Morning brought reports of massive drone attacks on Lipetsk region, with over 80 UAVs intercepted across nine regions. Markets responded dramatically to the previous day's Putin-Trump call, with the ruble strengthening below 90 to dollar for the first time since September 2024, leading currency exchanges to pause operations.
By afternoon, the Kremlin announced immediate preparations for a Putin-Trump summit, with China offering to host. Russian media emphasized Washington as Moscow's primary negotiating partner, sidelining European involvement. FSB reported preventing a terrorist attack at Pskov railway station.
Evening developments centered on Trump's statement supporting Russia's return to G8 and announcement of trilateral talks in Munich. Alexander Vinnik's return from US detention via Turkey completed the day's diplomatic exchanges. Financial Times reported potential peace deal timing targets of Easter or May 9th.