Putin rules out Ukraine compromise in US envoy talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin told US envoys that Moscow will not compromise on its hardline demands to end the Ukraine offensive, while offering only a short-term ceasefire in one city. Putin rejected territorial settlements involving demilitarised zones, insisting Russia's state border is the only line of demarcation, and repeated opposition to foreign peacekeeping troops in Ukraine, calling them a "legitimate target". The Kremlin televised the opening exchange, framing the war as part of broader European security discussions. Kyiv and European leaders warned against a new "Yalta" carving Europe into spheres of influence, urging Russia to stop hostilities first. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also reported new restrictions on the Starshield satellite service, hampering frontline communications and increasing casualties.