Volodymyr Zelensky has said he is ready for the next round of trilateral peace talks but was waiting on the US and Russia to agree on the details of the meeting.
Zelensky said the US had proposed hosting the next meeting between American, Ukrainian and Russian negotiating teams, which include US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, but Moscow had refused to send a delegation.
"We are waiting for a response from the Americans. Either they will change the country where we meet, or the Russians must confirm the US," Zelensky said.
"We are not blocking any of these initiatives. We want a trilateral meeting to take place,” he said.
This comes as he clamped down on drone sales and said foreign countries and firms willing to buy Ukrainian drones should not be able to bypass the Ukrainian government by talking directly to manufacturers.
Zelensky has called for a new system to prevent this from happening and that his administration has already reprimanded one manufacturer for selling interceptors without considering the implications for Ukraine’s defences.
Zelensky has warned private drone makers in Ukraine should not pursue direct export deals outside of government oversight.
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Key Points
- Zelensky says Ukraine waiting for US and Russia to continue peace talks
- 'Mr. Nobody Against Putin' wins Oscar, showing teacher who opposed Ukraine war
- Zelensky calls out ‘blackmail’ by Europe over Druzhba oil pipeline
- Ukraine needs new system to control drone sales, says Zelensky
- Zelensky says Ukraine wants money and technology in return for helping Middle East with drones
Zelensky calls out ‘blackmail’ by Europe over Druzhba oil pipeline
04:40 , Arpan RaiVolodymyr Zelensky has said the treatment from Ukraine’s European allies over the Druzbha oil pipeline is a “blackmail”.
The Ukrainian branch of the Druzhba oil pipeline, which supplies Russian oil to Hungary and Slovakia, was severely damaged by fire after a Russian attack, Ukraine's energy minister Denys Shmyhal told Interfax Ukraine on Tuesday.
Zelensky said Ukraine is now facing European pressure to allow oil to flow from the pipeline which has been disconnected since an attack in January.
"If we have decided to restore Russian oil supplies, then I want them to know that I am against it. … But if I am given conditions that Ukraine will not receive weapons, then, excuse me, I am powerless on this issue; I told our friends in Europe that this is called blackmail," Zelensky said in reported remarks.
The European Commission has proposed sending a fact-finding mission to inspect the damage to the Druzhba pipeline in an attempt to resolve the dispute.
Zelensky says Ukraine waiting for US and Russia to continue peace talks
04:20 , Arpan RaiUkraine is waiting for the US and Russian officials to continue the next round of trilateral peace talks, Volodymy Zelensky said.
Zelensky said the US had proposed hosting a meeting but Russia has refused to send a delegation to take the talks forward.
“We are waiting for a response from the Americans,” he said.
This comes at a time the US is reportedly losing interest in brokering an end to the war in Ukraine.
"A pause has indeed appeared in the talks. The Americans have other priorities, and that's understandable," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told the Financial Times.
Zelensky says he wants new system to control Ukraine drone sales
04:00 , Arpan RaiVolodymyr Zelensky has said foreign countries and firms willing to buy Ukrainian drones should not be able to bypass the Ukrainian government by talking directly to manufacturers.
The Ukrainian war-time president said a new system was needed to prevent this from happening and that his administration has already reprimanded one manufacturer for selling interceptors without considering the implications for Ukraine’s defences.
His remarks come at a time the war in the Middle East has put a spotlight on Ukraine’s defence capabilities, honed in the continuing war against Russia, especially against the Iranian Shahed drones.
Zelensky has warned private drone makers in Ukraine should not pursue direct export deals outside of government oversight.
“I have never heard that the United States isn’t interested. I have heard the opposite – that the United States is very interested,” Zelensky said, speaking to reporters in Kyiv over the weekend.
Zelensky says Ukraine wants money and technology in return for helping Middle East with drones
03:40 , Arpan RaiVolodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine wants money and technology in return for helping Middle Eastern nations that have sought its expertise as they defend against Iranian kamikaze drones.
The Zelensky administration has already sent its specialists to the war-hit region as several of the US and Israel’s allies fight off incoming Iranian Shahed drones, which Ukraine has gained superiority over in the more than four-year-old war against Russia.
Zelensky told reporters that three teams were sent to the Middle East to conduct expert assessments and demonstrate how drone defences should operate. Earlier this week he said teams were sent to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, as well as a US military base in Jordan.
African nations tiptoe around Russian networks recruiting citizens
03:14 , Arpan RaiKenya’s foreign minister is visiting Russia this week under pressure back home to convince Moscow to stop recruiting Kenyans into its military, but Nairobi “ like other governments in Africa“ is unlikely to take too confrontational an approach.
Reports in recent weeks revealed the scope and scale of the recruitment of Africans into Russia's depleted forces, often via third parties offering lucrative civilian jobs, triggering anger in countries like Kenya, Ghana and South Africa.
Families want more action to bring the recruits home but African governments, wary about overtly taking sides during Russia’s war in Ukraine, have avoided angering Moscow, mindful that the recruitment scandal has not yet triggered widespread public outcry or political heat.
"We want Kenyans stopped – they should not be enlisted at all," Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s minister for foreign affairs, told Reuters ahead of his trip. “We are getting a lot of pressure from some of the affected families who are now gathering more courage to come forward and speak to the issue,” he said.
However, Mudavadi said he was pragmatic and realistic over the issue, describing Russia as a superpower with which Nairobi has had a long relationship.
“It's not a confrontation," he said. “This is about speaking to issues as they are and the distress that they're causing to the Kenyan people, and we need a joint effort to be able to resolve it,” he said.
'Mr. Nobody Against Putin' wins best documentary feature Oscar for teacher who opposed Ukraine war
02:44 , Arpan Rai"Mr. Nobody Against Putin," which takes on the Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s propaganda and patriotism program for the nation's youth after its invasion of Ukraine, has won the Oscar for best documentary feature.
"In the name of our future, in the name of all of our children, stop all of these wars now," the film's protagonist and co-director Pavel Talankin said in Russian from the stage through a translator.
Talankin was a teacher and activities director in a small-town school in Russia who captured his students' lessons, chants and songs promoting the war in Ukraine on video. He smuggled his hard drives out of the country to collaborate with American director David Borenstein, who lives and works in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The two men gave the night some of its most overtly political moments during their speeches. Borenstein spoke broadly about nations tipping into totalitarianism, while clearly emphasizing similarities between his country and Talankin's.
"'Mr. Nobody Against Putin' is about how you lose your country," Borenstein said. "You lose it through countless small little acts of complicity,” he said.
Cheers in the auditorium grew as Borenstein said you lose a country when "we don't say anything" when governments kill people in the streets and oligarchs seek to consolidate control over media outlets.
"We all face a moral choice, but luckily even a nobody is more powerful than you think," Borenstein said.
The war in Ukraine has loomed large in Oscar documentary categories since it began. The Associated Press' documentary "20 Days in Mariupol" won best documentary feature in 2024.
This year's documentary short nominees included "Armed Only With a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud," about an American journalist killed in the war.
Russian attack on hydropower plant spills into river threatening Moldova's water supply
02:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneA Russian attack on a hydropower plant has spilled into the Nistru River, threatening Moldova’s water supply and prompting an environmental alert.
In a post on X, Moldovan president Maia Sandu wrote: “Russia’s attack on Ukraine’s Novodnistrovsk hydropower plant has spilled oil into the Nistru River, threatening Moldova’s water supply.
“We declared environmental alert and are acting to protect our people. Russia bears full responsibility.”
Russia’s attack on Ukraine’s Novodnistrovsk hydropower plant has spilled oil into the Nistru River, threatening Moldova’s water supply.
— Maia Sandu (@sandumaiamd) March 15, 2026
We declared environmental alert and are acting to protect our people. Russia bears full responsibility.
What are Patriot missiles and what role do they play in Iran and Ukraine wars
01:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe US and South Korean militaries are discussing moving some of the American Patriot missile defence systems based in South Korea to be used in the war against Iran.
South Korean foreign minister Cho Hyun on Friday was responding to a question at a parliamentary hearing and said the two nations were working closely together. The decision on the deployment of weapons and military personnel would be made on a case-by-case basis, he said.
But what are Patriot systems, and why are they so important?
You can read more below:
What are Patriot missiles and what role do they play in Iran and Ukraine wars
Britain warns Trump: lifting sanctions on Putin aids his war machine
00:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSir Keir Starmer has risked a fresh rift with Donald Trump by confirming that Britain won’t be following the US in lifting sanctions on Russian oil, saying that the move risks helping Vladimir Putin’s “war machine”.
No 10 has instead urged its international allies to maintain pressure on Moscow, and to avoid inadvertently funding Putin’s war in Ukraine by purchasing Russian oil.
Mr Trump’s decision to issue exemptions for Russian oil already at sea has sparked fears that Putin could use the Iran conflict to boost Russia’s own war chest, with foreign secretary Yvette Cooper accusing Russia and Iran of attempting to “hijack the global economy”.
You can read more below:
Starmer says UK will not follow US in easing Russia sanctions
Milan Cortina Paralympics end with another boycott by Ukraine at Games marked by Russia's return
Sunday 15 March 2026 23:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneA closing ceremony boycotted by Ukraine signaled the end of the Milan Cortina Winter Paralympics on Sunday.
