Thursday, October 23rd's live news on the conflict in Ukraine. White House: Trump-Putin meeting not completely ruled out. Zelensky: Increased pressure on Moscow. Meloni-Zelensky bilateral meeting after the EU Council.

• It's the 1,338th day of war in Ukraine
• The Budapest summit between Trump and Putin is cancelled: peace is further away
• According to press rumors, Putin told Trump that one of the conditions for the end of the war is the cession of the entire Donbass by Kiev. An unacceptable demand for Ukraine.
• The US has introduced new, heavy sanctions against the Russian oil giants, the giants Rosneft and Lukoil. The EU approved the 19th package of sanctions with new energy, financial, and trade measures. According to Reuters, China is suspending purchases of Russian oil and India is ready to drastically reduce imports.
• Ten EU countries (including Italy) have signed a declaration calling for the current front line to be used as a basis for peace talks. The strategy aims to freeze the conflict.
• The EU is working on measures to use Russia's immobilized sovereign assets to ensure Ukraine has the resources it needs.
• Zelensky is meeting the European Council in Brussels and taking part in bilateral talks with numerous leaders, including Macron, Merz, and Tusk.

White House: Trump-Putin meeting not completely ruled out

A meeting between Trump and Putin is not completely out of the question, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said, while specifying that Russia's interest and action are needed to end the war in Ukraine.

7:57 PM | October 23

White House: Putin has no interest in peace

President Trump feels there isn't enough interest and action on the Russian side toward peace. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said this, referring to the US president's frustration with Vladimir Putin. The president wants to see action, the official said in a press briefing. Regarding the sanctions announced yesterday, Trump felt it was the right time to impose them, Leavitt explained.

7:43 PM | October 23

Trump leaves for Asia tomorrow, meeting with Xi on Thursday

Donald Trump will depart tomorrow evening (late Italian time) for his trip to Asia, where he will meet Xi Jinping next Thursday on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in South Korea. He will meet with the South Korean leader the day before, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said.

7:37 PM | October 23

Lithuania: Lukoil should also be sanctioned.

Lukoil was not included in the 19th package of EU sanctions against Russia. To what extent will we consider Lukoil a sacred cow? This is my main question. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said this during today's summit of European Union leaders. Lukoil's inclusion among the sanctioned companies would deal a severe blow to the Russian economy, which is already standing on feet of clay, the Lithuanian president added.

7:23 PM | October 23

Zelensky: US long-range weapons never used

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated at a press conference in Brussels that Ukraine has never used American long-range weapons against targets on Russian soil."I don't know who wrote what," Zelensky stated,"but we have never used American long-range weapons on Russian soil. This is important." According to him, Ukraine has used various weapons with good long-range capabilities. Zelensky also noted that Crimea and its eastern part are Ukrainian territory."And we cannot talk about using this or that weapon, not just Ukrainian-made ones, on Crimean territory, as if it were Russian territory," President Zelensky stated.

7:22 PM | October 23

Merz: Putin must understand that war will cost him more than a negotiated peace.

With the 19th package of sanctions adopted today, we are further increasing the pressure on Russia. Putin must realize that this war will cost him more than a negotiated peace. We stand with Ukraine. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz wrote this in a message on X.

7:01 PM | October 23

Lithuania: Russian fighter jets violated our airspace

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda wrote on X that Russian military aircraft have violated his country's airspace. This evening, Russian fighter jets violated Lithuanian airspace. This is a clear violation of international law and Lithuania's territorial integrity. This once again confirms the importance of strengthening European air defense. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will summon representatives of the Russian embassy to protest this reckless and dangerous behavior.

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​According to the Reuters agency, two Russian planes violated Lithuanian airspace for 18 seconds.

6:51 PM | October 23

Russian strikes kill 3 in Kherson region

Russian strikes in the Kherson region killed three civilians and injured four others throughout the day, according to the Ukrinform news agency, citing the Kherson Regional Prosecutor's Office. Specifically, a man and a woman were killed in Kherson as a result of artillery shelling, while another woman died in the village of Bilozerka. Four other civilians were injured in the region: two by Russian drone strikes and two by artillery strikes. The shelling also damaged private and residential buildings, a school, and vehicles. A preliminary investigation into war crimes has been launched under the leadership of the Kherson Regional Prosecutor's Office.

6:40 PM | October 23

Putin: Without our oil on the market, prices are bound to rise.

Replacing Russian oil supplies on the global energy market will take time, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, according to Russian news agencies. A sharp decline in the volume of Russian oil on the market, he added, will lead to a price increase.

6:38 PM | October 23

Putin: Dialogue is always better than war

Dialogue is always better than any confrontation, any dispute, and especially war. Therefore, we have always supported the continuation of the dialogue, and this remains true now. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated this. Tass reports.

6:06 PM | October 23

Meloni and Zelensky met on the sidelines of the EU summit: Russian assets were also discussed.

I met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. We discussed how to protect our energy sector from Russian attacks and make it more resilient. Italy has the necessary expertise and equipment for this. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who attended the EU summit today, wrote this in X. At the same time, we focused on joint defense projects under the Safe instrument. It is important that these initiatives benefit all of Europe. We also addressed the crucial issue of the use of frozen Russian assets. It is right that these funds be used to support and defend our country, he added.

6:04 PM | October 23

Putin: If Kiev launches Tomahawk missiles on our territory, the response will be astonishing.

If Ukraine were to launch long-range strikes against Russia, the response would be staggering, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, according to Tass.

5:51 PM | October 23

Putin: A self-respecting country does not act under pressure.

The sanctions announced by the US president against Russian oil companies are an attempt to put pressure on Moscow, but no self-respecting country ever does anything under pressure, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, quoted by the RIA Novosti news agency.

