Following the Riyadh talks, international newspapers characterized the Black Sea deal as "Putin's wishlist" (The Guardian) that could hand him victory without concessions (The Times). CIA Director's statement that Ukrainians would fight "with bare hands" if necessary highlighted Ukrainian resolve amidst negotiations.
Macron's announcement of €2 billion in military aid during Zelensky's visit to France came with a demand that Russia agree to a ceasefire without preconditions, directly challenging Trump's approach. NATO Secretary General Rutte declared Russia the "darkest threat" to the Alliance.
US envoy Grenell faced backlash for falsely claiming Ukrainian nuclear weapons belonged to Russia. Reports indicated Europe retreated from plans to deploy peacekeepers in Ukraine.
Military actions continued with Russia sentencing captured Azov fighters to 13-23 years in prison and launching a massive drone attack on Kharkiv by evening, with casualties mounting as fires spread through the city.