EU leaders welcome ‘new momentum’ in Ukraine peace talks but stress red lines on territory – Europe live

The U.S. has proposed a contentious peace plan for Ukraine that requires Kyiv to surrender territory it currently controls, raising significant concerns among Ukrainian officials regarding national sovereignty and security guarantees. The plan lacks clarity on the specifics of these guarantees, which has led to skepticism about its viability.

Recent discussions in Geneva have concluded, with FRANCE 24's correspondent Gulliver Cragg reporting that Ukrainians are determined not to accept an unjust peace. The U.S. has shown willingness to negotiate a contentious peace plan that many view as favoring Russia, raising tensions with Ukraine.

Duduzile Zuma, daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, is under investigation by police for allegedly recruiting men to fight in Ukraine. The accusations suggest a serious involvement in a conflict that has drawn international attention and concern.

European officials expressed relief following discussions in Geneva regarding a new peace plan for Ukraine, which they believe is more balanced than previous US proposals perceived as favoring Russia. The talks involved key stakeholders, including Ukrainian representatives and European negotiators, aiming to address the ongoing conflict and establish a more equitable framework for peace.

The United States has intensified its military presence in the Caribbean, marking the largest buildup since the 1989 invasion of Panama, amid accusations against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of drug trafficking. This escalation has resulted in 83 deaths, which the UN has classified as extrajudicial executions, as the U.S. employs a 'war on drugs' narrative to justify its actions.

US and Ukrainian officials have reported significant progress in peace talks held in Geneva, focusing on a US-backed peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Both sides have committed to intensive work on outstanding issues following these discussions.

Russian drone strikes targeted Kharkiv, resulting in at least four fatalities and 17 injuries, alongside significant destruction of residential areas. The attacks have incited panic among the local population, prompting authorities to prioritize civilian rescue efforts. This escalation in violence coincides with ongoing diplomatic discussions in Geneva involving US, Ukrainian, and European officials regarding a potential peace deal.

The G20 summit in South Africa marked a significant moment as it issued a joint declaration on its opening day, defying opposition from the United States, which had criticized the summit's focus on climate change and global wealth inequality. This summit was notable as the first G20 meeting held on African soil, emphasizing the leadership role of Global South countries.