5:46 PM | October 23

Putin: Trump? The meeting in Budapest was proposed by the US. It will likely be postponed.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that during his last meeting with Donald Trump, the Budapest summit was proposed by the US side. He added:"Now I see that the US president has decided to cancel or postpone this meeting. Most likely, it will be postponed," Putin told the press, emphasizing that such meetings must be well prepared. Russian agencies reported this.

5:41 PM | October 23

Tomorrow Rutte in London for the coalition of the willing

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will travel to London tomorrow to attend the Coalition of the Willing meeting hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. He is scheduled to hold a press conference with Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at 6:05 PM.

5:07 PM | October 23

EU leaders near Commission approval of Russian asset proposal

EU leaders are reportedly preparing to grant the European Commission the political mandate this evening—with the support of 26 countries and without Hungary's—to develop a legal proposal on the use of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. However, Belgium's position remains cautious, subject to specific legal guarantees. Today's goal—again, according to reports—is to secure the political mandate that will allow a formal text to be tabled in December. The green light is expected later this evening, following discussions with ECB President Christine Lagarde.

5:05 PM | October 23

Zelensky: The EU is closer to using Russian assets. And Russia is afraid of it.

EU states are closer today to a decision on the use of Russian assets, a prospect Russia is very afraid of, because it could give Ukraine a chance to win and not just defend itself. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this at a press conference in Brussels.

Today we are closer to using these assets, one way or another. I hope they make this political decision today; it's a big decision, the Ukrainian leader continued, adding: The choice on how to use Russian assets is not important today, and it's too early to say what we will or will not allow. The main thing is that today, I hope, EU leaders will come together, and I hope they make a political decision, a positive decision in one way or another, to help Ukraine with funds based on immobilized Russian assets. And of course, this is an important issue, he explained.

The result of this meeting is that we have sanctions on Russian energy. We don't have meetings in Hungary without Ukraine, and we don't have the Tomahawks yet. This is the result. I think it's not bad. Every day brings something new, maybe tomorrow we'll have the Tomahawks, I don't know, Zelensky added.

​The Ukrainian leader then reiterated that Ukraine is ready to negotiate, if Russia is too, while specifying that he considers a territorial swap with Moscow unacceptable.

Zelensky meets Merz

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the European Council in Brussels. We discussed ways to strengthen our air defense and coordinated further steps ahead of the upcoming meeting of the Coalition of the Willing in London. We count on Germany's leadership in supporting our energy sector, both in terms of equipment and financial assistance, Zelensky informed.

We separately focused on decisions that can further improve our air defense. I am grateful to Germany for its significant contribution. We also discussed the mechanism for using frozen Russian assets to defend Ukraine: it is important to have Germany's support in this regard, Zelensky concluded in a message on X.

4:35 PM | October 23

Kiev: Russian refinery in Ryazan, owned by Rosneft, hit

Ukrainian forces announced they struck the Ryazan oil refinery and an ammunition depot in the Belgorod region, more than 700 kilometers from Kiev. The facility, Ukrainian media reported, is owned by Rosneft and is one of the largest in central Russia, with a capacity of over 17 million tons of oil per year.

4:33 PM | October 23

Orban: The EU is preventing the war in Ukraine from ending

The European Union is preventing the war in Ukraine from ending. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said this, speaking at a rally on the day commemorating the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.

Brussels pathetically considers itself a world power, and the war would not have broken out if Donald Trump had been president in the previous term. They want to squeeze tens of billions out of our pockets because of the war in Ukraine, Orban complained. Brussels wants to divide Ukraine like the colonialists. It's easier to buy a country, divide it during a war. Ukraine has long since ceased to be sovereign, it is no longer independent, its fate is in the hands of others, Orban argued.

4:25 PM | October 23

EU proposal on Russian assets will arrive before December summit, not today

The draft law on the EU loan to Ukraine based on frozen Russian assets will be presented before the next European Council, according to reports in Brussels while the summit of heads of state and government is underway, and not immediately after today's summit, as originally hoped by the EU leaders. There are a number of legal and technical issues to resolve, which will take some time, but even with a proposal before Christmas, there would still be time to be ready to finance Ukraine by the beginning of next year. Discussion on the issue will resume later, over dinner, specifically to discuss the matter with ECB President Christine Lagarde, the most important interlocutor in this debate, given the potential risks to the role of the euro.

3:50 PM | October 23

Reuters: China suspends Russian oil purchases

China's major state-owned oil companies have suspended purchases of Russian seaborne oil after the United States imposed sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, Moscow's two largest oil companies, several trade sources said Thursday. Reuters reported in an exclusive on its website. The move comes as refiners in India, the largest buyer of Russian seaborne oil, are poised to drastically reduce their crude imports from Moscow to comply with sanctions imposed by the United States following the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine.

3:31 PM | October 23

Orban: Ukraine should be an EU partner, not a member state

Ukraine can become a strategic partner of the European Union, but not a member state. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban stated this while speaking at the peace march in Budapest.

We want Ukraine to be our strategic partner in the European Union, but we do not want and will not be part of the same alliance with Kiev. Ukraine cannot join either our military or economic union: it would bring war, take away our resources, and destroy our economy. Partnership, yes; membership, no. This is what the Hungarian people want, Orban said.

2:40 PM | October 23

Tajani: Perhaps Putin will come to a more moderate conclusion with the sanctions...

We need to reach a ceasefire and then sit down to discuss it. Zelensky is showing great openness to dialogue, while Putin isn't. Now, with the American and European sanctions, perhaps he can come to a more moderate view. This was stated in Naples by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.

2:35 PM | October 23

EU sources: The debate on Russian assets is dragging on.

The leaders agreed on Russia's unwillingness to engage in meaningful talks aimed at achieving peace and ending the war, as well as on the need to maintain pressure to force Putin to the negotiating table. A European source said this after the leader welcomed Volodymyr Zelensky and discussed the situation in Ukraine.

