Trump Insists on "Putting Pressure" on Putin After Exclaiming 'Vladimir, STOP!' in Latest Developments of Ukraine-Russia Conflict

Live – Updated at 5:19 AM

US president Donald Trump has maintained that he is exerting pressure Russia ’s Vladimir Putin, Hours later, following his criticism of the attacks on Kyiv that resulted in at least 12 deaths, he condemned him for hitting the city again.

Mr. Trump posted on social media, "I'm displeased with the Russian attacks on KIEV. They were unnecessary and poorly timed." Vladimir, STOP! Every week, 5000 soldiers lose their lives. Let's make sure we finalize the Peace Deal!

He subsequently informed journalists: "You have no concept of the pressure we're exerting... We are applying significant pressure. We are exerting considerable pressure on Russia, and they understand this."

Reports suggest that his peace proposal leans more towards being advantageous for Russia rather than Ukraine.

Just under 24 hours before, the president lashed out at Ukraine ’s president Volodymyr Zelensky for refusing to cede Crimea , which Russia illegally annexed in 2014.

When asked if he believed President Putin would hear him out, Mr. Trump responded affirmatively.

The Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, stated that Mr. Trump’s opinion suggesting Crimea would be permanently lost to Russia for many years aligned with what Moscow has consistently maintained.

The attack on Kyiv Also hurt were approximately 90 individuals, including six children.

Key Points

• Trump states he is exerting pressure on Putin and they are nearing an agreement.
• Trump states that Russia showed significant restraint by not occupying the entire territory of Ukraine.
• U.S. President criticizes Putin regarding fatal Kyiv attacks
• The death toll has climbed to 12 following a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv.
• The Kremlin mirrors U.S. statements regarding Crimea and Zelensky.

What does the history of Crimea entail, which remains a contentious issue in negotiations for peace?

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 12:46 PM , Alex Croft

Jutting out into the Black Sea off southern Ukraine, Crimea was absorbed into the Russian Empire along with most ethnic Ukrainian territory by Catherine the Great in the 18th century. Russia's Black Sea naval base at Sevastopol was founded soon afterwards.

Over half a million individuals lost their lives during the Crimean War from 1853 to 1856 as rival great powers—Russia and the Ottoman Empire, supported by Britain and France—engaged in combat. This war dramatically altered the European landscape and set the stage for World War I.

In 1921, the peninsula, which was predominantly inhabited by Muslim Tatars, came under the control of the Soviet Union. Following World War II, Soviet leader Joseph Stalin had the Tatars forcibly removed from their homes due to allegations of collaborating with the Nazis.

Crimea was part of Russia within the Soviet Union up until 1954, at which point it was transferred to Ukraine, another Soviet republic, by Nikita Khrushchev, who succeeded Stalin and was from Ukraine.

Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, intermittent political disputes arose regarding its status between Moscow and Kyiv until Russia forcibly annexed Crimea in 2014.

After Ukraine's pro-Russian president, Viktor Yanukovych, was overthrown amid widespread demonstrations in February 2014, Russia dispatched troops to Crimea and took command of the region.

Zelensky: Engaging in talks with Russian 'terrorists' represents a significant concession from Kyiv.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 12:47 PM , Alex Croft

President Volodymyr Zelensky stated in a joint press conference with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, held during his visit to the nation, that he currently perceives no significant exertion of pressure on Russia.

The sudden assault on Ukraine by Russia overnight was also a component of their ongoing pressure strategy against the U.S., he further noted.

To enter into talks with Russian "terrorists" following any truce would represent a significant concession for Kyiv, according to the Ukrainian president. Although Ukraine is willing to consider all suggestions from its allies, it has limits—it cannot take actions that go against its constitution, like acknowledging Ukrainian land as Russian.

Zelensky: Discussions in London Were 'Constructive'

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 12:52 PM , Alex Croft

During the press conference, Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated that the discussions between Ukrainian and Western officials in London on Wednesday were not "easy," yet they proved to be "productive."

Ukraine peace negotiations at the foreign minister level were unexpectedly delayed moments before they were set to occur. This postponement sparked discussions suggesting that Russia might be open to altering its stance. Additionally, the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, was unable to participate, as stated by Marco Rubio.

