Zelensky rejects Donbas retreat as drone strikes and maritime intercepts intensify

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that Ukraine will not voluntarily withdraw from the Donbas region, emphasizing that future post-war security guarantees from the United States remain crucial. Meanwhile, political discussions surrounding military aid raised concerns regarding defense technology, with Donald Trump cautioning, "We have to be careful who we give our weapon secrets to."

On the battlefield, Ukrainian drone attacks hit several Russian targets, including positions in Belgorod, Crimea, and near Gelendzhik, alongside an attack on the outskirts of Moscow that left five people dead. Simultaneously, Russian air strikes and glide bombs inflicted casualties across Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia. In maritime developments, an Italian naval ship boarded a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker off the coast of Pantelleria.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica, La Stampa.