In a diplomatic note sent to foreign embassies and international organizations on Wednesday, Moscow said it would carry out “retaliatory strikes,” including against “decision-making centers” in Kyiv, should Ukraine attempt attacks linked to the commemorations.

Russia urged diplomatic missions to “ensure the timely evacuation of personnel from diplomatic and other missions, as well as citizens, from the city of Kyiv.”Ukraine did not immediately respond to the warning.The threat comes amid heightened tensions surrounding Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations, a major state event commemorating the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany during World War Two.

Earlier this week, Russia announced a unilateral ceasefire for May 8-9 to coincide with the commemorations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the move and proposed a separate ceasefire beginning May 6, which Kyiv said Moscow ignored.Zelensky suggested earlier this week that Russia feared potential Ukrainian drone activity over Moscow during the parade.

In his nightly address on Wednesday, he accused Russia of continuing attacks despite Kyiv’s proposed truce and said Ukraine would “respond in kind.”Ukrainian officials reported multiple Russian strikes throughout Wednesday, including attacks in the northern Sumy region where local authorities said at least two people were killed at a kindergarten.

Overall, officials reported at least four deaths in attacks across the country.Military officers stationed on the eastern front told AFP that combat activity had continued at existing intensity levels despite ceasefire discussions.“The enemy continued to carry out infantry raids and attempts to storm our positions,” one Ukrainian officer said on condition of anonymity, adding that Ukrainian forces had responded to Russian attacks.

Another frontline commander said fighting remained unchanged, describing the military response as “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.”Russia’s defense ministry said it intercepted 53 Ukrainian drones overnight between 2100 GMT and 0700 GMT, a lower number than reported in previous days.

The ministry did not specify whether any attacks occurred after Kyiv’s proposed ceasefire deadline.The conflict has intensified in recent weeks with both sides carrying out strikes deep behind front lines. On Tuesday, Ukrainian drone attacks reportedly killed two people in the Russian city of Cheboksary along the Volga River, hundreds of kilometers from Ukraine’s border.Security measures in Moscow have tightened ahead of Friday’s parade.

Russian authorities have announced intermittent citywide internet shutdowns and said military hardware would be removed from the parade for the first time in nearly two decades.Diplomatic efforts to end the war, now in its fifth year, have shown limited progress.

Moscow continues to demand that Ukraine withdraw from four regions claimed by Russia, conditions Kyiv has rejected.

US ambassador to the Holy See Brian Burch said Rubio’s visit would focus on dialogue and engagement over policy differences. “Nations have disagreements,” Burch told reporters, adding the meeting would aim to foster “authentic dialogue” and mutual understanding.

The visit follows renewed criticism by Trump, who accused the pope of undermining US policy on Iran. In recent remarks, Trump suggested the pontiff’s position could endanger people, comments that drew backlash from Christian leaders across political lines.The pope has not supported Iran acquiring nuclear weapons but has opposed the US-led war, which Washington says is aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear program.

In recent weeks, Leo has emerged as a vocal critic of the conflict, as well as of US immigration policies.Burch dismissed suggestions of a deep rift between Washington and the Vatican, saying Rubio’s visit was intended to strengthen communication and address differences directly.

Rubio, a Catholic, previously met the pope last year alongside Vice President JD Vance after attending his inaugural mass, marking one of the few high-level engagements between the Trump administration and the Vatican.During his trip, Rubio is also scheduled to meet Giorgia Meloni in Rome.

Italian officials have expressed concern that the Iran conflict could affect US global leadership, while Meloni has publicly defended the pope.Leo, who marks his first year leading the Catholic Church this week, has increasingly taken positions on international issues, calling for dialogue and restraint in global conflicts.

Speaking at a Turning Point USA event, Vance said distrust between Washington and Tehran remains a fundamental obstacle to any durable agreement. “There is a lot of, of course, mistrust between Iran and the United States of America.

You are not going to solve that problem overnight,” he said, while adding that Iranian negotiators appeared willing to reach a deal.Vance, who participated in recent negotiations held in Pakistan, said he was cautiously optimistic about the trajectory of talks.

