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Scottish Sun
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Scottish Sun
Will Putin chicken out? Ukraine piles on pressure on Vlad to meet Zelensky as Russia stays deathly silent on showdown
Putin could reject his own offer to Zelensky BATTLE OF WILLS Will Putin chicken out? Ukraine piles on pressure on Vlad to meet Zelensky as Russia stays deathly silent on showdown UKRAINE is now piling the pressure on Russia as Vladimir Putin stays silent on his own offer to meet for peace talks on Thursday. Moscow's bungle has seen Volodymyr Zelenksy take up Vlad's offer to for a face-to-face meet in Istanbul for long-awaited negotiations between the two leaders. Advertisement 9 An armoured vehicle carrying drones marches during the WW2 Victory Day parade in Moscow Credit: Alamy 9 Firefighters work at the site of a Russian drone strike in Kyiv Credit: Reuters 9 But the Kremlin has gone deathly silent as Putin weighs rejecting the offer he sent to the Ukrainians. Zelensky has filled the dead air and now said he will definitely go to Istanbul - but will only meet with his counterpart Putin and not any other members of a Russian delegation. The Ukrainian is pressing his diplomatic advantage and says Putin is being 'very strangely silent' about his own offer. Zelensky said: "Russian shelling and assaults continue. Moscow remained silent all day regarding the proposal for a direct meeting. A very strange silence. Advertisement "One way or another, Russia will have to end this war – and the sooner, the better." Some in Russia have responded to the possible talks. The deputy speaker of Russia's upper house said Zelensky's proposal to meet Putin was 'comedy and spectacle'. Konstantin Kosachev said Zelensky should "be afraid" of meeting Putin. Advertisement He said: 'High-level meetings, especially under such difficult circumstances, are absolutely not arranged this way." Another Putin crony denied there had been an invite in the first place and backtracked over the offer. Putin unleashes 100 drones on Ukraine after Zelensky calls his bluff Vladimir Dzhabarov, deputy chair of the Federation Council's foreign affairs committee, said the invite did simply not exist. He said: "Who invited him to Istanbul? Advertisement "Does he really think our president would meet personally with someone who has blood on his hands, who betrayed the memory of the great heroism of both Ukrainians and the entire Soviet people — the heroism of his own grandfather? "Who is he, that we should sit down with him at the negotiating table?' 9 Vladimir Putin meets with President of Burkina Faso Ibrahim Traor during VE celebrations Credit: Getty 9 Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, and Voloydmyr Zelensky walk the streets of Kyiv on Saturday Credit: Shutterstock Editorial Advertisement Trump has suggested he could join Zelensky and Putin in Istanbul for the talks. The US President said on Monday he was considering flying to Istanbul and he had a good feeling about the talks. The two leaders are jockeying for favour with Donald Trump - as they try to get the American on their side. Ukraine wants America to keep supporting it in its valiant war, while Moscow wants Washington to cut support and acquiesce to Putin conquering his neighbour. Advertisement 9 A volunteer soldier with Ukraine's Hercules Territorial Defense Credit: Getty 9 Soldiers parade in Red Square Credit: Pacific Coast News Zelensky said: "Ukraine would appreciate it if President Trump could be there with us at this meeting in Turkey. This is the right idea. We can change a lot." He added: "I will be in Turkey. I hope that the Russians will not evade the meeting." Advertisement Any meeting would come in the wake of an stern, unified warning to Putin from the leaders of France, Germany, Poland and the UK to sign a 30-day ceasefire agreement or face crippling sanctions. Putin has said he wants peace, but is continuing to attack Ukraine and launch brutal drone attacks. What is Zelensky's offer? On Sunday, Volodymyr Zelensky called Putin's bluff and said he would travel to Istanbul for a face-to-face peace talks. Vladimir Putin has always been open to talks - but has not changed his strategic goals away from dismembering Ukraine and replacing its government with a puppet. Putin is yet to reveal whether he will travel or meet directly with his arch rival. That's because Ukraine, the US, and European nations are demanding Russia agree to a 30-day ceasefire as a first step toward peace. Donald Trump has long demanded a quick peace to end the war. But Ukraine and Russia both want to keep fighting and are deftly trying to position themselves to win the favour of Trump. Putin wants to peel America away from supporting Ukraine, while Zelensky needs American weapons and finance to keep fighting Russia. Zelensky wants an immediate pause in fighting saying 'we expect a ceasefire from [Monday] – complete and lasting, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy. "There is no point in prolonging the killings." Trump has put pressure on Zelensky to meet with Putin - even though the Russian leader refused to agree to a ceasefire. He said: 'President Putin of Russia doesn't want to have a Cease Fire Agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end to the BLOODBATH. 