At least 12 dead after strikes; Donald Trump calls on Putin to ‘stop’; Zelenskyy holds firm on Crimea.

In the wake of ongoing military strikes, reports confirm that at least 12 individuals were killed in the latest escalation of violence. Former President Donald Trump has publicly urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to cease hostilities, signaling a shift in rhetoric that may impact U.S.-Russia relations. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remains steadfast in his position regarding Crimea, asserting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity despite pressures for negotiations. This incident highlights the deteriorating situation in Ukraine as the conflict drags on into its 1,157th day, prompting renewed discussions around the potential for peace, albeit with terms that might seem favorable to Russia, according to various reports. This latest round of violence not only brings sorrow and grief to families affected by the strikes but also stirs a complex geopolitical scenario that involves the United States' role in mediating peace in the region. It is crucial to remain informed not just about the casualties but also about the wider implications of these developments on international relations and the balance of power in Eastern Europe.