China continued its dominance as a Paralympic powerhouse and topped the medals table with 15 golds, two more than the United States, which matched its total from the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Games.
The Milan Cortina Games marked the 50th anniversary of the Winter Paralympics.
The Russian anthem, which hadn't played at the Paralympics in more than a decade, rang out eight times at Milan Cortina after the victories of Russian athletes who were competing under their own flag again at the Paralympics for the first time since the 2014 Sochi Winter Games.
You can read the full report below:
Milan Cortina Paralympics end with another boycott by Ukraine at Games marked by Russia's return
Watch: Zelensky slams Trump decision to drop Putin oil sanctions as bad for peace
Sunday 15 March 2026 22:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe history of health claims that have dogged Vladimir Putin
Sunday 15 March 2026 21:52 , Nicole Wootton-CaneFor years, Russian president Vladimir Putin’s health has been the subject of speculation and rumours - with claims he is suffering from an array of different ailments.
A recent video of the 73-year-old having a coughing fit during a presidential address has renewed attention on his health.
Putin could be seen clearing his throat before having a coughing fit as he gestured towards his neck in the video, which was deleted by the Kremlin shortly after it was uploaded to the official Telegram channel.
Although apparently a minor incident, it follows years of reported but unconfirmed claims about Putin including the suggestion he has Parkinson’s disease and battled cancer.
You can read more below:
The history of health claims that have dogged Vladimir Putin
Kyiv strikes Russian radar systems in Crimea, Ukraine says
Sunday 15 March 2026 21:15 , Nicole Wootton-CaneUkraine struck Russian radar systems and an S-400 air defence launcher in occupied Crimea overnight, Kyiv said on Sunday.
Troops hit the 59N6-E "Protivnik" and 73E6 "Parol" radar stations near the village of Liubknekhivka in Russian-occupied Crimea, Ukrainian authorities said in a statement.
Zelensky accuses Putin of benefitting from war in Iran
Sunday 15 March 2026 20:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneVolodymyr Zelensky has accused Vladimir Putin of profiting from the war in Iran, saying he is worried it will allow the Russian leader to continue to fight in Europe.
In a post on X, the Ukrainian leader said he believes the US must increase pressure on Putin to end the war.
He wrote: “Putin has never wanted to stop Russia's war against Ukraine. He has been afraid of President Trump and of pressure from the United States. That's why he has played this game, pretending he has wanted negotiations.
“I keep believing that America has to increase pressure on Putin. Otherwise, he will not negotiate in good faith. He only wants to put forward ultimatums to Ukraine, as his demand to withdraw from our territory. But this will not satiate his appetite.”
Putin has never wanted to stop Russia's war against Ukraine. He has been afraid of President Trump and of pressure from the United States. That's why he has played this game, pretending he has wanted negotiations. I keep believing that America has to increase pressure on Putin.… pic.twitter.com/hO2LnZuxk8
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 15, 2026
Russia is supplying Iran with Shahed drones, Zelensky says
Sunday 15 March 2026 20:15 , Nicole Wootton-CaneRussia is sending Shahed drones to Iran to be used in the war against the US and Israel, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky told CNN.
Zelensky told CNN's Fareed Zakaria that it is “100% fact” that Iran has used Russian-made Shaheds to attack US bases.
Shahed drones have also been linked to other attacks in the region, although their manufacturers are not always clear.
Iran pioneered the Shahed drone, a much cheaper alternative to expensive missiles. They were first used extensively during Russia's invasion of Ukraine, where thousands have been launched by Russian forces since fall 2022, according to Ukrainian sources.
Although Iran initially provided the drones, Russia now manufactures its own Shaheds. Armed forces of other countries have since adopted Shahed-type drones, including the US military, which has said they are part of the current campaign against Iran.
Comment: Once again, Trump has put Putin before the west
Sunday 15 March 2026 19:45 , Nicole Wootton-Cane
Inclusion of Russia in 2026 Venice Biennale art fair sparks outcry
Sunday 15 March 2026 19:15 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe inclusion of Russia in the line-up of the 2026 Venice Biennale art fair has sparked international outcry, with the European Commission threatening to withhold funding and 22 European countries demanding Moscow stay away again over its war in Ukraine.
The scandal at the world’s oldest and most important contemporary art fair has put Italy’s Culture Ministry in the crosshairs. It comes just weeks after the Italian government had to stand by as the International Paralympic Committee allowed Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics.
You can read more below:
Inclusion of Russia in 2026 Venice Biennale art fair sparks outcry
African nations tiptoe around recruitment of citizens by Russian networks
Sunday 15 March 2026 18:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneKenya’s foreign minister is visiting Russia this week under pressure back home to convince Moscow to stop recruiting Kenyans into its military, but Nairobi, like other governments in Africa, is unlikely to take too confrontational an approach.
Reports in recent weeks revealed the scope and scale of the recruitment of Africans into Russia's depleted forces, often via third parties offering lucrative civilian jobs, triggering anger in countries like Kenya, Ghana and South Africa.
Families want more action to bring the recruits home but African governments, wary about overtly taking sides during Russia’s war in Ukraine, have avoided angering Moscow, mindful that the recruitment scandal has not yet triggered widespread public outcry or political heat.
"We want Kenyans stopped - they should not be enlisted at all," Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s minister for foreign affairs, told Reuters ahead of his trip.
However, Mr Mudavadi said he was pragmatic and realistic over the issue, describing Russia as a superpower with which Nairobi has had a long relationship.
“It's not a confrontation," he said. “This is about speaking to issues as they are and the distress that they're causing to the Kenyan people, and we need a joint effort to be able to resolve it."
The Russian defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment outside of usual business hours.
In a statement on March 12, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said foreign minister Sergei Lavrov would discuss with Mr Mudavadi the "state and prospects for the development of traditionally friendly Russian-Kenyan relations", including economic and trade partnerships.
Swedish court orders detention of Russian captain of tanker boarded off Sweden
Sunday 15 March 2026 18:15 , Nicole Wootton-CaneA Swedish court on Sunday ordered the detention of the Russian captain of a ship that was suspected to be sailing under a false flag in the Baltic Sea and was boarded by authorities last week.
The commander of the Sea Owl 1, whose name hasn't been released, was arrested on Friday — the day after the Swedish coast guard boarded the vessel off Trelleborg, on Sweden's southern coast.
Prosecutors suspect him of using a false document. They said Sunday that the district court in Ystad ordered him held in custody in line with their request, Swedish news agency TT reported.
You can read more below:
Swedish court orders detention of Russian captain of tanker boarded off Sweden
Kyiv imposes sanction on 10 Russian Paralympians
Sunday 15 March 2026 17:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneUkraine has imposed sanctions on 10 Russian Paralympic athletes who fought in Russia’s war against Ukraine and promoted Kremlin propaganda, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on March 15.
The President's Office said the sanctioned athletes participated in Russia’s invasion and used sporting events to justify Moscow’s “aggression and spread Russian propaganda”.
It comes after Russian athletes were allowed to compete under the country’s flag at the Winter Paralympics for the first time since 2014.
Watch: How Putin will benefit from the war in Iran - Sam Kiley reports
Sunday 15 March 2026 17:15 , Nicole Wootton-CaneAnalysis: How Trump’s bid to cut oil prices will fill Russia’s war chest with billions
Sunday 15 March 2026 16:45 , Nicole Wootton-CaneRussia could earn more than $10bn (£7.8bn) in additional oil and gas revenues to help fuel its war on Ukraine – thanks to Donald Trump, experts warn.
The US president lifted restrictions on countries buying Russian crude stranded at sea, after the closure of the key shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz, due to the Iran war he started, sent prices soaring. A fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through the strait.
US treasury secretary Scott Bessent claimed the 30-day waiver would “not provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government”.
He said the “tailored, short-term” move would only provide Moscow with a limited financial boost from oil sales, adding that it would address the “instability posed by the terrorist Iranian regime”.
However, shipping data and surging prices suggest Moscow is set to earn up to two-thirds more this month than it did in February, potentially wiping out months of losses in a matter of weeks.
Stuti Mishra has more below:
How Trump’s bid to cut oil prices will fill Russia’s war chest with billions
Russia attacked Ukraine with 1.770 drones and 1,530 guided aerial bombs over past week, says Zelensky
Sunday 15 March 2026 16:15 , Maira ButtPresident Volodymyr Zelensky has provided an update on Russian attacks on Ukraine over the past week, stating that more than 1,770 attack drones and over 1,530 bombs were used.
“Over the past week alone, the Russians struck Ukraine with 1,770 attack drones, more than 1,530 guided aerial bombs, and 86 missiles, including more than 20 ballistic ones,” he wrote in a post on X on Sunday.
“Each of these missiles contains at least 60 foreign components supplied to Russia in circumvention of sanctions. The schemes used for such supplies are known, and they must be shut down.
“If the world does not have enough air defense capabilities to close the sky against ballistic missiles in Europe and the Middle East simultaneously, we must deprive the Russians of the ability to assemble missiles at their factories. I am grateful to everyone who continues to work on sanctions to protect lives.”