After the Ukrainian president left the room, they then addressed the issue of Kiev's financial needs, focusing on the proposal for the use of Russian assets. The leaders will return to this point in the afternoon, after a working lunch on defense.

2:23 PM | October 23

Crosetto: Sanctions against Russia are irrelevant if 30% of countries implement them

I've often clashed at NATO meetings, telling my colleagues that sanctions are smart when 99% of the world takes them, but irrelevant when 30% takes them. When you sanctioned Russian oil, you didn't block Russia's wealth; you changed the destination of Russia's wealth. They stopped selling it to Europe and replaced it with China, India, and other countries. This was Defense Minister Guido Crosetto's statement in his lecture during the inauguration of the 2025-2026 academic year at the Army's training institutes.

Previously, Russian oil went entirely to Europe, Crosetto observed, emphasizing that after the sanctions, it easily changed customers.

2:21 PM | October 23

Moscow: Using our assets? It would be theft. The response would be painful.

Russia threatens Europe: if Russian assets are seized, Moscow will respond painfully. These are the words of Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. The EU does not have the legal means to seize these assets legally; it would be theft, Zakharova added.

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​We will act in full compliance with the principle of reciprocity in international relations, starting from our interests and the need to compensate for the damage caused to Russia, the spokeswoman said, specifying that Russia will not pay any reparations to Ukraine. Therefore, she continued, Europeans will bear full responsibility for the consequences of these confiscations and other manipulations of our reserves.

Zelensky: Russia has killed two more journalists, 135 since 2022, a deliberate strategy to silence independent voices

Russia continues to attack, kill, and injure journalists covering the war against Ukraine. These are not accidents or mistakes, but a deliberate Russian strategy to silence all independent voices denouncing war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote in a post on X, after a Russian drone hit a car carrying journalists from the Ukrainian TV Freedom in Kramatorsk, killing journalist Olena Hubanova and cameraman Yevhen Karmazin and seriously injuring journalist Oleksandr Kolychev. 

I am grateful to everyone in the world who does not turn a blind eye to Russia's targeted attacks against journalists and other crimes, Zelensky continued, according to whom it is very important to support our people: I urge everyone around the world, including journalists, media observers, specialized representatives of the United Nations and the OSCE, all governments and institutions, to support the defense of Ukraine and to exert all kinds of pressure on Russia to help end this war. as soon as possible.

2:19 PM | October 23

Washington Post: Russia has purchased Western technology to protect its nuclear submarine fleet.

Russia has acquired Western technology through a secret procurement network to protect its submarine fleet and build an underwater surveillance system in the Arctic or Barents Sea, according to an investigation by the Washington Post, published a few hours after the US administration imposed sanctions against oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil, the first since Donald Trump returned to the White House. The acquired components include sonar systems and underwater drones capable of operating at depths of 3,000 meters, underwater antennas, and a fleet of ships that pretend to operate as commercial or research vessels but are actually installing military systems. At the heart of the procurement network is the Cyprus-based company Mostrello Commercial Ltd, a front company for the Russian military-industrial complex. The system, which bears the name Armonia, is made up of A constellation of sensors placed on the seabed that detect the entry of American submarines into Russian naval"strongholds." Its role emerged during a trial in Germany in recent months against a Russian convicted of coordinating purchases for the company in violation of German trade regulations.

2:18 PM | October 23

Power restored at the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant

Power has been restored to the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine after a record-breaking outage lasting a month following the Russian invasion, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said. The restoration of power to the plant, occupied by Russian forces, following the repair of an external power line thanks to a local ceasefire, is"a crucial step for nuclear safety," the UN nuclear watchdog wrote in a message on X.

2:17 PM | October 23

Zelensky-Macron bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the European Council

On the sidelines of the European Council, currently underway in Brussels, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. We have coordinated positions ahead of the meeting of the coalition of the willing, Zelensky wrote on X. The Ukrainian president then said that with Macron we discussed the consequences of Russian attacks on Ukraine and the strengthening of air defense and our energy sector: this is currently one of the priorities. But defense cooperation is also a focus, along with specific decisions that can strengthen Ukraine, Zelensky continued, thanking France and Emmanuel personally for their support. We appreciate all the help provided to protect human lives.

2:16 PM | October 23

Crosetto: 1.1 million Russians and 550,000 Ukrainians killed

Every month, 35,000 Russians die, and every month, 35,000 Russians are recruited. Over 1.1 million Russians and over 550,000 Ukrainians have died since the beginning of the war. In Europe, just a stone's throw away. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said this in Turin, at the Palazzo Arsenale, during a keynote address at the inauguration ceremony for the 2025-2026 academic year of the Army's training institutes.

And this, Crosetto explained, continues, because conscription continues and because Putin is now cornered. His only option to get out is to attack, because if tomorrow he were to roll back the economy he built, from a war economy to a normal one, he would be in enormous difficulty. He has reached 3 million reservists and military personnel, and he pays them; he should tell them,"Go home and find a job." He should tell the 55% of Russian industry he has converted to a military economy,"Go back to making refrigerators, cars, and other things!" That would put him in difficulty; therefore, the only way is to allow Putin a way out other than attack.

1:59 PM | October 23

Zelensky: Russia's destructive tactics pose a threat to future wars

Russia is turning everything destructive into an instrument of war; it's now part of their military tactics and doctrine. This means aggression, creating chaos, and threatening others, not just Ukraine. If Russia isn't held accountable for this, it will pose a danger to other countries as well. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this at the European Council meeting in Brussels, as he himself reported in a post on X.

Every day, we are in a cycle: the Russians destroy, we restore. Russia is using all types of weapons, from ballistic missiles hitting power plants to first-person drones attacking local transformers in villages. This energy terror isn't just a local problem or a conflict between distant states. It's becoming part of what future wars might look like.

