Trump's stance on the conflict showed notable evolution, with reports claiming he acknowledged to European officials that Putin doesn't want to end the war because he believes Russia is winning. This marks a shift from his earlier optimistic tone following the Putin call. Polish PM Tusk later contradicted these reports.
Putin announced plans to create a "buffer zone" on the Ukraine border, which Ukraine's Foreign Ministry firmly rejected, suggesting it could only exist within Russian territory.
Preparations for a "1000 for 1000" prisoner exchange advanced, with Zelensky conducting meetings on the details and Yermak stating Ukraine had completed its part of the preparations.
Military leadership changes in Russia saw Gen. Andrey Mordvichev, commander of the Mariupol siege, taking over ground forces. Ukraine proposed that EU countries direct part of their GDP to support Ukrainian forces, while continuing to push for stronger sanctions against Russia.