Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Hit Roadblock

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of “trying to buy time” to continue its war in Ukraine, amid reports of potential ceasefire talks between the two nations. According to Zelensky, Russia’s unrealistic demands and undermining of progress necessitate “tough consequences”. Zelensky emphasized Kyiv’s readiness to negotiate, stating, “If Russia continues to put forward unrealistic conditions and undermine progress, there must be tough consequences.”

Donald Trump’s recent call with Vladimir Putin suggested progress toward a ceasefire, with Trump claiming talks would start “immediately”. Putin expressed willingness to work on a “memorandum on a possible future peace agreement”, but didn’t address calls for a 30-day pause in fighting. In response, Zelensky urged Western allies to pressure Moscow, saying Ukraine is working with partners to “force the Russians to change their behaviour”.

Diverging Views on Peace Talks

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius echoed concerns about Russia’s intentions, stating, “Putin is clearly playing for time. Unfortunately, we have to say he is not really interested in peace.” Pistorius added that Russia’s continued attacks “speak louder than the lip service we have heard for so long”. Meanwhile, the European Union and UK announced new sanctions against Russia, targeting oil tankers and energy exports.

Zelensky previously called for direct talks with Putin, but emphasized the need for Russia to drop “unnecessary demands”, including an end to military assistance for Ukraine. Zelensky’s advisor, Mykhailo Podolyak, noted that negotiating with Putin would mean giving up, saying, “Society will never accept this.”

Humanitarian Crisis and International Response

The conflict has led to significant humanitarian concerns, with the EU blacklisting nearly 200 Russian oil tankers and warning of a “tougher response” if Moscow doesn’t agree to a truce. The UK has also imposed sanctions on 18 tankers, targeting Russian military suppliers and energy exports. Trump, however, indicated he wouldn’t join new sanctions, citing potential hindrance to progress.