Russian President Vladimir Putin made a working visit to the Kursk region on the Ukrainian border this week, following Moscow’s recent efforts to regain control of the area.
Once held by Ukrainian forces during a 2024 cross-border offensive, Kursk was retaken by Russian troops with support from North Korean soldiers.
During his trip, Putin met with the interim governor, local officials, and workers at a nuclear power plant.
Images broadcast on state TV showed him appearing relaxed, sharing tea and sweets with residents around a large table.
Meanwhile, global efforts to de-escalate the war continue.
Pope Leo XIV has reportedly offered to host a new round of peace talks in the Vatican, a move welcomed by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Despite some diplomatic efforts, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other leaders accuse Russia of stalling for time rather than seeking a real peace deal.
The U.S. and Germany echoed these concerns, saying Moscow has yet to show genuine interest in ending the conflict.
On the battlefield, Ukraine’s Sumy region was hit by a deadly Russian missile strike on a military training site, killing six soldiers and injuring at least ten.
Kyiv has opened an investigation into the incident.
As tensions remain high, the European Union adopted its 17th round of sanctions against Russia, with more on the way.
The UK also imposed 100 new measures targeting Russian military and propaganda networks.
In another major development, Russia and Iran formalized a 20-year strategic pact to deepen economic and military ties, marking a growing alliance under the strain of Western sanctions.
The deal covers everything from joint military exercises to interbank cooperation and expanded trade.
As the war drags on, the pressure for a ceasefire builds.
The U.S. says it expects Russia to present terms soon—but whether they signal true intent for peace remains to be seen.
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