Zelensky Invites Trump to Witness Ukraine's Struggles Amid Ongoing Conflict

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has reached out to U.S. President Donald Trump, urging him to visit Ukraine to see firsthand the destruction inflicted by the ongoing conflict with Russia. This invitation was made during an interview on CBS's 60 Minutes, following two missile strikes on the city of Sumy that resulted in the deaths of 34 individuals, including two children, and left over 117 injured. Zelensky emphasized the importance of Trump's visit before any ceasefire negotiations are undertaken, hoping to bring attention to the plight of civilians, soldiers, hospitals, and the catastrophic toll on children.

Despite calling the missile strike a "horrible thing,” Trump has not yet responded to Zelensky's invitation. The tragic incident coincides with new military aid announcements from Ukraine's allies, who pledged an additional 21 billion euros to support the embattled nation. Concurrently, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff has met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to explore potential ceasefire arrangements.

Meanwhile, foreign ministers from the European Union and allied nations convened in Luxembourg to discuss options for enforcing a ceasefire as well as strategies for reinforcing military support to Ukraine. Reports indicate plans to supply high-caliber artillery shells and a package that may include air defense systems to Ukraine. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris remarked on the urgency of showing solidarity with Ukraine, reinforcing the importance of collective action against ongoing Russian aggression. Prior to the meeting, European leaders criticized Russia's missile strikes, which Russia claimed targeted a gathering of soldiers.