Zelensky says China trying to undermine Ukraine peace summit, Russia threatens French troops in Ukraine

The tension between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate as the Kremlin suggests it is prepared to strike French troops if they are sent to Ukraine to help train Kyiv’s soldiers. Ukraine’s top commander had announced that French trainers would be arriving soon, but this was downplayed by both Paris and Kyiv.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov made it clear that no instructor involved in training the Ukrainian military would have immunity, regardless of their nationality. This statement comes amidst growing concerns over the situation in Ukraine, with French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledging the dynamic nature of the conflict.

In a separate development, Britain is seeking to send 1,000 first-person view drones to Ukraine as part of an international support coalition. The appeal, valued at £300,000, aims to procure up to 15 batches of 20 “first-person view racing quadcopter style drones” to assist Kyiv in its defense efforts.

Meanwhile, reports have emerged that Ukraine fired American weapons at Belgorod, Russia, for the first time after Washington lifted a ban on Kyiv using its weapons inside Russia. The firing of the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) at the bordering city of Belgorod has raised concerns about the escalating conflict between the two nations.

The situation in Ukraine remains fluid, with various international actors getting involved in different capacities. The ongoing tensions highlight the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further violence in the region.