Putin ready to meet Zelenskyy under conditions, Ukraine seeks ceasefire at NATO summit

Amidst ongoing conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed a willingness to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but only during the "final phase" of negotiations. Putin continues to delegitimize Zelenskyy's presidency.

Despite extensive military support from North Korea and Iran, Putin claims that NATO's rearmament poses no threat to Russia. This statement contradicts reports of Russia relying heavily on foreign arms to sustain its military operations in Ukraine. Meanwhile, a potential change in leadership in Iran could significantly impact Russia's war efforts.

President Zelenskyy is tentatively scheduled to attend the NATO summit in The Hague later this month. The summit aims to maintain support for Ukraine and promote a ceasefire. NATO leaders are mindful of keeping the summit concise, considering potential sensitivities.

Ukrainian officials engaged in discussions with their US counterparts at the G7 summit regarding potential investments in Ukrainian defense projects through a joint fund established earlier this year.

The aftermath of a recent Russian attack on Kyiv has left 28 dead and over 130 injured, as recovery efforts persist at devastated residential buildings.

Russia's defense ministry asserts it struck a Ukrainian troop position in the Sumy region using an Iskander missile. Ukrainian authorities previously reported a similar strike that damaged buildings in Konotop. Heavy fighting continues in the Sumy region as Ukrainian forces attempt to push back Russian troops from border areas.

In Slovakia, an investigation is underway concerning the possible misuse of funds allocated for military aid to Ukraine in 2022. Several individuals, including defense ministry officials, have been detained. This investigation comes amid a shift in Slovakian policy under its current Prime Minister, who has ceased military aid to Ukraine and fostered closer ties with Russia.