The gathering was substituted with conversations led by alternative officials.

"I am sure that Russia was counting on a big scandal yesterday," Mr Zelensky said. "I’m sure Russia was hoping for a huge row yesterday. Russia doesn’t like the alliance around Ukraine, because Ukraine would be an easier target without it."

Watch: Kyiv civilians shelter in metro as Russian missiles rain on Ukraine's capital

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 1:08 PM , Alex Croft

A Russian official states that their country retains the right to employ nuclear arms if attacked by NATO forces.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 1:13 PM , Alex Croft

Russia retains the option to employ nuclear arms should it encounter aggression from the West, according to Nikolai Patrushev, who leads Russia’s primary security body, as reported by TASS state news agency on Thursday.

Mr. Shoigu's remarks coincide with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance cautioning that Washington might withdraw from efforts to broker a peace agreement in Ukraine if significant headway isn’t made soon.

The previous Russian defense minister, who transitioned to lead the country’s influential security council following a governmental restructuring last year, referenced adjustments made to Russia’s nuclear strategy that were endorsed by President Vladimir Putin in November of the prior year.

According to the updated conditions, Russia might view a nuclear retaliation as appropriate when faced with a non-nuclear assault on itself or its ally Belarus that poses a severe danger to their autonomy or borders.

"In cases where foreign nations engage in hostile acts threatening the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Russian Federation, our nation deems it justified to implement both symmetrical and asymmetrical responses required to counter these activities and deter future occurrences," Mr. Shoigu further stated.

Starmer calls for Putin to commit to an unconditional cease-fire

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 1:19 PM , Jane Dalton

The Prime Minister has intensified pressure on Russia's Vladimir Putin to consent to an instant unconditional truce following the "horrific" attack on Kyiv during the night.

Sir Keir Starmer said the attack demonstrated that Mr Putin was "the aggressor here" - in contrast with Donald Trump suggestion that Volodymyr Zelensky was the barrier to peace.

On a visit to Bristol, Sir Keir said: "I think it's a real reminder that Russia is the aggressor here and that is being felt by the Ukrainians, as it has been felt for three long years now.

This is why it's crucial to achieve an unconditional ceasefire with Russia.

We clearly held discussions in London earlier this week, and before that in Paris last week. We are advancing toward achieving a sustainable ceasefire.

However, these assaults — these terrible assaults — serve as a stark, human reminder of which side is the true aggressor and the price paid by the Ukrainian populace.

The South African leader discusses the conflict in Ukraine with President Trump.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 1:29 PM , Alex Croft

The South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, discussed the situation in Ukraine and the importance of maintaining strong bilateral ties with the U.S. President, Donald Trump.

"We both concurred that the conflict ought to be concluded promptly to halt additional avoidable casualties... to convene shortly to discuss several issues pertaining to U.S.-South Africa relations," stated Mr. Ramaphosa.

The relationship between South Africa and the US has deteriorated significantly since Trump regained the presidency in January.

President Trump dismissed South Africa's ambassador and reduced financial assistance, criticizing the nation's stance on land reform as well as its move to bring an accusation of genocide against Israel, which is supported by the U.S., at the International Court of Justice.

UK criticizes Putin as 'major hurdle' to peace in Ukraine

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 1:33 PM , Alex Croft

Downing Street has described Russia as the “real obstacle” to peace in Ukraine after “barbaric” attacks on Kyiv overnight.

However, Downing Street refrained from commenting on whether it disagreed with the U.S.'s stance after the latter encouraged Ukraine to surrender Crimea to Russia as an attempt to halt the conflict.

On Wednesday, Trump criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for declining to support the suggestion.

When asked if the UK was aligning itself with Ukraine or the US in the standoff, Keir Starmer's spokesperson stated, "This issue is not about choosing sides."

He stated, “We concur with President Trump’s wish to conclude this brutal conflict... yet we’ve consistently maintained that the conditions and terms under which this war will come to a close must solely be determined by Ukraine.”

However, he noted that Putin’s assaults on Kyiv during the night demonstrate "what truly hinders peace."