Over the past week alone, the Russians struck Ukraine with 1,770 attack drones, more than 1,530 guided aerial bombs, and 86 missiles, including more than 20 ballistic ones. Each of these missiles contains at least 60 foreign components supplied to Russia in circumvention of… pic.twitter.com/Ya0Mio51e7
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 15, 2026
In pictures: Wreck of Russian natural gas carrier adrift in Malta
Sunday 15 March 2026 15:45 , Maira ButtOn Sunday, the wreck of Russian liquified natural gas (LNG) carrier Arctic Metagaz, was picture adrift between Malta and Lampedusa.
The vessel, which was hit by "sudden explosions followed by a massive fire" according to Libyan port authority, was sanctioned by the United States and the European Union for being one of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" of ageing tankers that carry its oil and gas around the world, skirting Western restrictions.
Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Kyiv of having carried out a "terrorist attack" on the Arctic Metagaz. All 30 crew members were rescued, Moscow said.
Canada and Nordics focus on military procurement in 'middle-power' meet-up
Sunday 15 March 2026 15:15 , Maira ButtCanada and the five Nordic countries have agreed to deepen cooperation in military procurement and other areas on Sunday.
It is the latest push by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to build new global alliances.
Carney has sought closer ties with China and Middle Eastern countries as well as India and Europe as he tries to reduce his country's dependence on the United States and forge a trading order led by what he calls middle-power countries.
“The old world order is gone and will probably not come back,” Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen told reporters after a meeting of the six nations' premiers in Oslo.
“So we have to build something new and it has to be a world order that is built on the values that we represent,” she said.
Fire at oil facility in Russia's Krasnodar region extinguished, officials say
Sunday 15 March 2026 14:45 , Maira ButtA blaze at an oil facility in Russia's Krasnodar region has been extinguished, local authorities said on Telegram.
The fire began at an oil facility near the town of Tikhoretsk on Sunday morning after debris from a downed drone fell on it.
Trump snubs Zelensky’s offer to help US with drone tech and lashes out at him for not making deal with Putin
Sunday 15 March 2026 14:10 , Maira ButtDonald Trump made clear that his personal grudge with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky hasn’t abated during a phone interview with NBC News.
Speaking with Meet the Press anchor Kristen Welker on Saturday, the president knocked Zelensky for offering assistance to the U.S. and Middle Eastern countries, the latter of which the Ukrainian president said on Friday were seeking his aid in sharing drone detection technology.
The “last person we need help from is Zelensky,” Trump told Welker.
Iran continues to bombard neighboring countries with drone and missile attacks, targeting U.S. and Israeli military assets, as the war stretches into its third week. The Trump administration has repeatedly declared victory while the U.S. and Israel continue to launch attacks in recent days. Iranian forces, in response, have largely closed off the Strait of Hormuz, choking global shipping traffic.
Trump snubs Zelensky’s offer to help US with drone tech and lashes out at him again
Zelensky pushes back against Trump's claims over Ukrainian drone technology
Sunday 15 March 2026 13:35 , Stephanie CockroftUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pushed back against Donald Trump's recent claim that Washington has no need for Ukrainian drone technology.
"No, we don't need their help on drone defense," Trump said in a Fox News Radio interview that aired on Friday.
Zelensky said Washington had reached out to Ukraine "several times" to request assistance for a particular country or for support for Americans, without giving specifics.
He said the requests had come from various U.S. military institutions to Ukraine's Ministry of Defense and other military leaders.
"All our institutions received these requests, and we responded to them," he said.
He said he had offered Washington a defense cooperation deal last year worth up to $50 billion that would have given the US access to technology from roughly 200 Ukrainian drone, AI and electronic warfare firms.
According to the Ukrainian leader, American military officials had expressed strong interest in the proposal, and President Trump himself had indicated he was receptive.
Zelensky: We want money and technology in return for Middle East drone help
Sunday 15 March 2026 13:05 , Stephanie CockroftUkraine wants money and technology in return for helping Middle Eastern nations that have sought its expertise as they defend against Iranian kamikaze drones, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said.
Zelensky told reporters that Kyiv had sent three teams to the Middle East to conduct expert assessments and demonstrate how drone defences should operate.
Earlier this week, he said teams were sent to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, as well as a U.S. military base in Jordan.
"This is not about being involved in operations. We are not at war with Iran," Zelensky said.
He said that more fundamental, long-term drone deals could be negotiated with Gulf countries and what Ukraine will get in return for the assistance still needed to be discussed.
"For us today, both the technology and the funding are important," he added.
Zelensky warns Iran war could threaten Kyiv’s ability to fight back against Putin
Sunday 15 March 2026 12:35 , Maira ButtSpeaking to journalists, Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky warned of a “very high” risk that the Iran war could drain the air defense stockpiles Ukraine depends on to counter Russian missile strikes.
The Ukrainian leader said he lacked a clear picture of available stockpiles and had discussed with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Friday whether SAMP/T systems could serve as an alternative to US-made Patriot batteries for intercepting ballistic missiles.
He said Ukraine would be “first in line” to test any viable alternative.
Zelenskyy says Ukraine waiting on US and Russia to set next round of talks
Sunday 15 March 2026 12:07 , Maira ButtUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in comments released Sunday that he was ready for the next round of trilateral peace talks to end Russia’s more than 4-year-old invasion of Ukraine, but that it was up to Washington and Moscow to agree on where and when to meet.
Zelenskyy said the U.S. had proposed hosting the next meeting between American, Ukrainian and Russian negotiating teams, which include U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, but Moscow had refused to send a delegation.
“We are waiting for a response from the Americans. Either they will change the country where we meet, or the Russians must confirm the U.S,” Zelenskyy said in a media briefing Saturday. “We are not blocking any of these initiatives. We want a trilateral meeting to take place."
Zelenskyy says Ukraine waiting on US and Russia to set next round of talks
Trump appears to sidestep criticism on easing oil sanctions
Sunday 15 March 2026 11:00 , Shweta SharmaDonald Trump appeared to sidestep criticism from European leaders over the US decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil, instead directing his remarks at Volodymyr Zelensky.
Zelensky said the Ukrainian leader was “far more difficult to make a deal with” than Vladimir Putin in efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Speaking in a phone interview to NBC, Trump said he was surprised Zelensky was reluctant to reach an agreement.
“Tell Zelensky to make a deal because Putin’s willing to make a deal,” he said.
Putin gives Trump easy way out of confused Iran war strategy – and he might take it
Sunday 15 March 2026 10:30 , Shweta SharmaDonald Trump has shrugged off Russia supplying intelligence to his enemies in Iran and rewarded the Kremlin with the option of lifting oil sanctions against Moscow. The latest moves by the US president beg the question “whose side is he on” – and not for the first time.
The most recent concession to Vladimir Putin came after the first telephone call between the two presidents this year – one that the Kremlin says was initiated by the Oval Office to the Russian president.
With an eye on the oil markets, Trump said that he thought the war against Iran would end soon, adding it was “very complete”, before declaring hours later that the fight would continue as we “haven’t won enough”.
His “secretary of war”, Pete Hegseth, then had a go at clearing things up, promising that Tuesday would see the heaviest strikes by the US and Israel so far and warned that Iran would suffer catastrophic consequences if it throttled Gulf oil exports.
Putin gives Trump easy way out of confused Iran war strategy – and he might take it
In Pictures: Ukraine after Russian bombardment
Sunday 15 March 2026 10:00 , Shweta Sharma
Russia launches 97 drones at Ukraine overnight
Sunday 15 March 2026 09:31 , Shweta SharmaRussia launched 97 drones at Ukraine overnight into Sunday, including about 70 Shahed-type loitering munitions, according to Ukraine’s air force.
Ukrainian air defences said they had shot down or jammed 90 of the drones.
The military said five attack drones struck targets at five locations, while debris from intercepted drones fell at two other sites.
As of the morning, the assault was still ongoing, with several Russian drones remaining in Ukrainian airspace, the air force added.
Ukraine hits out at Iran, calling it 'serial killer' trying to justify its crimes
Sunday 15 March 2026 09:00 , Shweta SharmaThe Ukrainian foreign ministry has sharply criticised threats from Iran, saying the rhetoric resembles “the logic of a serial killer trying to justify their crimes”.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi made the remarks after Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi claimed Ukraine had turned itself into a “legitimate target” for Tehran by supplying interceptor drones used to counter Iranian attacks on other countries.
Tykhyi said the accusation was absurd, noting that Iran has supported Russia’s war against Ukraine for years by providing drones and technology used in attacks on Ukrainian cities.
He added that it was hypocritical for Iranian officials to cite Article 51 of the United Nations Charter – which outlines the right to self-defence – while threatening Ukraine.“It’s like a serial killer trying to justify their crimes by citing the law,” Tykhyi said.
The Ukrainian diplomat also said the Iranian leadership should be held accountable for actions affecting both the Iranian people and other nations.
EU extends sanctions against people over Russia's war against Ukraine
Sunday 15 March 2026 08:30 , Shweta SharmaThe European Union has extended sanctions against individuals and entities accused of supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine for another six months, after a deadlock caused by veto threats from Hungary and Slovakia.
The Council of the European Union said the restrictive measures targeting those responsible for undermining Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence will remain in place until 15 September.
