Zelensky turns on Biden as he warns one move would be 'applause for Putin'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zeensky has warned US President Joe Biden not to miss a peace summit in Switzerland, otherwise, Vladimir Putin will "personally applaud" him.

Ukraine wants as many countries to attend as possible to bolster support for its defence against Russia's invasion.

Putin's forces have taken about 20 percent of Ukrainian territory since its invasion began in February 2022.

Western military aid has played a vital role in helping Kyiv's soldiers fight back against the invading forces.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Zelensky said: "I know that the US supports the summit but we don't know at what level.

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"(The) peace summit needs President Biden and so do the other leaders who look at the reaction of the United States. Putin will only applaud his absence, personally applaud it - and standing, at that."

Zelensky has urged Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, a strong ally of Putin's, to attend.

In recent weeks, fighting in Ukraine has centered around Kharkiv, the country's second-largest city.

As well as assaults on the ground, Russia has also hit the city with relentless airstrikes.

Belgium could be about to help Ukraine regain some control in the air having pledged the delivery of 30 F-16 fighter jets as part of the security pact.

Commenting on the deal, Zelensky said: “The document includes at least 977 million euros in Belgian military aid to Ukraine this year, as well as Belgium’s commitment to providing support over the course of the agreement’s ten-year term."

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo posted on X: "Today Belgium signs an agreement on security cooperation and long-term support with Ukraine.

"President Zelensky, you need the right tools to protect your citizens.

"We are very determined when it comes to our support.

"So we need to more, better and faster.