Ukraine war briefing: Zelenskyy hints June deadline for peace with Russia could be linked to US midterms

The US has invited Ukraine and Russia to new peace talks next week, according to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy speculated that a potential June deadline for ending the war could be connected to the US midterm election campaign. He also mentioned that the talks are proposed to be hosted in Miami, and Ukraine confirmed its participation. Ukraine had suggested a sequencing plan for peace, though details were not disclosed. Simultaneously, Russia launched attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities, leading to power outages. The Russian economy is facing serious strain, with slowed growth, tax hikes, and funding cuts. The UK is considering seizing a Russia-linked tanker, potentially opening a new front. President Trump is using military leaders, including the Army secretary, for high-level diplomatic efforts in these negotiations.