For the Ukrainian leader, it's now necessary to build our policies to prevent such tactics from spreading or being repeated, in Europe or elsewhere. In the post, Zelensky reviews some of these methods, highlighting that most Russian missile and drone attacks aim to disrupt normal life in our cities and communities, to force people to flee or leave them without electricity altogether. Recall yesterday in Kharkiv, where several Russian drones intentionally struck a kindergarten, and the day before yesterday in Sumy, where Shahed drones struck a road. And almost every day, power facilities in our northern region of Chernihiv are hit.

Three men arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia in Britain

Three men suspected of aiding Russian intelligence have been arrested in London. British police announced in a statement that the three—aged 44, 45, and 48—were arrested on suspicion of aiding a foreign intelligence service, in violation of a section of the National Security Act. Police later clarified that the men were Russian intelligence.

1:34 PM | October 23

Zelensky: Putin nervous, long-range weapons a game-changer

Just look at how upset Vladimir Putin became when this topic was raised. He understands that long-range weapons can truly change the course of the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized this when speaking to EU leaders at the European Council in Brussels, as he himself reported on social media.

1:32 PM | October 23

Russian military factory explosion kills at least 10

The death toll from a powerful explosion at the Plastmass military plant in Kopeysk, in Russia's Chelyabinsk region, has risen to 10, leaving 12 missing. Regional governor Aleksei Teksler reported the news on Telegram. The shock wave was so powerful it was heard in several areas of Chelyabinsk, and windows in nearby buildings shattered. The possibility of a drone attack has not yet been ruled out.

Plastmass specializes in the production of explosives and munitions, as well as their disposal. The company is part of the Technodinamika holding, which in turn is part of the state-owned Rostec corporation.

This is the second explosion in a week at a Rostec plant, a public holding company specializing in the consolidation and development of strategically important companies in the defense and high-tech sectors. On October 17, a similar accident occurred at the Avangard plant in Sterlitamak, which also produces munitions and explosives. Six employees were injured. Dmitry Loginov, the plant's general director, attributed the incident to an accident at the nitrogen production unit, the Moscow Times recalls.

1:16 PM | October 23

Crosetto: If Putin still says no to Trump, why doesn't he want a truce but war?

It's not a delicate moment; it's part of how Trump has structured his foreign policy. He can probably be successful with players like Putin. I'm convinced that Putin has reached the point where he no longer has any motivation to accept the truce, and Trump is somehow pushing him against the wall. We'll see what he responds, because if he says no again, it means he has no interest in peace at all, but only wants war. This was Defense Minister Guido Crosetto's statement in Turin, on the sidelines of the inauguration of the academic year at the Army's training institutes. Crosetto also emphasized that until January 2022, most of Russian oil went to Europe. After the war in Ukraine and the resulting sanctions, Moscow easily switched clients. This is why I've often clashed at NATO meetings, telling my colleagues: sanctions are smart when 99% of the world takes them, but when 30% take them, they're irrelevant. When you sanctioned Russian oil, you didn't block Russia's wealth; you changed the destination of Russia's wealth. They stopped selling it to Europe and replaced it with China, India, and other countries.

1:03 PM | October 23

Zelensky: Delays on Russian assets limit our defense

Anyone who delays the decision on the full use of frozen Russian assets not only limits our defense but also slows down the EU's progress. Now is the time to act on Russian assets. And I urge you to provide full support, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in his speech at the EU summit.

The proposed mechanism for the use of frozen Russian assets is completely legal and fair. It is a model based on the idea of future reparations—holding the aggressor accountable for the damage caused. These enormous funds can support Ukraine's resilience and contribute to your own development, he added.

We plan to use a significant portion of the frozen Russian assets to purchase European weapons. This money can help both you and us. It can also be used immediately to strengthen Ukraine's air defense, air fleet, and frontline positions. This means saving lives, he concluded.

12:57 PM | October 23

Two journalists killed by Russian drone in Kramatorsk, Kiev.

Ukrainian Freedom TV journalist Olena Gubanova and cameraman Yevhen Karmazin were killed in a Russian drone strike in Kramatorsk, Donetsk Region. The TV station confirmed the death. Another journalist, Oleksandr Kolychev, was reportedly taken to the hospital with injuries. This tragedy is further evidence of Russia's systematic war crimes against civilians. The perpetrators must be punished in accordance with international law, said Dmytro Lubinets, the Ukrainian Parliament's Commissioner for Human Rights.

Finnish PM: Russian asset deal very close

Finland takes Belgium's concerns about the potential consequences of the EU loan to Ukraine using frozen Russian assets very seriously. The solution must be legally viable, and we are ready to share the burden, but I believe a solution is very close. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said this on the sidelines of the European Council in Brussels. For the prime minister, using Russian assets to support Ukraine is the right thing to do, because Vladimir Putin destroyed Ukraine: that's why it's the best possible solution. The other option would be to use our own money, drawn from our budgets, but we lack resources. For Orpo, we need to send a clear message to the Commission that it must prepare a clear proposal so that we can provide substantial financing to Ukraine in the coming years, he concluded.

12:49 PM | October 23

Moscow, 32 drones launched from Kiev shot down this morning

Between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Moscow time, Russian air defense systems shot down 32 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in seven regions, the Russian Defense Ministry reported. The regions affected were Kaluga, Bryansk, Belgorod, Crimea, Kursk, Orenburg, and one in the Moscow region.

12:49 PM | October 23

Kiev: Russia has returned 1,000 bodies of fallen soldiers

Russia has returned to Ukraine 1,000 bodies believed to belong to Ukrainian soldiers killed in combat, the Ukrainian administration responsible for prisoners of war announced. The repatriation operations took place today, the source said, praising the assistance provided by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The remains must now be identified.

