President Volodymyr Zelensky is calling for more sanctions against Russia after massive air strikes pounded Ukraine for a second straight night, killing at least 20 people, even amid reports his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is ready to make a deal.
“Everything that helps Putin finance the war must collapse,” the Ukrainian leader posted on X Saturday, calling the Russian tactics “vile and inhumane”.
Dozens more were injured, including civilians and children.
The attacks followed a U.S. decision Friday to stop sharing satellite images with Ukraine, significantly diminishing the country’s ability to defend itself.
Moscow, meanwhile, claimed it’s retaken three towns in Kursk, Russia, with some reports saying Ukrainian troops in the region are surrounded.
Ukraine has occupied the border territory since August, but its positions there have deteriorated in recent months as Russia brought in North Korean troops to help fight back. The situation is “very bad” and Ukraine is considering pulling out, according to reports.
A withdrawal ahead of peace talks would deal a serious blow to Ukraine’s bargaining power.
Zelensky said he will not attend truce talks planned Tuesday in Saudi Arabia with the US. His decision comes a week after a disastrous shouting match at the White House.
The Ukranian leader said he will travel to Saudi Arabia to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, but that Ukrainian diplomatic and military representatives will stay for the meeting with the US.
“Ukraine has been seeking peace from the very first second of this war. Realistic proposals are on the table. The key is to move quickly and effectively,” Zelensky posted on X Saturday.
Putin is reportedly willing to discuss a temporary truce in Ukraine, if the parameters of a final peace settlement are established, sources familiar with the the leader’s thinking told Bloomberg.
Russia wants to iron out details of an eventual peacekeeping mission that would come after a ceasefire, including which countries would be involved.