Russia has unleashed a fresh barrage of overnight missile and drone attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

After being blindsided by President Donald Trump’s 28-point plan last month, some Europeans have expressed extreme disquiet at being apparently sidelined in talks.

US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Rustem Umerov, secretary of Ukraine's national security council, issued the call following two days of "constructive discussions" in Florida. They said in a statement that the prospect of ending the war in Ukraine depends on Russia's "readiness" to take "steps towards de-escalation and cessation of killing".

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte brushed off fresh concern about the United States’ commitment to the military organization on the eve of a meeting of allied foreign ministers focused on Russia’s war

NATO’s secretary general referenced the recent explosion on a Polish train route used by allies for delivering weapons to Ukraine.

Lithuania has unveiled a sweeping plan to draft about 5,000 citizens into compulsory basic military service in 2026, linking the move to a tougher security posture amid the Ukraine war and repeated Russian airspace violations over Europe.

Ukraine's desire to join Nato is rooted in its pursuit of reliable security guarantees. With a smaller military and defence budget compared to Russia, Ukrainian officials argue that Nato offers the best protection available.