He also announced plans to accelerate production of interceptor drones , saying prototypes already existed but needed to be deployed effectively and produced at greater scale.

Zelensky said combat aircraft were currently carrying much of the burden of intercepting jet-powered drones.

Earlier on Thursday, he chaired a meeting of Ukraine's Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff focused on increasing production of high-speed drone interceptors and involving businesses in manufacturing air defence systems.

Zelensky also said Kiev was preparing for talks with envoys of the US president , who were expected to hold meetings in both Ukraine and Russia.

His appeal followed overnight strikes on Ukraine, with Zelensky pointing to ballistic missiles as the country's biggest air defence challenge.

"Unfortunately, ballistic missiles are the most difficult challenge right now. While about 90 percent of the cruise missiles in this attack were intercepted, the situation with ballistic missiles is significantly worse," Zelensky said.

"We need missiles for Patriots, and only our partners can provide them," he stressed. "We ain't talking about gifts. Ukraine is ready to buy the weapons. What matters is that decisions be made - appropriate political decisions by our partners, first and foremost in the US."

Zelensky did not say where the money for the purchases would come from. The European Union and its member states have collectively provided more than €220 billion over the past four years.

His government has also faced several high-profile corruption scandals. Zelensky fired a top aide this week over alleged money laundering, while his sacked defence chief Mykhailo Fedorov criticised corruption in the system and demanded fresh elections .

The request for more Patriot missiles came as Ukrainian authorities acknowledged that no ballistic missiles were intercepted during the latest overnight strikes.

Moscow said the strikes targeted military-industrial and logistics sites. Kyiv has also previously acknowledged failing to shoot down missiles during several attacks.

He said the government and parliament would work with Ukraine's international partners to secure the necessary funds .

In June, Ukraine's parliament approved an additional 1.56 trillion hryvnias for security and defence, bringing planned spending in the sector to 4.367 trillion hryvnias for 2026. The Finance Ministry said EU support would help finance the increase.

The EU has agreed a €90 billion loan package for Ukraine covering 2026 and 2027, with an indicative €60 billion earmarked for defence and €30 billion for economic support. So far, €11.6 billion has been disbursed.

The IMF also approved a new four-year programme for Ukraine in February, releasing about $1.5 billion immediately and a further $690 million in July.

Footage shows demonstrators marching through the city, waving Ukrainian flags and carrying signs reading "Your money is blood money" and " Corruption kills," among others.

Fedorov's removal has sparked demonstrations across Ukraine, with supporters praising his role in advancing military technology, drone development and defence procurement reform.

Following the reshuffle, Zelensky offered Fedorov the position of deputy prime minister for military innovation.

Fedorov declined the offer, saying he needed the authority of the Defence Ministry to continue implementing his reforms.

The cabinet changes also saw Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko leave office.

On July 16, Ukraine's parliament appointed former Naftogaz chief Sergii Koretskyi as the country's new prime minister.

“Ukraine is capable of making its own missile, and launcher partners will provide the necessary components and critical elements - radars, sensors, and other things that everyone in Europe needs,” Zelensky said in a video address.

He said only a small number of countries had built their own anti-ballistic systems and argued that Ukraine needed to join them quickly, with “concrete results by the turn of 2026-27.”

Freya was launched in Paris in July and brings together Ukraine and 10 European partners, including France , Germany and the UK.

Under the plan, Ukraine aims to produce the missile and launcher, while its partners provide critical components such as radars and sensors.

Zelensky also renewed his appeal to Trump over Patriot technology after the US president said no agreement had been reached.

“The United States knows exactly what we need and that this is not about something abstract. This is the protection of our lives, these are concrete real people; we need air defence,” he urged.

Trump said at Camp David last week that he had not agreed to provide Patriot licences to Ukraine.

“Now, we have not agreed to that. We're talking about it. But it's a hard thing to give away that kind of technology. And I don't think this would ever happen,” he said.

“But, you know, those people that you give that technology, they can someday turn on you. You know, that is possible. If you look at war. It's happened a couple of times over the years, right? So we have to be very careful,” Trump added.

Trump had previously said he was “not sure” about handing over Patriot licences after earlier suggesting at the NATO Summit in Ankara that he could do so.

He did not provide evidence to support the claim but described it as an "alliance of Moscow scum with the insane regime of DPRK."

Zelensky urged Ukraine's allies to increase air defence support, arguing that stronger pressure on Russia was needed to stop its attacks.

Ukraine said at least 13 people were killed in overnight strikes. Russia's Defence Ministry said it had launched precision missile and drone attacks against Ukrainian military-industrial facilities and military infrastructure in regions including Kyiv, Lviv and Dnipropetrovsk.

Earlier this week, Zelensky also alleged that Russia and North Korea were considering deploying another 30,000 DPRK troops, a claim the Kremlin declined to comment on.

Fedorov, widely credited with advancing Ukraine’s digital transformation and expanding drone capabilities in the conflict, was dismissed by President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 15 as part of a broader government reshuffle. While Zelensky defended the move by refusing to disclose details for security reasons, the decision has sparked backlash and exposed tensions within Ukraine’s leadership, including reported disagreements over military command.

Zelensky thanked Syrsky for his service, highlighting his role in the defence of Kyiv, the Kharkiv counteroffensive and the Kursk operation.

"The fact is that Oleksandr Syrsky ensured Ukraine's results in the defence of Kiev. In the Kharkov offensive operation, in the Kursk operation... a significant path has been travelled," he said.

The president also said he had offered former defence chief Mykhailo Fedorov a "worthy position in the government " focused on strengthening Ukraine's technological development.

Fedorov's dismissal last week sparked protests across the country. Zelensky declined to publicly explain the reasons for the move, saying he did not want to disclose information that could benefit Russia.

The reshuffle also saw former Naftogaz chief Serhiy Koretsky appointed prime minister, replacing Yuliia Svyrydenko.

Responding first, Starmer said Britain's commitment to Ukraine would continue beyond his time in office.

“I am very confident in saying that this commitment and support of the UK for Ukraine will remain unwavering. We will stand by you, Volodymyr, and the Ukrainian people for as long as necessary, and long after that,” he said.

Zelensky acknowledged the uncertainty created by changes in political leadership while Ukraine remains at war.

“When you ask, what about us, of course, I am concerned about changes, of course, I am afraid because we are at war every day,” he said.

“I hope that we never lose strong relations with the United Kingdom during and after the war. Thank you very much.”