However, the 27-member bloc lifted sanctions on two individuals and removed five deceased people from the list. One of the two living individuals removed was Niels Troost, who had been sanctioned over trading Russian oil, according to an EU diplomat.
About 2,600 individuals and entities remain subject to measures including travel bans, asset freezes and restrictions on making funds or other economic resources available to those listed.
Hungary and Slovakia had earlier sought the removal of several Russian oligarchs from the sanctions list, EU diplomats said.
Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán has also urged the EU to suspend sanctions on Russian energy because of soaring prices linked to the war involving Iran.
Hungary and Slovakia have also raised concerns with Ukraine over Russian oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline.
US postpones Ukraine-Russia talks due to Middle East war
Sunday 15 March 2026 08:00 , Shweta SharmaThe US has postponed talks planned this week between Ukraine and Russia due to the war in the Middle East.
As US and Israeli missiles and bombs rain on Iran, Russia is already profiting from a surge in global energy prices.
Vladimir Putin may also hope that the conflict will detract attention from Ukraine, deplete Western arsenals and force Nato allies to reduce military support for Kyiv.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday urged Kyiv's Western partners to pay "one hundred per cent attention" to the need to boost the production of air defence missiles.
"Russia will try to exploit the war in the Middle East to cause even greater destruction here in Europe, in Ukraine," he said in a post on social media.
"We must be fully aware of the real level of the threat and prepare accordingly, namely: in Europe, we need to develop the production of air defence missiles – especially those capable of countering ballistic threats – as well as all other systems necessary to truly protect lives.”
Iranian politician calls Ukraine a legitimate target
Sunday 15 March 2026 07:30 , Shweta SharmaAn Iranian lawmaker has said Ukraine is a legitimate target of Iranian strikes as it has “effectively become involved in the war” by providing support to countries in the Gulf.
Ebrahim Azizi, head of Iran’s parliamentary committee on national security and foreign policy, said on X that the entire country has become a target for Iran.
“By providing drone support to the Israeli regime, failed Ukraine has effectively become involved in the War and, under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, has turned its entire territory into a legitimate target for Iran,” he wrote.
Volodymyr Zelensky has said that at least 11 countries have requested Kyiv’s help in countering Shahed-type drones amid the ongoing war.
During his trip to Paris, Zelensky met exiled Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi.
"The regime's hierarchy has indeed already suffered significant losses, and it is crucial that the Iranian regime gains nothing from this and that the people of Iran have greater protection for their lives and more opportunities to determine their own fate," Zelensky said in a post to X afterwards.
Russian air defences down 32 drones headed for Moscow, mayor says
Sunday 15 March 2026 07:00 , Shweta SharmaRussian air defence units shot down 32 Ukrainian drones headed for Moscow on Saturday, the city’s mayor Sergei Sobyanin said.
Writing on Telegram, Sobyanin said the drones were intercepted over an eight-hour period beginning around noon (0900 GMT). Emergency crews were examining fragments at the sites where the drones fell.
In a separate update, the Russian Defence Ministry said air defence units intercepted 37 Ukrainian drones in various parts of central and western Russia over a three-hour period ending at 11am.
How Trump’s bid to cut oil prices will fill Russia’s war chest with billions
Sunday 15 March 2026 06:30 , Shweta SharmaRussia could earn more than $10bn (£7.8bn) in additional oil and gas revenues to help fuel its war on Ukraine – thanks to Donald Trump, experts warn.
The US president lifted restrictions on countries buying Russian crude stranded at sea, after the closure of the key shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz, due to the Iran war he started, sent prices soaring. A fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through the strait.
US treasury secretary Scott Bessent claimed the 30-day waiver would “not provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government”.
He said the “tailored, short-term” move would only provide Moscow with a limited financial boost from oil sales, adding that it would address the “instability posed by the terrorist Iranian regime”.
How Trump’s bid to cut oil prices will fill Russia’s war chest with billions
Trump says Zelensky 'far more difficult to make a deal with' than Putin
Sunday 15 March 2026 05:50 , Shweta SharmaDonald Trump criticised Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday, saying the Ukrainian leader was “far more difficult to make a deal with” than Vladimir Putin in efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Speaking in a phone interview, Trump said he was surprised Zelensky was reluctant to reach an agreement.
Trump appeared to sidestep criticism from some global leaders over the US decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil, instead directing his remarks at Zelensky.
“Tell Zelensky to make a deal because Putin’s willing to make a deal,” he said.
Trump says oil sanctions to be reinstated once the Iran war is over
Sunday 15 March 2026 05:40 , Shweta SharmaDonald Trump said oil sanctions temporarily eased against Russia will be reinstated once the crisis linked to the war with Iran ends after European leaders criticised the move.
In an interview with NBC News, Trump said the decision to loosen restrictions on Russian oil was aimed at stabilising global supplies as tensions rise in the Middle East.
“I want to have oil for the world. I want to have oil,” Trump said, referring to concerns over disruptions as Iran threatens tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump did not say whether the licence would be extended beyond its current expiry date of 11 April if the conflict continues.
The move follows an earlier waiver allowing India to buy Russian crude already loaded on tankers to offset supply disruptions from the Middle East.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that lifting sanctions would be a “serious blow” to Ukraine and damage international credibility, arguing that the measures are intended to limit Russia’s ability to finance the war.
Six people killed in Ukraine as Russia launched massive missile and drones strike
Sunday 15 March 2026 05:15 , Shweta SharmaRussia launched a massive missile and drone strike on Ukraine on Saturday, killing six people and inflicting damage across several regions of the country, Ukrainian officials said.
Five of the dead were in Kyiv region outside the capital, where president Volodymyr Zelensky said Russian forces targeted energy infrastructure, but also damaged residential buildings, schools and businesses. Fifteen people were injured.
Zelensky said the Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipro and Mykolaiv regions were also targeted in an attack that included around 430 drones and 68 missiles, most of which were downed by air defences.
Later in the day, the governor of the southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia, Ivan Fedorov, said the residential area of the city of Zaporizhzhia had been hit by Russian-guided bombs, killing one person and injuring three.
Russia is supplying Iran with Shahed drones, Zelensky says
Sunday 15 March 2026 04:43 , Shweta SharmaRussia is sending Shahed drones to Iran to be used in the war against the US and Israel, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky told CNN.
Zelensky told CNN's Fareed Zakaria that it is “100% fact” that Iran has used Russian-made Shaheds to attack US bases.
Shahed drones have also been linked to other attacks in the region, although their manufacturers are not always clear.
Iran pioneered the Shahed drone, a much cheaper alternative to expensive missiles. They were first used extensively during Russia's invasion of Ukraine, where thousands have been launched by Russian forces since fall 2022, according to Ukrainian sources.
Although Iran initially provided the drones, Russia now manufactures its own Shaheds. Armed forces of other countries have since adopted Shahed-type drones, including the US military, which has said they are part of the current campaign against Iran.
US postpones Ukraine-Russia talks due to Middle East war
Sunday 15 March 2026 02:25 , Tom BarnesThe US has postponed its sponsored talks planned this week between Ukraine and Russia due to the war in the Middle East.
As US and Israeli missiles and bombs rain on Iran, Russia is already profiting from a surge in global energy prices. Vladimir Putin may also hope that the conflict will detract attention from Ukraine, deplete Western arsenals and force NATO allies to reduce military support for Kyiv.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday has on Kyiv's Western partners to pay "one hundred percent attention" to the need to boost the production of air defense missiles.
"Russia will try to exploit the war in the Middle East to cause even greater destruction here in Europe, in Ukraine," he said in a post on social media.
"We must be fully aware of the real level of the threat and prepare accordingly, namely: in Europe, we need to develop the production of air defense missiles — especially those capable of countering ballistic threats — as well as all other systems necessary to truly protect lives.”
Zekensky says Ukraine hit with 430 drones and nearly 70 missiles
Sunday 15 March 2026 01:37 , Tom BarnesVolodymyr Zelensky said Russians launched around 430 drones of various types and a significant number of missiles overnight.
There were 13 ballistic missiles alone, and the total number of missiles in this attack was 68, he said on X.
Ukrainian emergency crews were undertaking operations to tackle massive Russian attacks in Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Mykolaiv regions.
“The main target for the Russians was the energy infrastructure of the Kyiv region, but unfortunately, there were also direct hits on and damage to ordinary residential buildings, schools, and civilian businesses,” he said.
“As of now, four people have been reported killed. My condolences to their families and loved ones. Many people have been injured, and some are still seeking medical assistance.”
Zelensky: We want money and technology in return for Middle East drone help
Sunday 15 March 2026 12:17 , Stephanie CockroftUkraine wants money and technology in return for helping Middle Eastern nations that have sought its expertise as they defend against Iranian kamikaze drones, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said, after Kyiv sent specialists to the region.
Zelensky told reporters thatKyiv had sent three teams to the Middle East to conduct expert assessments and demonstrate how drone defences should operate.
Earlier this week he said teams were sent to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, as well as a U.S. military base in Jordan.
"This is not about being involved in operations. We are not at war with Iran," Zelensky said.
He said that more fundamental, long-term drone deals could be negotiated with Gulf countries and what Ukraine will get in return for the assistance still needed to be discussed.
