Putin refuses direct peace talks with Zelensky

Vladimir Putin has made it clear he won’t engage in direct discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Despite global calls for peace, the Russian president is standing firm. He dismissed any notion of talks, claiming that Zelensky’s inability to hold elections since Russia’s invasion makes negotiations pointless.

Zelensky strikes back

In response, Zelensky didn’t hold back. He accused Putin of being afraid of negotiations and of using every excuse to keep the war going. The Ukrainian leader insists that Putin’s refusal to talk shows a deep fear of peace and a desire to drag out the conflict.

Drone attacks hit Russian facilities

The war rages on as Ukrainian forces launch a major assault. More than 100 drones targeted Russian oil facilities and even a nuclear power plant this morning. The raid took place across western Russia, sending shockwaves through the country. Russian officials confirmed that 104 drones were part of the attack, with 11 of them being destroyed over the Smolensk region.

This bold Ukrainian strike highlights the growing intensity of the conflict. Russian energy infrastructure, already under pressure, is now facing a new level of disruption.

North Korea’s support for Russia

In an alarming development, North Korea is increasing its support for Russia. Kyiv officials confirmed that North Korea is sending over 100 artillery systems to bolster Russian defenses against Ukrainian forces. This follows a pattern of growing cooperation between Russia and its North Korean ally.

Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine’s military intelligence chief, revealed that North Korea is set to double the number of artillery systems already deployed in Russia’s Kursk region. The move comes as Russia continues to struggle with military setbacks and looks for new ways to strengthen its defenses.

Escalating conflict and no end in sight

With Putin rejecting talks and North Korea ramping up support, the war in Ukraine is showing no signs of slowing down. The fighting is intensifying, and both sides are preparing for even more devastating clashes. As the international community watches, it’s clear that this brutal conflict will drag on, with devastating consequences for both Russia and Ukraine.