During Starmer's tenure, the UK has remained one of Ukraine's largest military and financial backers. On Thursday, he announced an additional €300 million in support for Swedish-made fighter jets, adding to the UK's assistance for Ukraine this year.

The United Kingdom has provided billions of pounds in military, humanitarian and economic assistance since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Starmer announced last month that he would step down as prime minister. His departure comes as the UK prepares for a change in leadership while maintaining its support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict .

"We demand that the government of the Republic of Poland take all measures to oppose any development of Ukraine's integration process with the European Union . The European Union cannot be based on an ideology contrary to Christian values, European values," Czarnek said.

His remarks followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's May 26 decree granting a Special Operations Forces unit the honorary title "Heroes of the UPA." While Ukraine says the title was chosen by the unit's soldiers and was not intended as an anti-Polish gesture, Poland holds the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) responsible for the wartime massacres of Polish civilians in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia, which it recognises as genocide.

"Ukraine is not doomed to glorify perpetrators of genocide. Ukraine has its own heroes. But Ukraine will not be free and will not be a member of the European Union," Czarnek said.

Ukraine applied for EU membership on February 28, 2022, four days after the conflict with Russia began. It was granted candidate status in June 2022, with EU leaders agreeing to open accession negotiations in December 2023. Formal talks began on June 25, 2024, followed by a screening process to assess Ukraine's alignment with EU legislation. Ukraine completed that process in September 2025, and on June 15, 2026, the EU and Kyiv opened the first negotiating cluster covering the rule of law, fundamental rights , democratic institutions, public administration reform and economic criteria, Viory reports.

"Ukraine has the right to defend its territory - territorial integrity. We maintain our humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, but as I have said many times before, Hungary will not provide arms or troops to Ukraine," he said.

Despite Budapest's position on military aid, Magyar said Hungary remained committed to strengthening its own defence capabilities and would gradually increase military spending to meet NATO's long-term target.

"The Hungarian government has already decided to increase the defence spending in a predictable manner, and we will reach the 5 percent by 2035," he said.

NATO leaders are meeting in Ankara on July 7 and 8, with defence spending, continued support for Ukraine and the future direction of the alliance among the key issues on the agenda.

"They will fear that Ukraine will put a heavy burden on the EU budget," Fico said. "Yes, that is the other side of Ukraine's entry into the European Union . Therefore, everything has its time, and Ukraine must be patient. It must be very, very patient," he added.

Fico also questioned the European Union's proposed €90 billion ($103 billion) support package for Ukraine, claiming the bloc was funding Ukrainian weapons production that could later be sold back to EU member states.

"We are already in a mess. If we give someone 90 billion for the production of weapons, for support, for all sorts of things, they will manufacture weapons from it and then sell them back to the European Union," he said.

The Slovak prime minister said Slovakia's presidency of the Visegrad Group (V4) would focus on competitiveness, EU enlargement, people-to-people relations and practical cooperation, while making peace a fifth priority.

The European Union formally opened accession negotiations with Ukraine in June 2024. On Friday, EU member states reached a technical agreement to begin opening another accession negotiating cluster with Ukraine and Moldova, with formal approval expected on July 14.

"There is a shortage of anti-ballistic defence systems. There is a shortage of Patriot systems," Zelensky said. "Our partners - above all the United States and our European partners - must be more active in providing them," he added.

Zelensky said protecting Ukrainian cities would require not only additional Patriot deliveries but also the expansion of Europe's own anti-ballistic missile production capacity.

"A NATO summit will take place in the coming days. Air defence must become one of its key outcomes," he said, adding that Europe should develop sufficient capabilities to defend itself against all threats, including Russian ballistic missiles.

The Ukrainian president also revealed that Kyiv has held long-running discussions with the United States on licensing the production of Patriot systems, while also seeking to expand European missile manufacturing.

Meanwhile, Russia's Defence Ministry said its latest large-scale strikes targeted military-industrial enterprises, fuel and energy infrastructure, radio-electronic and aviation manufacturing facilities, a missile assembly and testing plant, a transport and logistics hub, gas distribution stations in Kyiv and the surrounding region, as well as facilities in the Dnepropetrovsk, Poltava, Cherkasy and Chernigov regions.

Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko confirmed that Kiev will receive the first €3.2 billion from a new €90 billion EU support package.

“We have great news . The first disbursement of 3.2 billion euros will be announced today,” she said.

“This disbursement will help us to strengthen our defence, maintain macroeconomic stability within the country and build our energy system ahead of the new heating season,” she added.

Svyrydenko did not address Zelensky's absence during her remarks.

His no-show came after a diplomatic dispute between Ukraine and Poland over Kiev's decision to name a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, or UPA.

The UPA is accused of killing tens of thousands of Poles during World War II. In 2016, Poland's parliament passed a resolution condemning what it called 'genocide committed by Ukrainian nationalists'.

The row intensified last week after Polish President Karol Nawrocki said he would strip Zelensky of the Order of the White Eagle, Poland's highest civilian honour, awarded to him in 2023.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen used the conference to stress that Ukraine's reforms were moving the country closer to EU membership.

“Earlier this month, we opened the first cluster of negotiations with Ukraine. This was a historic moment,” von der Leyen said. “A strong signal that Ukraine’s future belongs in our European family.”

She also said Ukraine's defence industry had become an important part of the war effort with European support.

“Ukraine's defence industry, with Europe's support, is showing that it can out-innovate Russia's,” she said. “Ukraine now produces drones at a scale that matches and even exceeds Russian production capacity.”

Von der Leyen said Ukraine's accession process would remain based on merit.

“If Ukraine continues to reform with the determination it has shown in recent years, its place in the European family is becoming a reality,” she said.

The €90 billion loan is designed to support Ukraine through 2026 and 2027, with €30 billion allocated for macro-financial assistance and €60 billion for defence.

The first tranche comes after the EU reworked the package, replacing €5.9 billion originally planned for drone production and procurement with €3.2 billion in direct budget support.

The Ukraine Recovery Conference runs from June 25 to 26 in Gdansk, bringing together officials, international organisations and investors to discuss reconstruction, long-term economic development and Ukraine's path toward EU membership.

"Ukraine has repeatedly signalled that dragging Belarus into this war could lead to extremely dangerous consequences. In particular, we have recorded that special equipment has been installed along our border on the territory of Belarus, helping the Russians launch drone strikes against us, against our territory. Against our energy infrastructure , our railways, ordinary cities, and our villages. Belarus has time to dismantle this equipment," he said.

