Zelensky Denies Russian Capture of Kostiantynivka, Challenges Putin to Meet

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the General Staff denied Russian claims that the strategically important eastern city of Kostiantynivka has been captured. Zelensky called the Russian assertion a lie and challenged President Vladimir Putin to meet him there for diplomatic talks if the city were under Russian control. Russia's military ignored the denial, claiming it was clearing remaining resistance and offered to exchange remains of dead soldiers. Russian commanders had informed Putin on Friday that forces had taken Kostiantynivka, a key target in the Donetsk region. The city is one of four settlements forming a defensive line crucial to Ukraine's defense of Donetsk. The General Staff confirmed Ukrainian forces still hold Kostiantynivka.