Von der Leyen warns against ‘carving up’ of Ukraine amid crunch US-led talks

Russia's Kremlin spokesman stated that discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine are serious, but emphasized that no concessions will be made. This statement comes as U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for an end to the war, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts.

U.S. diplomatic efforts are intensifying to negotiate an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with discussions involving a revised peace plan initially drafted during the Trump administration. Recent meetings have included U.S. officials and a Russian delegation in Abu Dhabi, following significant amendments made by Ukrainian representatives to the proposed deal.

A leaked recording has revealed that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff advised a senior aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin on how to present a peace plan regarding Ukraine to President Trump. This has reignited long-held suspicions among Ukrainians about Witkoff's loyalties and intentions.

A leaked phone call between U.S. and Russian officials has sparked widespread speculation regarding the identity of the leaker and their motives, with diplomats and analysts investigating who had the capability to intercept the conversation and who stands to gain from its disclosure.

Negotiations for a revised peace plan between Russia and Ukraine are advancing, with a new proposal drafted by officials from Ukraine, Europe, and the US. This updated plan reportedly drops some of the Kremlin's more extreme demands, although Moscow has not yet responded officially.

France is set to announce the revival of military service, now on a voluntary basis, as part of a broader effort to enhance its military capabilities amid rising security concerns, particularly regarding Russia. President Emmanuel Macron is expected to detail this initiative, which marks a significant shift nearly 30 years after the end of conscription.

South African police are investigating allegations against Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, for purportedly recruiting men to fight for Russian mercenaries in Ukraine. The claims, made by her sister, assert that she lured 17 South Africans under false pretenses and sent them to the Donbas war zone without their consent. The case has been referred to a special police unit, and the presidency is involved in efforts to rescue the men allegedly trapped in the region.

South African police are investigating allegations that Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, has been involved in recruiting men to fight alongside Russian mercenaries in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The investigation follows claims that she promised paramilitary training to potential recruits.