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Zelensky Accuses Russia of Stalling Ceasefire with Unrealistic Demands

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Zelensky Accuses Russia of Stalling Ceasefire with Unrealistic Demands

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of attempting to delay meaningful peace negotiations, warning that Moscow is “trying to buy time” to prolong its military campaign. His remarks come just a day after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that both Kyiv and Moscow were open to renewed truce talks.

Zelensky said Ukraine remained open to dialogue but stressed that continued “unrealistic conditions” from the Kremlin could not go unanswered. “If Russia continues to undermine progress, there must be tough consequences,” he posted on social media.

Trump had spoken separately with both Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, later stating that truce discussions would commence “immediately.” While Putin expressed willingness to explore a future peace framework, he stopped short of agreeing to a proposed 30-day ceasefire.

On Tuesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov downplayed expectations of swift negotiations, emphasizing that there were “no deadlines” for talks.

In response to the ongoing stalemate, Zelensky intensified diplomatic efforts, reaching out to Western leaders, including Finland’s president, to rally continued international pressure on Russia.

Simultaneously, both the European Union and the United Kingdom unveiled fresh sanctions against Moscow. The EU moved to blacklist nearly 200 Russian oil tankers operating in what it calls a “shadow fleet” and hinted at stronger measures if Russia does not engage in serious talks. The UK followed suit, targeting 18 tankers, in addition to Russian military suppliers and financial institutions.

These sanctions followed a weekend of intense drone attacks on Ukraine—reportedly the largest since the war began in February 2022. Ukrainian officials claimed more than 1,000 Russian casualties from over 170 front-line clashes within a single day.

Despite international calls for peace, Trump signaled he would not support new sanctions, arguing they could derail fragile diplomatic progress.

Meanwhile, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius condemned the continued Russian strikes. “Putin is clearly playing for time. Unfortunately, we have to say he is not really interested in peace,” he stated before a meeting of EU defense ministers.

Putin has thus far rejected joint U.S.-Ukrainian proposals for a ceasefire and declined Zelensky’s invitation for direct talks in Istanbul. Trump had offered to attend the proposed summit, contingent on Putin’s participation—an offer also ignored by Moscow.

Although temporary ceasefires have been proposed before—including one over Easter and another during Russia’s WWII victory celebrations—Kyiv has remained skeptical, citing repeated violations and calling for a comprehensive, sustained halt to hostilities.

Israel Launches Major Ground Operation in Gaza as Hostilities Escalate

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Israel Launches Major Ground Operation in Gaza as Hostilities Escalate

Israel has initiated a large-scale military campaign in Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas and rescue remaining hostages. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the operation, codenamed “Gideon’s Chariots,” is focused on capturing key strategic zones within the enclave.

According to the IDF, troops have been mobilized to target and take control of Hamas strongholds. Over the past 24 hours, Israeli forces claim to have struck more than 150 sites across Gaza. The offensive follows weeks of mounting pressure and comes after the collapse of a two-month ceasefire in March.

Hamas-run civil defense officials report that approximately 250 people have died since the offensive began on Thursday, including at least 58 killed overnight. Aid workers and medical personnel in the region describe worsening humanitarian conditions, with many families repeatedly displaced and struggling to find safe shelter.

As part of the operation, residents in several parts of northern and central Gaza have been instructed to evacuate. However, humanitarian organizations say relocating civilians has become nearly impossible due to overcrowding and ongoing hostilities. Many have already been displaced multiple times during the conflict.

The offensive was launched shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump concluded a regional visit. His administration has expressed concern over the deepening humanitarian crisis, with Trump acknowledging severe food shortages and hunger among Gaza’s population.

International reaction has been swift. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk warned that Israel’s intensified strikes and movement of civilians could be interpreted as efforts to permanently alter the demographic composition of Gaza, raising serious questions about compliance with international law.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is “troubled” by the scale of violence and continues to urge a return to ceasefire negotiations.

The IDF has amassed thousands of troops, including reservists, along the Gaza border. Reports indicate that full-scale ground operations are imminent as the campaign progresses.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed earlier this month that Israel was preparing for a sustained ground incursion to “take and hold territory.” He previously stated that military action would not begin until President Trump left the region.