12:42 PM | October 23

Zelensky: Use Russian assets immediately, we will buy European weapons

We must use frozen Russian assets to make Russia understand that it is paying for its own war. I therefore ask you to make a decision as soon as possible: Russian assets must be fully utilized to defend ourselves from Russian aggression. Volodymyr Zelensky stated this in his address to EU leaders at the European Council. These substantial funds can support Ukraine's resilience and contribute to your development: we intend to use a significant portion of frozen Russian assets to purchase European weapons, he added.

12:41 PM | October 23

Zelensky to EU leaders: You too have long-range weapons

When we talk about long-range weapons for Ukraine, we mean that the Putin regime should suffer concrete consequences as a result of this war. I urge you to support everything that helps Ukraine acquire these capabilities, because it makes a real difference for Russia. These long-range weapons aren't just in the United States: some European countries also have them, including the Tomahawk. We're already talking to countries that can help. Volodymyr Zelensky said this in his address to EU leaders at the European Council.

12:10 PM | October 23

Kiev: It's not true that the Zelensky-Trump summit went badly.

Ukrainian Presidential Office Chief Andriy Yermak denied media reports that last week's meeting in Washington between US and Ukrainian presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky went poorly."I disagree with the assessment that [the talks] went poorly," Yermak said in an interview with RBC-Ukraine."Yes, we didn't get all the results we were hoping for right now. Putin's phone call undoubtedly played a role," Zelensky's chief of staff admitted,"but this wasn't an acceleration toward instant victories; it was instead a foundation for further work." The main thing is that the conversation ended with a shared strategic position: any negotiations and subsequent ceasefire are possible only with reference to the current line of contact, Yermak concluded. The visions of Presidents Trump and Zelensky completely coincide.

11:27 AM | October 23

Russian attack in Kramatorsk kills two journalists

(Marta Serafini) Two Ukrainian journalists from Freedom TV—reporter Olena Gubanova and cameraman Yevhen Karmazinsono—were killed in a Russian Lancet drone strike in Kramatorsk, eastern Ukraine. The two were at a gas station when their car was hit by an explosion.

Costa: It's clear that Putin doesn't accept Trump's initiatives

Despite the expectations raised by President Trump's initiatives, it's clear they don't inspire goodwill on the part of Vladimir Putin: Russia has increased attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, and therefore we must continue to support Ukraine. This was stated by European Council President Antonio Costa.

10:53 AM | October 23

Kiev: Trump has given the green light to send Patriot missiles

Donald Trump has given the green light to the transfer of Patriot air defense systems to Kiev, according to Andriy Yermak, head of the presidential office, in an interview with RBC-Ukraine. The most important thing is that Trump has given the green light, so the issues in this regard are mostly technical, the head of the Ukrainian presidential office stated. Regarding the Tomahawks, discussions are ongoing, and I wouldn't say that the door is closed, the head of the presidential office added.

10:34 AM | October 23

Medvedev: US sanctions are a declaration of war. But Zakharova is holding back:"We're ready to contact the US State Department."

Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev called US sanctions against Russian oil an act of war against Moscow. Yesterday, the United States announced a new package of sanctions, including measures against oil companies Rosneft, Lukoil, and their subsidiaries. Furthermore, US President Donald Trump announced that he had canceled a meeting with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin in Budapest, but would meet with him in the future. This does not change the main point: the decisions taken are an act of war against Russia, Medvedev wrote on his Telegram channel. The Russian Foreign Ministry has taken a more relaxed stance towards the US. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Moscow is ready to engage with the US State Department, with the aim of clarifying the parameters of the Russia-US dialogue. The goal is to further clarify the parameters of the Russian-American dialogue, both on various aspects of bilateral relations and on further joint steps toward a resolution of the Ukrainian issue, he added.

10:33 AM | October 23

Moscow reiterates: EU sanctions are counterproductive

The EU sanctions against Russia are ineffective and harmful to the European Union itself, and Moscow reserves the right to respond based on its own interests, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated, commenting on the adoption of the 19th EU sanctions package. RIA Novosti reports. The sanctions being imposed on Russia, as expected, are not working, Zakharova stated at a press conference, reiterating Moscow's long-standing position: sanctions work first and foremost against the European Union. Brussels' capacity to extend sanctions against our country has largely been exhausted. Russia, the spokeswoman then warned, reserves the right to respond to any hostile action by the EU in the manner we deem most appropriate and beneficial. We will respond appropriately, carefully, and in accordance with our fundamental interests, Zakharova added.

10:10 AM | October 23

Kiev, US sanctions on Russian oil send a strong message

In the United States, holding the aggressor accountable is taking on a clear legislative form, and the Treasury's new sanctions against Russian oil giants send a strong message: prolonging the war and spreading terror has a cost." This is how the head of the Ukrainian presidential office, Andrii Yermak, commented on the sanctions launched by the Trump administration against Moscow."This is a right and fully justified move," Yermak wrote on X, thanking the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury for their constant commitment and unwavering dedication."The path is peace through power and strength," concluded Volodymr Zelensky's chief of staff.

9:59 AM | October 23

Latvia: We need to show solidarity with Belgium on assets.

I think it's important for all member states to share the burden with Belgium on the use of Russian assets. Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina stated this upon her arrival at the European Council. Furthermore, there must be a strong legal basis because I assume Russia will probably file some legal challenge. So we should be very well prepared. And it seems we are, she added.

9:56 AM | October 23

China opposes US sanctions on Russian oil

China opposes US sanctions against Russia's oil sector, imposed by Washington in the hope of forcing Moscow to end the war in Ukraine. China consistently opposes unilateral sanctions that are not based on international law and are not authorized by the United Nations Security Council, said Guo Jiakun. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson also denounced the European Union's new measures against 12 Chinese companies accused of helping Russia circumvent Western sanctions.

