At least four people died after Russian drone strikes hit Ukraine overnight. Ukraine's air force identified 129 Russian drones, shooting down or neutralizing 112, Reuters reported. Moscow shows no sign of compromise ahead of the war's fourth anniversary. Reports say the US is pressing Ukraine to end the war soon, possibly before summer, even if it requires major concessions. US official Matthew Whitaker denied a June deadline set by the US, saying, “I don’t think that is anything that the United States has put out there.” However, the Financial Times said Ukraine is planning presidential elections and a peace deal referendum as early as May, pushed by Washington to speed talks or risk losing key security guarantees. This would be a big change from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s earlier stance about war-time elections. The plan may be announced on February 24, the war's fourth anniversary, but depends on progress with Russia, who remain firm in their demands. In Norway, Defense Chief Gen Eirik Kristoffersen warned Moscow could invade to protect nuclear assets in the far north. He said, “We don’t exclude a land grab from Russia as part of their plan to protect their own nuclear capabilities.” Much of Russia’s nuclear arsenal, including submarines and missiles, is on the nearby Kola peninsula. Kristoffersen said Norway plans for such a threat while also preparing for sabotage and hybrid attacks. Despite tensions, Norway and Russia keep military communication over search and rescue. Kristoffersen also suggested a hotline between Oslo and Moscow to avoid accidental escalation. Meanwhile, in the European Union, President Ursula von der Leyen urged the bloc to “tear down” barriers in its economy to become a global giant. Speaking in Strasbourg, she called the current system “fragmentation on steroids” and pushed for a unified single market. The Commission plans to introduce a quick online company registration system across member states by next year. However, some leaders, like German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, oppose these moves. EU leaders will continue debates at upcoming summits. EU defense ministers are meeting in Brussels to discuss Ukraine ahead of a NATO meeting, highlighting the ongoing focus on the war and European security.