FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
Washington would like to end the war in June. Zelensky openly admits this, while a date is on the table to end a conflict that has eroded people, budgets and illusions for four years.
The United States, the Ukrainian president explains, aims to end hostilities by early summer. But with one non-negotiable condition: nothing in Ukraine without Ukraine. There is talk of a free zone in Donbas, but there is still no agreement.
This political message comes as something is rattling on the ground, especially on the Russian side. Kiev has seen a significant slowdown in Moscow's offensive after blocking access to Starlink. Without Musk's satellite network, essential for communications, drones and coordination, Russian units are moving like blind kittens. Zelensky insists: Putin is looking for a pause.
Not out of strategic choice, but out of economic necessity. Russia’s deficit is exceeding $100 billion, reserves are dwindling, and military losses are being sought to be replaced. According to Kiev, the Kremlin is considering a ceasefire to catch its breath, as the risk of more direct involvement in Belarus, which is increasingly transforming into a missile launch pad for its Russian ally, grows.
On the diplomatic front, the day was marked by mixed signals. Zelensky, annoyed by the economic deals between Putin and Trump, confirmed new talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations next week, with Miami as a possible venue.
"Further progress is needed; Moscow must demonstrate its commitment to negotiations," he said, reiterating that the most pressing issues can only be addressed at the leadership level. He met with French Defense Minister Vautrin, discussing strengthening air and missile defense systems.
Meanwhile, the war continues to affect infrastructure. Zircon missiles and hypersonic drones have hit power plants, reducing output at nuclear power plants. The Burshtyn power plant is out of service and from today, power will be guaranteed for a maximum of two hours a day. Foreign Minister Sybiha said the Russian attacks "put Europe at risk of a nuclear accident."
The alert is also in effect across the border, with Poland forced to suspend flights at two eastern airports. Kiev is responding with a deep-sea attack. Ukrainian drones set fire to an oil depot in Saratov and a factory in Tver that produces components for fuel for cruise missiles.
On the international stage, Orban raises his voice: no opening to sending troops, which he says "would lead to a direct conflict with Russia." Then comes the political attack: Ukraine, accused of pushing Brussels to cut Budapest off from free Russian energy, is "violating our interests and becoming an enemy of Hungary."
Meanwhile, Kiev supports the Pope's call for a ceasefire during the Winter Olympics.
On the ground, the war remains uncertain: Moscow claims advances east of Kharkiv, while the Institute for the Study of War warns that the Kremlin is planning an offensive this summer towards Sloviansk, with another 165,000 troops ready.
London is considering seizing an oil tanker from Russia's shadow fleet.
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