Russia ruled out any possibility of peace talks with Ukraine. This decision came as Ukraine claimed significant progress in its ongoing offensive into Russian territory.
On August 6, Ukrainian forces crossed the border into Russia, marking a significant development in the conflict that began more than two years ago. Ukraine reports daily gains and has advanced several kilometers into Russia’s Kursk region. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine now controls over 1,250 square kilometers (about 480 square miles) and 92 settlements in the area.
Zelensky stated that Ukraine is meeting its goals, which include stretching Russian forces, creating a “buffer zone” within Russian territory, and negotiating a “fair” end to the war. He has urged international allies to provide long-range weapons to help halt the Russian advance and protect Ukrainian border areas.
In his address to diplomats, Zelensky called for a second round of peace talks this year, insisting that pressure on Russia must be increased to achieve peace. However, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov responded that Ukraine’s recent military actions have pushed the possibility of peace talks further away. Ushakov said entering negotiations now would be “completely inappropriate” and that future talks depend on the situation on the battlefield, including in the Kursk region.
As the conflict continues, Moscow has claimed control over another village in the Donetsk region and is preparing for further Ukrainian attacks. Ukraine has ordered the evacuation of families from Pokrovsk, a key city in the area, as Russian forces approach.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has ruled out direct talks with Russia, demanding a full withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, and reparations. To push for a settlement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Ukraine on Friday. Modi, who recently visited Moscow and has close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, aims to help end the conflict.
Ukraine continues to push forward in Kursk and has recently targeted Russian infrastructure, including a bridge over the Seym River. This has limited Russia’s supply options and increased concern among Russians about the war. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak suggested that the Russian public might start opposing the war if they experience its impact more directly.
In the Donetsk region, Russia reported thwarting Ukrainian attacks on several villages and capturing the town of Artemovo. Meanwhile, Ukrainian artillery fire on Donetsk, controlled by Russia, killed a pregnant woman and injured several others. Ukrainian attacks have also resulted in deaths in frontline settlements such as Toretsk and Zarichne.
As the conflict continues, Ukraine’s focus remains on defending key locations and securing support from international allies.
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