'Ukraine should agree to this, IMMEDIATELY. 'At least they will be able to determine whether or not a deal is possible, and if it is not, European leaders, and the U.S., will know where everything stands, and can proceed accordingly! 'I'm starting to doubt that Ukraine will make a deal with Putin, who's too busy celebrating the Victory of World War ll, which could not have been won (not even close!) without the United States of America. "HAVE THE MEETING, NOW!!!' Hundreds of suicide bomber drones were launched by Russia at Ukraine over the weekend striking in civilian areas. Sunday's attack came just after a 1am Moscow press conference where Putin dramatically rejected a month-long ceasefire but insisted Russia was ready to resume direct peace talks in Istanbul on Thursday. Advertisement Zelensky wants an immediate pause in fighting saying 'we expect a ceasefire from [Monday] – complete and lasting, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy. "There is no point in prolonging the killings." 9 Zelensky has said he will only meet with Putin Credit: Getty 9 Putin is yet to accept his own offer Credit: Getty
The Irish Sun
13-05-2025
- Politics
- The Irish Sun
Will Putin chicken out? Ukraine piles on pressure on Vlad to meet Zelensky as Russia stays deathly silent on showdown
UKRAINE is now piling the pressure on Russia as Vladimir Putin stays silent on his own offer to meet for peace talks on Thursday. Moscow's bungle has seen Volodymyr Zelenksy take up Advertisement 9 An armoured vehicle carrying drones marches during the WW2 Victory Day parade in Moscow Credit: Alamy 9 Firefighters work at the site of a Russian drone strike in Kyiv Credit: Reuters 9 But the Kremlin has gone deathly silent as Putin weighs rejecting the offer he sent to the Ukrainians. Zelensky has filled the dead air and now said he will definitely go to Istanbul - but will only meet with his counterpart Putin and not any other members of a Russian delegation. The Ukrainian is pressing his diplomatic advantage and says Putin is being 'very strangely silent' about his own offer. Zelensky said: "Russian shelling and assaults continue. Moscow remained silent all day regarding the proposal for a direct meeting. A very strange silence. Advertisement Read more on world news "One way or another, Russia will have to end this war – and the sooner, the better." Some in Russia have responded to the possible talks. The deputy speaker of Russia's upper house said Zelensky's proposal to meet Putin was 'comedy and spectacle'. Konstantin Kosachev said Zelensky should "be afraid" of meeting Putin. Advertisement Most read in The US Sun Latest He said: 'High-level meetings, especially under such difficult circumstances, are absolutely not arranged this way." Another Putin crony denied there had been an invite in the first place and backtracked over the offer. Putin unleashes 100 drones on Ukraine after Zelensky calls his bluff Vladimir Dzhabarov, deputy chair of the Federation Council's foreign affairs committee, said the invite did simply not exist. He said: "Who invited him to Istanbul? Advertisement "Does he really think our president would meet personally with someone who has blood on his hands, who betrayed the memory of the great heroism of both Ukrainians and the entire Soviet people — the heroism of his own grandfather? "Who is he, that we should sit down with him at the negotiating table?' 