Ukraine: Brussels alarmed by alleged US-Russia peace talks excluding Europe

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed discussions regarding a US-backed plan to end the ongoing war with Russia. The talks took place in Kyiv with US Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, highlighting Ukraine's willingness to engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to negotiate with former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a U.S.-backed peace proposal that requires Ukraine to make significant concessions to end the ongoing conflict with Russia. The president's office confirmed receipt of the draft plan, which was developed by U.S. and Russian officials, and indicated that discussions with Trump would occur in the coming days.

Bookstores and online marketplaces in Russia have ceased sales of Stephen King's novel 'It' due to concerns over underage sexual content. This decision reflects ongoing scrutiny of literature and media in the country, particularly regarding content deemed inappropriate for minors.

The U.S. has proposed a peace plan for Russia and Ukraine, but the EU has indicated it will not accept the deal. The proposal has raised concerns regarding its implications for Ukraine's territorial integrity and military capabilities.

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Biafran separatist movement, has been convicted of terrorism charges by a Nigerian court. The court found him guilty of inciting violence in his campaign for a separate state in southeastern Nigeria. This conviction follows a series of violent incidents linked to his leadership, raising concerns about ongoing tensions in the region.

Leading US stock markets experienced a decline shortly after a brief rally sparked by Nvidia's strong earnings report. The initial optimism faded as concerns about a potential bubble in the artificial intelligence sector resurfaced, putting pressure on technology stocks central to the AI boom.

Jessie Diggins, the most decorated American cross-country skier, has announced her retirement at the end of the season. As the world’s No. 1 ranked skier, she will compete in her fourth Olympics at Milano-Cortina and finish her career at the World Cup finals in Lake Placid. Diggins has achieved three overall World Cup titles, three distance globes, and four Olympic medals, significantly impacting the sport in the US.

Observers have described Donald Trump's proposed peace plan for Ukraine using terms such as 'terrible' and 'baffling.' The plan is seen as an attempt to pressure Ukraine into accepting terms that favor Russia, raising concerns about its implications for Ukraine's sovereignty and military capabilities.