"For us today, both the technology and the funding are important," he said.
Zelensky says Russia is exploiting war in Middle East to intensify attacks
Sunday 15 March 2026 00:42 , Tom BarnesUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia could try to exploit the war in the Middle East to intensify attacks on Ukraine and urged faster implementation of agreements to boost air defence.
In remarks on Saturday, Zelensky said all agreements on missile supplies must be implemented as quickly as possible, stressing that expanding the production of air defence missiles was a critical priority.
“Russia will try to exploit the war in the Middle East to cause even greater destruction here in Europe, in Ukraine,” he said.
Zelensky called for Europe to accelerate the production of air defence missiles, particularly systems capable of intercepting ballistic threats, as well as other defence technologies needed to protect civilians.
He said Europe was capable of ensuring a reliable level of protection if it moved quickly to strengthen its defence production.
Trump rejects Ukraine's help with drones
Saturday 14 March 2026 23:42 , Tom BarnesUS president Donald Trump said the United States does not need help with drone defence when asked whether Ukraine was helping providing such assistance.
Trump made the comments in an interview on Fox News Radio's "The Brian Kilmeade Show" that aired on Friday.
Team of Ukraine experts were sent to Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia earlier this week to give advice on how to combat drones, given their experience during the war with Russia.
Zelensky said his country had “the greatest experience in the world in countering attack drones”.
Recap: Four dead in Kyiv region after Russian attack
Saturday 14 March 2026 22:40 , Tom BarnesA combined Russian missile and drone attack on the Kyiv region killed at least four people and wounded 15, a Ukrainian official said Saturday, after the United States postponed Russia-Ukraine talks due to the war with Iran.
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions, enterprises and critical infrastructure, the head of the regional administration, Mykola Kalashnyk, wrote in a social media post.
He said three of the wounded were in critical condition.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the main target of the strikes was the energy infrastructure of the Kyiv region.
He said Russia launched around 430 drones and 68 missiles.Russia's defence ministry on Saturday said the nighttime strikes targeted energy and industrial facilities serving Ukraine's armed forces, as well as military airfields.
Russian air defences down 65 drones headed for Moscow, mayor says
Saturday 14 March 2026 21:33 , Tom BarnesRussian air defence units have downed 65 Ukrainian drones headed for Moscow throughout the day on Saturday, Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said.
Sobyanin, writing on Telegram, said the drones were intercepted over an 11-hour period beginning around noon (0900 GMT). Crews were examining the fragments at the sites where they fell.
The governor of Bryansk region on the Ukrainian border, Alexander Bogomaz, said on Telegram that units in his region had downed 128 drones. He gave no time frame.
Ukrainian forces earlier this week said they had struck a key plant producing missile components in Bryansk region. Bogomaz said seven people died in that attack, without saying what was hit.
According to the most recent report issued by the Russian Defence Ministry, air defence units intercepted 280 Ukrainian drones on Saturday in various parts of central and western Russia over a 10-hour period ending at 9 pm.
It said drones targeting Moscow were among those downed.
Recap: The latest developments
Saturday 14 March 2026 18:50 , Stephanie CockroftHere’s what has happened on Saturday relating to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine:
Several regions in Ukraine were hammered by Russian in overnight drone and missile attacks.
Four people died n the Kyiv region surrounding the capital, where 15 people were wounded, while damage was recorded in four districts.
The attack also prompted Poland to scramble jets to protect its airspace, but no violations were observed, Warsaw's military said.
Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia targeted energy infrastructure near Kyiv.
The Ukrainian president claims Putin is using the US-Iran war as cover to step up Russia’s attacks.
EU extends sanctions over Ukraine for another six months
Saturday 14 March 2026 17:50 , Stephanie CockroftThe European Union has extended sanctions against those deemed to be supporting Russia's war against Ukraine for another six months.
The Council, the EU body representing the 27 EU members, said restrictive measures targeting those responsible for “undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine” had been prolonged until September 15.
The 27-nation bloc did lift the sanctions on two individuals and removed five people who had died from the list.
One of the two living individuals removed was Niels Troost, a Dutchman placed on the sanctions list over trading Russian oil, according to an EU diplomat.
Some 2,600 individuals and entities are subject to measures, including travel restrictions, freezing of assets and a ban on making funds or other economic resources available to listed individuals or entities.
'No way Russia will stop'
Saturday 14 March 2026 17:20 , Stephanie CockroftUkraine’s energy ministry said on Saturday that consumers in six regions were without electricity after the overnight strikes and Russian shelling of frontline areas.
"There's no way Russia will stop," said local resident Natalia Fetko, 57, whose building was damaged in the strike. "Nothing is enough for them."
Russia's winter attacks on Ukraine have left swathes of major cities without power or heating. It is part of a campaign to weaken resolve as Moscow's troops press a battlefield offensive and demand Kyiv cede more territory in the east.
Ukraine’s forces have targeted Russian strategic infrastructure such as oil refineries, depots and terminals in long-range strikes.
Port and refinery targeted by Ukraine 'used to supply Moscow's armed forces'
Saturday 14 March 2026 16:50 , Stephanie CockroftIn a Facebook post on Saturday, Ukraine's general staff said both the refinery and port are used to supply Moscow's armed forces. It added it was assessing the impact of the strikes.
Among the Afipsky refinery's products are diesel fuels and natural gasoline that can be used to make jet fuel or petrol. It was targeted by Ukrainian drones before, including in January and November.
Russia's defense ministry said its forces shot down 87 Ukrainian drones during the night, including 16 over the Krasnodar region and 31 over the nearby Sea of Azov.
Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said that 16 drones had been downed on the approach to the Russian capital on Saturday afternoon.
Earlier this week, Russian and Ukrainian officials both claimed frontline progress, with Ukraine saying it pushed Moscow's forces back across places on the frontline and the Kremlin insisting Russia's invasion of its neighbour is making progress.
Ukrainian drones hit oil refinery and port in Russia's south
Saturday 14 March 2026 16:20 , Stephanie CockroftUkrainian drones have hit an oil refinery and port in Russia's southern Krasnodar region, local Russian officials have reported.
Krasnodar authorities said three people were hurt in a strike on Port Kavkaz, opposite Crimea, which is used to ship liquefied natural gas and grains.
A service vessel and pier infrastructure were damaged, officials said, adding one person was hospitalised.
Falling drone debris also sparked a fire at the Afipsky oil refinery, one of the largest in southern Russia, authorities said in a Telegram post.
They said no one was hurt, but did not immediately comment on damage.
US postpones Ukraine-Russia talks due to Middle East war
Saturday 14 March 2026 15:50 , Stephanie CockroftThe US has postponed its sponsored talks planned this week between Ukraine and Russia due to the war in the Middle East.
As US and Israeli missiles and bombs rain on Iran, Russia is already profiting from a surge in global energy prices. Vladimir Putin may also hope that the conflict will detract attention from Ukraine, deplete Western arsenals and force NATO allies to reduce military support for Kyiv.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday has on Kyiv's Western partners to pay "one hundred percent attention" to the need to boost the production of air defense missiles.
"Russia will try to exploit the war in the Middle East to cause even greater destruction here in Europe, in Ukraine," he said in a post on social media.
"We must be fully aware of the real level of the threat and prepare accordingly, namely: in Europe, we need to develop the production of air defense missiles — especially those capable of countering ballistic threats — as well as all other systems necessary to truly protect lives.”
Missile and drone attack kills four
Saturday 14 March 2026 15:23 , Stephanie CockroftA combined missile and drone attack on the Kyiv region killed at least four people and wounded at least 15 overnight into Saturday, an official said.
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions, enterprises and critical infrastructure, the head of the regional administration Mykola Kalashnyk wrote in a social media post.
He said three of the wounded were critical.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said the main target of the strikes was the energy infrastructure of the Kyiv region.
He said Russia launched around 430 drones and 68 missiles.
Russia convicts 19 people over Moscow concert hall attack that killed 149
Saturday 14 March 2026 12:30 , Shweta SharmaA Moscow court has convicted 19 individuals in connection with the deadly 2024 concert hall attack that claimed 149 lives and injured over 600.
The March 22 rampage at Crocus City Hall, one of the capital's most devastating attacks in years, saw four gunmen open fire on concert-goers before setting the venue ablaze. A faction of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the atrocity.
All 19 defendants received substantial prison terms following the verdict. Fifteen were sentenced to life imprisonment, one was given 22 and a half years, and three others were handed 19 years and 11 months each.
Russia convicts 19 people over Moscow concert hall attack that killed 149
Zelensky says Russia is exploiting war in Middle East to intensify attacks
Saturday 14 March 2026 12:00 , Shweta SharmaUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia could try to exploit the war in the Middle East to intensify attacks on Ukraine and urged faster implementation of agreements to boost air defence.
In remarks on Saturday, Zelensky said all agreements on missile supplies must be implemented as quickly as possible, stressing that expanding the production of air defence missiles was a critical priority.
“Russia will try to exploit the war in the Middle East to cause even greater destruction here in Europe, in Ukraine,” he said.
Zelensky called for Europe to accelerate the production of air defence missiles, particularly systems capable of intercepting ballistic threats, as well as other defence technologies needed to protect civilians.
