**Zelensky Calls for Strong Pressure on Russia**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on the international community to put strong pressure on Moscow to secure a ceasefire deal. He made this appeal after a virtual summit of European leaders, where he also welcomed plans to send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine.
Zelensky said that Putin is “lying to everyone” about the situation on the battlefield and that Russia is the only obstacle preventing peace. He urged world leaders to support Ukraine’s efforts and apply pressure on Moscow to secure a ceasefire deal.
The virtual summit was convened by U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who announced that the coalition’s peacekeeping efforts are ready to move into the “operational phase.” The coalition includes 25 nations, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Japan.
**Ukraine Ready for Ceasefire**
Ukraine has agreed to accept a U.S.-proposed 30-day interim ceasefire, provided Russia agrees to its terms. However, Putin’s conditions for the ceasefire have been met with skepticism by Ukraine and other international leaders. He demanded that Kyiv limit mobilization and training of troops during the ceasefire period and that the West halt all military aid to Ukraine.
Zelensky has directed his appeal beyond Europe and Western partners, calling on Latin American, Asian, and African nations to recognize that “Putin has been lying to the world” and to back strategies that advance “peace through strength.”
**Escalating Conflict**
The conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, with Russian troops attacking a residential area in Kryvyi Rih and Ukrainian soldiers fighting against Russia’s encirclement in Kursk Oblast. Zelensky has announced a new peace delegation, including his foreign minister and defense minister.
In a statement, Zelensky said that Ukraine has observed areas along its eastern border where the Russian army is amassing force. “This speaks to a desire to deliver a strike to our Sumy Oblast,” he wrote.
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