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.
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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."
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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;
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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

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky seems to have lost this round and seems to have given in to US President Donald Trump's demands to give America access to his country's critical mineral deposits.
As per reports, Zelensky, in a nightly video address on Friday (Feb 21) revealed that American and Ukrainian negotiators were working on a draft settlement. This could signal an imminent deal.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-minerals-no-internet-us-may-cut-ukraines-access-to-elon-musks-starlink-over-rare-earth-deal-8745388">'No minerals, no internet': US may cut Ukraine&rsquo;s access to Musk's Starlink over rare earth deal</a>
<h2>What did Zelensky say?</h2>
In his nightly address, the Ukrainian president said that he was hoping for "a fair result" in the potential agreement with Trump's America.
This could potentially be a sign that Trump has won this round and has managed to bend the Ukrainian war leader to his will.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-dismisses-ukranian-president-zelensky-ukraine-peace-talks-russia-ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-8744952">&lsquo;He's not important&rsquo;: Trump dismisses Zelensky&rsquo;s role in Ukraine talks, says war wasn&rsquo;t &lsquo;Russia&rsquo;s&nbsp;fault&rsquo;</a>
"This is an agreement that can add value to our relationship, and the main thing is to work out the details so that it can work. I hope for a result &mdash; a fair result," said Zelensky. However, he did not specify which agreement he's referring to, this means it could be something other than the mineral(s) one.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7g2zbrc-grmgdnfl-1qj5udgc">
Today, Ukrainian and U.S. teams are working on a draft agreement between our governments. This agreement can add value to our relations&mdash;what matters most is getting the details right to ensure it truly works. I look forward to a just results. <a href="https://t.co/o9jbiiiJTq">pic.twitter.com/o9jbiiiJTq</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1893056463431483526?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
This is a far cry from his hard stance earlier this week, when he said he would not "sell" Ukraine in any deal with the United States.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-zelensky-will-sign-minerals-deal-soon-after-rejection-why-does-trump-want-ukraines-rare-earths-8744807">US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's&nbsp;'rare&nbsp;earths'?</a>
<h2>What is the critical minerals deal?</h2>
Trump is seeking compensation for the tens of billions the US gave to Ukraine, under his predecessor Joe Biden's term. It must be noted that this money was aid and not a loan. &nbsp;&nbsp;
Under Biden, Washington has been Kyiv's most important financial, military and political backer in the three years since Russia invaded the nation in February 2022.
Now, Trump is seeking to change the terms of the US aid. He insists that American taxpayers need something in return: Ukraine's vast mineral deposits.&nbsp;
Watch | U.S. negotiators pressing Kyiv for access to Ukraine's critical minerals
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(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World News | Discover how Ukrainian President Zelensky's recent video hints at a potential minerals deal with the US, signalling a possible win for Trump in ongoing negotiations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky seems to have lost this round and seems to have given in to US President Donald Trump's demands to give America access to his country's critical mineral deposits. As per reports, Zelensky, in a nightly video address on Friday (Feb 21) revealed that American and Ukrainian negotiators were working on a draft settlement. This could signal an imminent deal. Also read | 'No minerals, no internet': US may cut Ukraine’s access to Musk's Starlink over rare earth deal What did Zelensky say? In his nightly address, the Ukrainian president said that he was hoping for "a fair result" in the potential agreement with Trump's America. This could potentially be a sign that Trump has won this round and has managed to bend the Ukrainian war leader to his will. Also read | ‘He's not important’: Trump dismisses Zelensky’s role in Ukraine talks, says war wasn’t ‘Russia’s fault’ "This is an agreement that can add value to our relationship, and the main thing is to work out the details so that it can work. I hope for a result — a fair result," said Zelensky. However, he did not specify which agreement he's referring to, this means it could be something other than the mineral(s) one. Today, Ukrainian and U.S. teams are working on a draft agreement between our governments. This agreement can add value to our relations—what matters most is getting the details right to ensure it truly works. I look forward to a just results. pic.twitter.com/o9jbiiiJTq — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) February 21, 2025 This is a far cry from his hard stance earlier this week, when he said he would not "sell" Ukraine in any deal with the United States. Also read | US says Zelensky will sign minerals deal 'soon' after rejection: Why does Trump want Ukraine's 'rare earths'? What is the critical minerals deal? Trump is seeking compensation for the tens of billions the US gave to Ukraine, under his predecessor Joe Biden's term. It must be noted that this money was aid and not a loan. Under Biden, Washington has been Kyiv's most important financial, military and political backer in the three years since Russia invaded the nation in February 2022. Now, Trump is seeking to change the terms of the US aid. He insists that American taxpayers need something in return: Ukraine's vast mineral deposits. Watch | U.S. negotiators pressing Kyiv for access to Ukraine's critical minerals (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky backing down on minerals deal? Ukrainian Prez's video suggests Trump may have won this round of negotiations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (January 25) that the Donald Trump administration in the United States (US) had not stopped military aid to Kyiv.
&ldquo;I am focused on military aid; it has not been stopped, thank God,&rdquo; President Zelensky said at a press conference alongside his Moldovan counterpart Maia Sandu.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-donald-trump-freezes-foreign-aid-military-funding-for-israel-egypt-8651682" rel="dofollow">'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted</a>
Zelensky did not clarify whether humanitarian aid had been paused. Ukraine relies on the US for 40 per cent of its military needs.
<h2>US aid to Ukraine remains uncertain</h2>
Zelensky's remarks came days after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that he would pause foreign aid grants for 90 days.
The future of US aid to Ukraine remained uncertain as President Donald Trump started his second term in office earlier this week.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vladimir-putin-russia-ukraine-war-west-asia-crisis-reduction-in-oil-prices-8651474" rel="dofollow">If Trump's victory hadn't been stolen in 2020 polls, there wouldn't be crisis in Ukraine, Putin says</a>
Trump repeatedly said he wouldn&rsquo;t have allowed Russia&rsquo;s invasion of Ukraine to start if he had been in office.
But he was American president as fighting grew in the east of Ukraine between Kyiv&rsquo;s forces and separatists aligned with Moscow, ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin sending in tens of thousands of troops in 2022.
<h2>Zelensky should've made deal with Putin to avoid war</h2>
On Thursday, Trump told Fox News that Zelensky should have made a deal with Trump to avoid the war.&nbsp;
Also watch | Ukraine conflict fuels US-Russia divide
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With Trump stressing the need to quickly broker a peace deal, both Moscow and Kyiv are seeking battlefield successes to strengthen their negotiating positions ahead of any prospective talks.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Ukraine relies on the US for 40% of its military needs. The future of US aid to Ukraine remained uncertain as Trump started his second term in office earlier this week.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday (January 25) that the Donald Trump administration in the United States (US) had not stopped military aid to Kyiv. “I am focused on military aid; it has not been stopped, thank God,” President Zelensky said at a press conference alongside his Moldovan counterpart Maia Sandu. Also read | 'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted Zelensky did not clarify whether humanitarian aid had been paused. Ukraine relies on the US for 40 per cent of its military needs. US aid to Ukraine remains uncertain Zelensky's remarks came days after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that he would pause foreign aid grants for 90 days. The future of US aid to Ukraine remained uncertain as President Donald Trump started his second term in office earlier this week. Also read | If Trump's victory hadn't been stolen in 2020 polls, there wouldn't be crisis in Ukraine, Putin says Trump repeatedly said he wouldn’t have allowed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to start if he had been in office. But he was American president as fighting grew in the east of Ukraine between Kyiv’s forces and separatists aligned with Moscow, ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin sending in tens of thousands of troops in 2022. Zelensky should've made deal with Putin to avoid war On Thursday, Trump told Fox News that Zelensky should have made a deal with Trump to avoid the war. Also watch | Ukraine conflict fuels US-Russia divide With Trump stressing the need to quickly broker a peace deal, both Moscow and Kyiv are seeking battlefield successes to strengthen their negotiating positions ahead of any prospective talks. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Zelensky says US has not stopped military aid to Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday that Europe should develop a joint defence policy and be willing to increase spending to guarantee its own security from emerging threats.
His comments to the World Economic Forum in Davos came a day after the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, who has demanded NATO members raise their defence spending and boasted he can end the war in Ukraine, without offering a clear roadmap.
Zelensky said Europe needed to be ready to stand on its own feet and must work to remain relevant as a "strong global" player and "indispensable" on the global stage.
"We need a united European security and defence policy, and all European countries must be willing to spend as much on security as is truly needed," Zelensky argued in his address to the WEF.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evidence-of-involvement-zelensky-says-ukraine-captured-two-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-8610796" rel="dofollow">'Evidence of involvement': Zelensky says Ukraine captured two North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>
"Europe must be able to guarantee peace and security for itself," he added.
He evoked the Kremlin's deployment of North Korean troops to western Russia to illustrate what he said were growing threats to European security.
"European leaders should remember this -- battles involving North Korean soldiers are now happening in places geographically closer to Davos than to Pyongyang," he said.
And he pointed to a recent pact between Russia and Iran boosting their economic and military cooperation, saying the accord was an example of a changing landscape that was a threat to Europe.
"Whom do they make such deals against? Against you, against all of us," he said. "Such threats can only be countered together," he added.
Also watch | 'America's focus must shift to Europe': Zelensky at WEF
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Zelensky also questioned whether Trump was committed to NATO and European security, claiming that Washington has openly indicated their security priorities lie in the Middle East and in the Asia-Pacific region.
"Will President Trump even notice Europe? Does he see NATO as necessary? And will he respect EU institutions?" Zelensky asked.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

