Ukraine live updates: Kyiv lockdown, as Russia talks ‘more realistic’
It’s day 21 of Russia’s war in Ukraine, which was launched by Vladimir Putin on 24 February. The fighting has forced more than three million Ukrainians to flee their homes, with thousands of people killed or wounded. Follow our live updates below or tune into Euronews in the video player, above.
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If you’re joining us on Wednesday morning, here’s the key points to know:
- In an overnight video message, Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy says ongoing talks with Russian negotiators “sound more realistic, but time is still needed.” Another round of conference calls between the two sides is set to take place today.
- Zelenskyy has appeared to concede his country will not join NATO. In an address to northern European leaders meeting in London, he said “we have heard for many years about the open doors, but we also heard that we can’t enter those doors and this is truth and we have simply to accept it as it is.”
- Later on Wednesday, President Zelenskyy will give a joint address to the US Congress, and afterwards President Biden is expected to announce a new package of support for Ukraine.
- Kyiv is under a 35-hour lockdown which lasts until Thursday morning as Russian forces stepped up their attacks on the capital city, with many residents spending another night in basement bomb shelters or subway stations for safety.
