NATO Chiefs Strategize Ukraine's Security Future Amid Peace Talks

NATO defence chiefs are convening virtually to explore future security guarantees for Ukraine, as Western countries advance diplomatic negotiations with Russia to end the ongoing conflict. Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, chair of NATO's Military Committee, highlighted the involvement of 32 defence chiefs in this critical dialogue.

The discussions mark a concerted US-led push to cease hostilities, with NATO's supreme allied commander Europe, US Gen Alexus Grynkewich, set to participate. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized the exclusion of Moscow from these security negotiations, affirming Russia's commitment to its own interests.

Despite diplomatic efforts, Russia's aggressive actions persist, prompting Ukrainian leaders, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to demand robust security guarantees. As European allies mull the framework of a potential peace-supporting force, uncertainty remains about the US role, with President Trump ruling out troop deployment.

(With inputs from agencies.)