Putin declares Ukraine security zone non-negotiable

Photo — Mathias Reding / Pexels

The declaration signals a hardening of Moscow’s position and could further complicate efforts to reach a Ukraine peace settlement. Russia claims control of most of the proposed zone, while Ukraine disputes the battlefield picture and reports territorial gains. The announcement comes amid continuing strikes on Ukrainian cities and wider tensions over Russia-related sanctions and security arrangements.

Sources: SBS News, The Straits Times, Anadolu Agency