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Edition 2026-10-19

WORLD

Zelensky Engages US Envoys Amid Trump's Peace Claims and Energy Strikes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S.

By france24 · 4d ago · Source: france24

Full article

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on Sunday, as former President Donald Trump accused him of lacking interest in ending the war with Russia. The talks occurred against a backdrop of intensified attacks on energy infrastructure: Russia targeted Ukrainian power sites, leaving tens of thousands without electricity, while Ukraine launched its largest drone strike on Saint Petersburg since 2022, hitting an oil refinery and logistics facilities. Trump, on his Truth Social platform, asserted he was making "great progress" toward peace but claimed Zelensky was indifferent to ending the conflict and suggested European support enabled continued resistance. He also alleged Ukraine was striking Russian diesel refineries to disrupt global markets. Zelensky, following the meeting, emphasized the importance of U.S. support, stating Ukraine was prepared to work "constructively and honestly" with partners, including on the delivery of Patriot air defense systems. He expressed gratitude for the resumption of intelligence sharing with the United States, which had been paused earlier, leaving Ukraine vulnerable to Russian missile attacks. Earlier, Zelensky had told NBC that formal U.S. support for Russia would be a "historic mistake," though he hoped Trump might shift his position. The Kremlin maintained that Ukrainian attacks would not alter Russia’s war objectives, with President Vladimir Putin having previously indicated intentions to seize additional territory in eastern Ukraine. Russian officials reported that air defenses intercepted 144 drones during the Saint Petersburg attack, the largest such assault on the city since the war began. Local residents described a pattern of escalating strikes and retaliatory actions, reflecting what one described as the "dreadful routine of war." No ceasefire agreement or diplomatic breakthrough has emerged, and the conflict continues to involve widespread targeting of energy infrastructure on both sides.

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10/19/2026, 10:00:38 AM
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10/19/2026, 10:00:38 AM
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