Russian President Vladimir Putin has urged Ukrainian troops in the occupied Russian region of Kursk to surrender, as diplomatic efforts intensify over a potential US-brokered ceasefire. At a security council meeting on Friday, Putin accused Ukrainian forces of crimes against civilians but claimed that surrendering soldiers would be guaranteed safety under Russian law.
Putin’s remarks followed a meeting with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, during which President Donald Trump pushed for the protection of Ukrainian troops in Kursk. Trump later called the discussions “good and productive” and expressed hope for an end to the war. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remains skeptical, warning that Putin is deliberately stalling peace talks while Russia strengthens its position.
As Kursk remains Kyiv’s last major bargaining chip, Zelensky has called on the US and its allies to take “strong steps” to pressure Russia into ending the war. He accused Putin of sabotaging peace negotiations by setting “unacceptable conditions” before a ceasefire even begins.
Meanwhile, international concerns over Russia’s treatment of captured Ukrainian soldiers persist. The United Nations previously raised alarms over reports of summary executions of surrendered troops, urging investigations into potential war crimes.
With tensions high, Zelensky is set to join a virtual meeting with European and NATO leaders, led by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to discuss further support for Ukraine.
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