At Davos, Zelensky evoked the Kremlin's deployment of North Korean troops to western Russia to illustrate what he said were growing threats to European security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday that Europe should develop a joint defence policy and be willing to increase spending to guarantee its own security from emerging threats. His comments to the World Economic Forum in Davos came a day after the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, who has demanded NATO members raise their defence spending and boasted he can end the war in Ukraine, without offering a clear roadmap. Zelensky said Europe needed to be ready to stand on its own feet and must work to remain relevant as a "strong global" player and "indispensable" on the global stage. "We need a united European security and defence policy, and all European countries must be willing to spend as much on security as is truly needed," Zelensky argued in his address to the WEF. Also read | 'Evidence of involvement': Zelensky says Ukraine captured two North Korean soldiers in Kursk region "Europe must be able to guarantee peace and security for itself," he added. He evoked the Kremlin's deployment of North Korean troops to western Russia to illustrate what he said were growing threats to European security. "European leaders should remember this -- battles involving North Korean soldiers are now happening in places geographically closer to Davos than to Pyongyang," he said. And he pointed to a recent pact between Russia and Iran boosting their economic and military cooperation, saying the accord was an example of a changing landscape that was a threat to Europe. "Whom do they make such deals against? Against you, against all of us," he said. "Such threats can only be countered together," he added. Also watch | 'America's focus must shift to Europe': Zelensky at WEF Zelensky also questioned whether Trump was committed to NATO and European security, claiming that Washington has openly indicated their security priorities lie in the Middle East and in the Asia-Pacific region. "Will President Trump even notice Europe? Does he see NATO as necessary? And will he respect EU institutions?" Zelensky asked. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