9 Vladimir Putin meets with President of Burkina Faso Ibrahim Traor during VE celebrations Credit: Getty 9 Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, and Voloydmyr Zelensky walk the streets of Kyiv on Saturday Credit: Shutterstock Editorial Advertisement Trump has suggested he could join Zelensky and Putin in Istanbul for the talks. The US President said on Monday he was considering flying to Istanbul and he had a good feeling about the talks. The two leaders are jockeying for favour with Donald Trump - as they try to get the American on their side. Ukraine wants America to keep supporting it in its valiant war, while Moscow wants Washington to cut support and acquiesce to Putin conquering his neighbour. Advertisement 9 A volunteer soldier with Ukraine's Hercules Territorial Defense Credit: Getty 9 Soldiers parade in Red Square Credit: Pacific Coast News Zelensky said: "Ukraine would appreciate it if President Trump could be there with us at this meeting in Turkey. This is the right idea. We can change a lot." He added: "I will be in Turkey. I hope that the Russians will not evade the meeting." Advertisement Any meeting would come in the wake of an stern, unified warning to Putin from the leaders of France, Germany, Poland and the UK to sign a 30-day ceasefire agreement or face crippling sanctions. Putin has said he wants peace, but is continuing to attack Ukraine and launch brutal drone attacks. What is Zelensky's offer? On Sunday, Volodymyr Zelensky called Putin's bluff and said he would travel to Istanbul for a face-to-face peace talks. Vladimir Putin has always been open to talks - but has not changed his strategic goals away from dismembering Ukraine and replacing its government with a puppet. Putin is yet to reveal whether he will travel or meet directly with his arch rival. That's because Ukraine, the US, and European nations are demanding Russia agree to a 30-day ceasefire as a first step toward peace. Donald Trump has long demanded a quick peace to end the war. But Ukraine and Russia both want to keep fighting and are deftly trying to position themselves to win the favour of Trump. Putin wants to peel America away from supporting Ukraine, while Zelensky needs American weapons and finance to keep fighting Russia. Zelensky wants an immediate pause in fighting saying 'we expect a ceasefire from [Monday] – complete and lasting, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy. "There is no point in prolonging the killings." Trump has put pressure on Zelensky to meet with Putin - even though the Russian leader refused to agree to a ceasefire. He said: 'President Putin of Russia doesn't want to have a Cease Fire Agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end to the BLOODBATH. 'Ukraine should agree to this, IMMEDIATELY. 'At least they will be able to determine whether or not a deal is possible, and if it is not, European leaders, and the U.S., will know where everything stands, and can proceed accordingly! 'I'm starting to doubt that Ukraine will make a deal with Putin, who's too busy celebrating the Victory of World War ll, which could not have been won (not even close!) without the United States of America. "HAVE THE MEETING, NOW!!!' Hundreds of suicide bomber drones were launched by Russia at Ukraine over the weekend striking in civilian areas. Sunday's attack came just after a 1am Moscow press conference where Putin dramatically rejected a month-long ceasefire but insisted Russia was ready to resume direct peace talks in Istanbul on Thursday . Advertisement Zelensky wants an immediate pause in fighting saying 'we expect a ceasefire from [Monday] – complete and lasting, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy. "There is no point in prolonging the killings." 9 Zelensky has said he will only meet with Putin Credit: Getty 9 Putin is yet to accept his own offer Credit: Getty Advertisement
The Irish Sun
09-05-2025
- Politics
- The Irish Sun
Body language analysis reveals who is REALLY in control between tinpot tyrants Putin & Xi at Victory Day parade
A TOP body language expert has revealed who is the true "alpha" out of Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping after the pair met in Moscow. The pair of despicable tyrants bonded over tea and cakes before watching Russia's 10 A top body language expert has revealed who is the true 'alpha' out of Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping after the pair met in Moscow Credit: EPA 10 Judi caught Putin sticking his tongue in and out several times which she says is him trying to catch Xi's attention Credit: RTR 10 In a major uncharacteristic moment Putin poured himself and Xi a drink instead of making his staff complete the act Credit: Reuters 10 The two presidents were seated next to each other at today's parade as Moscow paraded nukes, tanks, drones and armed troops past dozens of world leaders in a show of strength. Putin tried his best to impress as he crafted Russia's biggest military display since launching its invasion on Ukraine - despite Kyiv slamming the ceremony as a The most high-profile and notable name at the event was China 's Xi who flew in from Beijing on Thursday. read more in Vladimir Putin And the two nuclear armed pals continued to develop this close bond over the parade. But