Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated his willingness to discuss the ongoing Ukraine war with US President Donald Trump but noted complications in negotiating directly with Ukraine.
According to Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree prohibiting talks with Russia.
Putin also suggested discussing energy prices with Trump and expressed interest in a meeting, describing it as a “good idea.” He referred to Trump as
“smart and pragmatic” and expressed hope that any decisions on US sanctions would avoid economic repercussions for the United States.
“It would be better for us to meet, based on the realities of today, to talk calmly on all those areas that are of interest to both the United States and Russia. We are ready. But this primarily depends on the decisions and choices of the current American administration,” said Putin.
Ukraine’s Latest Offensive: Drone Strikes Deep into Russia
Amid these statements, Ukraine launched a major drone attack, targeting a Russian oil refinery and a microchip factory. The attack caused significant fires at the Ryazan refinery, one of Russia’s oldest, and disrupted operations at the Kremniy El microelectronics plant in the Bryansk region.
The latter facility reportedly produces components for Russian air defence systems, nuclear-capable missiles, and combat aircraft electronics.
Key Highlights from the Drone Strikes:
- Ryazan Oil Refinery:
- Fires engulfed oil storage and equipment, including a railway loading rack and a hydrotreater unit.
- Video footage showed smoke and flames at the refinery, causing panic in the area.
- Russia’s Defence Ministry reported repelling the attack but did not confirm the damage extent.
- Kremniy El Factory:
- Damage to production facilities, a warehouse, and power supply was reported.
- Operations at the factory were suspended, but no injuries occurred.
Russia Responds to Drone Assaults
The Russian Defence Ministry stated that 20 drones targeted Ryazan, while a total of 121 drones attacked 13 regions, including Moscow. The affected regions included Bryansk, Belgorod, Crimea, Saratov, Rostov, Voronezh, Tula, Oryol, Lipetsk, and Kursk.
- Casualties and Damage:
- Six drones were intercepted over the Moscow region, and one near the capital.
- Air defenses were active in various regions, with no major casualties reported.
- Emergency services are addressing the aftermath, according to regional governor Pavel Malkov.
Ukraine’s Strategy and Implications
If confirmed, this could be one of Ukraine’s largest drone strikes of the war, demonstrating its ability to strike deep inside Russia.
Analysts suggest that both sides are intensifying efforts to strengthen their positions before potential peace talks. The timing of the attack aligns with Trump’s stated intent to end the war swiftly if re-elected.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov criticized Ukraine and the West for a lack of readiness for peace talks, citing ongoing Western military support and Ukrainian legal restrictions on negotiations.
This escalation underscores the complexity of resolving the conflict as international players consider their roles in potential diplomacy.
