The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has stated that the US will abandon its efforts to broker a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine if progress is not made within days. Despite Trump’s interest in a deal, Rubio emphasized that the US has other priorities and may be ready to move on. This signals a potential end to America’s diplomatic efforts regarding the war.
The Ukrainian president, Zelenskyy, claimed that US military assistance had significantly decreased, and Moscow rejected a proposed 30-day ceasefire. The US’s latest peace plan involves freezing the war along the existing frontline and Russia keeping occupied territory. Talks will continue in London, but security guarantees are essential for Ukraine for any deal to work.
Amidst these diplomatic efforts, Ukraine signed a memorandum with the US over a controversial minerals deal, paving the way for an investment fund for Ukraine’s reconstruction. However, details of the deal are unclear, including whether Ukraine agreed to repay costs of military assistance. Zelenskyy aims to improve relations with the White House but has resisted demands to use joint fund revenue to cover previous military aid costs.
Meanwhile, Russia has escalated its attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure, with devastating missile strikes in Kharkiv and Sumy, as well as other regions. Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, highlighting the urgent need to stop Russia’s aggression. The situation remains tense as negotiations continue, and the world watches for any signs of progress or potential resolution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com