Putin closes door on diplomacy
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday that there is "no point" meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The statement came after Zelensky published an open letter calling for direct face-to-face negotiations to end the war. Putin's rejection marks a clear end to any near-term hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough between the two leaders.
Ukraine strikes Russian shipping
Ukraine's military confirmed it struck five cargo ships carrying what it called illegal cargo in the Sea of Azov and coastal waters near Russian-occupied territories. In a separate development, Ukraine admitted that drone debris from one of its operations fell in Romania, though no casualties were reported. The strikes represent Ukraine's growing ability to hit Russian supply lines far from the front lines.
Russia intensifies aerial bombardment
Russia launched one of its deadliest aerial offensives in months against Ukrainian cities over the weekend. Ukrainian officials reported widespread damage to civilian infrastructure. The attacks came as Russian drones also struck St. Petersburg hours before the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum opened, a rare instance of Ukraine hitting deep inside Russian territory.