President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced that he had met with top military commanders in northeastern Ukraine to discuss the frontlines amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. He also prepared for upcoming meetings with U.S. officials set to take place in Saudi Arabia.
Media reports showed Zelenskiy meeting with commanders in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, which has been a frequent target of Russian attacks. He remarked on discussions about frontline sectors in eastern Ukraine and western Russia's Kursk region, where Ukrainian troops have remained seven months post cross-border incursions.
Zelenskiy noted preparations for a meeting between Ukrainian and American delegations scheduled for the following day in Saudi Arabia. In Washington, a source revealed that the U.S. side would be led by Andrew Peek from the National Security Council and Michael Anton from the State Department. The delegation was expected to meet with the Ukrainians on Sunday night and the Russians on Monday.
Although Ukrainian officials would attend the talks involving the U.S. and Russia, Zelenskiy emphasized they would not share the same room with Russian representatives. Discussions will focus on ensuring the safety of shipping in the Black Sea as part of talks on a potential peace settlement.
Zelenskiy agreed to a partial ceasefire on energy targets facilitated by Washington and stated he would compile a list of facilities eligible for the ceasefire. Earlier this month, Ukrainian officials first met with U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia.
On Saturday, Zelenskiy visited Ukraine's Donetsk region, meeting with drone unit commanders near the strategic city of Pokrovsk. Ukrainian forces have been defending against Russian assaults in that area, where Moscow's forces have been gradually advancing to capture the entire region. The Donetsk governor reported three fatalities due to Russian shelling in Pokrovsk.
Zelenskiy visited the command post of the Tactical Group Pokrovsk, where he received reports on defense strategies, operational conditions, and mission progress. He honored Ukrainian warriors with state awards during his visit.
Drones have significantly changed the nature of warfare since the onset of the conflict, and Ukraine is focused on expanding its drone units and enhancing domestic production. The defense ministry announced plans to purchase approximately 4.5 million first-person view drones in 2025, primarily from domestic suppliers, which would more than double last year's procurement rate.