Ukraine's foreign ministry has criticized Hungary and Slovakia for what it calls "ultimatums and blackmail" concerning energy supplies. Both countries threatened to cut electricity to Ukraine unless Kyiv resumes Russian oil flows. Hungary has also threatened to block a €90bn Ukrainian war loan.

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Kyiv maintains that supplies were halted due to a Russian drone strike on January 27, which damaged pipeline equipment. Hungary and Slovakia, heavily reliant on the Druzhba pipeline, accuse Ukraine of delaying its restart without evidence. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry stated, "Ultimatums should be sent to the Kremlin, not Kyiv."

In Kyiv, powerful explosions were reported early Sunday following warnings of a potential ballistic missile attack. Officials advised residents to seek shelter, and air defence units responded to detected drones over the region. Fortunately, no immediate casualties were reported.

In Lviv, explosions claimed the life of a policewoman and injured at least 15 others. The incident began after a police response to a break-in report, leading to two blasts. Lviv’s mayor described it as an “act of terror.”

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged the deployment of noncombat troops to Ukraine to show Western solidarity. Speaking before the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Johnson emphasized that such a move would signal a firm commitment to Ukraine’s freedom.

Meanwhile, Ukraine targeted a Russian missile factory, wounding 11 individuals. The attack involved Ukrainian-made FP-5 “Flamingo” missiles on the Votkinsk plant. In response, Russia suspended flights in the nearby region.

In Paris, approximately 2,000 people marched to support Ukraine. Demonstrators called for the confiscation of frozen Russian assets and reaffirmed strong support for Ukraine among the French public. European Parliament member Raphael Glucksmann highlighted unwavering backing for Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed that there are still real opportunities to end the war with dignity. After peace talks in Geneva with Russia and the US, he called for another round of negotiations. Zelenskyy suggested a high-level meeting involving leaders like Trump and Putin to address critical issues effectively.

Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's readiness to engage in discussions and tackle the most challenging topics. He believes that a leaders’ format could be pivotal in resolving the conflict.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 21 Feb 2026

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Yeah, kick 'em while they're down. False friends...