Trump criticizes Putin over fatal attacks on Kyiv

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 1:36 PM , Jane Dalton

U.S. President Donald Trump has strongly criticized his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, regarding the fatal attacks on Kyiv that occurred overnight and resulted in at least eight deaths.

He shared on social media: "I'm displeased with the Russian attacks on KYIV. They're unwarranted and poorly timed. Vladimir, HALT! Every week, 5000 troops are losing their lives. Let's finalize the Peace Agreement!"

Just under 24 hours prior, Mr. Trump had criticized Volodymyr Zelensky for not giving up Crimea, which Russia wrongfully annexed in 2014.

It remains uncertain whether Mr. Trump has a source for the 5,000-per-week statistic.

France supports Ukraine regarding Crimea.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 1:58 PM , Jane Dalton

Ukraine's territorial integrity is not a principle that can be negotiated, a French foreign ministry spokesperson has said, after Donald Trump chided Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for refusing to recognise Russia's occupation of Crimea.

"The integrity of Ukraine’s territory is non-negotiable," stated Christophe Lemoine, spokesperson for France's foreign ministry, at a regular press briefing. He also mentioned that Russia was hindering the talks by persistently carrying out aerial assaults.

Advancements noted in discussions, reports Foreign Office minister

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 2:10 PM , Jane Dalton

The Foreign Office Minister Stephen Doughty stated that discussions held in London on Wednesday involving the UK, France, Germany, the US, and Ukraine were both "fruitful and successful."

He stated: "Substantial advancement was achieved towards establishing a unified approach for subsequent actions, with everyone concurring to maintain rigorous collaboration and anticipating additional discussions in the near future."

However, shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel stated: "Despite all the ongoing discussions, it is troubling that a strong, united stance supporting Ukraine and ensuring peace on their conditions has not been established yet."

Downing Street maintained that it was not siding with either Ukraine or the US in the discussions.

On Wednesday, Mr. Doughty welcomed a cross-party group from the US House for discussions covering "a variety of topics."

The death toll from Kyiv attacks climbs to nine.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 2:22 PM , Jane Dalton

The number of fatalities resulting from Russia's missile and drone strikes on Kyiv during the night has increased to nine. President Zelensky characterized this attack as one of "the most egregious" actions taken by Russia.

Russia launched a prolonged attack on Kyiv using missiles and drones, marking the most severe strike on the city since last July.

The mayor of Kyiv, Vitalii Klitschko, declared that Friday will be observed as an official day of mourning in the city.

The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia launched 66 ballistic and cruise missiles, along with four air-to-surface missiles from planes, targeting Kyiv as well as four additional areas across Ukraine. They also mentioned an attack involving 145 Shahed drones and decoys.

The NATO leader meets with American government representatives for discussions.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 2:35 PM , Jane Dalton

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is conducting a series of meetings at the Pentagon following indications from the White House that they have grown disillusioned with the negotiations between Ukraine and Russia and are ready to withdraw from the discussions.

Mr. Rutte met with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and the newly appointed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Dan Caine.

He is set to meet with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz at a later time.

'TV Vladimir, STOP!' Trump criticizes 'unnecessary' airstrike on Kyiv – complete report

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 2:39 PM , Jane Dalton

Trump slams ‘not necessary’ Russian airstrike on Kyiv: ‘Vladimir, STOP!’

The UK has prohibited the shipment of video game controllers to Russia, which are utilized in operating drones.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 3:00 PM , Jane Dalton

Controllers utilized by Moscow for operating drones in Ukraine are included in the list of items prohibited from export to Russia, according to statements made by the Foreign Office.

The 150 fresh trade restrictions are intended to cut off funding for the Kremlin's military campaign.

The technology utilized in Russia’s defense and energy industries now cannot be exported to the country anymore. This includes specific software designed for locating and extracting new oil and gas reserves.

Certain chemicals, metals, and equipment are also subject to export restrictions aimed at curbing Russia's military capabilities.

The Foreign Office Minister Stephen Doughty stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin was “purchasing innocent products and transforming them into instruments of warfare.” However, he also noted that the UK is actively exposing and addressing this nefarious practice.

The death toll in Kyiv has reached 10.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 3:41 PM , Jane Dalton

The number of fatalities resulting from Moscow's overnight attacks on Kyiv has climbed to 10.