for body language expert Judi James it is abundantly clear which world leader is desperate for the other's attention. Speaking after watching several clips of the two seated together at the parade, Judi said Xi comes across as the clear strongman . She told The Sun: "The alpha power signals are Xi's as he sits like a very honoured guest at the parade. Most read in The Sun "While Xi is in conversation with someone to his right, Putin seems to be literally hopping about with what looks like excitement to join in and attract Xi's attention. "He pops about in his seat, leaning across to make a comment that seems to involve a very casual thumb-jerk at Xi as though he is a mate he's sharing a laugh with." Putin and Xi watch WW2 Victory Day military parade in Moscow Another thing Judi noticed was how eager Putin appeared to be compared to his normal stoic nature. He stuck his tongue in and out several times out of "anticipation" as he tried to catch Xi's attention, she said. Vlad lent over several times to be closer to Xi as well as their interpreter spoke for them both. After their meeting on the Thursday, Putin even addressed the Chinese leader as his "dear friend". The alpha power signals are Xi's Judi James Body language expert And as the Kremlin chief drifted from his typical mannerisms and tendencies Xi remained his usual self. He held a solid but polite pose throughout the event but didn't once suggest he was going to "openly mirror his host's displays of cheerful excitement". The pair also met up a day earlier as they held a bizarre talk over an afternoon tea. They sat in one of the Kremlin's grand palaces on golden chairs which matched up to the gold table, walls and sofa all in front of them. The one-on-one bilateral meeting saw them tuck into fruit and what appeared to be cake. 10 Xi remained his typical stoic self during the parade as Putin constantly tried to impress the Chines president, Judi said Credit: Alamy 10 Putin was very vocal and used his hands a lot at various times when he spoke to Xi Credit: Getty 10 During his presidential address at the parade Putin appeared back to typical tyrannical self as he snarled as he spoke Credit: Sky News But in a major out of character moment for Putin which he rarely allows the world to see, he poured Xi a cup of tea by himself. Usually, Vlad would beckon over one of his staff to serve the drinks so he could show off his loyal followers and impress Xi. Judi believes the change of behaviour could be an attempt to show the world that despite his war time troubles Putin is unfazed by the pressure. Instead he is trying to give off a sense of "gracious, untroubled cordiality". Despite Judi's comments she did notice how Putin flipped back into his usual snarling demeanour when he took to the stage to give a presidential speech at the parade. Russia's Victory Day RUSSIA, and the Soviet Union before it, celebrates Victory Day on May 9 every year to commemorate the end of World War Two. Central to the celebrations is a major military parade in Moscow's Red Square, during which Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives a speech. However, the date differs in many other European countries, who mark VE Day on May 8 - the day on which Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender was accepted. Putin's vast military parade on Red Square is seen as one of his favourite celebrations. This year marked the 80th anniversary of the fall of Adolf Hitler - meaning the Kremlin celebrated in style. Dozens of tanks and armoured trucks were wheeled out across the Russian capital. The actual event also saw more than 10,000 Russians troops taking part as well as soldiers from North Korea. Among those in attendance included Chinese president Xi Jinping and the leaders of ex-Soviet states including Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko. Putin took the mic to claim that "peace and justice are on our side," and that Russia is united behind He said: "The whole country, society and people support the participants of the special military operation. "We are proud of their bravery and determination, of the fortitude that has always brought us only victory." Putin's monologue was followed by a volley of cannon fire and a well-oiled military procession. Around 11,000 soldiers clutching rifles and flags marched in perfect unison to a thunderous brass band. Enormous nuclear warheads and armoured tanks trundled past, and fighter jets stormed overhead trailing the colours of Russia's flag. Drones were included in the parade for the first time, in recognition of their increasing significance on the battlefield. Russia expert Stephen Hall told The Sun: "Russia is trying to highlight they're not isolated, that it's business as usual and that they have the capacity to show military force. "But we have to remember that a lot of this is for show, and also that this is the 80th anniversary of a celebration that is very important to Vladimir Putin." 10 Russia's military battalions were out in force Credit: Reuters 10 American movie star and close Putin pal Steve Seagal watched the Red Square celebrations Credit: AP 10 Thousands of soldiers line up in formation as the parade kicks off Credit: AP