9:49 AM | October 23

Zelensky, Tomahawk a sensitive issue but sanctions were also sensitive

Regarding the deployment of the Tomahawks, I think you heard this from President Trump: it's a very delicate decision, but it's like the previous sanctions. It was something incredible, but now we're seeing the decisions on these energy sanctions, which are very important, and that's why I think we'll have the same decision in the long run. But it depends on the American side, on them, to be precise. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated this upon his arrival at the European Council in Brussels, adding that he is not willing to make any territorial concessions.

Zelensky: Ceasefire possible, put more pressure on Moscow

Thank you for the invitation and for the decision on the 19-sanctions package, which is crucial for us. Today goes hand in hand with President Trump's decisions yesterday on energy and also on the sanctions package we were waiting for. Russia shows no signs of wanting to stop this war. They attack our kindergartens, schools, and even civilians. We must defend ourselves not only with all of Europe, but also with the United States, together. We must put pressure on Putin and stop this warlike pressure. Ukrainian President Zelensky said this as soon as he arrived in Brussels for the European Council.

 A ceasefire is possible, of course. I think we all need it. But we need more pressure on Russia. The 19-sanctions package is very important, and it is also important for the European leaders of the EU, but the American sanctions are also very important," he continues."This is a good signal for other countries around the world to adhere to the sanctions. You know that we not only need energy, but also a shadow fleet and so on. And keep going and going until Putin stops this war. So these are very important decisions. A ceasefire is possible, of course, and I think we all need one, but we need to put more pressure on Russia to achieve a ceasefire, he emphasizes.

Costa: Decision on financial support today

Today, at this European Council, we will take the political decision to secure Ukraine's financial needs for 2026 and 2027, including the purchase of military equipment. European Council President Antonio Costa stated this as he entered the European Council meeting alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This is a very strong message to Russia. We have repeatedly said that we will support Ukraine for as long as necessary and at any cost. And now we are making it happen, he added. On the technical issues of solutions: we continue to work on them with the European Commission, Costa added, reiterating that the most important thing is the political decision and the clear message we are sending to Russia.

9:34 AM | October 23

Tajani: Russians don't want end of war, urge China

We'll see what happens in Ukraine. Meanwhile, we need to see what the Russians do. The rest is theory, a debate about something that hasn't happened yet, because it seems to me that the Russians don't want to end the war. I also think it's right to urge China, as the United States says, because China has great influence over the Russian Federation and, if it wants, China can also play a significant role in reducing tensions. Meanwhile, we need to move forward with sanctions, both European and American, hoping that Putin will come to his senses. This was stated by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani at the EPP pre-summit.

9:23 AM | October 23

Metsola: Adoption of 19th sanctions package a crucial step

Let's keep up the pressure on Russia. The adoption of the 19th EU sanctions package represents another crucial step as we move away from Russian fossil fuels, wrote European Parliament President Roberta Metsola in a social media post. We must ensure the sanctions have maximum impact and all loopholes are closed. This isn't just about supporting Ukraine. It's about our collective security, she added.

9:09 AM | October 23

Zelensky arrives at the EU summit; welcomed by Costa

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived at the Europa Palace, where the EU summit is being held. He was welcomed by European Council President Antonio Costa. More pressure will be needed for a ceasefire, the president said upon arrival.

9:09 AM | October 23

Raid on rescue workers after bombing in Kharkiv, firefighter killed

Russian forces attacked firefighters rushing to put out a blaze that had spread after earlier shelling in the Zelenyi Hai settlement in the Kupiansk district, Kiev reported. One rescuer was killed. The victim was identified as Yuriy Chystuikov, 49. Five other firefighters from the unit he commanded were injured.

8:56 AM | October 23

Madrid to finance US weapons for Kiev in Nat program

After weeks of hesitation, the Spanish government led by Pedro Sanchez has decided to join the PURL (Priority Ukraine Requirements List) program, the NATO-led initiative to finance the supply of weapons to Ukraine. Government sources confirmed this to El Pais. The Spanish Prime Minister discussed the issue last Tuesday in a telephone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, while Defense Minister Margarita Robles spoke with her Kiev counterpart, Denys Shmyhal. According to sources, Ukraine has urgently requested weapons to cope with the bombing campaign that is devastating the country's energy infrastructure before the coming winter. The PURL program, launched in August, is Europe's response to Donald Trump's change of heart, who halted the arms supplies previously guaranteed by Joe Biden. Unable to cover the costs, Kiev will now receive American weapons—including Patriot systems and Himars rockets—paid for by allied countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, for a total value of approximately two billion dollars. Madrid will participate with an estimated contribution of around 200 million euros, according to military experts cited by the newspaper, with no official figure yet being set. The agreement complements the pact signed in May 2024 between Sanchez and Zelensky, which already provides for the annual supply of Spanish armaments worth one billion euros. The new development is that Spain will now finance direct purchases from Washington, a point that has raised concerns in countries like France.

Spain's purchase of US military supplies could help ease tensions between Madrid and Washington, after US President Donald Trump threatened Spain with retaliation four times for failing to meet the commitment to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP over the next decade, imposed at the Alliance summit in The Hague in June. The latest was yesterday, when at a press conference in the Oval Office with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump accused Madrid of not being a team player, according to Spanish media reports today. The tycoon also said that the Alliance secretary general will have to speak with Spain, but expressed his belief that increasing Spain's commitment is an objective Rutte can easily achieve.

8:54 AM | October 23

Austria, US sanctions a step towards bringing Putin to the table

The fact that the US president is applying more pressure by imposing sanctions on Russian companies like Lukoil and Rosneft is, I think, a step forward in bringing Putin to the negotiating table. Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker stated this upon his arrival at the European Council.