In addition, another 90 individuals were injured as missiles and drones struck structures and ignited blazes, according to Ukrainian authorities.

Many individuals remained buried beneath the debris for more than 12 hours.

The South African leader asserts that discussions should be unconditional.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 16:04 , Jane Dalton

During his meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that negotiations for peace between Kyiv and Moscow ought to commence without preliminary conditions, such as Ukraine relinquishing territory to Russia.

South Africa aims to portray itself as neutral regarding the conflict in Ukraine yet maintains strong ties with Russia. Both nations are part of the BRICS coalition of developing economies, which strives to counterbalance the global financial dominance of Western powers.

"Mr. Ramaphosa informed Zelensky about our country’s history, mentioning that the talks which concluded the horrors of apartheid took place without any preconditions,” he stated at a joint press briefing with the Ukrainian leader.

A total of 12 individuals were confirmed deceased following multiple assaults in Kyiv.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 16:06

Reuters reports that as many as 12 individuals have been confirmed deceased following Russia's most severe assault on Kyiv this year.

The rescue teams were active across 13 locations within the city, utilizing climbing experts and search dogs, as stated by the emergency services. A total of forty blazes had erupted.

"Cell phones can be heard ringing under the debris. The search will go on until it becomes evident that they've accounted for everyone," it stated.

Tymur Tkachenko, who leads the Kyiv city military administration, updated the previous fatality count by stating, “Rescue teams have recovered an additional two bodies from beneath the debris in the Sviatoshinsky district. This brings the total number of deceased to 12.”

Moscow states it struck tank, aviation, and ammo production facilities.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 4:31 PM , Jane Dalton

The Russian Defense Ministry claims it conducted a large-scale attack on Ukraine's military-industrial sector during the night using long-range precision weaponry from the air, land, and sea, along with drones.

The report indicated that these strikes affected factories involved in Ukraine's aviation, missile, and aerospace sectors, along with machinery plants and armored vehicle manufacturers. Additionally, sites producing rocket propellants and explosives were also impacted.

The claim couldn't be confirmed.

Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia launched an extensive assault on Kyiv using missiles and drones, marking the most significant attack on the Ukrainian capital this year.

'The U.S. will inform Putin that Ukraine has the right to maintain its own military and defense forces.'

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 4:53 PM , Jane Dalton

Bloomberg News reports that the U.S. plans to insist that Russia acknowledge Ukraine’s entitlement to maintain its own military forces and defense sector as a condition for a ceasefire deal involving Moscow and Kyiv, according to sources privy to these discussions.

The report stated that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff plans to discuss this matter with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their upcoming meeting.

Trump states that a peace agreement remains within reach.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 5:39 PM , Jane Dalton

U.S. President Donald Trump states that he remains of the opinion that a peaceful agreement can be reached.

When asked about the possibility of achieving peace amid Russia's sudden assaults on Ukraine, and if he was contemplating imposing additional sanctions on Russia, he responded: "We firmly believe that both sides desire peace; however, they must come together for negotiations. We've been waiting for quite some time now..."

And I believe we will achieve peace. Our aim is to save 5,000 young individuals. In the past, I mentioned saving 2,500, but now let’s aim for 5,000.

In response to queries following discussions with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, he further stated: "And as I began, it was due to my dissatisfaction with the amount of money being spent. Later, I understood the significant number of lives lost, which is undoubtedly the crucial aspect..."

“There's a lot of hatred. there there's a lot of very bad blood. A lot of stress, but I think we're going to - I hope we're going to get there, for the sake of a lot of young people that are dying."

When asked about timing, he replied, "I've set my personal deadline, and we're aiming for speed. The Prime Minister is also supporting us; he shares our desire for rapid progress. In NATO right now, everyone seems eager to make this happen."

So we've got a deadline, and after that our approach will be quite different. However, I believe there's a strong possibility that we'll get it done.

Russia's assertion of sovereignty over Crimea disregards attempts to eliminate Ukrainian culture and heritage in the region.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 5:44 PM , Sam Kiley

There is no question that Donald Trump does not understand the importance of Crimea to Vladimir Putin.