According to Zelensky, the equipment includes four repeaters located in Belarus's Gomel and Brest regions that allegedly assist in guiding drone attacks on Ukrainian targets.

The Ukrainian president also accused Belarusian industry of contributing to Russia's war effort through the supply of military-related components and fuel.

"We also know about every factory in Belarus that works for Russia and works for this war. Every single enterprise that supplies components for Russian weapons, armoured vehicles, missile systems, as well as the enterprises that supply Russia with fuel for the war. This is all dragging Belarus into the war. Ukraine does not want this, and we have actually warned the leadership of Belarus, which influences the relevant events," Zelensky said.

The warning follows a separate dispute earlier this week, when Russia and Belarus accused Ukraine of carrying out a drone strike on a bus transporting Belarusian schoolchildren in Russia's Bryansk region.

"The decision of the Ukrainian authorities to glorify the UPA is not only outrageous, it is also incomprehensible and deeply disappointing," Nawrocki said. "It strikes at the foundation of reconciliation. It strikes at the conviction that truth can be the common language of our nations."

The Polish president stressed that his decision was not directed against the Ukrainian people and did not alter Warsaw's strategic support for Kyiv.

"Poland remains ready to cooperate with Ukraine," he said. "But Poland will consistently guard the memory of its citizens and the dignity of its own state symbols...Poland will not agree to the glorification of those who murdered defenseless Polish civilians."

"Ukraine's path to European structures also requires a readiness to honestly face the difficult pages of its own history. For those who do not understand this, there can be no place in the European Union , and Poland will certainly not allow that," he added.

He warned that there were "limits that must not be crossed" in Polish-Ukrainian relations and urged Kyiv to return to what he called a path of truth and mutual respect.

Zelensky was awarded the Order of the White Eagle in 2023 by then-president Andrzej Duda. He had not commented on Nawrocki's decision at the time of publication.

The UPA was a nationalist armed group active during and after World War II. Poland holds UPA units responsible for massacres of Polish civilians in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia. In 2016, the Polish parliament recognised the killings as genocide and designated July 11 as a national day of remembrance for the victims.

He also claimed that some of these weapons had surfaced in conflict zones across Africa and the Middle East . The meeting focused on rising extremist threats and international co-operation, according to the CIS Anti-Terrorism Centre.

“Every day we woke up wanting to come back, and all the other guys there thought the same,” he said. “We prayed constantly. We all have crosses and icons. Without faith, we wouldn’t have returned or survived.”

Earlier, Russia’s Defence Ministry announced that Moscow and Kyiv had carried out a “185-for-185” prisoner exchange with mediation from the United Arab Emirates.

“On 5 June, 185 Russian servicemen were returned from territory controlled by the Kiev regime. In exchange, 185 prisoners of war from the Ukrainian Armed Forces were handed over,” the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry added that the released Russian servicemen were initially transferred to Belarus, where they received medical and psychological assistance before returning home.

According to Russian authorities, the soldiers will now undergo further treatment and rehabilitation at specialised medical facilities in Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also confirmed the exchange, saying 185 Ukrainian servicemen and one civilian had been returned from Russian captivity. He thanked those involved in facilitating the swap, including international mediators.

The United Arab Emirates has played a recurring role in brokering prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine,

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said 185 military personnel and one civilian had been returned in the exchange. “Another 185 Ukrainian defenders are returning home from Russian captivity today. One civilian is also returning alongside the defenders,” Zelensky said in a statement.

He noted that some of the released prisoners had been held by Russia since 2022. “I thank everyone who makes this possible: the team working on prisoner exchanges and our partners,” he added.

Russia’s Defence Ministry confirmed the swap, saying the returned Russian servicemen were in Belarus, where they were receiving medical and psychological support.

“After receiving the necessary psychological and medical assistance, the Russian servicemen will be transported to the Russian Federation for further treatment and rehabilitation,” the ministry said.

The United Arab Emirates helped facilitate the exchange through humanitarian mediation efforts, according to Russian authorities.

Prisoner swaps have remained one of the few areas of cooperation between Kyiv and Moscow since Russia launched its full-scale military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022.

Among the critics was Republican Representative Randy Fine, who said the measure appeared to have been "copied and pasted" from previous sanctions legislation targeting Iran and would do little to help Ukraine.

"This bill is not about helping Ukraine. This is not about standing up to Vladimir Putin. This is about engaging in Trump derangement syndrome," Fine said during debate on the House floor.

“There are some issues we have always taken a clear position on. Positions not all UN member states share. There’s our rock-solid support for Ukraine. It is no secret that Russia does not want such a voice at the table in the Security Council that campaigned against us,” he said.

Germany lost out to Austria and Portugal, which won the two available seats for the Western European and Others Group. Wadephul described the result as a setback and pointed to several factors behind the outcome.

“Obviously, the result is a real disappointment. It’s a bitter defeat... Germany entered late, meaning we were at a disadvantage from the start,” he said.

He also linked the result to Germany’s “historical responsibility” toward Israel amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East .

Germany received 104 votes, while Portugal secured 134 and Austria 131. Kyrgyzstan, Trinidad and Tobago, and Zimbabwe were also elected to the council.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz congratulated Portugal and Austria following the vote, saying Germany “remains a reliable pillar of multilateralism” despite the loss.

The UN Security Council consists of five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States — and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.

“There are still some technical and procedural steps to be completed on the Ukrainian side. And for us, what remains to be done is to verify if the conditions linked to the first disbursement under the macrofinancial assistance programme for Ukraine are met or not met,” Lammert admitted.

The loan agreement followed a diplomatic breakthrough in late April, when Slovakia and Hungary eased opposition to key EU measures supporting Ukraine. Hungary had previously blocked the package under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban amid disagreements linked to the Druzhba pipeline.

“Once again, I want to express the most sincere condolences to the families, who suffered such an unfulfillable loss. They lost the most precious thing that every family has, every person has. They lost their children and grandchildren,” Putin said.

“I repeat, we need to do everything to support people .”

Putin said he had requested updates from Russia’s top law enforcement officials regarding the investigation into the attack.

“I have invited both the Prosecutor General and the Chairman of the Investigation Committee. I would like to ask you to give your assessment of what has happened and report on how the investigation of these criminals is going. All of them must receive the deserved punishment, and it will be inevitable,” he added.