“I feel very good about where we are,” he said, signaling confidence in ongoing diplomatic efforts despite recent setbacks.Donald Trump said on Tuesday that discussions aimed at ending the Iran war could resume in Pakistan within days, following the collapse of negotiations over the weekend.

The breakdown prompted Washington to impose a blockade on Iranian ports, escalating economic and military pressure on Tehran.A two-week ceasefire between US and Iranian forces remains in effect, with one week remaining, offering a limited window for diplomatic engagement.

The pause in hostilities follows weeks of intensified conflict that began on February 28, when US and Israeli forces launched strikes on Iran.Tehran retaliated with attacks targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting US military bases, expanding the geographic scope of the conflict.

Subsequent US-Israeli operations inside Iran, along with Israeli strikes in Lebanon, have resulted in significant casualties and widespread displacement, according to official accounts.

The evolving situation underscores the complexity of negotiations, with diplomatic momentum constrained by entrenched mistrust and ongoing military developments.

In a telephone conversation, Lavrov stressed the importance of preventing a return to armed confrontation and reiterated that the conflict has no military solution, according to the ministry’s statement.

The call followed recent talks between the United States and Iran in Pakistan, which ended without agreement. Araqchi briefed Lavrov on the discussions, the ministry said, providing details of negotiations that failed to produce a settlement.

Russia has positioned itself as a potential mediator in the conflict, signaling willingness to engage diplomatically as tensions remain high despite a temporary ceasefire and ongoing international efforts to restart negotiations.

The revised text, circulated by Bahrain, removes earlier provisions that would have allowed the use of force and instead urges states to coordinate “defensive” measures to ensure safe navigation, including escorting commercial vessels.

The vote comes amid more than five weeks of conflict triggered by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, which has led Tehran to largely restrict passage through the strait, a key conduit for global energy supplies, sending oil prices sharply higher.

Diplomats said the watered-down version stands a better chance of adoption but its outcome remains uncertain. A resolution requires at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes from the five permanent members Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States.

Earlier drafts backed by Gulf states and Washington had included language authorizing “all defensive means necessary,” but faced resistance from China and Russia, prompting multiple revisions. China has argued that authorizing force risks escalation and has instead called for efforts to de-escalate the conflict.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Beijing was prepared to work with Russia at the Security Council to help calm tensions in the Middle East, emphasizing that a ceasefire was the fundamental path to resolving the crisis.

Iran has signaled it seeks a lasting end to hostilities but has resisted pressure to reopen the strait, while U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of consequences if Tehran does not reach a deal by a self-imposed deadline.

The latest draft reflects a compromise effort to bridge divisions within the council while addressing growing concerns over disruptions to one of the world’s most critical maritime trade routes.

Wang Yi has led a flurry of outreach, holding discussions with counterparts across the Middle East and Europe while advocating a ceasefire and reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Beijing has also opposed a United Nations proposal backed by Bahrain that could authorize force to ensure maritime transit through the strait.

Analysts say the diplomatic push reflects China’s broader ambition to project itself as a responsible global power. Sun Yun of the Stimson Center said the conflict presents an opportunity for Beijing to demonstrate leadership, while former U.S. diplomat Danny Russel described the initiative as largely symbolic, comparing it to China’s earlier proposals on Ukraine that lacked implementation.

“It’s messaging, not mediation,” Russel said, arguing that China is seeking to contrast its approach with Washington’s.The administration of Donald Trump has shown limited enthusiasm for third-party mediation, with U.S. officials indicating reluctance to elevate China’s diplomatic role in the Middle East.

One official described Washington’s stance on the China-Pakistan proposal as “agnostic,” though the position could shift ahead of a planned summit between Trump and Xi Jinping expected in mid-May.Beijing has an economic incentive to contain the conflict, particularly disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global energy flows.

While China has reduced its reliance on Iranian oil to about 13 percent of imports and maintains strategic reserves, analysts warn that prolonged instability could raise input costs and weaken global demand for Chinese exports.

China has also worked to secure safe passage for its vessels through the strait, even as tensions have driven up energy prices worldwide. At the same time, Beijing’s position aligns with Moscow’s opposition to measures that could expand the conflict, with both countries wary of endorsing force through the United Nations Security Council.