It is the most prestigious Russian award.

Whoever holds Sevastopol is poised to exert control over the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. Apart from Tartus, which Russia has recently lost in Syria, Sevastopol stands as—or once stood—as Russia’s sole year-round maritime hub.

Moscow's assertion of ownership has been weakened because it was transferred to Ukraine within the Soviet Union in 1954.

However, Russia’s assertion is supported by successive waves of Russian migration and the enforced relocation of indigenous populations for at least two hundred years.

Following 2014, it became commonplace in Moscow for individuals to express their happiness regarding its "return," often accompanied by nostalgic recollections of joyful seaside vacations in what was once considered a former colony.

They have overlooked the Holodomor, where policies coming from Moscow resulted in millions of Ukrainians facing starvation. They have turned a blind eye to the rebellions against attempts to erase all signs of Ukraine’s language, history, and culture during the period of Russian control spanning from the Tsarist era through Stalin and Putin. The large-scale deportations of Cossacks from their native land to Siberia also went unnoticed.

View: Trump states both parties desire tranquility

Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 6:00 PM , Jane Dalton

Russia imprisons Colombian national for combatting forces in Ukraine

Thursday 24 April 2025 18:10 , Jane Dalton, Reuters

A Russian court has handed down a nine-year prison sentence to a Colombian man who battled alongside Ukraine, according to Russian investigators, for acting as a mercenary against Russian forces.

The Russian Investigative Committee stated that Cardenas Montilla, who is 33 years old, joined military operations against Russia following his receipt of military instruction.

It said he had admitted his guilt, something Reuters could not independently confirm.

The Russian Defense Ministry stated that Montilla became part of the Ukrainian military following an ad he saw on TikTok.

Watch: Children shelter as Russian missiles rain on Kyiv

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 6:35 PM , Jane Dalton

Children shelter in Kyiv metro as Russian missiles rain on Ukraine’s capital

Zelensky states that the meeting in the Oval Office was not beneficial for Ukraine.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 6:48 PM , Bryony Gooch

President Zelensky commented on his contentious encounter with President Trump at the White House during an interview with conservative pundit Ben Shapiro.

"I believe that the meeting in the Oval Office didn’t benefit Ukraine, nor did it assist the United States," stated Zelensky.

When Ukraine and the United States meet, we ought to shed light on the situation for people, showing them the way until the war concludes.

We rely on our strategic alliance and have consistently shown respect for the United States.

He expressed his belief that their upcoming sessions with Trump would be more productive.

The EU details plans for ceasing Russian natural gas imports.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 7:00 PM , Jane Dalton

In the coming two weeks, the European Commission plans to unveil a strategy outlining their approach to gradually eliminate all purchases of Russian fossil fuels, according to President Ursula von der Leyen during an energy conference in London.

The commission has committed to phasing out all Russian fossil fuels by 2027 in reaction to Russia’s 2022 attack on Ukraine.

Imports of Russian natural gas have dropped to 18%, down from approximately 45% in 2021, according to Ms. von der Leyen during a gathering hosted by the UK government and the International Energy Agency.

Trump: We're putting pressure on Putin and close to a deal

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 7:16 PM , Jane Dalton

President Trump once more stated that he is "very near" to reaching an agreement regarding the conflict, echoing his comments from earlier in the week.

He added briefly that the US was exerting significant pressure on Russia to reach an agreement.

"You have no concept of the pressure we’re exerting... We are applying significant pressure. We are placing immense pressure on Russia, and they are well aware of this," President Trump stated to journalists in the Oval Office.

Russia showed significant restraint by not seizing all of Ukraine, according to Trump.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 7:22 PM

Donald Trump states that Russia has made a "significant compromise" to cease the conflict in Ukraine by not seizing the entire nation.

After annexing the territory, Putin devastated the naval forces in Crimea.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 7:25 PM , Sam Kiley

Putin's annexation of Crimean territory in 2014 would not have been possible without the outpost for initiating operations has been set up It became even more essential for his comprehensive invasion in 2022.

He utilized the peninsula as a logistical center, constructing a bridge to the Russian mainland to provide supplies for the troops amassed in the desolate area.