He said Europe was capable of ensuring a reliable level of protection if it moved quickly to strengthen its defence production.
Zekensky says Ukraine hit with 430 drones and nearly 70 missiles
Saturday 14 March 2026 11:30 , Shweta SharmaVolodymyr Zelensky said Russians launched around 430 drones of various types and a significant number of missiles overnight.
There were 13 ballistic missiles alone, and the total number of missiles in this attack was 68, he said on X.
Ukrainian emergency crews were undertaking operations to tackle massive Russian attacks in Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Mykolaiv regions.
“The main target for the Russians was the energy infrastructure of the Kyiv region, but unfortunately, there were also direct hits on and damage to ordinary residential buildings, schools, and civilian businesses,” he said.
“As of now, four people have been reported killed. My condolences to their families and loved ones. Many people have been injured, and some are still seeking medical assistance.”
Trump rejects Ukraine's help with drones
Saturday 14 March 2026 11:00 , Shweta SharmaUS President Donald Trump said the United States does not need help with drone defence when asked whether Ukraine was helping providing such assistance.
Trump made the comments in an interview on Fox News Radio's "The Brian Kilmeade Show" that aired on Friday.
Team of Ukraine experts were sent to Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia earlier this week to give advice on how to combat drones, given their experience during the war with Russia.
Zelensky said his country had “the greatest experience in the world in countering attack drones”.
Trump admits that Putin could be helping Iran despite what his envoy claimed
Saturday 14 March 2026 10:30 , Shweta SharmaDonald Trump has admitted that Russian president Vladimir Putin could be helping Iran in its military efforts against the US, contrary to claims made previously by his envoy to the Middle East.
“I think he might be helping them a little bit, yeah, I guess, and he probably thinks we’re helping Ukraine, right?” Trump said, speaking to Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade in a Friday interview. “Yeah, we’re helping them also.”
Trump admits that Putin could be helping Iran despite what his envoy claimed
Recap: Russia-Ukraine talks in limbo as US negotiator refuse to travel amid Iran war
Saturday 14 March 2026 09:30 , Shweta SharmaPresident Volodymyr Zelensky says three-sided peace talks with Russia and the US are stalling after the Americans sought a postponement due to the war in Iran.
Zelensky, whose comments were quoted by various Ukrainian media outlets at the end of a visit to France, said the US side had indicated its negotiators were not permitted to leave the United States in view of circumstances in the Middle East.
He said discussions about the next round were akin to a soap opera "because of the war in the Middle East".
"The Americans said they were ready to meet, but only in America as the war and the security situation barred them from leaving the US," the state news agency Ukrinform quoted Zelensky as saying.
The Ukrainian delegation, he said, was ready to meet in Miami or Washington, but Russia rejected the proposal and suggested meeting in Turkey or Switzerland, a proposal ruled out by the US.
"We immediately said that we were ready for a meeting next week. We are preparing for a meeting in America, in Switzerland, in Turkey, and even, if they are not afraid, in the Emirates," Zelensky was quoted as saying.
Ultimately, he said, staging the next round of talks depended on the US side. Washington's negotiating team has been led by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, president Donald Trump's son-in-law.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Zelensky's remarks.
Russia convicts 19 people over Moscow concert hall attack that killed 149
Saturday 14 March 2026 09:00 , Shweta SharmaA Moscow court has convicted 19 individuals in connection with the deadly 2024 concert hall attack that claimed 149 lives and injured over 600.
The March 22 rampage at Crocus City Hall, one of the capital's most devastating attacks in years, saw four gunmen open fire on concert-goers before setting the venue ablaze. A faction of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the atrocity.
All 19 defendants received substantial prison terms following the verdict. Fifteen were sentenced to life imprisonment, one was given 22 and a half years, and three others were handed 19 years and 11 months each.
Russia convicts 19 people over Moscow concert hall attack that killed 149
In pictures: Two killed in Russian strikes on Kyiv
Saturday 14 March 2026 08:30 , Shweta SharmaTwo people were killed and four were injured in the Brovary district after a Russian strike.
Another person was injured in the Vyshhorod district, according to the governor.
The drone and missile strike sparked a massive fire, forcing evacuations.
Zelensky shares video of firefighters tackling massive fire
Saturday 14 March 2026 08:05 , Shweta SharmaVolodymyr Zelensky said Russians launched around 430 drones of various types and a significant number of missiles overnight.
There were 13 ballistic missiles alone, and the total number of missiles in this attack was 68, he said on X.
Ukrainian emergency crews were undertaking operations to tackle massive Russian attacks in Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Mykolaiv regions.
“The main target for the Russians was the energy infrastructure of the Kyiv region, but unfortunately, there were also direct hits on and damage to ordinary residential buildings, schools, and civilian businesses,” he said.
“As of now, four people have been reported killed. My condolences to their families and loved ones. Many people have been injured, and some are still seeking medical assistance.”
Efforts to deal with the aftermath of the massive Russian attack are currently underway in the Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Mykolaiv regions. All necessary services are involved. The main target for the Russians was the energy infrastructure of the Kyiv region, but… pic.twitter.com/ddqRUmQFkt
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 14, 2026
Drones strike Russian oil refinery
Saturday 14 March 2026 07:50 , Shweta SharmaDrones struck Russia’s Krasnodar Krai overnight on Wednesday, hitting the Afipsky oil refinery and sparking a large fire, according to Russian media and local officials.
Residents said they heard dozens of explosions beginning around 1am local time as air defence systems were activated and sirens sounded across the region
.Local authorities said the refinery was damaged, which they attributed to falling drone debris, adding that no casualties had been reported.
The strike reportedly hit a key processing unit at the facility, igniting a major blaze and causing a gas leak from a nearby overpass structure.
The Afipsky refinery – one of the largest in southern Russia – has been targeted repeatedly in previous drone attacks. The plant processes about 6.25 million tonnes of oil annually, accounting for around 2.1 per cent of Russia’s refining output.
Russian authorities also reported a separate drone attack on the Port Kavkaz facility in Krasnodar Krai, where three people were injured and a technical vessel was damaged after drone debris fell on the dock complex.
The port, located on the Chushka Spit in the Kerch Strait, is one of Russia’s largest passenger ports and serves the Kerch ferry crossing linking Russia with Russian-occupied Crimea.
Residents also reported another drone strike in the city of Tolyatti in Russia’s Samara region targeting the KuibyshevAzot chemical plant, though the extent of the damage there remains unclear.
Poland scrambles aircraft as Russia strikes Ukraine
Saturday 14 March 2026 07:33 , Shweta SharmaPolish and allied aircraft were deployed early on Saturday as Russia carried out strikes in neighbouring Ukraine.
Poland's armed forces said its aircraft were scrambled to ensure the safety of Polish airspace and that no violation of that airspace was observed.
The operational command of the Polish armed forces later confirmed in a post on X that the operations by its aircraft had ended.
Four killed in Russian air attack on Kyiv region, officials say
Saturday 14 March 2026 07:13 , Shweta SharmaAt least four people were killed and 15 wounded in an overnight Russian air attack outside the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, officials said on Saturday.
The attack targeted residential buildings, educational institutions, enterprises and critical infrastructure facilities in four districts of the Kyiv region, Mykola Kalashnyk, head of the regional military administration, said.
Damage reports were still coming in and the number of victims was rising, he added.
Russian forces have carried out regular air strikes on Ukrainian towns and cities far behind the front line of their four-year-old war, including on energy facilities and other critical infrastructure.
Sweden investigates Russian captain after dramatic coastguard operation
Saturday 14 March 2026 07:00 , Shweta SharmaSwedish authorities have launched an investigation into the Russian captain of a stateless vessel in the Baltic Sea, following a coastguard operation that saw the ship boarded and taken control of. This marks the second such incident in Swedish waters within a week.
The captain, a Russian national, is under suspicion for the use of false documents, serious crimes, and violations of Sweden's maritime act, according to the prosecution authority.
Senior prosecutor Adrien Combier-Hogg stated: "What we are doing now is, among other things, to continue with the search on board, conduct interrogations and investigate suspected false documents." He confirmed that no detentions have been made in connection with the case so far.
The 228-meter-long tanker, named Sea Owl I, was reportedly flying the Comorian flag, though the coastguard suspects it was operating under a false flag. The vessel is also listed on the sanctions lists of several nations, including the European Union.
Sweden investigates Russian captain after dramatic coastguard operation
Russia offers to sell back energy to Ukraine from captured nuclear plant
Saturday 14 March 2026 06:30 , Shweta SharmaRussia intends to control the relaunch operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant when it is safe to do so and could sell its electricity to Ukraine, the head of the Russian state nuclear corporation said on Friday.
The comments by Rosatom chief Alexei Likhachev highlighted the gulf between Moscow and Kyiv on the status of the plant, which Russian forces captured in the first weeks of the war in 2022.
The fate of the plant in southern Ukraine is one of the key issues in peace talks. US president Donald Trump has proposed American ownership or management of Ukrainian nuclear plants, including Zaporizhzhia.
The plant's six reactors are currently shut down and being kept cool to ensure safety, but Russia's Likhachev said preparations were being made to restart them when security conditions allowed.
