NATO defense ministers have approved a significant plan to provide long-term military training aid to Ukraine, concluding a two-day meeting in Brussels. This initiative aims to ensure a steady flow of support for Ukraine's defense efforts amid concerns over potential disruptions, particularly in light of the possibility of a reduction in U.S. assistance should Donald Trump regain the presidency.

In a contrasting development, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is prepared to end the ongoing war in Ukraine, contingent upon Kyiv's abandonment of its NATO membership aspirations and the transfer of four provinces claimed by Russia. Western leaders have dismissed this offer as unrealistic, characterizing it not as a genuine peace proposal but rather as an escalation of aggression. They emphasized that Putin, having illegally occupied Ukrainian territory, lacks the authority to dictate terms for peace.

This diplomatic tension unfolds as preparations are underway for a Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland this weekend, which is expected to draw at least 100 delegations from around the world.