8:53 AM | October 23

Belgium's conditions for the use of Russian assets

If we want to use Russian assets, we have three demands: I want full mutualization of risk, because the risk is great. We will face enormous claims for compensation. So, if we want to do it, we will all have to do it together. We want guarantees that if the money is to be repaid, all member states will contribute. The consequences cannot affect Belgium alone. And the third demand is that every country that has immobilized assets must move with us, because we are the only ones—Euroclear is the only financial institution offering extra profits to Ukraine. We know that there are large sums of Russian money in other countries that have always remained silent about it. If we move, we must all do it together. This is European solidarity: Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever declared it upon his arrival at the European Council.

If these three demands, which are entirely reasonable, are met, then we can move forward. If not, I will do everything in my power at the European level, including at the national level, politically and legally, to stop this decision, he added.

8:50 AM | October 23

Kallas: It's increasingly difficult for Putin to finance the war.

We just adopted our 19th package of sanctions. It targets, among others, Russian banks, cryptocurrency exchanges, entities in India and China. The EU is curbing the movements of Russian diplomats to counter destabilization attempts. It's becoming increasingly difficult for Putin to finance this war. EU High Representative for Foreign Policy Kaja Kallas writes in X.

8:44 AM | October 23

Media reports one dead in drone strike in Russia

A civilian was killed and two others were injured in a drone strike in Russia's Belgorod region, near the border with Ukraine. The governor of the region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, said this, according to Tass. A man was killed in a drone strike on a car in the village of Kukuyevka, Gladkov wrote on his Telegram channel. Two other people were injured, he added.

8:13 AM | October 23

Moscow: 139 Kiev drones shot down, one dead in Bryansk

Russian Air Defense Forces shot down 139 Ukrainian Armed Forces drones overnight in 11 regions, the Defense Ministry reported, as reported by RIA Novosti. The targeted regions are: Belgorod, Voronezh, Ryazan, Rostov, the occupied Crimean Peninsula, Tambov, Volgograd, Oryol, Kaluga, Kursk, and Bryansk, where the local governor, Alexander Bogomaz, reported one death.

8:04 AM | October 23

French cyclist detained in Russia since September released

French cyclist Sofiane Sehili, detained in Russia since early September, was fined for illegally crossing the border into Russia and has been released, the official RIA Novosti news agency reported. A court in the town of Pogranichny, in the Primorsky Region (Russian Far East), found Sofiane Sehili"guilty" and fined him 50,000 rubles, approximately €530.

Given the time spent in pre-trial detention, the 44-year-old cyclist was exempted from paying the fine and was released in court.

Sehili faced up to two years in prison. He was arrested in early September in the Russian Far East, presumably on the final leg of his"crossing" of Eurasia by bicycle.

8:03 AM | October 23

Where has Putin's genius gone?

(Federico Rampini) From war to geopolitics, from economics to diplomatic relations, the Russian president is losing ground. Trump was duped at two summits, but after hearing that Putin was playing him, he did what he does best: an about-face. Here is Federico Rampini's analysis.

7:24 AM | October 23

Media reports: Four injured in Russian air raid on Kiev overnight

Four people were injured in a Russian drone strike on Kiev overnight, according to Tymur Tkachenko, head of the city's military administration. RBC-Ukraine reports. Last night, air raid sirens were activated twice in Kiev and several other regions of Ukraine due to the threat of ballistic missile attacks. The Ukrainian Air Force reported a high-speed target heading toward the city of Kremenchuk. Residents were urged to take cover and follow the instructions of the civil defense until the alert is lifted.

7:22 AM | October 23

Donbass has European roots that Russia wants to erase: we don't accept it

Writer Mykhed: As a Ukrainian, I don't think it's right to give up our land and our history. Here is the interview.

7:19 AM | October 23

Why Trump Can't Tame Putin: The Ego Trap, Shady Relationships, and Business. Follow the Money

In this conflict it has much less influence and ability to exert pressure. Here is Paolo Valentino's report.

7:18 AM | October 23

Rubio: US would still like to meet with Russia

The US administration would be willing to hold further meetings with Russia, provided such contacts contribute to the resolution of the Ukrainian conflict. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated this in response to journalists' questions, as documented in a video published on Rainews.it and as reported by Tass on its website. The US diplomat signaled his willingness to hold future talks after the meeting is cancelled."We would still like to meet with the Russians. We will always be interested in dialogue if there is an opportunity to achieve peace," Rubio said.

7:17 AM | October 23

Kharkiv: Russian drone strikes kindergarten in broad daylight. A 12-year-old and a baby are killed in the Kiev region. Zelensky: A spit in the face of peace.

Russian attack on Wednesday morning: children evacuated from kindergarten. The Ukrainian leader: They are showing acute signs of stress. Six victims across the country, including the capital. These attacks come as US President Donald Trump indefinitely postponed his meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, stating he does not want to useless conversations The two leaders had planned to meet in Budapest to try to find a solution to the war in Ukraine. Here is Marta Serafini's report.

7:09 AM | October 23

Ambassador praises massive US sanctions against Russia

Ukraine's ambassador to the United States praised President Donald Trump's long-awaited sanctions against Russia, saying only a show of force will work against Moscow. This decision is fully consistent with Ukraine's consistent position that peace can only be achieved through force and by exerting maximum pressure on the aggressor using all available international instruments, Ambassador Olga Stefanishyna said in a statement. Trump explained that every time he speaks with Vladimir, he has good conversations, and then we get nowhere, but added that he hopes the massive sanctions against Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil will be short-lived."We hope the war will be resolved," he said along with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

2:45 AM | October 23

Rutte: If we keep up the pressure on Moscow, we will reach a truce.

I am absolutely convinced that, with continued pressure, we will be able to find common ground to agree on a ceasefire, and that there will be further talks, as you have seen in the last two weeks. Mark Rutte said this to reporters at the White House after his meeting with Donald Trump.

