UPDATE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has engaged in a critical conversation with US President Donald Trump regarding urgent strategies to end the conflict in Ukraine. This discussion comes as Trump has set a deadline of Friday for Russian President Vladimir Putin to pursue peace or face intensified sanctions.
In a post on X, Zelenskiy described the talks as “productive,” emphasizing the need for action as Russia escalates drone and missile strikes on Kyiv and other cities. He confirmed that Trump is well-informed about the ongoing attacks and the dire situation in Ukraine.
Trump has warned that failure to comply with the ultimatum could result in new sanctions and a potential 100 percent tariff on countries purchasing Russian oil. However, sources close to the Kremlin indicate that Putin remains resolute in his objective to capture four key regions of Ukraine, despite the growing pressure.
“If Putin were able to fully occupy those four regions, he could claim that his war in Ukraine had reached his objectives,” stated James Rodgers, author of “The Return of Russia.”
Amid these developments, Zelenskiy is also looking to finalize a significant $30 billion deal with the United States for drone purchases, which he believes will bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. This agreement is expected to be one of the strongest commitments between the two nations.
In addition to this, Ukraine’s European partners have pledged over $1 billion in US weaponry, with Sweden, Norway, and Denmark contributing around $500 million. Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen highlighted the urgency, stating that “speed is absolutely critical” in delivering support to Ukraine.
As the deadline approaches, the world watches closely. The stakes are high, and the outcome could reshape international relations and the future of Ukraine. With Putin’s ambitions still clear, the pressure mounts on all sides to find a resolution.
The situation remains fluid, with updates expected as the deadline nears. All eyes are on Friday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict.
