RUSSIA – We’ve just seen a statement by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky who says he has “warned world leaders against trusting Putin’s claims of readiness to end the war”. In a statement on X, Zelensky says he spoke with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and emphasised the need for Ukraine to “negotiate from a position of strength, with strong and reliable security guarantees”. He adds: “NATO membership would be the most cost-effective for partners. Another key guarantee is serious investment in Ukraine’s defence industry”. (BBC)