The United States has resumed sharing intelligence with Ukraine regarding Russian missile strikes, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He made the announcement on Tuesday after discussions with US envoy Steve Witkoff in Norway. This renewed cooperation is expected to provide Kyiv with advance warnings of ballistic missile attacks, potentially enhancing civilian protection efforts.
Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for the intelligence-sharing resumption, emphasizing the importance of early warnings in safeguarding the lives of civilians, including children. He conveyed gratitude towards Washington, noting that such information could be crucial in saving lives amidst ongoing Russian attacks.
This development occurs against a backdrop of strained relations between Washington and Kyiv, particularly concerning the future of US military support and efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While US President Donald Trump has urged Zelenskyy to pursue a peace agreement, Ukraine maintains that any settlement must respect its sovereignty and involve Ukrainian participation in negotiations.
Following his meeting with Zelenskyy, Witkoff was set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of diplomatic efforts to explore potential negotiation pathways. However, significant disagreements remain regarding the terms of any potential settlement.
During the talks, Zelenskyy also highlighted concerns about restrictions impacting Ukraine’s military communications and the availability of Patriot air defense systems. He indicated that Ukraine might consider halting long-range attacks on Russian oil refineries if the United States provides additional Patriot missiles to bolster its air defenses.
The Ukrainian president firmly rejected any proposals for negotiations concerning his country’s future that do not include Ukrainian participation, insisting that Kyiv must have a say in any discussions related to its territory and security.
Meanwhile, Russian attacks continue to ravage Ukraine. On Tuesday, reports indicated that at least nine people were killed, including three fatalities from a Russian drone attack on vehicles traveling along the Kyiv-Odesa highway, with four others injured.
While the renewed intelligence sharing could enhance Ukraine’s preparedness against missile strikes, uncertainties linger regarding the extent of future US military assistance and the prospects for a negotiated resolution to the conflict.