At WEF in Davos, Ukraine's Zelensky questions whether Trump is committed to NATO

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (Dec 27) called for a "thorough investigation" into Wednesday's (Dec 25) Azerbaijan Airlines crash.
Pointing to "clear visual evidence" of Russian involvement, Zelensky stressed that "every loss of life deserves a thorough investigation to establish the truth."
"We can see how the clear visual evidence at the crash site points to Russia's responsibility for the tragedy," he added in a social media post, addressing reports that the plane was hit by a Russian air defence missile.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m57neelm-3ycm5x9i-sav1ck70">
More and more details regarding the horrific crash of the Azerbaijan Airlines flight are emerging. I extend my condolences to <a href="https://twitter.com/presidentaz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PresidentAZ</a> Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan. Every human life is valuable, and every loss of life deserves a thorough investigation to establish the&hellip;
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1872678416518160604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<h2>Russian involvement?</h2>
The Ukrainian president's comments came amid reports that the Azerbaijan Airlines flight that crashed in Kazakhstan may have been mistakenly shot down by Russia.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/azerbaijan-airlines-crash-airline-says-plane-crashed-due-to-external-interference-8571192" aria-label="Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Airline says plane crashed due to 'external interference'">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Airline says plane crashed due to 'external interference'</a>
Citing unidentified US military sources MSNBC reported on Friday (Dec 27) that the passenger plane may have been hit by a Russian ani-aircraft system.&nbsp;
This, the official said, would be more evidence of Russia's "recklessness" in its war with Ukraine.
<h2>What caused the airplane crash?</h2>
Reports of Russia mistakenly shooting down the plane came as Azerbaijan Airlines on Friday said that the crash happened because of "physical and technical external interference".
In a statement, the carrier announced the suspension of flights to 10 Russian airports.
It said the decision was "based on the preliminary results of the investigation into the crash of the Embraer 190 aircraft operating the Baku-Grozny flight J2-8243 of Azerbaijan Airlines due to physical and technical external interference."&nbsp;
<h2>The airplane crash: What happened to the Embrarer 190?</h2>
Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet, Embraer 190 aircraft operating the Baku-Grozny flight J2-8243, on Wednesday (Dec 25) burst into flames as it was attempting an emergency landing in Western Kazakhstan, the Kazakh transport ministry said.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijan-airlines-suspended-flights-to-seven-russian-cities-following-the-crash-8570811" aria-label="Azerbaijan Airlines suspended flights to seven Russian cities following the crash">Azerbaijan Airlines suspended flights to seven Russian cities following the crash</a>
There were 67 people &mdash; 62 passengers and five crew members &mdash; on board. According to a Kazakh statement,&nbsp; 38 were killed in the crash, and 29 survivors, including two children, were pulled from the wreckage.
Kazakh media reports suggest that the passengers aboard included 37 Azerbaijan citizens, 16 Russian citizens, six Kazakhstan citizens, and three Kyrgyzstan nationals.
(With inputs from agencies)

Reports suggest the Azerbaijan Airlines crash may have been caused by a Russian missile, raising concerns over Moscow's 'recklessness' amid its conflict with Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (Dec 27) called for a "thorough investigation" into Wednesday's (Dec 25) Azerbaijan Airlines crash. Pointing to "clear visual evidence" of Russian involvement, Zelensky stressed that "every loss of life deserves a thorough investigation to establish the truth." "We can see how the clear visual evidence at the crash site points to Russia's responsibility for the tragedy," he added in a social media post, addressing reports that the plane was hit by a Russian air defence missile. More and more details regarding the horrific crash of the Azerbaijan Airlines flight are emerging. I extend my condolences to @PresidentAZ Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan. Every human life is valuable, and every loss of life deserves a thorough investigation to establish the… — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 27, 2024 Russian involvement? The Ukrainian president's comments came amid reports that the Azerbaijan Airlines flight that crashed in Kazakhstan may have been mistakenly shot down by Russia. Also read | Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Airline says plane crashed due to 'external interference' Citing unidentified US military sources MSNBC reported on Friday (Dec 27) that the passenger plane may have been hit by a Russian ani-aircraft system. This, the official said, would be more evidence of Russia's "recklessness" in its war with Ukraine. What caused the airplane crash? Reports of Russia mistakenly shooting down the plane came as Azerbaijan Airlines on Friday said that the crash happened because of "physical and technical external interference". In a statement, the carrier announced the suspension of flights to 10 Russian airports. It said the decision was "based on the preliminary results of the investigation into the crash of the Embraer 190 aircraft operating the Baku-Grozny flight J2-8243 of Azerbaijan Airlines due to physical and technical external interference." The airplane crash: What happened to the Embrarer 190? Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet, Embraer 190 aircraft operating the Baku-Grozny flight J2-8243, on Wednesday (Dec 25) burst into flames as it was attempting an emergency landing in Western Kazakhstan, the Kazakh transport ministry said. Also read | Azerbaijan Airlines suspended flights to seven Russian cities following the crash There were 67 people — 62 passengers and five crew members — on board. According to a Kazakh statement, 38 were killed in the crash, and 29 survivors, including two children, were pulled from the wreckage. Kazakh media reports suggest that the passengers aboard included 37 Azerbaijan citizens, 16 Russian citizens, six Kazakhstan citizens, and three Kyrgyzstan nationals. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky calls for 'thorough investigation' into Azerbaijan plane crash amid reports of Russian involvement

Kyiv, Ukraine
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Monday that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded fighting against Ukraine's incursion in Russia's Kursk region.
Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce the Russian military, including in the Kursk border region, where Ukraine mounted a shock border incursion in August.
Zelensky wrote on X, "According to preliminary data, the number of North Korean soldiers killed and wounded in the Kursk region has already exceeded 3,000."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-luigi-mangione-pleads-not-guilty-to-murder-terrorism-charges-786249" target="_blank">UnitedHealthcare CEO murder suspect pleads 'not guilty' to murder charges</a>
South Korea said earlier Monday that around 1,100 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded since entering combat in December.
The Ukrainian president said he had received a report from army commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky on the situation in the Kursk region and warned of "risks of North Korea sending additional troops and military equipment to the Russian army".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/absolute-necessity-after-threatening-to-take-back-panama-canal-trump-now-wants-to-buy-greenland-786177" target="_blank">‘We are not for sale,’ Greenland PM rebuffs Trump’s idea of buying the island</a>
Zelensky said the world needs to understand that "growing cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang" leads to a proportionate increase in "risk of destabilisation around the Korean Peninsula and in neighbouring regions or waters".
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Zelensky wrote on X, "According to preliminary data, the number of North Korean soldiers killed and wounded in the Kursk region has already exceeded 3,000."



