The invasion of Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region has created a “real dilemma” for (President of Russia) Vladimir Putin, US President Joe Biden said today, commenting publicly for the first time on the unprecedented penetration of Ukrainian soldiers into Russian territory.

The American president also said that in recent days he was informed by his staff “every four or five hours” and that he was in constant communication with the Ukrainian government.

US President Joe Biden also said today that a possible ceasefire deal in Gaza could force Iran not to launch an attack on Israel in retaliation for the recent assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniya in Tehran.

“That’s my expectation,” Biden told reporters when asked if a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas could prevent the long-awaited Iranian attack.

The US president added that, although “it has become difficult” to negotiate an agreement, “he is not giving up”.