He said Russia had issued operating licences for two of the units, a third was coming soon, and licences for the rest were also being prepared.
"We are ready to restart work, the necessary equipment is ready," Likhachev told reporters after a meeting with Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
"As soon as the opportunity arises, we will begin starting up and operating the station under IAEA supervision," he said.
Likhachev described a scenario in which Rosatom would operate the plant but "commercial aspects can be viewed multilaterally".
"Under certain conditions there could be discussion of supplying electricity, including to Ukraine," he added.
With 6 gigawatts of capacity, the plant could also be used to power data centres, Likhachev said. "Here, we may well have new partners... we are talking about the United States, among others."
Grossi told reporters: "We need peace, we need calm. No nuclear power plant can operate under the threat of any violent or kinetic act against it. But of course, you cannot start up a nuclear power plant overnight."
Trump says US does not need Ukraine's help with drone defence
Saturday 14 March 2026 06:00 , Shweta SharmaUS president Donald Trump said the United States does not need help with drone defence when asked whether Ukraine was providing such assistance.
Speaking in an interview on Fox News Radio's "The Brian Kilmeade Show" that aired on Friday, he said: No, we don't need their help in drone defence.
"We know more about drones than anybody. We have the best drones in the world, actually."
European leaders criticise Trump's decision to ease oil sanctions
Saturday 14 March 2026 05:36 , Shweta SharmaEuropean leaders have reacted sharply to a US decision to temporarily ease sanctions on the purchase of Russian oil.
The waiver will allow countries to buy Russian oil already on vessels at sea but unsold due to sanctions.
European Council President Antonio Costa said the decision was "very concerning" as it "impacts European security".
"Weakening sanctions increases Russian resources to wage the war of aggression against Ukraine," he wrote in a post on X.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said at a news conference the move could allow Russia to gain about $10bn, adding: "It certainly does not help peace.
"French president Emmanuel Macron, speaking alongside Zelensky, said the reported shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz "in no way" justified lifting sanctions.
Canada's prime minister Mark Carney said earlier that Canada's position was to "maintain sanctions on Russia".
German chancellor Friedrich Merz also criticised the decision, calling it "wrong" at a separate news conference.
How Trump’s bid to cut oil prices will fill Russia’s war chest with billions
Saturday 14 March 2026 05:30 , Shweta SharmaRussia could earn more than $10bn (£7.8bn) in additional oil and gas revenues to help fuel its war on Ukraine – thanks to Donald Trump, experts warn.
The US president lifted restrictions on countries buying Russian crude stranded at sea, after the closure of the key shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz, due to the Iran war he started, sent prices soaring. A fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through the strait.
US treasury secretary Scott Bessent claimed the 30-day waiver would “not provide significant financial benefit to the Russian government”.
He said the “tailored, short-term” move would only provide Moscow with a limited financial boost from oil sales, adding that it would address the “instability posed by the terrorist Iranian regime”.
How Trump’s bid to cut oil prices will fill Russia’s war chest with billions
Starmer risks Trump’s wrath with split from US over lifting Russia oil sanctions
Saturday 14 March 2026 05:00 , Shweta SharmaSir Keir Starmer has risked a fresh rift with Donald Trump by confirming that Britain won’t be following the US in lifting sanctions on Russian oil, saying that the move risks helping Vladimir Putin’s “war machine”.
No 10 has instead urged its international allies to maintain pressure on Moscow, and to avoid inadvertently funding Putin’s war in Ukraine by purchasing Russian oil.
Mr Trump’s decision to issue exemptions for Russian oil already at sea has sparked fears that Putin could use the Iran conflict to boost Russia’s own war chest, with foreign secretary Yvette Cooper accusing Russia and Iran of attempting to “hijack the global economy”.
Starmer says UK will not follow US in easing Russia sanctions
Explosions heard in Kyiv
Saturday 14 March 2026 04:45 , Shweta SharmaExplosions have been reported in Ukraine's capital in the early hours of today, according to Kyiv Independent journalists on the ground.
The blasts were heard at around 3.10am local time.
At around the same time, Ukraine's Air Force warned of the threat of Russian ballistic missiles.
Russia designates a US academic as a foreign agent
Saturday 14 March 2026 04:30 , Shweta SharmaRussia has designated a US academic as a foreign agent for disseminating false information about Russian policies and opposing Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
Nina Khrushcheva, the great-granddaughter of a former Soviet leader, is a professor at The New School university in New York and has continued to make research trips to Russia since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The term "foreign agent" has connotations of spying that Moscow applies to people it views as engaged in anti-Russian activity.
Her ancestor Nikita Khrushchev led the Soviet Union from 1953 to 1964, when he was ousted by fellow members of the ruling Politburo.
Khrushcheva said she was not surprised at being added to Russia's "foreign agent" list, which as of Friday contained 1,164 names including politicians, journalists, artists, NGOs and media organisations.
"It would have been sloppy on their part not to do this sooner or later," she said, adding that it was too early to say what the practical impact would be.
"There is certainly historical irony but not anything shocking. When Stalin is up, Khrushchev is down," she said.
Khrushchev was the Soviet leader who transferred Crimea to Ukraine from Russia in 1954, an act reversed in 2014 when Russian forces invaded the peninsula and President Vladimir Putin declared its annexation.
Khrushchev is also remembered for facing off against US President John F Kennedy in the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, when the world teetered on the brink of nuclear war.
People listed as foreign agents are subjected to onerous bureaucratic requirements and restrictions on their income in Russia. They are obliged to place the foreign agent label on social media posts or anything else they publish.
Some Kremlin critics have worn the label as a badge of honour, while others say it is a burden that hampers them in their work because it causes other Russians to shun them.
Zelensky says global focus on Middle East 'not good for Ukraine'
Saturday 14 March 2026 04:00 , Shweta SharmaUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky expressed frustration over waning attention on the Ukraine war amid the crisis in the Middle East as he denounced US decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil.
"There is nothing good for Ukraine in the war in the Middle East. It is understandable that the attention of the world is moving to the Middle East. It's not good for us," Zelensky told students in Paris during a speech at the Sciences Po university.
He said the decision to waive oil sanctions was not helping to end the conflict in Ukraine as he sought reassurances of support in Paris.
"This single easing by the US could provide Russia with around $10 billion for the war. It certainly does not help to achieve peace," Zelensky told a joint news conference with French president.
Zelensky says US's pause on Russian oil sanctions 'not the right decision'
Saturday 14 March 2026 03:30 , Tom BarnesUkrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said the US 30-day waiver on Russian oil sanctions amid the Iran war is "not the right decision" and will not help bring a stop to Russia's more than four-year-old invasion of Ukraine.
"This easing alone by the United States could provide Russia with about 10 billion dollars for the war," Mr Zelensky said on Friday.
"This certainly does not help peace.
"I believe that lifting sanctions will, in any case, lead to a strengthening of Russia's position."
"It spends the money from energy sales on weapons, and all of this is then used against us," Mr Zelensky said at a news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron during a visit to Paris.
"Therefore, ultimately lifting sanctions only so that more drones will later be flying at you is, in my opinion, not the right decision."
The US Treasury Department announced on Thursday a 30-day waiver on Russian oil sanctions.
The step aims to free up Russian cargoes stranded at sea and ease supply shortages caused by the Iran war.
Analysts say that spiralling oil prices due to Persian Gulf production blockages are benefiting the Russian economy.
Russia-Ukraine talks in limbo as US negotiator refuse to travel amid Iran war
Saturday 14 March 2026 03:15 , Shweta SharmaPresident Volodymyr Zelensky says three-sided peace talks with Russia and the US are stalling after the Americans sought a postponement due to the war in Iran.
Zelensky, whose comments were quoted by various Ukrainian media outlets at the end of a visit to France, said the US side had indicated its negotiators were not permitted to leave the United States in view of circumstances in the Middle East.
He said discussions about the next round were akin to a soap opera "because of the war in the Middle East".
"The Americans said they were ready to meet, but only in America as the war and the security situation barred them from leaving the US," the state news agency Ukrinform quoted Zelensky as saying.
The Ukrainian delegation, he said, was ready to meet in Miami or Washington, but Russia rejected the proposal and suggested meeting in Turkey or Switzerland, a proposal ruled out by the US.
"We immediately said that we were ready for a meeting next week. We are preparing for a meeting in America, in Switzerland, in Turkey, and even, if they are not afraid, in the Emirates," Zelensky was quoted as saying.
Ultimately, he said, staging the next round of talks depended on the US side. Washington's negotiating team has been led by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, president Donald Trump's son-in-law.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Zelensky's remarks.
EU extends sanctions over Ukraine for another six months
Saturday 14 March 2026 22:46 , Tom BarnesThe European Union has extended sanctions against those deemed to be supporting Russia's war against Ukraine for another six months.
The Council, the EU body representing the 27 EU members, said restrictive measures targeting those responsible for “undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine” had been prolonged until September 15.
The 27-nation bloc did lift the sanctions on two individuals and removed five people who had died from the list.
One of the two living individuals removed was Niels Troost, a Dutchman placed on the sanctions list over trading Russian oil, according to an EU diplomat.
Some 2,600 individuals and entities are subject to measures, including travel restrictions, freezing of assets and a ban on making funds or other economic resources available to listed individuals or entities.
