Russia Claims New Advances in Ukraine as Key Talks with U.S. Approach

Moscow reports gains in Sumy and Kursk regions, while Ukraine prepares for high-level discussions in Saudi Arabia amid a freeze in U.S. military aid.

Russia has claimed the capture of Novenké in Ukraine’s Sumy region, marking its first significant advance there since 2022.
Moscow also reported recapturing four villages in the Russian Kursk region, which Ukraine had partially controlled since mid-2024.
The Russian offensive in Kursk is said to threaten Ukrainian supply lines and aims to encircle Ukrainian forces near the city of Soudja.
Ukraine faces mounting pressure as the U.S. has temporarily halted military aid and intelligence sharing, complicating its position both militarily and diplomatically.
Ukrainian and U.S. delegations are set to meet on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia to discuss a potential framework for peace and a ceasefire.