The current situation in Gaza remains dire. According to humanitarian aid workers, conditions in hospitals are worsening due to malnutrition and overcapacity. Dr. Victoria Rose, a British surgeon working at Nasser Hospital, described children with severe burn injuries, weakened immune systems, and signs of starvation. “Many children have lost teeth and are highly vulnerable to infections,” she said.

A recent UN-backed report found Gaza to be at imminent risk of famine. Despite this, the Israeli government continues to deny allegations of a food shortage.

The conflict stems from the October 2023 Hamas attack on southern Israel, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages. Israel says Hamas still holds 58 hostages. Since the war began, over 53,000 people have been killed in Gaza, according to local health authorities.

Toxic Algae Bloom Devastates Marine Life Along South Australian Coast

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Toxic Algae Bloom Devastates Marine Life Along South Australian Coast

A harmful algae bloom along South Australia’s coast has led to the deaths of hundreds of marine species, in what experts describe as one of the region’s most devastating marine die-offs to date.

The bloom, caused by the algae Karenia mikimotoi, has now spread over 150km of the southern coastline since first appearing in March. The affected zone spans an area nearly the size of Kangaroo Island.

The algae has been linked to widespread deaths of marine life, including sharks, rays, leafy sea dragons, octopuses, cuttlefish, and numerous fish and shellfish species. Local reports and scientific surveys confirm the scale of the ecological damage.

South Australia’s environment minister Susan Close stated that the outbreak is the largest ever recorded in the region. The algae thrive under the current marine heatwave conditions, with sea surface temperatures reported to be 2.5°C above normal and weather conditions remaining calm — both of which contribute to the bloom’s growth.

The algae produce toxins that harm fish and other sea creatures by attacking their gills and nervous systems, leading to haemorrhaging and disorientation. The phenomenon has been described by marine experts as resembling a “horror movie” for aquatic species.

There is little intervention possible at this stage. The minister said a change in weather, particularly the arrival of strong westerly winds, is the only force likely to disperse the algae and break the bloom.

An evaluation of over 1,400 citizen-submitted reports revealed that about half of the dead marine animals were ray-finned fish, while over a quarter were sharks and rays. Cephalopods and crustaceans have also been severely affected.

Although not directly harmful to humans, the bloom has caused skin irritation and respiratory discomfort for some beach visitors. Authorities have shut down several oyster farms and banned pipi collection in certain zones to limit exposure.

The first signs of trouble appeared in March, when beachgoers noticed dense foam and dead sea life along the Fleurieu Peninsula’s Waitpinga and Parsons beaches. Subsequent scientific tests confirmed the presence of K. mikimotoi.

According to marine biologist Professor Shauna Murray, the algae produce reactive oxygen compounds that can quickly suffocate marine life, leading to mass deaths.

Experts point to the persistence of high-pressure systems delaying the winds needed to clear the algae — a symptom tied to ongoing climate shifts.

Environmental officials say the long-term effects on marine biodiversity and local economies are still being assessed. However, conservationists are calling for stronger measures to monitor and respond to marine heatwaves, which are becoming increasingly frequent due to warming ocean temperatures.

South Australia is currently experiencing one of its worst droughts, compounding the environmental crisis. The minister warned that these marine heatwaves are not isolated incidents but a sign of escalating climate disruption in coastal ecosystems.

She described the situation as a clear sign of a climate emergency playing out beneath the surface, with extreme events like this bloom becoming the new normal.

What’s in the Upcoming UK-US Tariff Deal?

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What’s in the Upcoming UK-US Tariff Deal?

The United Kingdom and the United States are expected to unveil a new agreement aimed at easing tariffs. While the complete details are still to come, early indications suggest that while the US’s broad 10% tariffs on imports will likely remain in place, the UK may benefit from reductions on some of the 25% duties affecting key British exports.

Not a Full Trade Agreement

Despite US President Donald Trump referring to the upcoming announcement as a “major trade deal” on social media, this will not be a formal free trade agreement. Trump does not have the authority to sign off on such deals—that power rests with the US Congress.

A proper trade agreement would require Congressional approval, which is a lengthy process and cannot be completed during the 90-day freeze Trump has placed on certain tariffs. What’s expected instead is a limited arrangement involving specific exemptions or tariff reductions on select goods.

