Putin Signals 'Force' if Ukraine Fails to End Conflict Peacefully Ahead of Trump-Zelensky Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning that Russia will achieve its 'special military operation' goals by force if Ukraine does not pursue peaceful conflict resolution. This statement comes after a devastating drone and missile attack on Kyiv left at least one person dead and 27 injured. The assault, which occurred on Saturday morning, involved around 500 drones and 40 missiles. The warning from Putin precedes a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday. The two leaders aim to discuss security guarantees and territorial issues, including those in the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions. Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has denounced Russia's recent actions as 'barbarism' and emphasized the need for a willing Russia to achieve a lasting peace in Ukraine. Carney, who is also set to meet Trump in Florida, pledged CAN$2.5 billion (US$1.82 billion) in economic assistance to Ukraine to help rebuild the nation. He believes that this aid will unlock international financing and facilitate the rebuilding process. The Canadian PM's statement highlights the stark contrast between Russia's actions and its commitment to peace, with Carney asserting, 'And this really showed that Putin doesn't want peace, and we want peace.'