Ukraine is stepping up its diplomatic efforts while securing new guarantees from the U.S. Meanwhile, Donald Trump is demanding that the Kremlin cease fire within 50 days; otherwise, he threatens new sanctions and increased support for Kyiv. President Zelensky has initiated a new round of negotiations, and parliament is preparing an appeal to Congress to increase aid. All of this is happening amid Moscow's statements about its readiness for peace, though it has not renounced the goals announced in 2022.
Putin pretends to be ready for peace, but does not renounce his goals
The Kremlin said that Vladimir Putin is prepared to peacefully resolve the conflict with Ukraine. However, according to spokesman Peskov, this does not entail abandoning the objectives Russia established from the outset.
In an interview with state television, Peskov emphasized that Moscow's primary objective is to achieve "clearly defined objectives." Despite this, Peskov acknowledged that the peace process will be long and difficult but that Putin is ready to support it.
These statements come amid a new position by U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced increased military aid to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems. Trump also issued an ultimatum to the Kremlin, demanding that they agree to a ceasefire within 50 days; otherwise, Russia will face additional sanctions. This could be a catalyst for either increased pressure on Moscow or further manipulation under the guise of "readiness for peace."
Zelensky initiated a new round of negotiations with Moscow
Zelensky said about the proposal to hold a new round of negotiations with Russia next week.
He emphasized the need for a ceasefire as soon as possible since the previous two meetings in Istanbul did not lead to a breakthrough. Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that the Russian side must stop avoiding decisions. Rustem Umerov, the former head of the National Security and Defense Council, is leading the negotiations and must now increase diplomatic pressure.
The president's statement came amid Russia's ongoing offensive in the Donetsk Oblast and the intensified shelling of Ukrainian cities.
Trump's change of tone on Russia: "a turning point in the war," says Rice
Former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says Trump's latest statements about the Kremlin to be significant. Rice called Trump's statements a "turning point" in Russia's war against Ukraine. She said that Putin will not be stopped by words, but rather by a real understanding that he cannot win. In her opinion, European and American politicians have finally realized the need for tough pressure.
However, Rice noted that introducing secondary sanctions will be difficult due to the positions of countries such as China and India. However, it is precisely such measures that could seriously hurt the Kremlin. Rice also criticized the Biden administration for slowly delivering weapons during the first months of the war. According to Rice, Ukraine would have already won if it had received all the necessary support immediately.
The Ukrainian parliament will appeal to the US Congress for support
Verkhovna Rada Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk said, that parliament is preparing a major appeal to the US Congress calling for tougher sanctions against Russia and increased military aid to Ukraine. He discussed this issue during a meeting in Kyiv with Trump's special representative Keith Kellogg. According to him, Ukraine expects a powerful sanctions package from the Senate and House of Representatives in the near future.
The appeal will include the transfer of F-16s, financial support, increased sanctions, the repatriation of deported children, and increased arms supplies.
The document is expected to be officially registered in the coming days.
Ukraine and the U.S. are preparing for the urgent implementation of air defense decisions
President Zelensky said, that Ukraine has specific agreements with Donald Trump regarding the supply of air defense systems and weapons that must be implemented promptly.
In his address, he reported on a Ministry of Foreign Affairs report and noted Ukraine's commitment to maximum productivity in this area. There is also talk of a new defense agreement with the U.S.
Zelensky clarified that Ukraine is prepared to not only purchase weapons but also export its own, particularly drones, which have proven effective in the war. The development of "interceptor drones" is underway, and new contracts are expected to be signed next week. Separately, the president emphasized the need to synchronize sanctions, particularly with countries outside the EU.
Author: Danylo Pievchev