A Modest Start

The deal, set to be announced today, is likely to be a narrow and relatively modest agreement. Any wider-ranging negotiations and accompanying legal formalities will take months to conclude. This initial phase may only apply to a handful of goods and may be temporary in nature.

For now, most UK exports entering the US are still subject to a general 10% tariff. This deal is expected to reduce that rate only on certain high-impact items.

Focus on the Automotive Sector

One of the central areas of concern is the automobile industry. The US has already imposed a 25% levy on imported cars and car parts. As vehicles represent the UK’s largest export to the US—valued at around £9 billion last year—any tariff relief in this area would be significant.

The agreement could potentially involve a reduction of this 25% tax or the introduction of a quota system, allowing a limited number of UK-made vehicles to enter the US market either duty-free or at reduced rates. However, industry leaders have expressed a clear preference for lower tariffs across the board, warning that quotas could cap their competitiveness.

On the UK’s side, the current 10% tariff on US car imports might also be revised. The US has asked that this be reduced to 2.5%, and UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has suggested she is open to that possibility.

Steel and Aluminium: High-Impact Sectors

In March, the US reintroduced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminium imports. While the UK’s direct exports in these materials are relatively modest—around £700 million—the impact extends further. The tariffs also apply to goods containing these metals, including fitness equipment, furniture, and industrial machinery, collectively worth more than £2.2 billion last year.

Leaders in the UK’s steel industry warn that without changes, the ongoing tariffs could inflict serious damage. Whether this new deal will involve a rate cut or adopt a quota-based model remains to be seen. There’s also the concern that US protectionism could reduce demand for foreign products, prompting global suppliers to flood other markets, including the UK’s, with excess stock—putting further strain on domestic producers.

Pharmaceuticals Remain Uncertain

It’s unclear what the deal will include regarding pharmaceuticals. Medicines are typically exempt from tariffs under international agreements to keep healthcare costs down. Pharmaceuticals are also a vital part of UK-US trade. Last year alone, British exports of medical products to the US totaled £6.6 billion, making it the UK’s second-largest export category to America.

Likewise, the US exported around £4 billion worth of pharmaceuticals to the UK in the same period. Though no new tariffs have been announced on medicines so far, any future change could significantly impact both markets.

A Possible Concession on Digital Services Tax

Another angle being closely watched is the UK’s digital services tax, which imposes a 2% charge on the UK revenue of tech giants operating online marketplaces, search engines, and social media platforms. This tax targets companies with over £500 million in global turnover and at least £25 million from UK users—criteria that encompass most major US tech firms.

The UK collected nearly £360 million from American companies through this levy in its first year. However, it’s speculated that the UK may consider scaling this back in exchange for tariff reductions on critical exports like cars and pharmaceuticals. Doing so could pose a political risk, appearing as a concession to both Big Tech and Trump.

Food Standards Off the Table

While there’s potential for reduced tariffs on US agricultural goods, the UK government has made it clear that domestic food safety standards are non-negotiable. This means controversial items like chlorinated chicken or hormone-treated beef will remain banned.

The UK has maintained regulatory alignment with the EU on food standards, and the upcoming “Brexit reset” is unlikely to shift this stance. American farming practices, particularly the use of growth hormones, have long been a sticking point in trade talks, with the UK and EU banning such products since the 1980s.

If the US agrees to a limited deal without pressing for concessions on food safety, it would be seen as a diplomatic win for the UK.

Hamas Halts Truce Talks Amid Israeli Plans to Expand Gaza Offensive

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Hamas Halts Truce Talks Amid Israeli Plans to Expand Gaza Offensive

Hamas has declared that continued ceasefire negotiations are futile following Israel’s approval of a sweeping military operation that aims to seize control of the entire Gaza Strip.

Speaking to the BBC, senior Hamas official Bassem Naim accused Israel of waging a “starvation war” and said that no further discussions would be held under such conditions.

The Israeli military confirmed on Monday that its expanded campaign seeks to return hostages held by Hamas and achieve the group’s “decisive defeat.” Officials stated that the operation could displace the majority of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents and would involve direct control over humanitarian aid.

