace, electric vehicles and other technologies. Russia hasn't responded yet, but talks about the deal could be part of all the communication leading up to Trump and Vladimir Putin's proposed face-to-face meeting.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

World | Explore the implications of Ukraine's mineral wealth development deal with the US, aimed at securing peace and fostering prosperity amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The United States and Ukraine have agreed to terms on a deal over natural resources and reconstruction, CNN reported citing a Ukrainian official. This comes a day after President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (Feb 25) that his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky wants to come to Washington later this week suggesting a possible end to the three-year-old Russia-Ukraine war. This comes amid Washington's dramatic shift of policy that includes Trump reaching out to Russia, angering Europe. The source said the terms were agreed upon after "everything unacceptable was taken out of the text and it is now more clearly spelt out how this agreement will contribute to Ukraine's security and peace". Also read: Israeli hostage bodies to be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners as Tel Aviv agrees to resume swap The news agency Reuters said in its source-based report that the visit is scheduled for Friday (Feb 28). However, the US has not confirmed whether or not the terms of a deal have been agreed. "I hear that he's coming on Friday. Certainly it's okay with me if he'd like to, and he would like to sign it together with me. And I understand that’s a big deal, very big deal," Trump said from the Oval Office on Tuesday. Also read: 'MASSIVE scandal': House Republicans claim IRS leaked taxpayer data of 405,000 Americans, including Trump Trump's take on Ukraine war Since coming to the office for the second time, Trump has often claimed that had he been the president, the Russia-Ukraine war would never have started. He has now demanded that Ukraine give access to its rare earth minerals to compensate for the billions of dollars of wartime aid it received under Joe Biden. A senior Ukrainian source told the news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity late Tuesday that the deal would see the US jointly develop Ukraine's mineral wealth, with revenues going to a newly created fund that would be "joint for Ukraine and America". Also read: UK PM pledges to spend 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence by 2027 The source further added that the draft of the deal included a reference to "security". However, it did not set out America's commitments -- one of Kyiv's prior demands for an agreement. "There is a general clause that says America will invest in a stable and prosperous sovereign Ukraine, that it works for a lasting peace, and that America supports efforts to guarantee security." Also read: Pressure mounts as White House official pushes for Canada's exit from Five Eyes alliance Earlier, Zelensky had denied Trump's demands to give the United States $500 billion worth of valuable minerals used in aerospace, electric vehicles and other technologies. Russia hasn't responded yet, but talks about the deal could be part of all the communication leading up to Trump and Vladimir Putin's proposed face-to-face meeting. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv and Washington reach deal on rare minerals, reports suggest