One killed, several injured in Russian attacks in southeastern Ukraine
Saturday 14 March 2026 02:50 , Shweta SharmaRussian shelling killed one person and wounded six in southeastern Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, the regional governor said on Friday.
Oleksander Ganzha, head of the region's military administration, said on Telegram that Russian forces attacked two sites in the region.
Further southeast, the governor of Zaporizhzhia region, Ivan Fedorov, said four people were injured in a Russian attack near the region's main town, also called Zaporizhzhia.
Just over the Russian border in Belgorod region, regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said one resident died in a Ukrainian strike on a village just inside the border.
Trump says US does not need Ukraine's help with drone defence
Saturday 14 March 2026 02:23 , Tom BarnesDonald Trump has said the United States does not need help with drone defence when asked whether Ukraine was helping providing such assistance, in an interview on Fox News Radio's The Brian Kilmeade Show that aired on Friday.
Why a coughing fit no one was meant to see spells trouble for Putin – and his enemies
Saturday 14 March 2026 01:52 , Tom BarnesAfter a video clip (quickly taken down) showed the Russian president spluttering, rumours of his ill health have circulated – but, writes Mary Dejevsky, tracking his potential demise doesn’t mean that whoever comes next will provide anything different for the rest of the world.
Why a coughing fit no one was meant to see spells trouble for Putin – and his enemies
US sought postponement of talks on war settlement, Zelensky says
Saturday 14 March 2026 01:15 , Tom BarnesVolodymyr Zelensky says the US had sought a postponement of the latest round of three-sided talks on a settlement to Ukraine's four-year-old conflict with Russia.
Zelensky, whose comments were quoted by various Ukrainian media outlets at the end of a visit to France, said the U.S. side had said its negotiators were not permitted to leave the United States in view of circumstances in the Middle East.
He said discussions about the next round were akin to a soap opera "because of the war in the Middle East."
"The Americans said they were ready to meet, but only in America as the war and the security situation barred them from leaving the US," the state news agency Ukrinform quoted Zelensky as saying.
The Ukrainian delegation, he said, was ready to meet in Miami or Washington, but Russia rejected the proposal and suggested meeting in Turkey or Switzerland, a proposal ruled out by the U.S.
"We immediately said that we were ready for a meeting next week, we are preparing for a meeting in America, in Switzerland, in Turkey, and even, if they are not afraid, in the Emirates," Zelensky was quoted as saying.
Ultimately, he said, staging the next round of talks depended on the US side. Washington's negotiating team has been led by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, US president Donald Trump's son-in-law.
The White House did not immediately respond to request for comment on Zelensky's remarks.
Russian attacks cause casualties, injuries in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia regions, local officials say
Saturday 14 March 2026 00:30 , Tom BarnesRussian shelling killed one person and wounded six in southeastern Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, the regional governor said on Friday.
Oleksander Ganzha, head of the region's military administration, said on Telegram that Russian forces attacked two sites in the region.
Further southeast, the governor of Zaporizhzhia region, Ivan Fedorov, said four people were injured in a Russian attack near the region's main town, also called Zaporizhzhia.
Just over the Russian border in Belgorod region, regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said one resident died in a Ukrainian strike on a village just inside the border.
Trump admits that Putin could be helping Iran despite what his envoy claimed
Friday 13 March 2026 23:57 , Tom BarnesDonald Trump has admitted that Russian president Vladimir Putin could be helping Iran in its military efforts against the US, contrary to claims made previously by his envoy to the Middle East.
“I think he might be helping them a little bit, yeah, I guess, and he probably thinks we’re helping Ukraine, right?” Trump said, speaking to Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade in a Friday interview. “Yeah, we’re helping them also.”
Trump admits that Putin could be helping Iran despite what his envoy claimed
Trump rejects Ukraine's help with drones
Friday 13 March 2026 16:35 , Sam RkainaUS President Donald Trump said the United States does not need help with drone defence when asked whether Ukraine was helping providing such assistance.
Trump made the comments in an interview on Fox News Radio's "The Brian Kilmeade Show" that aired on Friday.
Team of Ukraine experts were sent to Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia earlier this week to give advice on how to combat drones, given their experience during the war with Russia.
Zelensky said his country had “the greatest experience in the world in countering attack drones”.
Recap: EU warns US against lifting sanctions on Russian oil
Friday 13 March 2026 16:00 , James ReynoldsThe president of the European Council has warned that increasing economic pressure on Russia is necessary to force the Kremlin into serious negotiations over Ukraine.
It comes after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on Thursday that the US government had temporarily removed sanctions on Russian oil at sea to add oil to global markets.
António Costa said on Friday the decision was “concerning, as it impacts European security”.
“Increasing economic pressure on Russia is decisive for it to accept a serious negotiation for a just and lasting peace. Weakening sanctions increases Russian resources to wage the war of aggression against Ukraine,” he wrote on social media.
Recap: Putin’s ‘hidden hands’ may be behind Iran tactics, says UK defence secretary
Friday 13 March 2026 15:00 , James ReynoldsVladimir Putin’s “hidden hands” may be behind some of Iran’s tactics in the Middle East conflict, the defence secretary has said, after the US downplayed reports Russia was helping the Tehran regime attack US bases.
John Healey visited the Northwood military headquarters in Hertfordshire on Thursday, where he was briefed on the latest updates on British operations in the region.
The UK’s chief of joint operations, Lieutenant General Nick Perry, told the defence secretary there were “definitively” signs of a link between Russia and Iran, including Iran’s use of drones “as learned from the Russians”.
Asked later by reporters for examples of such links, Mr Healey said: “We will update you and appropriately publish any findings from that when we’ve got them, but I think no one will be surprised to believe that Putin’s hidden hand is behind some of the Iranian tactics, potentially some of their capabilities as well, not least because one world leader that is benefiting from the sky high oil prices at the moment is Putin.”
Three killed, 27 injured in Russian attacks across Ukraine
Friday 13 March 2026 14:15 , James ReynoldsAt least three people have been killed and 27 have been injured in attacks across Ukraine in the last day, according to local authorities.
Two people were killed in Russian attacks in Kostyantynivka and Lyman, Donetsk oblast, on Thursday. Another six were injured during the day, according to regional governor Vadym Filashkin.
A 32-year-old man was also killed in a Russian drone attack in Sumy oblast, the regional administration said in a statement.
Russian forces launched an Iskander-M ballistic missile and 126 drones against Ukraine overnight, Ukraine’s airforce said, claiming to have taken down 117 drones.
The full story: Starmer risks Trump’s wrath as minister says UK will not follow US in easing Russia sanctions
Friday 13 March 2026 13:49 , James ReynoldsThe UK will not follow the US in easing sanctions on Russia amid soaring oil prices, a government minister has said, as Sir Keir Starmer risks being at odds with Donald Trump once again.
Energy minister Michael Shanks told Sky News the UK would not change its position on Russian sanctions despite the move from the US.
“The UK has been really clear that our sanctions on Russia stay in place,” he said.
“This is a moment where I suspect in the Kremlin they are looking at this as an opportunity to fix some of their ailing economy. That is a great shame, because we have to do everything that we possibly can to make sure that we are bringing all pressure to bear on Russia so that we can win this war in Ukraine.”
UK will not follow Trump’s decision to ease Russia sanctions, minister says
Zelensky: Dropping Russian oil sanctions is not helping piece
Friday 13 March 2026 13:46 , Sam RkainaPresident Volodymyr Zelensky said the US decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil was not helping to end the war and achieve peace in Ukraine.
”This single easing by the US could provide Russia with around $10 billion for the war,” he said.
“It certainly does not help (to achieve) peace,” Zelensky, who is visiting Paris, said during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Watch: Ukraine and Romania sign agreement on drone co-production, says Zelensky
Friday 13 March 2026 13:16 , James ReynoldsWhat will Zelensky discuss with Macron?
Friday 13 March 2026 12:45 , James ReynoldsVolodymyr Zelensky is in Paris today to meet with his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron.
The leaders are expected to discuss how to pile pressure on Russia to agree to a just end to the war, with US-mediated talks on ice amid the war with Iran.
The talks will focus on targeting Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ of tankers transporting oil in breach of sanctions. It comes as the US eased sanctions to curb the impact on oil prices of the war in Iran.
The Kremlin said earlier this week that the “very idea of trying to put pressure on Russia is absurd”, and claimed the meeting itself would disrupt peace efforts.
In pictures: Zelensky meets with Macron for talks on pressuring Russia as US relents on oil sanctions
Friday 13 March 2026 12:15 , James Reynolds
EU warns US against lifting sanctions on Russian oil
Friday 13 March 2026 11:45 , James ReynoldsThe president of the European Council has warned that increasing economic pressure on Russia is necessary to force the Kremlin into serious negotiations over Ukraine.
It comes after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on Thursday that the US government had temporarily removed sanctions on Russian oil at sea to add oil to global markets.
António Costa said on Friday the decision was “concerning, as it impacts European security”.
“Increasing economic pressure on Russia is decisive for it to accept a serious negotiation for a just and lasting peace. Weakening sanctions increases Russian resources to wage the war of aggression against Ukraine,” he wrote on social media.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