According to the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, a drone struck a student dormitory and educational buildings at Starobelsk College of Luhansk State Pedagogical University on May 22. Russian authorities reported that 21 people were killed and 42 others were injured. Most of those killed were reportedly minors aged between 14 and 18.

Starobelsk is located in the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine’s Luhansk region.

Following the incident, Russia launched retaliatory strikes on Kyiv. Ukrainian authorities reported that two people were killed and 56 others were injured in the attacks, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.

Ukraine’s Air Force said it intercepted 549 Russian drones and 55 missiles launched during the operation.

The incident has further escalated tensions, with Russia denouncing the strike as terrorism and launching retaliatory attacks on Ukrainian military infrastructure. Meanwhile, conflicting claims persist over the intended target of the original strike. Baqaei also addressed broader geopolitical tensions, criticising US actions and noting ongoing but inconclusive diplomatic exchanges between Tehran and Washington.

According to Moscow, units from the Northern Group of Forces are continuing offensive operations aimed at creating what it described as a “ security buffer zone” in the Sumy and Kharkov regions.

“The enemy attempted to redeploy reserves from elite assault units in order to hold their positions, but these efforts were unsuccessful,” the ministry said in a statement. “The militants suffered losses and were forced to withdraw.”

Ukraine had not commented on the Russian claims at the time of publication.

However, Ukraine’s General Staff reported that air strikes had been recorded in several areas of the Sumy region, including near Tolstodubovo, over the previous 24 hours.

Russia launched its full-scale military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022 following its recognition of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Lugansk People ’s Republics.

Kyiv condemned the move as an invasion, while Western countries imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow and increased military support for Ukraine.

“During the operational search, it was established that the individual proactively established and maintained contact with a representative of Ukrainian intelligence via Telegram,” the agency stated.

The FSB alleged that from 2025, the suspect collected and shared information about facilities linked to the Russian Ministry of Defence, transport infrastructure , military-industrial and fuel-energy sites in the region.

“From 2025 onwards, he collected and transmitted information to the enemy regarding facilities of the Russian Ministry of Defence, transport infrastructure, military -industrial and fuel-energy complexes in the region, as well as military personnel involved in a special military operation (Ukraine conflict),” the agency added.

Russian authorities said the suspect is expected to face charges of high treason.

"Today, everyone in the world who does not stay silent, who helps Ukraine, is a defender of life," Zelensky continued. “Decisions are needed from the United States of America, from Europe, and from others. So that this 'old oreshnik' in Moscow utters the word 'peace’."

Two people lost their lives, and 56 sustained wounds in Kyiv due to the strike, according to the mayor, Vitali Klitschko.

549 of the launched Russian drones and 55 missiles were reportedly intercepted by the Ukrainian air force.

The attack follows the Starobelsk tragedy in the Lugansk People's Republic (LPR), where 21 people were killed, and 42 others were injured in a Ukrainian drone attack on a college. Most of the killed were minors between 14 and 18 years old.

The Russian Investigative Committee opened a criminal case on 'terrorism' under Part 3, Article 205 of the Russian Criminal Code.

Ukraine's General Staff claimed that the strikes targeted several military facilities, including 'the headquarters of the 'Rubicon', the Centre for Advanced Unmanned Technologies in Starobelsk'.

At the UN Security Council emergency meeting on Friday, Russia's permanent representative Vassily Nebenzia expressed outrage at what he described as a 'blatant mockery of child victims'.

He also criticised Western responses, which denied the attack despite evidence from Moscow and confirmation from Kyiv. The Russian Foreign Ministry has invited foreign journalists to inspect the scene of the tragedy.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said more than 50 journalists from 19 countries joined the trip to inspect the site of the attack.  

According to Zakharova, the visiting media representatives came from Austria, Brazil, Britain, Hungary, Venezuela, Germany, Greece, Spain, Italy, Qatar, China, Cuba, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, the United States , Turkey, Finland and France.

She also claimed that the BBC declined the invitation, CNN cited staff holidays, and Japanese journalists were reportedly prevented from covering the incident.

Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry said at least 21 people were killed and 42 were injured in the strike, while rescue operations at the site have now concluded.  

Leonid Pasechnik, the Russian-installed head of the LPR, said Ukrainian forces targeted a college building and student dormitory in Starobelsk on Friday. Russian officials said dozens of students were inside the building when the attack occurred.

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the strike as a “terrorist act” and said the attack appeared deliberate. 

Russia’s Investigative Committee opened a criminal case under terrorism charges following the incident.

Ukraine’s General Staff said the strikes targeted military-related infrastructure , including what it described as the headquarters of the “Rubicon” Centre for Advanced Unmanned Technologies in Starobelsk.

The operation was overseen by Robert Brovdi, known by the call sign “Madyar,” commander of Ukraine’s drone forces.

“The priority remains the constant development of the use of long-range strike capabilities against a wide range of military targets dispersed over the vast territory of the aggressor country,” Brovdi told AFP.

According to Brovdi, fuel and energy facilities across southern Russia, the Urals and Siberia remain key targets, including oil terminals, refineries and gas processing complexes.

He said the facilities help finance Russia’s military operations in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the attacks as a “fully justified” response to ongoing Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure .

Ukraine has increasingly relied on long-range drone attacks to strike deep inside Russian territory, targeting sites Kyiv says are linked to Moscow’s military-industrial complex. Russia stated on Sunday that Kyiv bombed its territory with 600 drones, in attacks that caused four deaths.

Argentina’s outstanding IMF obligations are expected to reach $56.8 billion , representing roughly 38% of total IMF lending. The South American country remains heavily reliant on IMF support following years of economic turbulence marked by triple-digit inflation, weakening foreign reserves and repeated debt restructuring efforts.

Ukraine ranks as the IMF’s second-largest borrower, with projected debt exposure of $14.1 billion, or 9.5% of total lending, reflecting continued international financial support amid the ongoing economic fallout from Russia’s invasion.

Pakistan and Egypt follow closely behind, with IMF obligations projected at $9.9 billion and $9.4 billion, respectively. Both countries have faced mounting balance-of-payments pressures, rising import costs and persistent currency depreciation in recent years.

The IMF has repeatedly warned that higher global interest rates and slowing economic growth are intensifying debt vulnerabilities across low and middle-income economies. Countries already facing fiscal stress have been particularly exposed to rising borrowing costs and declining investor confidence.

Ecuador owes $7.2 billion to the IMF in 2026, while Côte d’Ivoire’s obligations stand at $4.9 billion, underscoring growing reliance on multilateral financing across parts of Africa and Latin America.

