US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia dominated media coverage, with both sides deliberately excluding Ukraine despite Saudi objections. The 4.5-hour meeting yielded minimal concrete outcomes beyond agreement to restore embassy staffing and establish working groups. Zelenskyy postponed his Saudi visit in response.
European leaders struggled to maintain relevance, with Rheinmetall's chief noting Europe's relegation to the "children's table." Reports emerged of a new €6 billion EU military aid package, while France announced a second emergency meeting on Ukraine's security.
Combat intensity increased, with Russia deploying larger assault groups and more armored vehicles. The General Staff confirmed Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, including the Ilsky refinery. Trump expressed "disappointment" with Ukraine's refusal to negotiate, while US intelligence assessed Putin remains uninterested in genuine peace talks.