Putin Questions Peace Talks After Bridge Attacks, Zelenskyy Calls for Ceasefire

Following two explosions that damaged bridges in Russia’s Bryansk and Kursk regions, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed skepticism about the continuation of peace efforts with Ukraine. Investigators claim one bridge was targeted just as a passenger train carrying nearly 400 people passed underneath. Putin accused Ukraine’s leadership of targeting civilians, describing the incidents as "terrorist" in nature. He also stated that Kyiv’s Western allies were enabling such actions. "The current Kyiv regime does not need peace at all," Putin said during a televised meeting. "What is there to talk about?" In contrast, President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a ceasefire to allow for a potential meeting with Putin, stating, "My proposal...is that we propose to Russians a ceasefire until the leaders meet." The situation remains tense, with the potential for further escalation.