Zelensky Accuses Russia of Delaying Ceasefire Talks Amid Ongoing Fighting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of deliberately prolonging the war and stalling ceasefire negotiations, which he claims is part of a strategy to undermine diplomacy. This follows former US President Donald Trump's comments about the precarious situation of Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region, which Zelensky denied, stating that Ukrainian forces are not surrounded and are continuing their operations. Trump had urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to show mercy towards the Ukrainian soldiers, a proposal Putin responded to by suggesting that Ukrainian forces must surrender to ensure their safety. Zelensky expressed skepticism about Putin's intentions, asserting that the Russian leader needs the war to continue and is setting unacceptable conditions for negotiations. Amid these tensions, discussions about a potential 30-day ceasefire are underway, with Zelensky indicating Ukraine's readiness to engage if genuine peace conditions are proposed. The ongoing conflict has drawn international attention, with the US expressing cautious optimism regarding the peace talks.