Diplomatic activity has intensified in recent days, with Wang engaging officials from countries including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Israel, France and the United Arab Emirates. He has also sought backing from European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and regional leaders for China’s ceasefire proposal.

China’s embassy in Washington said Beijing has been working “tirelessly for peace,” while analysts note that its approach emphasizes calls for de-escalation, respect for international law and a greater role for the United Nations.

However, U.S. officials say the proposal lacks operational detail, describing it as a broad appeal rather than a concrete roadmap for ending the conflict. The muted response from Washington underscores broader strategic competition between the two powers, limiting the prospects for coordinated diplomacy.

Meanwhile, efforts at the United Nations continue, with Bahrain revising its proposal to authorize defensive measures to protect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, with a vote expected in the coming days.

Speaking to reporters, Zelensky said the messages followed a sharp escalation in global energy prices linked to widening conflict in the Middle East, which has disrupted supplies of oil, gas and refined products. He said Kyiv remained open to an Easter ceasefire under reciprocal conditions.

Signals tied to energy market pressuresA source familiar with the matter said U.S. officials had conveyed the concerns during routine contacts with Ukrainian counterparts, adding that the initial signals appeared to have originated from Moscow.

The US State Department and Russia’s embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment.Ukraine has intensified strikes on Russian oil facilities in recent months as part of its broader strategy to undermine revenues supporting Moscow’s military campaign.

The reported outreach from allies reflects concern that such attacks could further tighten global supply at a time of already elevated prices.Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have left the country facing acute shortages, forcing authorities to secure alternative supplies.

Zelensky said Kyiv had reached agreements with several Middle Eastern countries to bolster energy support following a recent regional visit.He said Ukraine had secured a deal for year-long diesel deliveries, critical for both military operations and the agricultural sector, though he did not disclose volumes or suppliers.

Ukraine also signed framework cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and indicated another agreement was being prepared with the United Arab Emirates.

Zelensky said he had also discussed air defense needs with regional leaders, but noted that partners were currently prioritizing deployments to the Middle East due to ongoing hostilities involving Iran.

He added that Ukraine risked being sidelined in the allocation of advanced anti-ballistic missile systems as international focus shifts toward the escalating regional conflict.

Sharif, writing on social media platform X, said Pakistan would be “ready and honoured” to facilitate “meaningful and conclusive talks” for a comprehensive settlement, subject to agreement by Washington and Tehran.

His statement comes as the war, involving U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks, entered its fourth week.Trump said on Monday that U.S. officials had engaged in “very good and productive” discussions with Iran over a “complete and total resolution of hostilities in the Middle East.”

He added that talks began on Sunday and continued into Monday, involving Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf rejected the U.S. account, saying no talks had taken place and describing reports of negotiations as “fake news,” according to Iranian state-linked statements and sources familiar with the matter.

The divergence underscores the opacity surrounding diplomatic efforts as fighting continues across the region.

The United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, citing a lack of progress in negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Mediator Oman had previously indicated that significant advances had been made in earlier discussions.

Since the strikes, Iran has responded with missile attacks and expanded its actions beyond Israeli territory, targeting countries hosting U.S. bases and striking Gulf energy infrastructure.

The conflict has disrupted global energy markets, with Iran effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies transit.

The escalation has heightened concerns over supply stability and increased geopolitical risk across the Middle East, prompting renewed international calls for de-escalation through diplomatic channels.

The announcement reflects continued attention by European institutions on developments linked to public order and civil conditions.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU remains closely engaged with events unfolding in Iran.

She highlighted the importance of monitoring conditions while maintaining alignment with international principles.

EU officials have emphasized that their approach is guided by long-standing commitments to human dignity and legal norms.

Any future steps are expected to follow established EU procedures and collective decision-making processes.

Brussels has repeatedly underlined the need for restraint and dialogue in situations involving public unrest.

European leaders have also stressed that stability and lawful conduct are essential for long-term regional balance.

The European Commission plays a central role in proposing policy measures that are later reviewed by member states.

Such proposals typically undergo extensive consultation before being finalized and adopted.

In recent years, the EU has used a range of diplomatic and economic tools to express its positions on global issues.