Kenya, Bangladesh and Ghana are each projected to account for approximately 2.6% of total IMF lending, with outstanding obligations of around $3.9 billion each. Angola rounds out the list at $3.4 billion.

Economists say the figures illustrate how the IMF has increasingly become a lender of last resort for countries struggling with external debt burdens, currency crises and fiscal imbalances.

Argentina’s position at the top of the list also reflects the scale of the IMF’s largest-ever country programme. In 2018, the Fund approved a record $57 billion financing package for the country, later restructured amid worsening economic conditions .

For Ukraine, IMF support has become closely tied to broader international recovery and reconstruction efforts, while countries such as Pakistan and Ghana have relied on IMF programmes to unlock additional financing from other multilateral lenders and private investors.

The footage also included scenes of officers searching flats and leading suspects away in handcuffs.

One detainee appeared in the video admitting to online activity linked to pro-Ukrainian groups.

“I used Telegram to post comments in pro-Ukrainian communities that justified terrorist organisations and their activities,” the suspect said.

“I just had a good conversation with the Prime Minister of Slovakia. Officially, we appreciate that Slovakia has taken steps to unblock the European support package for Ukraine and the sanctions package against Russia ,” Zelensky said.

The Ukrainian leader said both sides agreed on the need to maintain strong bilateral relations despite recent differences. According to Ukraine’s presidential office, Zelensky and Fico also discussed a possible in-person meeting, with their teams expected to work on scheduling details.

Zelensky said Slovakia had reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union. Ukraine’s presidential office said Fico told Zelensky that Slovakia supports Ukraine’s EU membership and is ready to share its own experience of accession.

The comments follow weeks of tensions over EU support for Ukraine, including a €90 billion package and additional sanctions against Moscow. The funding had been held up amid objections from Hungary and Slovakia linked to disputes over Russian oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline, Viory reports.

Ukraine said the pipeline had been damaged by a Russian strike and later repaired it after requests from the European Union. Zelensky said on April 21 that Kyiv had completed “all necessary steps” on its side and expected the EU to deliver on its commitments.

Hungary, under outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, had repeatedly blocked or delayed EU measures in support of Ukraine. Orbán’s Fidesz party lost Hungary’s April 12 election to Péter Magyar’s Tisza party, raising expectations in Kyiv and Brussels that Budapest’s stance on Ukraine could shift.

Orbán had accused Ukraine and the EU of interfering in Hungary’s election campaign, allegations that his opponents denied. The dispute over Ukraine aid, sanctions and energy transit had become a central issue in Hungary’s election campaign and in EU negotiations on support for Kyiv.

“The EU asked Ukraine to repair the Druzhba oil pipeline, which Russia had destroyed. We have repaired it. We hope the EU will also deliver on the agreed commitments,” he said.

Zelensky also expressed concern over what he described as a lack of progress on additional EU sanctions against Russia, warning that delays risk weakening international pressure on Moscow.

With 98.89% of the vote counted, TISZA won 138 seats, Fidesz-KDNP secured 55 seats, and Mi Hazánk obtained 6 seats.

The outcome marks a major political shift in Hungary, where Orbán had been one of Europe’s most controversial leaders. He was widely seen as the European Union’s most autocratic leader and maintained close ties with U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. His removal is expected to ease tensions within the EU, where officials have long accused him of undermining democratic systems and taking advantage of institutional weaknesses.

Orbán also faced criticism over his stance on Ukraine. He was accused of supporting actions that helped block €90 billion in European support to Ukraine, raising concerns among European leaders about Hungary’s role in the bloc.

Despite endorsements from Trump and campaign support that included visits from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, the vote appeared to be driven mainly by domestic issues.

Voters were reported to be concerned about Hungary’s economic challenges, as well as allegations of corruption and cronyism linked to Orbán’s administration. The scale of the defeat indicated widespread dissatisfaction, as TISZA was projected to dominate both the national party-list vote and many individual constituencies.

In his speech to supporters, Magyar promised to return Hungary to the main fold of European politics , pledging a pro-European Union and pro-NATO direction for the country.

“My fellow citizens, Hungary will once again be a strong ally in the European Union and NATO. Hungary will once again be a strong ally representing Hungarian interests, because our country's place for a thousand years in Europe was, is, and will be. We will rebuild and strengthen, we will place it on new foundations and expand the cooperation of the Visegrad Four wherever possible,” he said.

The result sparked celebrations in Budapest, where tens of thousands of people took to the streets.

With a projected majority above the threshold required to govern alone, Magyar is expected to form the next government , ending Orbán’s long hold on power and signalling a shift in Hungary’s position within Europe.

That challenger is Péter Magyar, a former Fidesz insider who now leads the Tisza (Respect and Freedom) Party. What looks like a domestic political contest is also being watched closely far beyond Hungary, with implications for the EU, the US, Russia, and Ukraine.

Orbán’s campaign has focused heavily on the idea of “war or peace.” He has positioned himself as Hungary’s protector, warning that “progressive forces” in the West and Ukraine are trying to pull the country into conflict.

Across Budapest, that message is hard to miss. Posters show Volodymyr Zelensky and Ursula von der Leyen as threatening figures, often described as part of a “pro-war lobby.” Orbán has also claimed—without evidence—that Ukraine could attack Hungary. His allies have gone further, branding Magyar as an “agent of Brussels.”

Magyar, 45, is not a typical opposition figure . He comes from Orbán’s inner circle and broke away after a corruption and pardon scandal. Since then, his Tisza Party has gained momentum.

His focus is different. He talks about the economy, corruption, and the rule of law, what he calls everyday issues. He has also promised to unlock between €18 billion and €22.5 billion in frozen EU funds by restoring Hungary’s alignment with European standards.

Unlike past challengers, Magyar connects with voters in rural areas through retail politics, and his right-leaning background makes him harder to dismiss.

The outcome matters on several levels. At home, Hungary is ranked as the most corrupt country in the EU, with most of its media and judiciary under state control. A Magyar win would aim to reverse that and dismantle what critics call a “soft autocracy.”

In Europe, Orbán has built a reputation as the EU’s “disruptor-in-chief,” often blocking aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Some EU leaders are now even considering suspending Hungary’s voting rights.

There are also wider geopolitical stakes. Hungary has been accused of acting as Moscow’s “mole” inside the EU, with leaked calls suggesting coordination with Russian diplomats. If Orbán loses, Russia could lose a key ally, and Ukraine could find stronger support.

