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Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine requires American long-range missiles to conduct an offensive against enemy positions, but he noted being “realistic” about the likelihood of securing such weapons. During discussions at the US presidential residence, the American leader appeared hesitant about providing these specific armaments. However, in a media appearance, the president suggested that the option has not been entirely dismissed. “It’s positive that the American leader didn’t refuse, but for now hasn’t approved,” he remarked. Zelenskyy added that the country needs these missiles because relying exclusively with domestic drone technology proves very difficult.

American President Urges Immediate Ceasefire

After the meeting, the US president urged the warring parties to “halt hostilities without delay”, even if it involves the nation yielding some land. “End the violence. That must be the priority,” he told journalists. On social media, he proposed freezing the conflict, remarking: “They should stop where they are. Let both claim Victory, let future judgments determine!” Upon being asked about this statement, the Ukrainian president answered: “The president is correct we should halt at current lines, and then discuss.”

EU Heads of State Conduct Constructive Talks

Zelenskyy had what was described as a “constructive” discussion with European leaders, hours following his White House meeting. “I provided insights from my discussion alongside the American leader. We addressed many vital issues,” Zelenskyy wrote in a online update. “The main objective now is saving maximum lives, ensuring security for Ukraine, and strengthening all of us in Europe. This is exactly what we are striving for. National security advisers will review subsequent actions. We are aligning our positions. I am thankful for the conversation, for all the support, and for the willingness to stand with Ukraine.” The British prime minister restated the United Kingdom’s “steadfast dedication to the nation against Russian aggression,” and promised to “continue providing humanitarian aid and military support.” Heads of state from Germany, Finland, Rome, Oslo, and Poland participated in the discussion, along with top European Union officials and alliance heads.

Moscow and Washington should construct a “Putin-Trump” rail tunnel beneath the strait to link both countries, enable joint exploration of mineral wealth and “represent cooperation”, a Kremlin envoy suggested.

The proposal by Kirill Dmitriev, acting as the Russian leader’s economic adviser, envisions a construction project priced at $8 billion, financed by Russia and “global investors”, to establish a 70-mile rail and cargo link in under a decade. Dmitriev floated the idea after a phone conversation between both presidents, where they planned a summit to discuss ending the war against Ukraine.

Russian Forces Announce Control of More Settlements

The Russian Defence Ministry stated on the weekend that its military units had taken command of three more villages in the eastern regions, a location in Dnipropetrovsk and two in the north-eastern Kharkiv region, closer to the frontier. Ukrainian authorities has admitted combat near a minimum of two of these areas but has not confirmed that any changed hands. According to the Moscow’s statement, its troops secured Pryvillia in the eastern area, and took the villages of Pishchane and Tykhe.