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Monday that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded fighting against Ukraine's incursion in Russia's Kursk region. Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce the Russian military, including in the Kursk border region, where Ukraine mounted a shock border incursion in August. Zelensky wrote on X, "According to preliminary data, the number of North Korean soldiers killed and wounded in the Kursk region has already exceeded 3,000." Also read: UnitedHealthcare CEO murder suspect pleads 'not guilty' to murder charges South Korea said earlier Monday that around 1,100 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded since entering combat in December. The Ukrainian president said he had received a report from army commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky on the situation in the Kursk region and warned of "risks of North Korea sending additional troops and military equipment to the Russian army". Also read: ‘We are not for sale,’ Greenland PM rebuffs Trump’s idea of buying the island Zelensky said the world needs to understand that "growing cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang" leads to a proportionate increase in "risk of destabilisation around the Korean Peninsula and in neighbouring regions or waters". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region

Kyiv, Ukraine
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Ukraine’s membership in NATO is “possible,” but Kyiv must work hard to convince allies to make it a reality, President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a speech to Ukrainian diplomats on Sunday (22 December).
“We all understand that Ukraine's invitation to Nato and membership in the alliance can only be a political decision,” Zelensky said at the gathering in Kyiv. He added, “Alliance for Ukraine is achievable, but it is achievable only if we fight for this decision at all the necessary levels.”
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-will-regret-putin-vows-destruction-on-ukraine-after-drone-attack-in-kazan-786010" target="_blank">Putin vows 'destruction' on Ukraine after drone attack in Kazan</a>
Zelensky underscored the importance of showing NATO allies how Ukraine’s inclusion would contribute to the alliance and help stabilise global relations.
His comments came as Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened more “destruction” in Ukraine following a drone attack on the Russian city of Kazan. In a televised government meeting on Sunday, Putin said, “Whoever, and however much they try to destroy, they will face many times more destruction themselves and will regret what they are trying to do in our country.”
Putin also held talks with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, marking a rare visit by an EU and NATO leader to Moscow.
Ukraine has long called for NATO to invite it into the alliance. While NATO has affirmed that Ukraine will join eventually, no timeline or formal invitation has been extended.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-panama-of-ripping-off-the-us-with-excessive-fees-threatens-to-take-back-control-786029" target="_blank">Trump calls Panama Canal fees 'ridiculous', threatens to take back control</a>
Zelensky has previously suggested that NATO membership could initially apply to territories not occupied by Russia, potentially helping to end the active phase of the war. After recent discussions with NATO and EU leaders in Brussels, he said that European commitments to Ukraine’s defence would “not be sufficient” without the involvement of the United States.
Following the Brussels meetings, Zelensky described NATO as Ukraine’s “true guarantee” against Moscow. He said that there's a growing understanding among allies of the threat posed by Putin, adding, “There is some political will and understanding that Putin is dangerous … and total understanding that he will not stop in Ukraine.”
(With inputs from agencies)

“We all understand that Ukraine's invitation to Nato and membership in the alliance can only be a political decision,” Zelensky said at the gathering in Kyiv. He added, “Alliance for Ukraine is achievable, but it is achievable only if we fight for this decision at all the necessary levels.”



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukraine’s membership in NATO is “possible,” but Kyiv must work hard to convince allies to make it a reality, President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a speech to Ukrainian diplomats on Sunday (22 December). “We all understand that Ukraine's invitation to Nato and membership in the alliance can only be a political decision,” Zelensky said at the gathering in Kyiv. He added, “Alliance for Ukraine is achievable, but it is achievable only if we fight for this decision at all the necessary levels.” Also read: Putin vows 'destruction' on Ukraine after drone attack in Kazan Zelensky underscored the importance of showing NATO allies how Ukraine’s inclusion would contribute to the alliance and help stabilise global relations. His comments came as Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened more “destruction” in Ukraine following a drone attack on the Russian city of Kazan. In a televised government meeting on Sunday, Putin said, “Whoever, and however much they try to destroy, they will face many times more destruction themselves and will regret what they are trying to do in our country.” Putin also held talks with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, marking a rare visit by an EU and NATO leader to Moscow. Ukraine has long called for NATO to invite it into the alliance. While NATO has affirmed that Ukraine will join eventually, no timeline or formal invitation has been extended. Also read: Trump calls Panama Canal fees 'ridiculous', threatens to take back control Zelensky has previously suggested that NATO membership could initially apply to territories not occupied by Russia, potentially helping to end the active phase of the war. After recent discussions with NATO and EU leaders in Brussels, he said that European commitments to Ukraine’s defence would “not be sufficient” without the involvement of the United States. Following the Brussels meetings, Zelensky described NATO as Ukraine’s “true guarantee” against Moscow. He said that there's a growing understanding among allies of the threat posed by Putin, adding, “There is some political will and understanding that Putin is dangerous … and total understanding that he will not stop in Ukraine.” (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says Ukraine’s NATO membership is ‘achievable’ but diplomats need to fight for it

Kazan, Russia
Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan.
According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.
A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>
Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
? SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! ???
Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KazanDroneStrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KazanDroneStrike</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gkBBXPBfAP">pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP</a>
— WarNewsDaily??? (@XNews24_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/XNews24_7/status/1870368058969350381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Emergency services deployed</h2>
According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack.
As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings.
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This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. 
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.

Videos of the strike purportedly show the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled a '9/11-style attack'



Kazan, Russia Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones. A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack. Also read | Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised. ? SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! ??? Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! #KazanDroneStrike #BreakingNews #Russia #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP — WarNewsDaily??? (@XNews24_7) December 21, 2024 × Emergency services deployed According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack. As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings. Also read | France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. 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.

Video: Ukraine hits Russian residential high-rises in Kazan. Dramatic visuals show '9/11-style attack'

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside&nbsp;Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan.

According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.

A video of the strike,&nbsp;purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russia-launches-barrage-of-missiles-on-kyiv-killing-1-and-cutting-heating-to-numerous-buildings-785532">Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions</a>

Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised.

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🚨 SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! 🚁🔥👇 
Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KazanDroneStrike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KazanDroneStrike</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://t.co/gkBBXPBfAP">pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP</a>
— WarNewsDaily🪖🚨🪖 (@XNews24_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/XNews24_7/status/1870368058969350381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Emergency services deployed</h2>

According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack.

As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-youll-die-alone-like-a-dog-daughter-caroline-tells-convicted-rapist-dominique-pelicot-785505">France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot</a>

This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan.&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&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones.

