Kremlin Rejects Ukraine's Long-Range Strike Limits

The Kremlin has reiterated that Russia's stance on the conditions for a peace deal with Ukraine remains unchanged since President Vladimir Putin's statement in 2024. According to Reuters, Putin demands that Kyiv withdraw from four regions Moscow claims as its own and publicly abandon plans to join NATO.

Daily Mail reports widespread fuel shortages across Russia, leading to violent altercations at gas stations in cities like Moscow, Ryazan, and Serov. In response to Ukrainian drone strikes on critical energy infrastructure, Putin acknowledged a 'certain shortage' of fuel but downplayed its severity.

Al Jazeera notes that Ukraine has proposed mutual limits on long-range strikes as part of peace negotiations. However, Putin rejected the proposal, stating it was motivated by Kyiv's military struggles and not aligned with Russia's strategic goals. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has yet to publicly comment on these remarks.

The conflict continues to escalate, with Ukraine targeting Russian oil refineries in Krasnodar and Yaroslavl regions. Putin emphasized the need for increased air defense capabilities to counter these attacks, while also expressing readiness for US-led diplomatic efforts once the situation in Iran stabilizes.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged neighboring Belarus to shut down four Moscow-installed relay stations that help guide Russian drone attacks on Ukraine. These stations, originally cellular communication towers, relay signals for Russian drone operators and allow their unmanned aircraft to fly deep into western Ukraine. Zelenskyy issued an ultimatum to Belarusian President Aleksander Lukashenko to remove the relayers within a week or face consequences.

Lukashenko initially hinted at retaliating by targeting the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant but ultimately shut down the relay stations. The shutdown was described as a peacemaking step, though it may also represent an attempt by Lukashenko to balance Russia's influence and potentially exit Belarus's diplomatic isolation.

Analysts suggest that Ukraine's actions reflect its newfound assertiveness and success in slowing down Moscow's offensive. The shutdown of the relay stations is seen as a concession to Zelenskyy's ultimatum, though not an official one. Russia has not publicly commented on Lukashenko's decision but may view it as a sign of weakness.

The conflict continues to escalate, with Ukraine targeting Russian oil refineries in Krasnodar and Yaroslavl regions. Putin emphasized the need for increased air defense capabilities to counter these attacks, while also expressing readiness for US-led diplomatic efforts once the situation in Iran stabilizes.