These tools are often framed within a broader strategy aimed at encouraging cooperation and compliance with international standards.

Officials say the current focus reflects ongoing assessments rather than abrupt policy shifts.

The EU continues to engage with international partners to ensure consistency and coordination.

Observers note that European actions are often incremental and designed to send clear policy signals.

This approach allows room for dialogue while reinforcing shared values among member countries.

The situation in Iran has remained on the EU agenda through various institutional forums.

Regular discussions help shape responses that balance principle, diplomacy, and regional considerations.

European leaders have reiterated that their goal is not isolation but constructive engagement where possible.

They maintain that long-term solutions depend on dialogue, transparency, and respect for established norms.

As developments continue, EU institutions are expected to keep member states informed.

Any proposals will be discussed collectively to ensure unity and clarity of purpose.

Overall, the EU’s latest remarks signal continued attentiveness rather than immediate change.

Future steps will likely depend on evolving circumstances and ongoing consultations.

The renewed meetings bring together Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, senior United States envoys, and key European leaders, reflecting a shared determination to explore pathways toward ending the conflict.

After lengthy discussions on Sunday, US representatives expressed optimism, noting tangible progress and constructive engagement among all sides involved in the dialogue.

The continuation of talks underscores the seriousness of the moment, as diplomatic efforts intensify to shape a framework for stability and long-term peace in Europe.

Ukraine has shown flexibility by signalling openness to alternative security arrangements in exchange for firm international guarantees, highlighting a pragmatic approach to safeguarding its sovereignty.

This willingness to explore compromise has been welcomed by several European leaders, who see it as a step toward unlocking broader consensus.

The Berlin talks are unfolding against the backdrop of a pivotal week for European diplomacy, with major decisions expected at the European Union level.

Later this week, EU leaders are set to consider financial mechanisms designed to support Ukraine’s economic resilience and reconstruction.

These measures are viewed as essential to ensuring that Ukraine remains economically stable while diplomatic negotiations continue.

European officials have emphasized that sustained financial and political backing is central to preserving peace and deterring future conflict.

Foreign ministers meeting in Brussels are also working to reinforce unity through coordinated policy responses and updated sanctions frameworks.

Despite complex geopolitical pressures, there is a visible effort among European capitals to present a cohesive and confident stance.

Several leaders have described the current phase as a rare opening, where sustained diplomacy could lead to meaningful de-escalation.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb captured this cautious optimism by describing the talks as the closest point yet to a viable peace arrangement.

Discussions are reportedly focusing on three interconnected pillars: a structured peace framework, reliable security guarantees, and a comprehensive reconstruction plan.

Together, these elements aim to address both immediate security needs and the long-term rebuilding of Ukraine’s economy and infrastructure.

European leaders attending the Berlin meetings have stressed the importance of inclusive dialogue involving Ukraine, the United States, and European partners.

This collective approach reflects a broader belief that durable peace can only be achieved through shared responsibility and cooperation.

The presence of multiple European heads of government highlights the depth of regional commitment to a negotiated solution.

At the same time, diplomatic engagement is being paired with clear messages about the importance of respecting international law and sovereignty.

European officials have reiterated that peace must be built on stability, not coercion, and on guarantees that prevent future escalation.

The talks also signal Europe’s intention to remain an active global actor capable of shaping outcomes through diplomacy rather than division.

As negotiations continue, there is growing recognition that the choices made this week could influence Europe’s security architecture for years to come.

The focus remains on creating conditions that allow for a ceasefire, followed by structured steps toward normalization and recovery.

For Ukraine, the talks represent both a challenge and an opportunity to secure lasting protection and international partnership.

For Europe, they offer a chance to demonstrate unity, leadership, and strategic maturity at a critical historical juncture.

Observers note that even incremental progress in Berlin carries symbolic weight, reinforcing faith in diplomacy amid prolonged conflict.

As the second day of talks unfolds, expectations remain measured but hopeful, with many leaders emphasizing patience and persistence.

The coming days are likely to test Europe’s cohesion, but they also present a rare opportunity to shape a more stable future.

If sustained, the dialogue underway in Berlin could mark the beginning of a new chapter centered on security, cooperation, and reconstruction.