Ukraine on Saturday (Dec 21) launched a drone attack deep inside Russia, hitting several residential high-rise buildings in the city of Kazan. According to media reports, the strike was carried out using Kamikaze drones. A video of the strike, purportedly shot by eyewitnesses, shows the drones hitting a residential building head on, in what some users have labelled as a '9/11-style' attack. Also read | Russia launches barrage of missiles on Kyiv, damaging six diplomatic missions Watch the dramatic video here. Viewer discretion is advised. 🚨 SHOCKING VIDEO: Drone SLAMS into Kazan Skyline! 🚁🔥👇 Watch as this rogue drone CRASHES into a high-rise in Kazan, Russia! No reports on injuries yet, but the footage is INTENSE! #KazanDroneStrike #BreakingNews #Russia #Ukraine pic.twitter.com/gkBBXPBfAP — WarNewsDaily🪖🚨🪖 (@XNews24_7) December 21, 2024 × Emergency services deployed According to a TASS report, emergency services were dispatched to the sites of the attack. As of now, there are no reports of casualties from the attack. Reports circulating on Telegram suggest that residents were being evacuated from the impacted buildings. Also read | France mass rape: 'You’ll die alone like a dog,' daughter Caroline tells convicted rapist Dominique Pélicot This attack comes hours after the Russian Defence Ministry on its Telegram channel reported that its air defences shot down one "Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle over the Republic of Tatarstan," whose capital is Kazan. 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.

Kyiv, Ukraine
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday he had met the US CIA director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair amid Russia's invasion.
The United States has been Ukraine's most important financial and military backer in the almost three years since Moscow invaded, and Washington is also reported to have routinely shared military intelligence with Ukraine to support its defence.
Zelensky said he had met CIA director Burns on multiple occasions throughout the war, but their meetings had been undisclosed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-passes-last-minute-bill-to-avert-government-shutdown-biden-set-to-sign-785874" target="_blank">Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown</a>
"Bill Burns paid his last visit to Ukraine as CIA Director," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram.
"He and I have had many meetings during this war, and I am grateful for his help," he added.
"Usually, such meetings are not publicly reported, and all our meetings -- in Ukraine, in other European countries, in America, and in other parts of the world -- were held without official information," Zelensky said.
Burns is set to leave the powerful post of CIA chief as US President-elect Donald Trump brings in his own candidate.
The last confirmed meeting between Zelensky and Burns was in mid-2023, according to US officials who announced in July 2023 that Burns had paid a recent secret trip to Ukraine.
Zelensky on Saturday posted a photo of him shaking hands with Burns in front of a state crest of Ukraine. He did not say when the meeting took place, but said it would be the pair's final before Burns leaves the post.
The meeting comes at a critical time in the war, one month before Trump comes to power.
The Republican has pledged to end the war in a matter of hours, stoking fears Kyiv could be forced to accept peace on terms favourable to Moscow
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The United States has been Ukraine's most important financial and military backer in the almost three years since Moscow invaded, and Washington is also reported to have routinely shared military intelligence with Ukraine to support its defence.



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday he had met the US CIA director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair amid Russia's invasion. The United States has been Ukraine's most important financial and military backer in the almost three years since Moscow invaded, and Washington is also reported to have routinely shared military intelligence with Ukraine to support its defence. Zelensky said he had met CIA director Burns on multiple occasions throughout the war, but their meetings had been undisclosed. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown "Bill Burns paid his last visit to Ukraine as CIA Director," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram. "He and I have had many meetings during this war, and I am grateful for his help," he added. "Usually, such meetings are not publicly reported, and all our meetings -- in Ukraine, in other European countries, in America, and in other parts of the world -- were held without official information," Zelensky said. Burns is set to leave the powerful post of CIA chief as US President-elect Donald Trump brings in his own candidate. The last confirmed meeting between Zelensky and Burns was in mid-2023, according to US officials who announced in July 2023 that Burns had paid a recent secret trip to Ukraine. Zelensky on Saturday posted a photo of him shaking hands with Burns in front of a state crest of Ukraine. He did not say when the meeting took place, but said it would be the pair's final before Burns leaves the post. The meeting comes at a critical time in the war, one month before Trump comes to power. The Republican has pledged to end the war in a matter of hours, stoking fears Kyiv could be forced to accept peace on terms favourable to Moscow Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Grateful for his help,' Ukraine’s Zelensky discloses final meeting with CIA director Burns

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday he had met the US CIA director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair amid Russia's invasion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Saturday he had met the US CIA director William Burns in Ukraine, a rare public disclosure of a meeting between the pair amid Russia's invasion. The United States has been Ukraine's most important financial and military backer in the almost three years since Moscow invaded, and Washington is also reported to have routinely shared military intelligence with Ukraine to support its defence. Zelensky said he had met CIA director Burns on multiple occasions throughout the war, but their meetings had been undisclosed. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown "Bill Burns paid his last visit to Ukraine as CIA Director," Zelensky said in a post on Telegram. "He and I have had many meetings during this war, and I am grateful for his help," he added. "Usually, such meetings are not publicly reported, and all our meetings -- in Ukraine, in other European countries, in America, and in other parts of the world -- were held without official information," Zelensky said. Burns is set to leave the powerful post of CIA chief as US President-elect Donald Trump brings in his own candidate. The last confirmed meeting between Zelensky and Burns was in mid-2023, according to US officials who announced in July 2023 that Burns had paid a recent secret trip to Ukraine. Zelensky on Saturday posted a photo of him shaking hands with Burns in front of a state crest of Ukraine. He did not say when the meeting took place, but said it would be the pair's final before Burns leaves the post. The meeting comes at a critical time in the war, one month before Trump comes to power. The Republican has pledged to end the war in a matter of hours, stoking fears Kyiv could be forced to accept peace on terms favourable to Moscow Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out.

"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier.

"Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/create-more-passionate-content-putin-pitches-for-alternatives-to-porn-785435">‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn</a>

This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens.

<h2>EU leaders discuss potential deployment</h2>

Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it.

As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-praises-jaishankars-brics-isnt-anti-western-stance-calls-modi-a-warm-ally-785405">Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’</a>

The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement.

Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians".

According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it".