Scottish Sun
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Scottish Sun
Body language analysis reveals who is REALLY in control between tinpot tyrants Putin & Xi at Victory Day parade
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A TOP body language expert has revealed who is the true "alpha" out of Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping after the pair met in Moscow. The pair of despicable tyrants bonded over tea and cakes before watching Russia's Victory Day parade - but which despot is really in control and who is just looking for a new best friend? 10 A top body language expert has revealed who is the true 'alpha' out of Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping after the pair met in Moscow Credit: EPA 10 Judi caught Putin sticking his tongue in and out several times which she says is him trying to catch Xi's attention Credit: RTR 10 In a major uncharacteristic moment Putin poured himself and Xi a drink instead of making his staff complete the act Credit: Reuters 10 The two presidents were seated next to each other at today's parade as Moscow paraded nukes, tanks, drones and armed troops past dozens of world leaders in a show of strength. Putin tried his best to impress as he crafted Russia's biggest military display since launching its invasion on Ukraine - despite Kyiv slamming the ceremony as a "parade of cynicism". The most high-profile and notable name at the event was China's Xi who flew in from Beijing on Thursday. Putin and Xi have grown close in recent months with the pair recently visiting each other on several occasions as they look to strengthen their diplomatic and personal relationship. And the two nuclear armed pals continued to develop this close bond over the parade. But for body language expert Judi James it is abundantly clear which world leader is desperate for the other's attention. Speaking after watching several clips of the two seated together at the parade, Judi said Xi comes across as the clear strongman. She told The Sun: "The alpha power signals are Xi's as he sits like a very honoured guest at the parade. "While Xi is in conversation with someone to his right, Putin seems to be literally hopping about with what looks like excitement to join in and attract Xi's attention. "He pops about in his seat, leaning across to make a comment that seems to involve a very casual thumb-jerk at Xi as though he is a mate he's sharing a laugh with." Putin and Xi watch WW2 Victory Day military parade in Moscow Another thing Judi noticed was how eager Putin appeared to be compared to his normal stoic nature. He stuck his tongue in and out several times out of "anticipation" as he tried to catch Xi's attention, she said. Vlad lent over several times to be closer to Xi as well as their interpreter spoke for them both. After their meeting on the Thursday, Putin even addressed the Chinese leader as his "dear friend". The alpha power signals are Xi's Judi James And as the Kremlin chief drifted from his typical mannerisms and tendencies Xi remained his usual self. He held a solid but polite pose throughout the event but didn't once suggest he was going to "openly mirror his host's displays of cheerful excitement". The pair also met up a day earlier as they held a bizarre talk over an afternoon tea. They sat in one of the Kremlin's grand palaces on golden chairs which matched up to the gold table, walls and sofa all in front of them. The one-on-one bilateral meeting saw them tuck into fruit and what appeared to be cake. 10 Xi remained his typical stoic self during the parade as Putin constantly tried to impress the Chines president, Judi said Credit: Alamy 10 Putin was very vocal and used his hands a lot at various times when he spoke to Xi Credit: Getty 10 During his presidential address at the parade Putin appeared back to typical tyrannical self as he snarled as he spoke Credit: Sky News But in a major out of character moment for Putin which he rarely allows the world to see, he poured Xi a cup of tea by himself. Usually, Vlad would beckon over one of his staff to serve the drinks so he could show off his loyal