In a recent address, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that nearly 700,000 Russian soldiers are currently engaged in Ukraine. He emphasized the necessity of advancing the frontline in the Kharkiv region to safeguard Russian border cities. Speaking to Russian soldiers, Putin justified the offensive and underscored the importance of protecting Belgorod and other cities from Ukrainian shelling.
Putin also issued a stern warning about countermeasures if Ukrainian strikes on Russian cities continue. The Russian Defense Ministry reported the interception of 87 Ukrainian drones in a significant barrage against the Rostov region. In Belgorod, shelling caused part of a residential building to collapse, injuring three people.
During these developments, Putin reiterated that Russian forces never intended to storm Kyiv. His remarks coincided with the G7 summit in Italy and a separate summit in Switzerland, from which Russia was excluded. Putin criticized the Swiss summit's proposals as distractions from the real issues.
Additionally, the U.S. and Ukraine signed a 10-year security agreement, which Putin and Russian officials denounced. The conflict's focus remains in southern and eastern Ukraine, with Russia having annexed regions it does not fully control.
Putin proposed a ceasefire aimed at a "final resolution" of the conflict, not a temporary truce. His conditions include Ukraine recognizing Crimea as part of Russia, maintaining a non-nuclear status, and protecting Russian-speaking citizens' interests. He also called for lifting Western sanctions against Russia.
Despite repeated Kremlin offers for peace talks, the West has been blamed for obstructing efforts to end the war. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni dismissed Putin's ceasefire offer as propaganda during the G7 summit, where a $50 billion loan deal for Ukraine was reached.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story.
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