**London**: Following a contentious meeting between Ukrainian President Zelensky and former President Trump, the situation in Ukraine intensifies with potential U.S. aid cuts. A ceasefire proposal involving Ukraine, Britain, and France emerges, while Lithuania boosts military support amidst regional pressures and IAEA monitoring efforts.
Two days following a high-profile confrontation in the Oval Office involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former President Donald Trump, the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russian forces continues to evolve amid increasing scepticism surrounding international support for Ukraine. Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) have signalled that a halt in assistance from the United States could dramatically heighten the risk of a Russian victory, potentially leading to escalated aggression from Russia, territorial gains, and a deterioration of regional stability.
Reports indicate that Ukrainian troops are facing intensified pressure in the Kursk region of western Russia. Ukrainian military bloggers, cited by dpa, reported that Russian forces are tightening their grip on critical supply routes essential for Kyiv’s military operations in the area. A blog linked to the Ukrainian army, Deep State, conveyed a sense of urgency, stating, “For reasons known only to who knows what, appropriate decisions have not been made on our side to address this issue,” and emphasised the necessity for immediate measures. Ukraine had initiated a counter-offensive in this region in August, aimed at relieving its eastern front and securing a strategic foothold in anticipation of possible peace negotiations. Additionally, Moscow has expressed intentions to reassert control over the region, deploying North Korean troops to bolster its efforts against Ukrainian forces.
Amidst these developments, discussions have emerged regarding a potential “ceasefire plan” that would involve Ukraine, Britain, and France, with plans to present the initiative to the United States. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addressed the recent Oval Office episode between Zelensky and Trump, expressing that “no one wants to see anything like that.” Following discussions with both leaders and French President Emmanuel Macron, Sunak noted the importance of “building bridges between countries.” He confirmed the collaborative approach among Britain, France, and Ukraine to formulate the ceasefire proposal before engaging with the U.S.
President Macron is actively working to mend U.S.-Ukraine relations in light of the recent tensions. In an interview with La Tribune Dimanche, he underscored the importance of restoring calm and constructive dialogue, stating, “I believe that beyond fury, everyone needs to return to calm, respect, and recognition so that we can move forward concretely, as what is at stake is too important.”
In financial developments, Ukraine is set to receive the first tranche of a substantial £2.26 billion loan from the United Kingdom, aimed at bolstering its military capabilities. Ukrainian media have reported that this initial funding is expected to arrive next week and will be allocated exclusively for military purchases.
On the ground, a new monitoring mission from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) arrived at the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant—a facility currently under Russian occupation. This marks the first arrival via Russian territory, as stated by Yuri Chernichuk, head of the plant installed by Russia. The IAEA’s mission follows a series of delays attributed to ongoing military activities in the area, with both sides exchanging blame regarding compliance with safety protocols meant to protect the monitoring team’s operations.
Further consolidating military support in the region, Lithuania has announced an investment of 20 million euros (approximately $21 million) aimed at procuring arms from Ukrainian manufacturers and collaborating on domestic arms production. The Lithuanian Ministry of Defence confirmed these developments, highlighting the commitment of Baltic nations to support Ukraine.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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