**Russia and US Hold Secret Talks in Istanbul**
A Russian delegation has arrived at the residence of the US Consul General in Istanbul, Turkey, for the second round of talks between the two countries. This meeting is a continuation of earlier discussions that took place in Saudi Arabia on February 18.
The US State Department has confirmed that the second meeting will not focus on Ukraine, as previously reported. Instead, the discussions will center around embassy operations and “systemic problems” caused by previous US administration actions against Russia’s diplomatic efforts.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that the Russian delegation will include high-level diplomats and experts to address these issues. The meetings will be held behind closed doors.
**Ukraine War Update**
The situation in Ukraine remains tense, with Russian troops pushing forward on the Novopavlivka sector in eastern Donetsk Oblast. Ukrainian forces are trying to defend their territory against the advancing Russian army.
In related news, North Korea has allegedly deployed additional troops to Russia, according to a South Korean intelligence agency official.
**International Aid and Diplomacy**
Finland’s Defense Ministry has announced that it will provide material aid packages to Ukraine, including demining equipment, food, and energy security supplies. This support is part of a larger package of aid from Australia-based charity, the Andrew Forrest Foundation.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has said that Ukraine will not be allowed to join NATO as part of any future peace agreement with Russia. He also ruled out lifting sanctions on Moscow until a deal is reached.
**Romania Takes Action Against Pro-Russian Activist**
The Romanian Prosecutor General‘s office has charged pro-Russian activist Calin Georgescu with inciting actions against the constitutional order and other alleged crimes related to the November 24 first-round elections.
This move comes after multiple incidents in which Russian drones crashed onto Romanian territory during attacks against neighboring Ukraine.
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