Following standard doctrine, Moscow eliminated much of Ukraine's naval force in that area and utilized Sevastopol as its primary base.

Analysis: If Trump’s animosity toward Zelensky seems personal, it’s indeed because it is.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 7:51 PM , Jane Dalton

President Trump has grounds for holding a grudge against the Ukrainian president, according to Sam Kiley.

Firstly, Mr. Trump saw Mr. Zelensky as someone who did not appreciate the American assistance he received because he failed to initiate an inquiry into Hunter Biden’s business activities in Ukraine back in July 2019.

If Trump's dislike of Zelensky seems personal, that's because it is.

'Russia made significant concessions by not occupying entire Ukraine,' says full report.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 8:10 PM , Jane Dalton

Trump says Russia has made ‘pretty big concession’ to peace by not seizing allUkraine

Russian strike on Kyiv homes was North Korean missile, says Zelensky

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 8:39 PM , Jane Dalton

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky claims that Russia employed a North Korean ballistic missile in the attack that struck a civilian apartment building in Kyiv during the night.

"If confirmation comes that this missile originates from North Korea, it would serve as additional evidence of the illicit relationship between Russia and Pyongyang," he stated.

Trump believes Putin will pay attention to what he says.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 9:10 PM , Jane Dalton

U.S. President Donald Trump believes that Russian President Vladimir Putin will heed his advice regarding halting the assaults on Ukraine, following his appeal to Moscow’s head of state to cease these operations.

When he arrived at the White House alongside Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, President Trump was questioned by a journalist about whether he believed Mr Putin would heed his advice. “Absolutely,” replied Mr Trump.

Sevastopol crucial for Russian naval achievements

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 9:48 PM , Sam Kiley

If Moscow is permitted to return to Sevastopol, a key Black Sea harbor in Crimea, as Trump desires, this could facilitate Russia’s rebuilding and revitalization of its navy. will proceed rapidly and eventually claim complete dominance once more .

In the meantime, Crimea stays under Russian control and continues to be the primary source of rockets and missiles used against Ukraine. It also serves as Russia’s key location for anti-aircraft defenses.

Starmer firmly asserts Ukraine should have the final decision on the agreement, disagreeing with Trump.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 10:08 PM , Jane Dalton

Sir Keir Starmer has asserted that Ukraine should have the authority to determine the conditions of any potential peace agreement with Russia, challenging Donald Trump’s proposals, according to reports.

The Prime Minister stated that the "courageous" Volodymyr Zelensky, who serves as the President of Ukraine, should not be held responsible for the inability to reach a deal aimed at concluding the conflict.

Sir Keir similarly declined to support U.S. proposals for officially acknowledging Crimea as part of Russia within any agreement, and he insisted that Moscow commit to an unconditional truce.

In an interview with The Telegraph , he stated: "We find ourselves in a highly intensive phase of the negotiations."

“In the end, I’m always mindful of the fact that it is Ukraine that must decide on those issues – it’s not for other people to decide on behalf of Ukraine.

It should be up to Ukraine to make this decision, and Russia needs to join the talks for an unconditional cease-fire.

Why Crimea holds such significance for Putin – and now Trump

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 10:15 PM , Jane Dalton

The US president's sole focus is on bringing the war to an end, according to the world affairs editor. Sam Kiley , no matter the cost to Ukraine’s history and future:

Why Crimea is crucial for both Putin and Trump

The Tory leader refuses to state that Trump is an ally of the UK.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 11:00 PM , Jane Dalton

The opposition leader Tory Kemi Badenoch has chosen not to comment on whether the UK would consider Donald Trump as an ally following his actions. His remarks regarding Volodymyr Zelensky , yet stated that Sir Keir Starmer had to reconstruct Britain’s relationship with the US.

When asked if Mr. Trump could still be regarded as an ally, she responded, "President Zelensky is a hero, and we must do all we can to support Ukraine in ending this conflict."

This conflict involves all of Europe as participants. Russia stands opposed in this scenario; they are not considered an ally.

President Trump might hold a distinct perspective, possibly due to their support for Ukraine and the funds allocated toward it, which underscores the critical importance of our Prime Minister taking all possible measures to restore those ties.

