Russia claims control of Pokrovsk

Ukrainian philosopher Volodymyr Yermolenko discussed the impact of international support on the morale of Ukrainians living under constant threat from Russian attacks during an interview with FRANCE 24. His comments coincided with the launch of 'Le voyage en Ukraine,' a cultural initiative in France aimed at supporting Ukraine's artistic community through a series of events featuring French artists.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has engaged in peace talks with Ukrainian negotiators, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, in Florida, aiming to establish a framework to end the ongoing conflict with Russia. This initiative follows Rubio's discussions with the Ukrainian delegation and is part of broader diplomatic efforts to resolve the nearly four-year war in Ukraine.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the necessity for increased support from the United States and Europe in facilitating negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, although he did not disclose specific details regarding the peace plan. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about the conflict and potential resolutions.

The city of Pokrovsk, once a strategic stronghold in eastern Ukraine, has been devastated after an 18-month battle, with Russian forces claiming full control while Ukrainian officials assert they still hold parts of the city. This conflict has escalated significantly since the summer of 2024, marking a critical phase in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.

The Guardian's picture editors have curated a selection of photographs capturing significant moments, including a fallen sculpture at Lychakiv Cemetery in Ukraine and a desert storm in the Tanami Desert, Australia. These images reflect the diverse and often contrasting elements of human experience and nature.

A U.S. delegation, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, is meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss potential peace talks aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Kremlin has expressed openness to negotiations but insists that its war objectives must be met, raising concerns about the sincerity of its commitment to peace. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is engaged in discussions with leaders from the UK and France, emphasizing the international dimension of the conflict.

U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are set to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss a revised peace plan for Ukraine, following prior negotiations with Ukrainian officials that were deemed productive. This visit marks a significant step in ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, is under investigation for allegedly recruiting men to fight for Russian forces in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Reports indicate that she may have lured these individuals with promises of paramilitary training in Russia, raising serious concerns about her involvement in international mercenary activities.