Ukraine-Russia Talks Hit Roadblock as Putin Shows No Signs of Backing Down

The third round of U.S.-mediated peace talks between Ukraine and Russia has begun in Geneva, but expectations are low for a breakthrough. The war, which marks its fourth year, has left Ukrainians suffering, with millions displaced and 15,000 civilians killed. Russia currently occupies 20% of Ukrainian land, at a cost of over a million casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected Russia's demand for internationally recognized ownership of occupied territory, saying it would be a "big mistake" to give in. Russia launched a fresh attack on Ukraine overnight, firing 396 drones and 29 missiles, further straining talks. Zelenskyy says more sanctions, pressure and support for Ukraine's army is needed to push Russia to negotiate seriously.