Ukraine Leverages Kursk Strategy Amid Peace Talks

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky underscored the strategic significance of Ukraine’s recent military operation in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, declaring it a crucial component in future negotiations to conclude the ongoing conflict. Speaking six months into the operation, Zelensky emphasized its role in both maintaining territorial control and inflicting substantial losses on Russian forces.

In parallel, U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Keith Kellogg, is poised to unveil a peace proposal at the upcoming Munich Security Conference. This plan reportedly aims to offer security assurances for Ukraine but leaves unresolved issues concerning areas occupied by Russia, indicating complexities in achieving a comprehensive peace.

Zelensky stressed the importance of U.S. participation in the peace efforts, cautioning against reliance solely on European peacekeepers. Reports suggest a division within the Trump administration regarding its Ukraine strategy, with some advocating for increased military pressure on Russia and others favoring a reduction in military aid. The Kremlin has confirmed ongoing communications with U.S. officials, suggesting initial discussions about potential peace negotiations.

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