US proposes trilateral talks with Russia and Ukraine; Zelensky confirms support

The United States has proposed a trilateral technical-level meeting between Washington, Russia, and Ukraine this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday, according to AFP. Zelensky confirmed Kyiv is ready to support the proposed timeline. Zelensky stated that American negotiators are in contact with both sides and suggested the meeting occur by the end of October. He said he discussed the plan with US officials on Saturday and that Ukraine is open to hosting the talks in the UAE or another country proposed by Washington. US-led peace efforts have largely stalled as Washington focuses on its war with Iran, while Ukraine accuses Russia of intensifying airstrikes. Russia's Defense Ministry responded Sunday by announcing it will escalate attacks on Ukrainian military and industrial facilities following Zelensky's stated intention to target Russian oil refineries.