Russia-Ukraine conflict unfolding in real-time. Lavrov asserts that negotiations excluding Moscow on Ukraine's security are futile.

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are organizing a meeting to discuss the end of the war in Ukraine. This comes after preparations for a summit between the two leaders, followed by a trilateral meeting. The Trump Administration's spokeswoman, Karoline Leavitt, has assured that both Russia and Ukraine have expressed their willingness to sit at the dialogue table.

In related news, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has published a new update with the number of military personnel and equipment losses by Russia on the front lines. Meanwhile, Russian anti-air defenses reportedly shot down 42 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones over nine regions of the country, according to a report by the Russian Ministry of Defense. The Ukrainian Air Force reported nighttime Russian attacks with 93 drones and two missiles on August 20.

The attacks have resulted in casualties and damage. The attacks injured 14 civilians, including three children aged between five months and six years, and at least 13 private homes were damaged in the northern region of Sumy. One of the locations attacked was the town of Ochtirka in the northeastern region of Sumy. Due to the aerial attack, the airports of five cities, including Volgograd, have temporarily suspended their operations.

On a positive note, oil is once again flowing to Slovakia through the Druzhba pipeline. This development could potentially have a positive impact on the economy, as seen by the London Stock Exchange's 0.34% rise on Tuesday on progress towards peace in Ukraine.

The recent developments have also sparked discussions among international leaders. EU and Canadian leaders have praised the US offer of long-term security guarantees for Ukraine and Europe. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the United States, General Dan Caine, will meet with European military leaders tonight to discuss the war in Ukraine.

The recent summit between Trump and Zelenski has highlighted the strategic differences between the United States and Europe on how to address the end of the war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIII has called for a day of fasting and prayer for peace in Ukraine and other war-torn countries on August 22.

As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, it is crucial for all parties involved to maintain dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution. The potential meeting between Putin, Zelensky, and Trump offers a glimmer of hope for an end to the conflict.

Russia-Ukraine conflict unfolding in real-time. Lavrov asserts that negotiations excluding Moscow on Ukraine's security are futile.