The offensive is not expected to begin until after U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to the region next week, offering what Israeli officials called a final “window of opportunity” for Hamas to accept a deal.

UN Secretary General António Guterres warned that further military action could result in massive civilian casualties and infrastructure collapse. Global leaders including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have also expressed concern, urging a renewed peace process.

President Trump announced the U.S. would support food relief in Gaza, though without providing specifics. Meanwhile, aid groups warn of imminent mass starvation if conditions persist.

Understanding Compulsory Voting in Australia

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Understanding Compulsory Voting in Australia

Australians are set to vote in a federal election, but it’s not just about choosing a preferred candidate—it’s also a legal duty. Since 1924, every Australian citizen aged 18 and over is legally required to vote, and failing to do so without a valid excuse can result in a A$20 fine.

While voter turnout remains a challenge in many democracies, Australia consistently ranks among the highest in the world. In the 2022 federal election, about 90% of eligible voters participated. For context, turnout in the 2024 UK general election was around 60%, and in the US presidential election, it was approximately 64%.

Compulsory voting is broadly accepted by Australians and is viewed as a system that ensures more comprehensive representation—not just from the politically active, but from the entire population.

How Does Australia Encourage Voting?

Although voting is mandatory, the Australian government also takes steps to make it accessible. Elections are scheduled on Saturdays, allowing more people—especially those who work during the week—to vote without conflict.

Employers are legally required to give employees paid time off to cast their vote. To make the experience more community-driven, polling stations are often accompanied by “democracy sausages”—barbecued snacks sold as part of local fundraising efforts, turning voting into a social event.

Why Compulsory Voting Was Introduced

After the 1922 election, where fewer than 60% of eligible voters participated, the government amended the Electoral Act in 1924 to mandate voting. The result was a dramatic increase in participation—91% of voters turned out in the 1925 election.

Advocates argue that mandatory voting enhances the legitimacy of elected officials by ensuring they reflect the will of the entire electorate, not just the most motivated groups. It also pushes political parties to craft policies that appeal to a broader range of voters, avoiding hyper-polarization.

On the flip side, some critics warn of “pork barrelling”—where politicians promise local projects primarily to win over swing voters, potentially skewing resource allocation.

A Buffer Against Political Extremism

Experts suggest that compulsory voting helps moderate political discourse. Historian Judith Brett notes that because every citizen must vote, politicians are less likely to cater only to extreme ideologies. Instead, they focus on the center to win over the majority, creating more balanced public debate.

This broad participation also ensures that less affluent and marginalized communities have a say in elections. Studies show that in voluntary systems, these groups are less likely to vote, which means their needs can be overlooked. In Australia, politicians know they must address issues affecting all demographics.

Public Opinion and Ongoing Support

Compulsory voting is widely accepted in Australia. Since 1967, national polls have consistently shown around 70% approval for mandatory voting laws. Despite occasional campaigns calling for voluntary voting, the idea hasn’t gained real momentum.

In fact, during the 2022 election, 77% of respondents said they would have voted even if it wasn’t required—highlighting the deep civic commitment ingrained in Australian culture.

China Launches Shenzhou-20 Crew to Tiangong Space Station, Eyes Moon Mission by 2030

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China Launches Shenzhou-20 Crew to Tiangong Space Station, Eyes Moon Mission by 2030

China successfully launched three astronauts aboard the Shenzhou-20 spacecraft on Thursday, 24 April 2025, marking another major stride toward its goal of sending humans to the Moon within the next five years.

The spacecraft lifted off at 5:17 PM local time from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in the Gobi Desert, propelled by a Long March-2F rocket. This mission is China’s 15th crewed spaceflight and the 20th in its Shenzhou program, which began more than 30 years ago.

The Shenzhou-20 crew includes mission commander Chen Dong—now on his third flight—alongside first-time space travelers, engineer Wang Jie and fighter pilot Chen Zhongrui. They are set to replace the current trio aboard Tiangong, China’s independently built space station.

A New Power in Orbit

Tiangong, meaning “Heavenly Palace,” has cemented China’s role as a key player in space exploration. With China excluded from the International Space Station due to US national security concerns, the nation built its own orbital laboratory entirely from scratch. The station has been fully operational since 2022 and is capable of hosting up to six astronauts at once during crew handovers.

