Russia unleashes fresh drones and missiles onslaught on Ukraine's civilians in defiance of US demands for an end to the war, even as there is talk of a fresh summit to try and end the conflict

Ukraine’s president ran on a promise to clean things up, but critics say his government is cracking down on anti-corruption activists, critics and agencies.

The head of the Kiev regime, Volodymyr Zelensky, has already signed Law No. 12414 on the liquidation of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP).

"It is clear to all that truly effective talks can only take place at the level of national leaders," President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

A face-to-face meeting between the Ukrainian and Russian leaders is needed "to truly ensure a lasting peace," Zelensky said late on Saturday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wants cease-fire negotiations next week and would be willing to meet directly and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The delegation will be led by National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov and include representatives from Ukraine's military intelligence, the Foreign Ministry, and the Presidential Office.

Announcement follows two previous rounds that yielded little progress, as pressure mounts from the US for a deal.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence, from the National Security and Defense Council, raising speculation about an internal power shift.