President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced that Ukrainian negotiators will meet with US officials this week to discuss ending the war, with plans to include European partners in future discussions.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Thursday that Ukraine expects European partners to join upcoming talks with the United States regarding a settlement to the 4-1/2-year-old war with Russia. Ukrainian negotiators are scheduled to meet in the United States this Friday and Saturday. Zelenskiy noted that the delegation will prioritize the issue of air defenses following a surge in Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities.

Focus on Air Defenses and Recent Strikes

Zelenskiy highlighted the urgent need for enhanced air defense capabilities, citing near-constant Russian attacks on urban centers. According to the president, more than 70 people have been killed in these strikes over the past two days.

Ukrainian Response to Data Center Attacks

Addressing the ongoing conflict, Zelenskiy confirmed that Ukraine has conducted retaliatory strikes against Russian data centers, specifically mentioning a facility operated by the technology company Yandex. He described these actions as a 'mirror-like' response to Russian targeting of Ukrainian infrastructure. Yandex reported on Thursday that it is currently unable to determine if the equipment damaged in the drone attack can be restored.