Ukraine Ceasefire Proposal: Putin Seeks Guarantees; Gaza Aid Blocked Amid Crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed conditional agreement to a US-backed 30-day ceasefire proposal in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for guarantees ensuring a lasting peace and addressing the conflict's underlying causes. Putin highlighted the importance of discussing the accord's specifics and ensuring that the ceasefire isn't exploited by Ukrainian forces to rearm, particularly in the Kursk region. Meanwhile, Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis due to blocked aid and stalled ceasefire negotiations. Residents report critical shortages of water, electricity, and medical care, coupled with rising prices and widespread poverty. Crossings into Gaza have been closed, and aid supplies have been cut off, exacerbating the already dire situation. The UN has warned of potentially devastating consequences for over 600,000 people due to drastic reductions in water and fuel supplies.