1:44 AM | October 23

Explosion at a Russian factory, nine dead

An explosion at a factory in Kopeysk, in the Chelyabinsk region, on the slopes of the Ural Mountains, Russia, has killed nine people. The news was announced - as reported by the Tax Governor Alexey Teksler posted on his Telegram channel. Nine people have been confirmed dead so far. Five people have been injured, and our medical staff is doing everything possible to stabilize their condition. We are updating the information on the missing, he said. The cause of the explosion remains unclear, and at this time, the possibility of it being triggered by a drone has not been ruled out.

1:30 AM | October 23

Trump: I'll talk to Xi about how to end the war in Ukraine

I will talk to Xi Jinping about how to end the war in Ukraine. I think he will be very receptive. Donald Trump said so. He has a great influence on Putin, he added.

1:23 AM | October 23

Trump: I hope Putin becomes reasonable with sanctions

I hope that after the sanctions, Putin will become more reasonable. Donald Trump said so in justifying his decision. And I hope Zelensky will also become more reasonable, the US president added, emphasizing that the level of hatred between Putin and Zelensky is much higher and it takes two to tango.

1:15 AM | October 23

Trump: We've had good talks with Putin, but we're getting nowhere.

Every time I talk to Vladimir, I have a good conversation, and then nothing happens, but it's time to make a deal. Donald Trump said this when describing his talks with Russian President Putin.

1:04 AM | October 23

US announces sanctions against Rosneft and Lukoil

The U.S. Treasury Department has announced a series of new sanctions against the Russian oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil. As a result of today's action, all assets and interests in assets of the above-described designated or blocked persons located in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported, according to a statement from the U.S. Treasury. Additionally, all entities owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, by one or more blocked persons, 50% or more, are also blocked.

12:51 AM | October 23

Trump denies WSJ report: I didn't authorize missiles

The Wall Street Journal article on the approval by the United States

Authorizing Ukraine to use long-range missiles deep inside Russia is fake news! The United States had nothing to do with those missiles, wherever they came from, or what Ukraine does with them! Donald Trump writes this on Truth.

12:41 AM | October 23

Trump: Only we can launch Tomahawks and we don't want to do it

Tomahawks are a very powerful and accurate weapon, and it takes a year of intense training to learn how to use them. President Trump said this in response to a question about the possible supply of long-range missiles to Ukraine. The only way a Tomahawk can be launched is if we launch it ourselves, and we don't intend to, Trump explained in the Oval Office after a face-to-face meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

12:35 AM | October 23

Trump: I will meet Putin in the future

I canceled the meeting with Putin, but we will have one in the future. Donald Trump said this, speaking after his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. It didn't seem right to me; it seemed like we weren't going in the direction we should have, the US president said, explaining the reasons for his decision.

12:28 AM | October 23

Trump insists: We will solve the war in Ukraine

Donald Trump continues to assure that the war in Ukraine will be resolved. In a bilateral meeting with the NATO Secretary General in the Studio

Ovale reiterated that he thought it was easier than the Middle East.

12:19 AM | October 23

Zelensky: Freezing the front lines is a good compromise

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that U.S. President Donald Trump's call for Ukraine and Russia to freeze the current front lines is"a good compromise," according to Reuters and AFP. Trump, Zelensky explained during his visit to Norway today, proposed"staying where we are and starting a dialogue. I think it's a good compromise, but I'm not sure Putin will support it, and I told the president that."

0:13 | October 23

Bessent: Putin was not honest with Trump, president disappointed

Vladimir Putin wasn't honest in his talks with Donald Trump, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Wednesday, adding that a major sanctions package against Russia is in the works. President Putin didn't come to the negotiating table in an honest and forthright manner, as we had hoped, Bessent told Fox Business, adding that Trump was disappointed with the way the talks went.

0:05 | October 23

Moscow: Without New Start, the nuclear threat is at risk of increasing.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov stated that the emergence of a complete vacuum regarding the limits of nuclear potential, increased tensions, and a further increase in the nuclear threat would represent an undesirable alternative to Russia's proposed step of continuing to comply with the restrictions of the New START Treaty for another year after its expiration in February 2026, TASS reported. But we can certainly cope with such an alternative, should it arise. And our security will still be guaranteed, Ryabkov added. The Russian deputy foreign minister also stated that the feasibility of the Russian initiative can only be guaranteed if the US demonstrates reciprocity and refrains from actions that undermine the current balance of deterrent capabilities. According to TASS, Ryabkov said he currently sees no practical opportunity for Washington and Moscow to engage in professional, realistic, and results-oriented dialogue on nonproliferation issues, arguing that the arms control and nonproliferation agenda has become dependent on the developments and dynamics of other issues, primarily Ukraine and related issues. New START, which dates back to 2010, is the last existing agreement between Russia and the US to limit nuclear weapons. The agreement limits the strategic nuclear weapons that Russia and the US can deploy, setting a ceiling of 1,550 warheads and 700 missiles and bombers.

0:01 | October 22

Moscow: There are no significant obstacles to the Trump-Putin summit.

There are no significant obstacles to the announced summit between US and Russian presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov told reporters. Ryabkov, Tass reports, did not confirm that Moscow and Washington had exchanged informal documents and reiterated that preparations for the summit are continuing. The question is whether the parameters defined by the presidents in Anchorage will be implemented, and it's a difficult process, we must admit, the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister added, but that's why the diplomats are there: to address this issue. Of course, there are attempts to present the situation as if it has changed compared to a week, two weeks, or three weeks ago, Ryabkov added, addressing press rumors of a slowdown in negotiations. He attributes this to the deliberate desire of those opposing an agreement to reduce the chances of reaching one. The abundance of various rumors and fakes from anonymous sources, appearing primarily in the information space controlled by Western media, does not help the cause, the senior Russian official concluded.

Trump: The meeting in Budapest with Putin? I don't want to waste time; let's see what happens.

October 23, 12:01 AM - Updated October 23, 8:15 PM