Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed recent calls from Moscow for peace negotiations, branding them as a 'fake' propaganda effort by the Kremlin to buy time for further military escalation. The remarks came as Russian forces intensified attacks across eastern Ukraine, including drone strikes on Kyiv.
Zelensky's Defiant Stance
In his nightly address, Zelensky accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of using 'deceptive diplomacy' to undermine Western support for Ukraine. 'They want to show the world a false desire for peace while continuing to kill our people,' he stated.
POW Exchange and Protests
Meanwhile, a rare prisoner swap saw 100 Ukrainian soldiers return home, though Kyiv alleges Moscow is still withholding key personnel. In Russia, protests erupted in Dagestan after authorities announced a new military conscription drive.
Western Response
- The UK pledged an additional £50m in air defence systems
- NATO announced accelerated training for Ukrainian F-16 pilots
- EU foreign ministers debated new sanctions targeting Russian LNG exports
Military analysts warn that winter fighting conditions could favour Russian forces, making Western arms deliveries more urgent than ever.