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out. "If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier. "Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before." Also read | ‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens. EU leaders discuss potential deployment Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it. As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels. Also read | Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’ The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement. Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians". According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it". (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky voices support for Western troop deployment in Ukraine, Putin says should've invaded earlier

Brussels, Belgium
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out.
"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." 
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier.
"Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/create-more-passionate-content-putin-pitches-for-alternatives-to-porn-785435">‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn</a>
This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens.
<h2>EU leaders discuss potential deployment</h2>
Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it.
As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-praises-jaishankars-brics-isnt-anti-western-stance-calls-modi-a-warm-ally-785405">Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’</a>
The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement.
Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians".
According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it".
(With inputs from agencies)

"If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said adding, "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms"



Brussels, Belgium Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Dec 19) voiced his support for French President Emmanuel Macron's idea to potentially deploy Western troops in Ukraine if and when Ukraine-Russia war ends. However, he said that the initiative needed to be fleshed out. "If we are talking about a contingent, we need to be specific — how many, what they will do if there is aggression from Russia," he said. "The main thing is that this is not some artificial story, we need effective mechanisms." Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin at a press conference commented that he should've launched a full scale Russian invasion of Ukraine earlier. "Knowing what's happening now, back in 2022, I would've thought the decision ought to have been taken earlier. We ought to have started getting ready for those developments and the special military operation before." Also read | ‘Create more passionate content,’ Putin pitches for alternatives to porn This comes as Kyiv's European allies as per reports are seriously considering the deployment of their troops in the event of a deal with Russia to stop Ukraine war happens. EU leaders discuss potential deployment Originally, when Macron said he can't rule out Western troop deployment, EU leaders had responded with a resounding "no". However, now they are willing to consider it. As per a Washington Post report, European leaders on Wednesday (Dec 18) discussed the prospect of boots on the ground when NATO Chief Mark Rutte hosted European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels. Also read | Putin praises Jaishankar’s ‘BRICS isn’t anti-Western’ stance; calls Modi a ‘warm ally’ The idea is being floated as world leaders brace for US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Citing officials in the know, the Post reported that Trump is interested in the idea too, but it remains unclear if the incoming US administration will support such an arrangement. Camille Grand, a former NATO assistant secretary general, in a statement said that "At the moment, it’s really about trying to think out loud what could be more acceptable for the Ukrainians". According to Grand, a post-war troop deployment deal could also help make clear to Russia that "they shouldn’t restart the conflict, and to the Americans that the Europeans have skin in this game and that we mean it". (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow, Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. 
Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. 
"Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. 
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Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse.
Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people.
They tried to hide the presence of… <a href="https://t.co/KYyGF1rxP8">pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1868777841917059313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people".
The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. 
"Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>
Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. 
"This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. 
Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. 
Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War
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Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."
Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. 



Moscow, Russia Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. "Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. They tried to hide the presence of… pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 16, 2024 × He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people". The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. "Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. "This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War × Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region. In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." According to the Ukrainian president, these soldiers are being included in Russian units and used in operations in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has been carrying out incursions since August. He also suggested that North Korean troops “may be used in other parts of the front line” and added that “losses among this category are also already noticeable.” Last month, Zelensky said that 11,000 North Korean troops were stationed in Russia’s Kursk region and had already suffered casualties. Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. Also read: South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know Ukraine replaces commander in Donetsk region Meanwhile, Ukraine's military leadership has replaced the commander responsible for overseeing defence operations in the eastern Donetsk region, where Russian forces are advancing rapidly. General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, 54, has been appointed to lead the operational and tactical group in Donetsk, replacing General Oleksandr Lutsenko. An official from Ukraine’s general staff told news agency Reuters, that Lutsenko faced criticism from Ukrainian military bloggers and some lawmakers for failing to stop Russia’s steady advance towards the key city of Pokrovsk. In another development, Ukrainian drones conducted several strikes inside Russia overnight into Saturday. A fuel storage site in the central Oryol region was hit, triggering a fire and shattering windows in nearby homes. Oryol’s governor, Andrei Klychkov, described it as a “mass attack” on an infrastructure facility. The drone strikes came just a day after Russia launched a major aerial assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Zelensky reported that Russia had fired “93 missiles and more than 200 drones” during Friday’s attacks. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine's Zelensky says Russia using 'noticeable' number of North Korean soldiers in Kursk assaults

Kyiv, Ukraine
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region.
In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."
According to the Ukrainian president, these soldiers are being included in Russian units and used in operations in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has been carrying out incursions since August. He also suggested that North Korean troops “may be used in other parts of the front line” and added that “losses among this category are also already noticeable.”
Last month, Zelensky said that 11,000 North Korean troops were stationed in Russia’s Kursk region and had already suffered casualties. Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-president-yoon-impeached-what-happens-now-all-you-need-to-know-783957">South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know</a>
<h2>Ukraine replaces commander in Donetsk region</h2>
Meanwhile, Ukraine's military leadership has replaced the commander responsible for overseeing defence operations in the eastern Donetsk region, where Russian forces are advancing rapidly.
General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, 54, has been appointed to lead the operational and tactical group in Donetsk, replacing General Oleksandr Lutsenko. An official from Ukraine’s general staff told news agency Reuters, that Lutsenko faced criticism from Ukrainian military bloggers and some lawmakers for failing to stop Russia’s steady advance towards the key city of Pokrovsk.
In another development, Ukrainian drones conducted several strikes inside Russia overnight into Saturday. A fuel storage site in the central Oryol region was hit, triggering a fire and shattering windows in nearby homes. Oryol’s governor, Andrei Klychkov, described it as a “mass attack” on an infrastructure facility.
The drone strikes came just a day after Russia launched a major aerial assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Zelensky reported that Russia had fired “93 missiles and more than 200 drones” during Friday’s attacks.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."



Kyiv, Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday (Dec 14) that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to attack Ukraine’s positions in Russia’s Kursk region. In his evening address, Zelensky said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." According to the Ukrainian president, these soldiers are being included in Russian units and used in operations in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has been carrying out incursions since August. He also suggested that North Korean troops “may be used in other parts of the front line” and added that “losses among this category are also already noticeable.” Last month, Zelensky said that 11,000 North Korean troops were stationed in Russia’s Kursk region and had already suffered casualties. Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. Also read: South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know Ukraine replaces commander in Donetsk region Meanwhile, Ukraine's military leadership has replaced the commander responsible for overseeing defence operations in the eastern Donetsk region, where Russian forces are advancing rapidly. General Oleksandr Tarnavskiy, 54, has been appointed to lead the operational and tactical group in Donetsk, replacing General Oleksandr Lutsenko. An official from Ukraine’s general staff told news agency Reuters, that Lutsenko faced criticism from Ukrainian military bloggers and some lawmakers for failing to stop Russia’s steady advance towards the key city of Pokrovsk. In another development, Ukrainian drones conducted several strikes inside Russia overnight into Saturday. A fuel storage site in the central Oryol region was hit, triggering a fire and shattering windows in nearby homes. Oryol’s governor, Andrei Klychkov, described it as a “mass attack” on an infrastructure facility. The drone strikes came just a day after Russia launched a major aerial assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Zelensky reported that Russia had fired “93 missiles and more than 200 drones” during Friday’s attacks. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday (Dec. 8) that 43,000 of his soldiers had died, whereas at least 370,000 were wounded in the country's ongoing war with Russia.

