Putin demands Ukraine remain neutral for peace deal
Russian President Vladimir Putin has demanded strict guarantees that Ukraine will not join NATO as a condition for a peace deal. He insists Ukraine must remain neutral. Additionally, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister has rejected the idea of NATO peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, stating it would escalate the conflict. In recent developments, Ukrainian forces are reportedly retreating from much of the Kursk region, with Putin claiming they are encircled and face limited options.