In the US, Orbán has backing from Donald Trump and has hosted Vice President JD Vance, but some US Senators are pushing sanctions over Hungary’s ties to Russian energy.

Even with polls putting Tisza ahead by 10 to 12 points, victory is not certain. Orbán has reshaped the system, rewriting the constitution and gerrymandering districts to favour Fidesz.

Experts say Magyar may need at least a six-point lead just to win a majority. The campaign has also been hit by claims of Russian-backed disinformation, known as “Gamechanger,” aimed at damaging the opposition and even suggesting staged assassination plots.

“Ukrainians have clear objectives. The goal of the Ukrainians is to oust Russian gas from Europe and exclude Russian oil entirely. To this end, they have taken political steps, and even legal actions have been initiated, as we must not forget that the first such violent event related to energy supply was the explosion of the Nord Stream gas pipeline,” he said.

He further alleged a pattern of actions targeting energy infrastructure.

“Ukrainians blew up the Nord Stream pipeline, and then they closed the major natural gas pipeline through their territory,” Szijjarto continued. “In recent weeks, they attacked several times with dozens of drones the TurkStream pipeline on Russian territory. And now, it aligns with this that yesterday the Serbian authorities prevented a terrorist attack in which they intended to blow up the Serbian section of the TurkStream pipeline.”

The Nord Stream pipeline explosions in 2022 were blamed on Ukraine, with German investigators identifying Ukrainian divers involved. The United States was also implicated in some media reports, while both Washington and Kyiv denied involvement.

Szijjarto stated that TurkStream plays a key role in Hungary’s energy supply, accounting for about 56% of its daily gas needs. He announced plans to deploy military protection along the 250-kilometre pipeline.

He added that the Pope’s call for “the laying down of arms and the renunciation of violence” had “resonated profoundly,” describing it as consistent with the teachings of major world religions.

“Whether we look to Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism or any of the world's great spiritual traditions, the message is fundamentally the same: love, compassion, tolerance, and self-discipline,” the Dalai Lama said. “Violence finds no true home in any of these teachings.”

The statement comes as conflicts in the Middle East and between Russia and Ukraine continue, with limited signs of near-term diplomatic resolution.

“History has shown us time and again that violence only begets more violence and is never a lasting foundation for peace,” he said.

The Dalai Lama called for efforts to resolve conflicts through non-violent means, saying: “An enduring resolution to conflict, including the ones we see in the Middle East or between Russia and Ukraine, must be rooted in dialogue, diplomacy and mutual respect.”

He added that such efforts should be “approached with the understanding that, at the deepest level, we are all brothers and sisters.”

Pope Leo XIV — the first American pontiff — said in his Palm Sunday homily at St. Peter’s Square that “Jesus does not listen to prayers of those who wage war, adding that the Lord “always rejects violence.”

In his message, the Dalai Lama said a prayer for an end to ongoing conflicts : 

“I urge for and pray that the violence and conflicts may soon come to an end.”

Hungary has vetoed the package amid a dispute over the Druzhba pipeline, which carries Russian crude to parts of Central Europe. Budapest says Ukraine deliberately cut supplies, while Kyiv says oil flows stopped after a Russian attack damaged pipeline infrastructure in late January, and repairs are underway. Zelensky said the Soviet-era pipeline could be operational again “within a month and a half.”

Orban, who faces Hungary’s parliamentary election on April 12, has accused Ukraine of trying to influence the campaign and has urged the European Commission to pressure Kyiv to restart deliveries.

In a letter shared publicly this week, Orban claimed there was “no technical or operational reason” the pipeline could not return to normal immediately.

The standoff comes as Ukraine continues to fight Russia n assaults along the front line. An analysis by Finland-based open-source group Black Bird Group found Russia lost more territory than it gained in February for the first time since 2023.

Now recognised internationally as a symbol of Ukrainian resistance and solidarity, the slogan appears in many linguistic forms across the continent, including “Glory to Ukraine” in English, “Gloire à l’Ukraine” in French, “Gloria all’Ucraina” in Italian, and “Sláva Ukrajině” in Czech.

“Slava Ukraini” is a Ukrainian national salute meaning “Glory to Ukraine.” It is typically answered with the response “Heroyam Slava,” meaning “Glory to the heroes.”

According to the Britannica, the phrase has been used in Ukrainian nationalist movements since the early 20th century and gained wider popularity during Ukraine’s struggle for independence in the early 1900s.

In modern times, it became a widely recognised national slogan following Ukraine’s 2014 Revolution of Dignity, when protesters used it during demonstrations supporting democratic reforms and closer ties with Europe.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the phrase has spread globally as a symbol of solidarity with Ukrainians.

The above map illustrates how countries across Europe have adapted the phrase into their own languages.

Examples include:

In Nordic countries, the phrase appears as “Ære til Ukraina” in Norwegian and “Kunnia Ukrainalle” in Finnish.

The widespread translations reflect the strong political and cultural support many European countries have expressed for Ukraine since the war began.

The phrase has appeared at protests, political speeches, sporting events and social media campaigns across Europe.

Several international leaders have publicly used the slogan when expressing support for Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has ended speeches with “Slava Ukraini,” including remarks at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin in 2024 , where she concluded by saying: “Slava Ukraini. And long live Europe.”

Other political figures who have used the phrase include former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, and former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who have referenced the slogan in speeches or public statements supporting Ukraine during the war.

The phrase has also become widely used by public figures beyond politics. Ukrainian athletes such as Oleksandr Usyk, Andriy Shevchenko, and Elina Svitolina frequently repeat the slogan in interviews and public appearances, while demonstrations around the world have adopted it as a chant of solidarity with Ukraine.

The United States and the European Union have, however, provided billions of dollars in military and economic aid, including advanced air defence systems and artillery. Aid debates in Western capitals continue to shape Kyiv’s battlefield capacity.

Russia, meanwhile, faces sweeping economic sanctions targeting its banking, energy and defence sectors. While sanctions have strained parts of the economy, Moscow has redirected trade and increased domestic arms production.

Despite a call for a ceasefire, Ukraine insists on full territorial restoration and security guarantees, while Russia maintains claims over annexed regions. The United Nations continues to call for a negotiated settlement, but no ceasefire agreement has been reached.

In all of these, the humanitarian toll remains severe, with millions displaced and infrastructure heavily damaged. The conflict continues to affect global food and energy markets .

