Tensions Escalate: Ukraine's Plea for Peace Amid Putin's Forceful Promises

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated Ukraine shows reluctance for peace, warning of military action if needed. This followed Russian attacks, contrasting Ukraine's peace efforts. Battles continue in eastern Ukraine, highlighting challenges in verifying on-ground claims due to restricted access and shifting lines.

In a bold assertion, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of stalling the peace process, suggesting that if diplomatic efforts failed, Russia was prepared to achieve its objectives through military force.

Putin's comments coincided with a significant Russian offensive involving drones and missiles, which Ukraine interpreted as undermining its peace intentions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to confer with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida, striving for a resolution to the ongoing conflict initiated nearly four years ago by Russia's invasion.

Amidst contested territorial claims, Ukraine's military rebutted Russia's declarations about victories in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia, maintaining control over much of Huliaipole. The dynamics of the battlefield remain obscure, with restricted access and variable front lines, making independent verification of these claims challenging.

(With inputs from agencies.)