Putin tells Ukraine troops in Russia’s Kursk to surrender, ‘guarantees life’

Vladimir Putin has urged Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region to surrender, while Volodymyr Zelensky accuses him of sabotaging ceasefire efforts. Donald Trump has appealed to Putin to spare the lives of these troops, noting "productive" talks between his envoy and the Russian leader regarding a proposed 30-day ceasefire.

Russia has launched a counteroffensive in Kursk, reclaiming territory Ukraine seized last August. A defeat here would significantly undermine Ukraine's strategy to leverage control of the region in future peace negotiations. Putin stated that surrendering troops would be "guaranteed life and dignified treatment," echoing Trump's call for de-escalation.

via SCMP Full Text Feed