Russian tanker struck off Turkiye as Ukraine targets ‘shadow fleet’

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.

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.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to bolster European support amid ongoing discussions for a peace plan to end the conflict with Russia. Macron emphasized that any resolution must involve Kyiv and European powers, highlighting the critical nature of this diplomatic engagement at a pivotal moment in the war.

Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has resigned amid a significant corruption investigation involving a $100-million kickback scheme in the energy sector. His departure follows anti-corruption raids at his home and offices, marking a critical juncture in Ukraine's political landscape.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that Russian forces have captured the strategic city of Pokrovsk in Ukraine, a statement disputed by Ukrainian officials who assert they still control parts of the city. This announcement coincides with the arrival of U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow for talks aimed at negotiating a peace deal to end the ongoing conflict.