Watch the full video above as voices from the Global South dish out what's next for both parties to save themselves and avert the deadly cost.

In the United Kingdom, the regular army has fallen from 110,000 personnel in 2010 to 73,000 in 2024. British Defence Minister Al Khan has warned that the army, at its current size, could be depleted within six months to a year in a major conflict .

Russia, despite facing similar demographic pressures, has intensified overseas recruitment. 

According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, about 1,400 African nationals are fighting alongside Russian forces. While some joined for ideological reasons, many were reportedly drawn by higher pay amid limited job prospects at home.

Africa’s labor force is projected to expand by 541 million over the next 25 years, even as the European Union ’s workforce is expected to shrink by 24 million. 

The policy was introduced after private clinics began offering cryopreservation services to troops in 2022, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Lawmakers later stepped in to regulate the process and provide state funding.

At the state-run Centre for Reproductive Medicine in Kyiv, officials say a small number of troops have already enrolled, with more expected as awareness grows.

Maxim, a 35-year-old member of Ukraine’s National Guard stationed near the eastern frontline, recently froze a sperm sample during leave in Kyiv. He said he wants more servicemen to consider fertility preservation.

“Our men are dying. The Ukrainian gene pool is dying. This is about the survival of our nation,” he said in a phone interview .

Doctors say the programme also responds to broader demographic concerns. Ukraine faced falling birth rates even before the war, and losses among young men in combat, along with millions of refugees leaving the country, have deepened worries about population decline.

The policy initially drew criticism after early rules required samples to be destroyed if a donor died. The law has since been amended to allow partners to use preserved material for up to three years after death, provided consent was given.

For many soldiers, the option offers reassurance amid constant danger on the frontline. Officials say the programme is meant to support military families while addressing the long-term human cost of a war that has reshaped Ukrainian society .

The initiative, first linked to post-ceasefire governance discussions around Gaza, has expanded into a broader proposal for a new international body aimed at conflict resolution and reconstruction.

Trump’s team describes it as a platform to promote stability and long-term peace. Critics argue it risks bypassing existing multilateral institutions, particularly the United Nations .

Countries invited and early acceptances

According to officials familiar with the process, invitations have been sent to dozens of governments across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.

A limited number of countries have confirmed acceptance. Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, publicly welcomed the invitation, describing it as an opportunity for closer diplomatic cooperation. Hungary has also confirmed participation , with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán signalling support for Trump’s approach to peace negotiations. Vietnam has likewise accepted, with its leadership confirming involvement through diplomatic channels.

Several other countries, including India, Australia, Pakistan, Egypt , Turkey, Jordan, Greece, Cyprus, Canada, and Albania, have acknowledged receiving invitations but have not formally committed.

Rejections and reluctance from major powers

Some governments have already drawn clear lines. France has indicated it does not intend to join at this stage, citing concerns about the board’s purpose and structure. Brazil has also taken a cautious stance, with officials questioning whether the initiative complements or competes with existing international frameworks.

Canada’s position has been more nuanced. While Ottawa has not ruled out participation, officials have pushed back on reports that membership could involve large financial contributions, stressing that any involvement would need to align with Canada’s diplomatic priorities.

Other major powers, including the United Kingdom and Germany, are reported to be in internal discussions but have yet to make public commitments.

The proposal has generated additional controversy following reports that Russia’s President Vladimir Putin received an invitation . The Kremlin confirmed it was reviewing the offer, a move that has unsettled European diplomats, given Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

According to briefings from U.S. officials and reporting by international media, the Board of Peace is intended to:

Some reports suggest membership could involve fixed-term participation or long-term seats tied to significant financial contributions, a feature that has drawn criticism from several governments.

“I’m here today to tell you where NATO stands, and what we must do to stop a war before it starts,” he said. “And to do that, we need to be crystal clear about the threat. We are Russia’s next target, and we are already in harm’s way.”

Rutte said he has repeatedly warned since taking office last year that the conflict in Ukraine could extend to NATO territory if member states fail to act decisively. “I fear that too many are quietly complacent, too many don’t feel the urgency, and too many believe that time is on our side. It is not. The time for action is now,” he added.

Moscow has consistently rejected accusations that it intends to attack NATO members, insisting the conflict remains limited to Ukraine. Russian officials have instead accused the alliance of escalating hostilities by supplying weapons to Kyiv and entertaining discussions about deploying troops.

Russian intelligence recently claimed that France was preparing to send up to 2,000 soldiers to Ukraine, a claim Paris denies. Meanwhile, the UK confirmed earlier this week that a British soldier had been killed while observing a weapons test in Ukraine. However, officials stressed the incident occurred far from active fighting.

Rutte’s remarks come amid rising tension between Russia and Western governments, as NATO reassesses its defence posture ahead of next year’s key strategic planning meetings.

New data from World’s Top Exports shows that Spain and Mexico dominate the global pumpkin market in 2024, together accounting for more than 64% of worldwide pumpkin exports.

With international demand rising for year-round cooking, health foods, and processed pumpkin products, the industry has become more important to farmers and exporters across Europe, North America, Africa, and Oceania.

According to the 2024 export rankings, Spain leads the world with 32.8% of global pumpkin exports, valued at about $574 million. Mexico follows closely with 32%, earning $559 million.

The large market share held by both countries reflects their strong agricultural infrastructure, export-oriented farming, and access to major global markets.

The rest of the top exporters include:

How global events are shaping the pumpkin market

Climate change is shifting growing seasons

Farmers across Europe and North America are adjusting planting cycles due to unpredictable rainfall, heat waves, and changing soil conditions. Some regions in Spain and Mexico have benefited from longer warm seasons, allowing for stronger yields.

Food security continues to be a global priority

With conflicts disrupting trade routes , such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, countries are looking toward more stable and diverse agricultural suppliers. Pumpkins, being versatile and widely cultivated, fit into this wider push to secure reliable food imports.

Rising global celebrations and food trends

Pumpkin has become more than a seasonal item . From soups and baked goods to the globally popular “pumpkin spice” trend, food producers are buying more pumpkin for processing and export. This helps keep demand strong throughout the year.

The latest data from World’s Top Exports shows a clear picture of which nations dominate this highly specialised industry, and why demand continues to grow.

According to the 2024 rankings, Germany, France, and the United States remain the world’s top helicopter exporters, together controlling nearly 49% of global export value. The data includes both large military helicopters and smaller civilian models.

Top 10 helicopter exporting countries in 2024

These figures highlight how concentrated the global helicopter market is, with European and North American manufacturers leading in engineering, technology, and international partnerships.

