Ukrainian soldiers dismiss Trump-Russia peace push

Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines have dismissed this week’s U.S.-Russia peace talks, insisting they see no quick end to the war if Kyiv is excluded from negotiations.

Clutching an assault rifle, an infantryman known as "Rugbyist" recalled Ukraine’s fierce resistance during Russia’s 2022 invasion and suggested his country could do it again if left to fight alone.

"You can't be betrayed by a person you didn't expect anything from," he said, expressing little faith in U.S. President Donald Trump’s support for Ukraine.

Another soldier, "Pruzhynka," was equally dismissive of the talks in Saudi Arabia and vowed to continue fighting.

"Maybe they decided something over there - but that's their opinion," he said. "Ukrainians won’t believe all that."

Trump has pushed for a quick peace deal with Moscow, sidelining Kyiv—a move that has alarmed Ukrainian leaders and allies.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has rejected any settlement negotiated without Ukraine’s involvement and is seeking strong security guarantees before considering a deal.

Trump envoy Keith Kellogg said Friday that he had "extensive and positive" talks with Zelenskiy in Kyiv but provided no details. Meanwhile, the Kremlin hinted at a possible Trump-Putin meeting, though no specifics have been confirmed.

Fierce fighting on the eastern front

As diplomacy plays out, Ukrainian troops continue to struggle against Russian advances along the eastern front.

Fighting has been particularly intense near the key logistics hub of Pokrovsk, where Ukrainian forces—including the 68th Jaeger Brigade—are engaged in bitter battles.

At a training ground in southeastern Ukraine, soldiers remained defiant.

"There are many patriots among us - we're descendants of the Cossacks," said "Alladin," a soldier leading drills.

"We will fight till the end."