followers and impress Xi. Judi believes the change of behaviour could be an attempt to show the world that despite his war time troubles Putin is unfazed by the pressure. Instead he is trying to give off a sense of "gracious, untroubled cordiality". Despite Judi's comments she did notice how Putin flipped back into his usual snarling demeanour when he took to the stage to give a presidential speech at the parade. Russia's Victory Day RUSSIA, and the Soviet Union before it, celebrates Victory Day on May 9 every year to commemorate the end of World War Two. Central to the celebrations is a major military parade in Moscow's Red Square, during which Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives a speech. However, the date differs in many other European countries, who mark VE Day on May 8 - the day on which Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender was accepted. Putin's vast military parade on Red Square is seen as one of his favourite celebrations. This year marked the 80th anniversary of the fall of Adolf Hitler - meaning the Kremlin celebrated in style. Dozens of tanks and armoured trucks were wheeled out across the Russian capital. The actual event also saw more than 10,000 Russians troops taking part as well as soldiers from North Korea. Among those in attendance included Chinese president Xi Jinping and the leaders of ex-Soviet states including Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko. Putin took the mic to claim that "peace and justice are on our side," and that Russia is united behind the war in Ukraine. He said: "The whole country, society and people support the participants of the special military operation. "We are proud of their bravery and determination, of the fortitude that has always brought us only victory." Putin's monologue was followed by a volley of cannon fire and a well-oiled military procession. Around 11,000 soldiers clutching rifles and flags marched in perfect unison to a thunderous brass band. Enormous nuclear warheads and armoured tanks trundled past, and fighter jets stormed overhead trailing the colours of Russia's flag. Drones were included in the parade for the first time, in recognition of their increasing significance on the battlefield. Russia expert Stephen Hall told The Sun: "Russia is trying to highlight they're not isolated, that it's business as usual and that they have the capacity to show military force. "But we have to remember that a lot of this is for show, and also that this is the 80th anniversary of a celebration that is very important to Vladimir Putin." 10 Russia's military battalions were out in force Credit: Reuters 10 American movie star and close Putin pal Steve Seagal watched the Red Square celebrations Credit: AP
The Independent
28-04-2025
- Politics
- The Independent
Ukraine-Russia war latest: Putin announces new temporary ceasefire for May public holiday
Vladimir Putin has announced a temporary ceasefire to last over the May public holidays, the Kremlin has said. The ceasefire, which will last from 8-11 May and coincides with Russia's WW2 Victory Day on 9 May, is the second announced by Moscow in recent weeks. It was accused by Kyiv and its European allies of breaching a 30-hour truce which it announced for Easter Sunday. Moscow is looking to win back favour with Donald Trump, after the US president said he was 'very disappointed' in Russian autocrat Vladimir Putin following Moscow's continued bombardment of civilian areas in Ukraine. Mr Trump also said he believes Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky is ready to give up Crimea in order to strike a peace deal with Russia. On being asked yesterday whether he thought Mr Zelensky was ready to 'give up' the illegally annexed territory, Mr Trump said: 'Oh, I think so'. He did not comment on Kyiv rejecting the surrender of Crimea in Ukraine war. Mr Kim said his deployment order was meant to " annihilate and wipe out the Ukrainian neo-Nazi occupiers and liberate the Kursk area'. Breaking: Putin announces temporary ceasefire over May public holidays Vladimir Putin has announced a temporary ceasefire for the May public holidays, the Kremlin has announced. We'll bring you more as it comes in. Alex Croft28 April 2025 12:20 Trump suggests Zelensky will let Putin take Crimea. Russia's top diplomat calls it a 'done deal' Donald Trump has said he 'thinks' Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky is ready to give up Crimea to Russia as part of a peace deal. "I see him as calmer. I think he understands the picture, and I think he wants to make a deal," Trump told reporters at an airport in New Jersey. Asked whether Kyiv was prepared to lose Crimea