What’s Ahead

The Shenzhou-20 crew will spend roughly six months in orbit conducting medical and technological experiments, performing spacewalks, and maintaining and upgrading the station. Their arrival marks a brief overlap with the current crew, who are scheduled to return to Earth on 29 April after 175 days in space.

China’s space program, overseen by the People’s Liberation Army, has seen rapid progress since the country sent its first astronaut into orbit in 2003. It has since deployed a rover on the far side of the Moon and an explorer on Mars.

With the Moon as its next target, China aims to put astronauts on its surface by 2030—a mission that, if successful, would place it alongside the United States as the only nations to land humans on the Moon.

Kashmir’s Deadliest Civilian Attack in Years: 26 Tourists Killed in Pahalgam Ambush

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Kashmir’s Deadliest Civilian Attack in Years: 26 Tourists Killed in Pahalgam Ambush

A tranquil spring afternoon in Kashmir’s Pahalgam valley turned into a bloodbath on Tuesday when gunmen opened fire on a crowd of over 1,200 tourists, killing at least 26 people and injuring 17 in one of the worst attacks on civilians in the region in decades.

The incident took place in Baisaran, a scenic spot popularly known as “mini Switzerland”, nestled among snow-draped peaks and pine forests. Witnesses said the attackers, dressed in military-style clothing, appeared suddenly from the nearby forest and began shooting indiscriminately. The attack, which lasted 15–20 minutes, left victims sprawled across the meadow as others ran frantically for cover.

“It was like a storm,” a local pony service operator told AFP. “Sometimes a single shot, sometimes many bullets.”

Targeted and Ruthless

Survivors described the horror of watching friends and loved ones fall before their eyes. One woman said a gunman asked her husband if he was Muslim. When he said no, he was shot dead. Graphic images and videos showed bodies on the ground, women screaming, and locals trying to help the wounded—some of whom were transported to hospitals on horseback before military helicopters arrived.

A widely circulated photo shows the grieving wife sitting beside her husband’s lifeless body in shock.

Lapses in Security?

The attack has raised serious concerns over security arrangements in Pahalgam, a prominent tourist destination. Critics are questioning how such a brazen assault could happen in a region where the government has aggressively promoted tourism to demonstrate stability since the revocation of Kashmir’s special status in 2019.

Home minister Amit Shah rushed to Srinagar for emergency meetings. Prime minister Narendra Modi, who cut short a trip to Saudi Arabia, condemned the “heinous” act and vowed the perpetrators would be punished.

International Condemnation

Global leaders, including UN secretary general António Guterres, US vice president JD Vance, and Russian president Vladimir Putin, condemned the attack. The Resistance Front, linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, reportedly claimed responsibility.

While gunfights with militants are not uncommon in Kashmir, attacks targeting tourists are rare. In recent years, over 20 million tourists visited the region annually. This tragedy could deal a severe blow to the perception of normalcy the government has tried to project.

As families mourn, the nation grapples with renewed fears and mounting pressure for accountability and decisive action.

Climate Controversy Engulfs Australian Opposition Leader Peter Dutton Amid Election Heat

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Climate Controversy Engulfs Australian Opposition Leader Peter Dutton Amid Election Heat

Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton is facing mounting criticism after his ambiguous comments on climate change during a live election debate sparked backlash from climate experts, campaigners, and political opponents. His remarks, questioning the role of human-driven climate change in Australia’s recent extreme weather events, have drawn sharp rebukes, just weeks before the country heads to the polls on 3 May.

In Tuesday’s nationally televised debate hosted by ABC News, Dutton hesitated when asked whether he believed Australia was currently experiencing the impacts of the climate crisis. Referring to extreme weather in his home state of Queensland, including flooding from Cyclone Alfred, he said: “I think you can see that there’s an impact,” but added, “I’ll let scientists and others pass that judgment.”

Pressed further, he responded, “I don’t know, David,” referencing the town of Thargomindah and suggesting that the public is equally unsure. His reluctance to acknowledge the scientific consensus shocked many observers, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who quipped: “Does he believe in gravity?”

