**Zelensky Meets Trump at NATO Summit, Discusses Ukraine-Russia Conflict**
On June 25, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague. The meeting lasted around 50 minutes and was described by Zelensky as “long and substantive.”
The two leaders discussed various topics, including how to achieve a ceasefire and a real peace between Ukraine and Russia. Zelensky briefed Trump on the current situation on the battlefield, saying that Putin is “definitely not winning.” The Ukrainian president also expressed gratitude for Trump’s support in purchasing American air defense systems and co-producing drones.
Trump signaled his support for sending additional missiles to Ukraine for its Patriot air defense systems. However, it’s worth noting that Trump’s involvement in this meeting has been met with skepticism by some observers, given his history of making public statements on sensitive matters without proper clearance or context.
**Russia Continues Drone Attacks on Ukrainian Cities**
Meanwhile, Russian forces continued their relentless drone attacks on Ukrainian cities. Speaking at the NATO summit, Zelensky called for accountability and emphasized that rules must apply to all parties involved in the conflict. He stressed that Ukraine could not have intercepted most of the drones without international partners’ help.
Donetsk Oblast Governor Vadym Filashkin warned that the city of Kostiantynivka is on the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe due to ongoing Russian strikes destroying critical infrastructure and leaving thousands without basic services. The city has come under intensified attacks in recent months as Moscow pushes westward beyond its gains around other nearby towns.
**Residents of Kostiantynivka Face Dire Circumstances**
In Kostiantynivka, nearly half the city is without electricity due to shelling, and 1,900 households have no access to gas. Water is supplied just once a day from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., meeting only 20-25% of the city’s needs. Drone strikes have halted all city bus operations, while the suburban route to Druzhkivka is operating on a limited basis.
Ukrainian officials are urging residents still in the city to evacuate due to the risks posed by Russian forces. Despite these dangers, emergency crews, doctors, utility workers, and local officials continue to work in the city.
**International Support Remains Crucial for Ukraine**
As the conflict continues, international support remains vital for Ukraine. The country’s government is calling on partners to provide more assistance, including air defense systems and humanitarian aid.
In a statement, Zelensky emphasized that accountability is crucial in this situation: “There is a rule — do not kill. There is a rule — do not treat people like beasts. There is a rule — do not destroy cities and villages. There is a rule — do not sponsor terror. There is a rule — do not steal children. And if you break these rules, you will be held accountable.”
