Trump's sweeping global tariffs dominated coverage, with Ukrainian media highlighting the 10% tariff on Ukrainian goods while Russia was notably exempted. Government officials characterized the situation as "difficult but not critical" as a Ukrainian delegation prepared to visit the US.
By midday, Zelensky struck an optimistic tone about possible ceasefire, suggesting Russia could be forced to stop fire "within weeks or months." Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Hegseth's unprecedented boycott of the Ukraine Support Summit signaled further American disengagement.
The evening brought devastating Russian drone attacks on Kharkiv, with casualties rising from 12 injured to three dead and 32 wounded throughout the reporting cycle. Kyiv also faced explosions at two locations, including one at the Yunist market that killed two people. Military updates indicated Russia planned to increase its forces by 150,000 troops as Zelensky visited the Sumy front, describing it as a critical area.