Putin-Trump Summit Looms as Ukraine Conflict Intensifies

Putin briefed Kim Jong-un on his upcoming Trump talks, thanking North Korea for its support in western Russia and pledging cooperation. Zelenskyy rejected a Russian ceasefire offer involving territorial concessions, fearing future aggression. He'll hold virtual talks with European leaders and Trump before the Alaska summit, focusing on pressure and peace negotiations. Zelenskyy wants a ceasefire, prisoner return, and security guarantees before discussing territory. He views the summit as a win for Putin, potentially delaying sanctions. The White House calls it a "listening exercise." Zelenskyy reported heavy Russian casualties. Russian forces advanced in eastern Ukraine, possibly to pressure Kyiv. Ukraine's SBU struck a drone facility in Russia. The UN expressed concern over Russian sexual violence.