**US Ultimatum to Russia and Ukraine: Direct Peace Talks or US Withdraws**
The United States has issued a stern warning to both Russia and Ukraine, stating that direct peace talks must occur between the two countries or else US support will be withdrawn. This ultimatum was confirmed by Steve Witkoff, a senior advisor to President Trump.
**Russia’s Advances in Donetsk Oblast**
Meanwhile, Russian forces have advanced near three settlements in Donetsk Oblast – Malynivka, Bahatyr, and Novosilka. These settlements are strategically positioned near the H15 highway and Mokri Yaly River. The advances come as Ukrainian forces continue to face significant challenges in defending their territory.
**Ukraine’s “Hide & Strike” Strategy**
Ukrainian forces have adopted a new strategy known as “hide and strike,” where they employ dispersed tank deployment tactics after losing 1,000 tanks to Russian drones. This approach is designed to minimize casualties while still maintaining the ability to launch surprise attacks on Russian positions.
**Russian Drone Attacks Hit Multiple Oblasts**
Russian drone attacks have hit multiple Ukrainian oblasts overnight, injuring three people in Kharkiv Oblast and two people in Rivne Oblast. The attacks also damaged civilian infrastructure.
**Trapped Soldier Survives 24 Hours of Hell**
A trapped Ukrainian soldier has survived 24 hours of intense fighting in the Urozhaine region. The soldier was able to evade capture and escape with his life, despite being surrounded by Russian forces.
**Russia’s Heavy Losses**
The approximate losses of Russia’s military equipment from the beginning of the invasion to the present day are staggering. According to recent reports, Russia has lost 969,370 personnel, 10,804 tanks, 22,501 armored personnel carriers (APV), and numerous other pieces of equipment.
**Ukraine Advances in Eurovision**
In a rare moment of joy, Ukraine has advanced to the final round of the Eurovision Song Contest with a song that symbolizes resilience and inner light. The country’s entry, Ziferblat, earned a place among the 26 finalists at the contest.
**Poland Rules Out Sending Troops**
Poland has ruled out sending troops to support Ukraine, citing concerns about the potential for further escalation of the conflict. This decision comes as Ukrainian forces continue to face significant challenges in defending their territory.
**Council of Europe Advances Process for Special Tribunal**
The Council of Europe has advanced the process for establishing a special tribunal to prosecute Russian aggression against Ukraine. The tribunal is expected to be established by 2026 and will hold senior Russian officials accountable for crimes committed during the conflict.
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