Ukraine has documented almost 150 Russian assaults along with more than 4,500 instances of artillery fire.

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 11:27 PM , Bryony Gooch

President Zelensky shared an update from the frontline from Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi as of Thursday night.

He stated that they had faced approximately "150 Russian assaults on their positions and more than 4,500 instances of shelling, including with heavy artillery."

The most challenging "scenario" occurred towards Pokrovsk, where according to Syrskyi, he expressed his gratitude to all our fighters — each soldier, sergeant, and officer — for their endurance and for holding our ground.

Essentially, the Russians attempted to launch an offensive while hiding behind their extensive bombardment.

“Even though most of our troops were concentrated on defending against missiles and drones, the Russians considerably escalated their land assaults.”

Syrskyi stated that the Russians encountered "a robust reaction."

The commanding officer praised the soldiers from the 72nd Independent Motorized Brigade and the 59th Independent Assault Brigade within the Unmanned Systems Division for causing substantial damage to Russian troops.

I commend the efficient operation of the 100th Independent Mechanized Brigade and the 12th Operational Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine for showcasing the resilience and outcomes we require.

Why is Crimea considered so desirable?

Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 11:55 PM , Jane Dalton

Crimea is central to talks aimed at concluding Russia's conflict in Ukraine. Here’s what makes it so desirable.

The US and Russia are "progressing in the correct manner" towards an agreement, according to Lavrov.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 12:09 AM , Bryony Gooch

The United States and Russia are 'progressing in the correct manner' toward ending the conflict in Ukraine, according to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s interview with CBS News.

"The president’s (Trump) statement refers to an agreement, and we are prepared to make a deal; however, certain specifics—the particular aspects of this arrangement—still require refinement," Lavrov stated.

“We continue our contacts with the American side on the situation in Ukraine , there are multiple indications that we are heading in the correct direction.

Trump's assertion that he has no connection to Russia seems unconvincing.

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 12:55 AM , Jane Dalton

The connections between Donald Trump and Moscow date back to 1987, and during this time, he likely attracted attention from Russia’s intelligence service, known as the KGB/FSB. writes Sam Kiley .

And his claim that he has nothing to do with Russia rings hollow:

If Trump’s animosity toward Zelensky seems personal, that’s because it is.

A journalist who perished while being held captive by Russians might have undergone torture.

02:00 , Jane Dalton

Ukraine reports that they have identified the remains of journalist Viktoria Roshchyna, who perished while in Russian custody, and a forensic analysis uncovered evidence of mistreatment.

Ms Roshchyna passed away at the age of 27 last September following several months in captivity.

The reporter, known for his firsthand accounts of life under Russian control, went missing in August 2023 while covering a assignment in east Ukraine, which was then occupied by Russian forces.

Her remains were among those transferred from Russia to Ukraine in February, according to the Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office.

Mrs. Roshchyna's relatives found out about her passing last year through a correspondence from Russia's Ministry of Defense.

Yurii Bielousov, who leads the war crimes division for Ukraine's prosecutor general, stated that Ukrainian forensic specialists could not ascertain the reason behind the deaths. However, they did discover indications of wounds and potential instances of torture.

Coworkers characterized her from last year as an "irresistible force":

The demise of the Ukrainian journalist in Russia's notorious "hell on earth" prison remains shrouded in mystery.

Op-ed: Trump grants Putin immunity, hence it’s crucial for Europe and partners to take action.

03:15 , Jane Dalton

Should the EU alliance genuinely be committed, Ukraine has an opportunity to defy the odds.

The French president asserts that Putin needs to cease deception.

04:45 , Jane Dalton

The French President, Emmanuel Macron, has stated that Putin needs to stop “spreading lies” as he asserts his desire for peace whilst simultaneously bombing Ukraine.

Mr. Macron stated during his visit to Madagascar that there is just one response we are awaiting: whether President Putin agrees to an unconditional cease-fire.

He stated that "Americans' outrage should be directed at only one individual: President Putin."

The French Foreign Ministry likewise provided a tempered response to President Trump's critique of Volodymyr Zelensky.

"The integrity of Ukraine’s territory is not up for negotiation," stated Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christophe Lemoine.