to Moscow, which Zelensky ruled out just last week in comments which sparked a renewed war of words, the U.S. president said: 'I think so.' Moscow, which has occupied Crimea since a ground invasion in 2014, has said it does not see the southern peninsula as being part of any negotiations. Trump suggests Zelensky will let Putin take Crimea. Moscow calls it a 'done deal' The Ukrainian president is 'calmer', Trump said, as the Kremlin says the southern peninsula is not up for negotiation Alex Croft28 April 2025 12:12 In pictures: Donetsk burns after Russian strikes continue Alex Croft28 April 2025 11:57 Crimea's recognition by Russia 'impossible to achieve', says expert The formal recognition of Crimea as Russian territory is 'impossible to achieve' and a difficult challenge for Volodymyr Zelensky, a Ukrainian expert has said. If Ukrainian lawmakers were even to entertain the idea of surrendering Crimea, it would trigger a long, drawn-out legal debate, said Tymofiy Mylovanov, president of the Kyiv School of Economics and a former economics minister. "That's why Russia is pushing it, because they know it's impossible to achieve," he said. "Anything related to constitutional change gives so much policy and public communication space to Russia," he added. "This is all they want." Additionally, formal recognition of Crimea would also amount to political suicide for Mr Zelensky and could expose him to legal action in the future, he said. Mr Mylovanov said that signing a potentially unconstitutional document could be interpreted as high treason. Alex Croft28 April 2025 11:47 Russian troops seize village in Kharkiv region, Moscow says Russia troops have taken control of the village of Kamianka in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region, the Defence Ministry said on Monday. The Independent could not independently verify the battlefield report. Alex Croft28 April 2025 11:25 Pictured: South Koreans watch news report of Putin and Kim Jong-un Alex Croft28 April 2025 11:17 At least six killed in Russian attacks over past day Russian attacks across Ukraine killed at least six civilians and injured 13 more over the past day, regional authorities reported on Monday morning. Moscow's forces have intensified their attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities in the past week. Five people were killed and six injured in a attacks across Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, according to governor Vadym Filashkin, including an attack against Kostiantynivka which damaged 21 houses. In the Dnipropetrovsk region, a 73-year-old woman was injured during Russian drone and artillery attacks on the Nikopol district, governor Serhii Lysak said. Alex Croft28 April 2025 11:03 Ukrainian soldier behind 'Russian warship, go f*** yourself' slogan honoured at football game The Ukrainian soldier who was behind the world-famous 'Russian warship, go f*** yourself' slogan, which became a symbol of Ukrainian resistance in the early days of Russia's invasion, has been honoured at a football match. On the first day of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Roman Hrybov made the final communication to Russian warship Moskva. The phrase became widely adopted as a Ukrainian slogan, featuring in pro-Ukrainian demonstrations across the West and even being commemorated on a postage stamp by Ukrposhta, the Ukrainian postal service. He was awarded a medal for his actions at the end of March. On Sunday, Mr Hrybov was honoured at a football match between Shakhtar Donetsk and Dynamo Kyiv. Alex Croft28 April 2025 10:45 ICYMI: Macron appears to 'snub' Donald Trump before Zelensky meeting at Pope's funeral Alex Croft28 April 2025 10:31 Moscow waiting for signal from Kyiv regarding direct negotiations - Kremlin Moscow is waiting for a signal from Ukraine from Kyiv regarding direct negotiations to end the war, the Kremlin said on Monday. There are no signs of any movement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, three days after revealing that the prospect of direct talks had been raised in a three-hour meeting between Vladimir Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff on Friday. Asked by a reporter if the signal for direct talks should come from Ukraine or the United States, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "Well, from Kyiv, at least Kyiv should take some actions in this regard. They have a legal ban on this. But so far we don't see any action." Kyiv accuses Russia of playing for time in an attempt to seize more territory, while Moscow has accused Ukraine of being unwilling to make any concessions and only seeking a ceasefire on its own terms. Alex Croft