According to data from World ’s Top Exports, demand for both military and civilian helicopters has been steadily increasing as countries rethink how they respond to conflict, disasters, and modernisation needs.

One major driver is the surge in defence spending across Europe, Asia, and Africa. With geopolitical tensions, from the Russia–Ukraine war to instability in the Sahel, many nations are strengthening their aviation capabilities as helicopters remain essential assets for transport, surveillance, emergency missions, and rapid deployment.

At the same time, climate-related disasters are pushing governments to invest in more versatile aircraft. Helicopters play critical roles in wildfire response, flood rescues, medical evacuations, and humanitarian operations. As extreme weather events become more frequent, countries are building air-response fleets that can react quickly and reach areas inaccessible by road.

Modernisation is another key factor. Many nations are replacing ageing, Cold-War-era aircraft with newer models that offer better safety, efficiency, and lower maintenance costs. This shift has strongly benefited leading exporters such as Germany, France, and Canada, whose aviation industries are known for reliability and long-term value.

Among the 17 men reportedly recruited, eight were family members. Authorities say the men, aged between 20 and 39, left South Africa under false pretences, believing they would get “bodyguard training” or other employment . In reality, distress calls received by South African authorities indicate they found themselves on the frontlines.

South Africa’s elite crime-fighting unit, The Hawks, has opened a criminal investigation into the allegations. The charges under consideration include human trafficking, fraud, and violations of the foreign-military-assistance law.

Her half-sister formally filed the complaint, saying she felt a “moral obligation” to act, especially after learning some of the men were close relatives.

On November 28, 2025, MK Party, led by Jacob Zuma, announced that Zuma-Sambudla had stepped down from her parliamentary seat, effective immediately. Party officials described the resignation as voluntary and not an admission of guilt. The party also pledged to support the families of the affected men and assist in efforts to repatriate them safely.

If proven, the case marks one of the most serious mercenary-recruitment scandals involving foreign nationals and raises new concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

According to the graphic, Russia reportedly fields around 1.32 million active‐service soldiers compared to Ukraine’s approximately 900,000.

Russia also claims roughly 8,163 aircraft and helicopters versus Ukraine’s 608; around 137,277 tanks and combat vehicles against Ukraine’s 20,034; some 16,678 artillery systems compared to Ukraine’s 1,552; and approximately 758 naval vessels and submarines versus 125 for Ukraine.

These numbers align broadly with independent assessments. For example, the Council on Foreign Relations notes that Russia retains a “sizable advantage” in both personnel and equipment, even though the war has reached a protracted stalemate.

Meanwhile, comparative data tables highlight the larger scale of Russia’s arsenal and reserve forces in a conventional fight.

Yet the war is proving that raw numbers alone don’t guarantee success. Ukrainian forces have shown resilience through strategic use of Western‐supplied systems, terrain advantages and asymmetric tactics.

A recent study by the Dupuy Institute indicates that although Russia may have brought approximately 450,000 troops into Ukraine, Ukraine has kept up with a ground strength of nearly 575,000 when factoring in its reserves.

On the global front, this imbalance and war of attrition carry significant implications: Europe is increasingly urged to step up its defence commitments as the U.S. gradually reassesses its role in Ukraine’s support.

The summit marked the continuation of a complicated diplomatic relationship that has spanned years and several countries.

The map of their meetings tells a story of evolving political theatre. Their first face-to-face encounter took place at the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, in July 2017, followed by the APEC Summit in Da Nang, Vietnam, later that year.

They met again during the Helsinki Summit in Finland in June 2018 and at the WWI Armistice centenary in Paris that November. The G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, in June 2019 rounded out the early chapter of their encounters, before geopolitical realities and Trump’s departure from office paused direct talks.

The Anchorage Summit reignited global attention. According to CBS News , discussions focused heavily on the ongoing war in Ukraine, sanctions, and global energy prices.

However, much like their previous meetings, the summit produced more symbolism than substance, with no significant breakthroughs on ceasefire agreements or troop withdrawals. Reuters described the talks as “cordial but inconclusive.”

Now, attention is turning toward Budapest, Hungary, as the potential venue for their next meeting. Following a phone call between Trump and Putin on October 16, both sides signalled openness to further negotiations in the Hungarian capital, a move widely supported by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

In remarks quoted by AP News , Orbán said Hungary was proud to serve as neutral ground, calling his country “the only place in Europe” capable of hosting such high-stakes diplomacy.

For Ukraine, the timing couldn’t be more sensitive. Just days after Trump and Putin’s call, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Washington to push for advanced U.S. weapons and reaffirm support for Kyiv.

Still, expectations remain cautious. Analysts cited by AP News and The Kyiv Independent note that previous summits between the two leaders, often long on photo ops and short on policy outcomes, suggest the upcoming Budapest meeting may not deliver sweeping results either.

“Today, no one but ourselves can guarantee security. Only strong alliances, only strong partners, and only our own weapons,” Zelensky said. He called the reality “sick,” but insisted it was unavoidable.

The Ukrainian leader argued that international law was powerless without enforcement by states willing to act. He added that even those willing partners could not offer guarantees without military strength of their own. “There are no security guarantees except friends and weapons,” he said.

Zelensky acknowledged the contradiction between Ukraine’s traditionally peaceful outlook and its present need to invest heavily in defence. Ukrainians, he said, would have chosen another path if possible, but were left with no alternative in the face of Russian aggression.

The president also cast doubt on the ability of global institutions to address conflicts elsewhere. He pointed to Sudan, Somalia, Palestine and Syria as examples of peoples left waiting for international support while wars and sanctions continued to devastate them.

“For decades, just statements and statements,” Zelensky said, adding that Syria, despite years of upheaval, still had to appeal to the world for relief from sanctions.

Turning back to the Middle East , Zelensky cited the ongoing violence in Gaza as another example of the UN’s weakness. He said the conflict remained unresolved, with “no way out” offered by international mechanisms.

Zelensky stressed that Ukraine’s war showed the costs of those failings. He said people were still dying every week because Moscow refused a ceasefire and the international community lacked the means to compel one.

“Ukrainians are peaceful people, but they are people who want to live freely in their own independent country,” he said. “That’s why we invest in defence. For many nations, there is simply no other way left.”

The message was delivered on one of the world’s biggest diplomatic stages, where many world leaders expressed support for Ukraine and other territories facing unrest, such as Palestine and Syria.