In a social media post, he also claimed that Russian casualties had surpassed 750,000, with 198,000 killed and over 550,000 injured.

"Since the start of the full-scale war, Ukraine has lost 43,000 soldiers killed in action on the battlefield. There have been 370,000 cases of medical assistance for the wounded. It also needs to be mentioned that in our army approximately half of the soldiers wounded in action are later returning to the battlefield, and that our data also includes light or repeat injuries," he wrote in a post on X.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Yesterday, I visited President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> at the Élysée Palace and had a good meeting with President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. 
 
We discussed important issues on the battlefield and in the global situation, from our frontlines to North Korea. I stated that we need a just and enduring…
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1865709519352873408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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His rare admission of numbers came after US President-elect Donald Trump called for an "immediate ceasefire" between Ukraine and Russia, saying "negotiations should begin" between the warring nations.&nbsp;

He also put the number of Ukrainian casualties at 400,000 soldiers and said that Russia lost 600,000 of its troops in the war, surprisingly a much larger number than what Zelensky quoted in his post.

"There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin. Too many lives are being so needlessly wasted, too many families destroyed, and if it keeps going, it can turn into something much bigger, and far worse. I know Vladimir [Putin, the Russian president] well. This is his time to act. China can help. The World is waiting!" Trump said in a post on his Truth Social handle.

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He further said that Zelensky was keen for a deal to put an end to its country's war with Moscow that has so far claimed the lives of nearly 400,000 soldiers.

"Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness. They have ridiculously lost 400,000 soldiers, and many more civilians," he wrote.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-calls-for-immediate-ceasefire-between-ukraine-and-russia-says-zelensky-is-ready-for-deal-782418">Also read:&nbsp;Donald Trump seeks 'immediate ceasefire' between Russia, Ukraine, says Assad fled as Moscow pulled support</a>

<h2>Zelensky says talks with Trump were 'good and productive'</h2>

Zelensky held talks with Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

The Ukrainian leader said that his meeting with Trump and Macron on Saturday (Dec. 7) was "good and productive" and that the three agreed to work together.

Macron hosted the significant meeting at the Elysee Palace, bringing together Zelensky and Trump for the three-way talks. The discussion centred around the complexities of the current global landscape, which the US president-elect poignantly described as a world that's "a little crazy".

This was Zelensky's first face-to-face meeting with Trump and also the incoming US president's first-ever international visit since winning the November 5 elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday (Dec. 8) that 43,000 of his soldiers had died, whereas at least 370,000 were wounded in the country's ongoing war with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday (Dec. 8) that 43,000 of his soldiers had died, whereas at least 370,000 were wounded in the country's ongoing war with Russia. In a social media post, he also claimed that Russian casualties had surpassed 750,000, with 198,000 killed and over 550,000 injured. "Since the start of the full-scale war, Ukraine has lost 43,000 soldiers killed in action on the battlefield. There have been 370,000 cases of medical assistance for the wounded. It also needs to be mentioned that in our army approximately half of the soldiers wounded in action are later returning to the battlefield, and that our data also includes light or repeat injuries," he wrote in a post on X. Yesterday, I visited President @EmmanuelMacron at the Élysée Palace and had a good meeting with President @realDonaldTrump. We discussed important issues on the battlefield and in the global situation, from our frontlines to North Korea. I stated that we need a just and enduring… — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 8, 2024 × His rare admission of numbers came after US President-elect Donald Trump called for an "immediate ceasefire" between Ukraine and Russia, saying "negotiations should begin" between the warring nations. He also put the number of Ukrainian casualties at 400,000 soldiers and said that Russia lost 600,000 of its troops in the war, surprisingly a much larger number than what Zelensky quoted in his post. "There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin. Too many lives are being so needlessly wasted, too many families destroyed, and if it keeps going, it can turn into something much bigger, and far worse. I know Vladimir [Putin, the Russian president] well. This is his time to act. China can help. The World is waiting!" Trump said in a post on his Truth Social handle. × He further said that Zelensky was keen for a deal to put an end to its country's war with Moscow that has so far claimed the lives of nearly 400,000 soldiers. "Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness. They have ridiculously lost 400,000 soldiers, and many more civilians," he wrote. Also read: Donald Trump seeks 'immediate ceasefire' between Russia, Ukraine, says Assad fled as Moscow pulled support Zelensky says talks with Trump were 'good and productive' Zelensky held talks with Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The Ukrainian leader said that his meeting with Trump and Macron on Saturday (Dec. 7) was "good and productive" and that the three agreed to work together. Macron hosted the significant meeting at the Elysee Palace, bringing together Zelensky and Trump for the three-way talks. The discussion centred around the complexities of the current global landscape, which the US president-elect poignantly described as a world that's "a little crazy". This was Zelensky's first face-to-face meeting with Trump and also the incoming US president's first-ever international visit since winning the November 5 elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky concedes Ukraine lost 43,000 soldiers in war against Russia in rare admission

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday he told US President-elect Donald Trump that Kyiv needed an "enduring" peace that Russia will not "destroy" in the future after they met in Paris for talks on the almost three-year war.