Albanese called Dutton’s answers “stunning” and accused him of ignoring clear scientific evidence. “I would have thought the science is very clear on climate change,” he said at a press conference in Brisbane.

Environmental groups expressed similar alarm. The Climate Council called Dutton “out of touch” and urged him to engage with experts. “There is no excuse in 2025 for a potential Prime Minister not to be fully informed about the climate crisis,” said Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie.

The Australian Conservation Foundation went further, labeling his comments “deeply disturbing” and likening them to outdated climate denial. “Falling back on the old line – ‘I’m not a scientist’ – is simply unacceptable,” said ACF CEO Kelly O’Shanassy.

Australia has experienced a series of devastating climate events in recent years—from catastrophic bushfires and heatwaves to floods and coastal erosion. With two million homes and businesses now at moderate to high risk from climate-related disasters, the cost of inaction is growing. Insurance costs alone have surged by $30 billion in the past decade, with many households in vulnerable areas now unable to obtain coverage.

The climate crisis is emerging as a pivotal election issue, especially for younger voters and those in disaster-affected regions. While Dutton has pushed for nuclear energy and a review of Australia’s current emissions target of a 43% reduction by 2030, Labor is committed to stronger emissions cuts and expanding renewables.

Dutton has also said the Coalition would consider withdrawing Australia’s bid to co-host COP31, the 2026 UN climate summit, a proposal supported by Pacific island nations. Tuvalu’s climate minister, Maina Talia, warned that Dutton’s stance could jeopardize diplomatic ties, stating it “forced us to question the nature of our friendship” with Australia.

As public concern over climate intensifies, Dutton’s ambiguous stance may prove a decisive factor in the upcoming election—one where the future of Australia’s climate policy hangs in the balance.

Trump Blames Zelensky for Ukraine War After Deadly Russian Attack Kills 35

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Trump Blames Zelensky for Ukraine War After Deadly Russian Attack Kills 35

US President Donald Trump has ignited controversy by blaming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for starting the war with Russia, just a day after a devastating missile attack by Russian forces killed 35 civilians and injured 117 others in the Ukrainian city of Sumy.

In comments made at the White House on Monday, Trump accused Zelensky, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and former US President Joe Biden of being collectively responsible for what he described as “millions of people dead.” He added, “You don’t start a war against someone 20 times your size and then hope that people give you some missiles.”

Trump’s remarks drew backlash for seemingly ignoring the fact that Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, years after first annexing Crimea in 2014. The death toll from the war, while catastrophic, is estimated in the hundreds of thousands—not millions.

While acknowledging the attack in Sumy as “terrible,” Trump downplayed it by claiming he was told Russia had “made a mistake,” without offering further details. In a shift of blame, he continued, “Biden could have stopped it, Zelensky could have stopped it, and Putin should have never started it. Everybody is to blame.”

Tensions between Trump and Zelensky have been high since their heated exchange in Washington in February, where Trump accused the Ukrainian leader of “gambling with World War Three” for not starting peace talks with Moscow sooner.

Trump also emphasized his improving relationship with Moscow, noting a “great” phone call with President Putin last month and revealing that the Russian leader sent him a portrait as a gift. The US also controversially sided with Russia in a UN vote in February that rejected a resolution naming Russia as the aggressor in the war.

Despite ongoing civilian deaths, including Sunday’s deadly missile strikes in Sumy that targeted civilians on Palm Sunday, Trump maintained that peace could be near. His envoy, Steve Witkoff, met with Putin in St Petersburg last week and said talks focused on a potential “permanent peace,” involving discussions on Russian-claimed Ukrainian territories and NATO’s Article 5 defense clause.

Ukrainian President Zelensky, speaking before the Sumy attack, urged Trump to visit Ukraine before making any deals with Moscow. “Please, before any decisions, come to see the civilians, warriors, hospitals, and children destroyed or dead,” he pleaded.

The Kremlin has been cautiously optimistic, calling the recent diplomatic contacts with the US “positive,” but admitting there are no concrete agreements yet.

As the conflict enters its third year, Trump’s rhetoric and diplomatic approach continue to stir concern among Ukraine’s allies, while civilian casualties in the war zone remain tragically high.

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