Russian invasion of ukraine (2022)

Proposals that emerged in recent negotiations with the United States were “rather unconstructive,” a Kremlin official said on Sunday.

Strikes on four vessels signal that Kyiv is willing to expand the maritime theater of the conflict in an effort to crimp Moscow’s military funding.

Dmitri N. Kozak had worked with President Vladimir V. Putin for three decades before quitting in September. His associates described his break with the Russian leader.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said in Brussels, where the leaders had gathered, that without the money, his country would have to reduce its drone production significantly.

European Union officials wanted to use Russia’s frozen assets to back a major loan to Ukraine. Unable to overcome opposition, they settled on another way to lend the money.

Crucial details on the future security of Ukraine remain unsettled as negotiators seek a deal that Russia will approve.

Often left out by the United States in peace negotiations, European countries are working to assert their leadership and bolster Ukraine with an ambitious funding plan. But can they agree?

As it tried to demonstrate its continuing ability to fight, Ukraine said it had used drones to inflict serious damage on a Russian Kilo-class submarine at a Black Sea port.

Two days of talks between President Volodymyr Zelensky and allies have brought some progress on security guarantees, but Russia remains opposed to any foreign forces in Ukraine.

The latest proposal is designed to deter future Russian aggression. But Russia is not part of the talks and has shown little willingness to negotiate.