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday he told US President-elect Donald Trump that Kyiv needed an "enduring" peace that Russia will not "destroy" in the future after they met in Paris for talks on the almost three-year war. Trump had earlier said Zelensky was keen for a "deal" and called for the start of negotiations. The pair met a day earlier with French leader Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace. Trump has boasted he could end the conflict swiftly without saying how, and both Moscow and Kyiv are readying for his arrival in the White House, with the dragging conflict seeing an escalation in deadly attacks in recent weeks. "I stated that we need a just and enduring peace—one that the Russians will not be able to destroy in a few years, as they have done repeatedly in the past," Zelensky said on social media. Almost three years of war have ravaged Ukraine, leaving thousands dead and millions fleeing the country. "Ukrainians want peace more than anyone else. Russia brought war to our land, and it is Russia that most seeks to disrupt the possibility of peace," he said. Watch | Russian Attack Kills 11 In Zaporizhzhia × He called on Western allies not to "turn a blind eye to occupation" and said Kyiv would only agree to a deal that would bring long-term peace. "War cannot be endless -- only peace must be permanent and reliable," he said. In a rare admission of numbers, Zelensky said 43,000 Ukrainian troops had been killed in combat, while some 370,000 were wounded. Both sides are believed to have suffered massive casualties, and that figure is believed to be far higher. 'Key conditions' discussed Zelensky gave no concrete details on key aspects of what negotiations could look like, but a senior Ukrainian official said they had discussed "some key conditions" for ending the war. "We are not disclosing details, but the presidents discussed at the meeting that there should be something that would guarantee the reliability of the peace," the source said. The Kremlin, meanwhile, accused Ukraine of "refusing" to negotiate an end to the war and said its conditions to enter peace talks -- which include Kyiv giving up four regions -- remain unchanged. "The Ukrainian side refused and is refusing negotiation," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. He referred to a 2022 Ukrainian decree that ruled out talks with Putin, but not other Russian officials. Trump had earlier called for an "immediate ceasefire" and called for talks to begin. "Too many lives are being so needlessly wasted, too many families destroyed, and if it keeps going, it can turn into something much bigger, and far worse," he wrote on his Truth Social platform. Trump has touted himself as having good relations with Putin. 'How long can we be at war?' But as leaders made statements in Kyiv, Moscow, and Paris, the situation on the ground in eastern Ukraine remained dire. Moscow claimed another village in the east -- Blagodatne in the Donetsk region -- on Sunday, pressing steady gains. Many in Ukraine have feared that Trump's taking office would force it to make heart-aching concessions to Russia, while the nation is also suffering exhaustion. In the village of Osynovo in the eastern Kharkiv region, news of the meeting between Trump and Zelensky offered some hope to one of the frontline village's last remaining residents, Mykola Lytvynov. Cleaning earth from vegetables in his backyard, the 80-year-old said he hoped the meeting could help bring about a negotiated end to the conflict. "How long can we be at war? So many people have been killed, so many young people. And you see the massive level of destruction," he told AFP. He suggested Ukraine could have retained more of its territory by already entering into talks with Russia, but said he hoped for an end to the fighting for another, personal reason. "Both my sons are fighting. I just want them to survive." Ukraine also said that two civilians were killed in the Donetsk region and that seven people were wounded by attacks in the southern Kherson region. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Zelensky says Kyiv wants 'enduring' peace to protect it from Russia

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv. The new military aid includes a second tranche of landmines and anti-air and anti-armour weapons.

<h2>What does the aid package include?</h2>

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said that the package was part of the Joe Biden administration's efforts "to ensure Ukraine has the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression."

AFP news aegncy, citing Blinken reported that the military aid package includes anti-personnel landmines, ammunition for HIMARS precision rocket launchers, Stinger missiles, counter-drone systems, anti-armour weapons and artillery ammunition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-biden-slams-hamass-campaign-of-cruelty-expresses-outrage-over-us-israeli-soldiers-death-780979">Israel-Hamas war: Biden slams 'Hamas's campaign of cruelty,' expresses outrage over US-Israeli soldier's death</a>

This is the second shipment of landmines Washington is sending to Kyiv. Last month, in a major policy shift, the US announced its first shipment of landmines.

"Between now and mid-January, we will deliver hundreds of thousands of additional artillery rounds, thousands of additional rockets, and other critical capabilities to help Ukraine defend its freedom and independence," said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement.

<h2>The future of US aid to Ukraine</h2>

With less than two months until Trump's inauguration, the Biden administration is racing to ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support to fend off Russian advances. Trump has repeatedly criticised US assistance to Ukraine, claiming he could broker a ceasefire quickly, which has led to concerns in Kyiv and Europe about the future of American aid.

Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder confirmed that all remaining US funding for Ukraine would be used before Biden’s term ends.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-scholz-makes-surprise-visit-to-war-torn-ukraine-pledges-aid-780903">German chancellor Scholz makes surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine, pledges aid</a>

"At the president's direction, we will spend every dollar that Congress has appropriated for Ukraine and to replenish our stockpiles," he told journalists.

Previously, he revealed that $6.8 billion was still available from US stockpiles and an additional $2.2 billion is earmarked for procurement from defence contractors.

Since Russia launched its special military operation against Ukraine in February 2022, the US has emerged as one of Kyiv's key military backers, committing over $60 billion in weapons, ammunition and other security aid.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv.

The United States on Monday (Dec 2) announced a fresh military aid package worth $725 million for Ukraine, amid fears that the incoming president Donald Trump will cut off all support to Kyiv. The new military aid includes a second tranche of landmines and anti-air and anti-armour weapons. What does the aid package include? US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said that the package was part of the Joe Biden administration's efforts "to ensure Ukraine has the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression." AFP news aegncy, citing Blinken reported that the military aid package includes anti-personnel landmines, ammunition for HIMARS precision rocket launchers, Stinger missiles, counter-drone systems, anti-armour weapons and artillery ammunition. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Biden slams 'Hamas's campaign of cruelty,' expresses outrage over US-Israeli soldier's death This is the second shipment of landmines Washington is sending to Kyiv. Last month, in a major policy shift, the US announced its first shipment of landmines. "Between now and mid-January, we will deliver hundreds of thousands of additional artillery rounds, thousands of additional rockets, and other critical capabilities to help Ukraine defend its freedom and independence," said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in a statement. The future of US aid to Ukraine With less than two months until Trump's inauguration, the Biden administration is racing to ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support to fend off Russian advances. Trump has repeatedly criticised US assistance to Ukraine, claiming he could broker a ceasefire quickly, which has led to concerns in Kyiv and Europe about the future of American aid. Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder confirmed that all remaining US funding for Ukraine would be used before Biden’s term ends. Also read | German chancellor Scholz makes surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine, pledges aid "At the president's direction, we will spend every dollar that Congress has appropriated for Ukraine and to replenish our stockpiles," he told journalists. Previously, he revealed that $6.8 billion was still available from US stockpiles and an additional $2.2 billion is earmarked for procurement from defence contractors. Since Russia launched its special military operation against Ukraine in February 2022, the US has emerged as one of Kyiv's key military backers, committing over $60 billion in weapons, ammunition and other security aid. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces $725mn in military aid for Ukraine as Biden extends last-ditch support before Trump inauguration