US deal must punish Russia war crimes, says Ukraine’s Nobel peace prize winner

Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated that a U.S.-proposed peace plan could serve as a foundation for ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while reiterating demands for international recognition of Russian territorial gains. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that Ukraine's NATO membership is unacceptable to Moscow, framing it as a threat to Russian security.

Two members of the National Guard were critically injured in a targeted shooting incident near the White House in Washington, DC. The suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who entered the U.S. in September 2021, has been taken into custody following the attack.

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a new voluntary military service program targeting young people aged 18 to 19, aiming to recruit 10,000 individuals by 2030. This initiative comes in response to heightened security concerns following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the potential for further conflict in Europe.

President Trump announced that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will return to Moscow to engage in new peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This development comes amid leaked transcripts that raise questions about Witkoff's impartiality as a mediator, as he reportedly coached a Russian aide on how to present a peace plan to Trump.

Olga Stefanishyna, Ukraine's ambassador to the U.S., is actively involved in negotiating a peace plan aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Russia, emphasizing the need for assurances against future aggression from Moscow. This initiative comes amid heightened tensions and critical discussions surrounding the terms of peace.

Finland's Foreign Minister discussed the potential for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting the influence of former U.S. President Donald Trump in these negotiations. The conversation comes amid ongoing tensions and the need for a resolution to the conflict that has persisted since 2014.

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced the introduction of a voluntary military service aimed at strengthening national defense in response to rising security concerns, particularly regarding threats from Russia. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance military capabilities and attract young volunteers for service.

Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, leading to a 50% reduction in electricity production and forcing residents to endure rolling blackouts. Recent drone strikes, particularly in Zaporizhzhia, have underscored the ongoing military threat despite ongoing peace talks. Pregnant residents and vulnerable populations are facing significant hardships as a result of these assaults.