Putin cites chance of peace deal, Zelenskiy says US negotiators to visit both countries

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching a peace deal to end the conflict in Ukraine during an economic forum in Russia's far east on Thursday. He stated that various countries, including the United States and China, are willing to support a peaceful resolution. However, he emphasized that ultimately, the resolution must be decided by Russia and Ukraine themselves.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed that U.S. negotiators would soon visit both Moscow and Kyiv to discuss a potential agreement. He urged the continuation of American involvement in the peace process. The ongoing war, which marked Europe's deadliest since World War Two, has seen escalated air and sea attacks, driving up global grain prices.

U.S. negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who have been leading the negotiations, last visited Moscow in January but have not yet arrived in Kyiv. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha acknowledged a new dynamic in peace efforts, but neither side provided evidence of progress. The Russian leader accused Ukraine of acts of state terrorism, citing recent actions against civilian merchant ships and reported threats against civilian aircraft.

Zelenskiy warned of the dangers posed by Ukrainian drones, although stated that Ukraine would target only Russian military facilities. Ukraine has urged the U.N.'s aviation agency to ban operations in Russian airspace.