**Ukraine Stands Firm on Peace Efforts**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to working with the US and European partners to secure peace. In a statement, he said that ending the war as soon as possible is crucial.
This comes after US President Donald Trump criticized Zelensky for saying that a peace deal with Russia remains far away. Trump accused Zelensky of not wanting peace as long as he had America’s backing.
**Escalating Tensions**
The exchange follows a heated confrontation between Zelensky and Trump, along with Vice President JD Vance, in the Oval Office on February 28. The meeting was meant to finalize a US-Ukraine mineral deal but ended in public disagreements.
Since then, some US officials and Republican lawmakers have escalated their criticism of Zelensky, even suggesting he should resign. Trump is set to discuss possible suspension or cancellation of US military aid to Ukraine, including weapons pledged under President Joe Biden’s administration.
**Ukrainians Back Their Leader**
In a survey conducted by the Kyiv Independent, most Ukrainians expressed support for their president’s stance on peace negotiations with Russia. They also emphasized that no one wants peace more than Ukrainians themselves.
The war continues to devastate cities and claim lives, and Zelensky has reiterated his call for real peace as soon as possible.
**Global Reaction**
International bonds fell to their lowest point in over a month following the exchange between Zelensky and Trump. German Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz also weighed in, saying that Zelensky’s comments were not spontaneous but rather manufactured escalation.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has shown interest in alternative satellite options to replace US support, which has been under scrutiny due to tensions with Russia.
**Russian Aggression**
Russia continues to launch attacks on Ukraine, using 150-200 drones per attack. The country plans to increase its capabilities to 500, according to Ukrainian officials.
In recent days, Russian forces launched 83 drones from the cities of Orel, Kursk, Millerovo, and Primosk-Akhtarsk at Ukraine overnight.
