On Wednesday, President Donald Trump expressed criticism towards Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, accusing him of extending the "killing field" in Ukraine after Zelenskyy rejected suggestions to cede Crimea to Russia as part of a potential peace agreement. Zelenskyy made his stance clear on Tuesday, stating, "There is nothing to talk about. It is our land, the land of the Ukrainian people," as discussions were set to occur in London among U.S., European, and Ukrainian officials.
During preliminary talks in Paris last week, U.S. officials had presented a proposal that suggested Russia retain control of occupied territories in Ukraine, according to a European official who spoke on condition of anonymity. Trump's remarks characterized Zelenskyy's refusal to negotiate as "very harmful," questioning why Ukraine did not fight for Crimea when it was annexed by Russia in 2014 without resistance.
Amid the ongoing tensions, Trump suggested that Zelenskyy could either choose a path to peace or endure a prolonged conflict that could result in significant losses for Ukraine. He emphasized that Zelenskyy’s statements would only extend the violence, stating, "nobody wants that!" The meeting in London was scaled back, with Vice President JD Vance noting that negotiations were at a critical juncture, urging both Russia and Ukraine to accept a "very fair proposal" that would stabilize territorial lines.
While Trump planned to attend Pope Francis's funeral in Rome, he expressed uncertainty about meeting with Zelenskyy or other European leaders during the trip. He indicated that dealing with Zelenskyy was more challenging than with Russian leaders, implying a need for easier negotiations. Trump's frustrations with both sides were apparent as he reiterated his claims from last year’s election campaign that he could resolve the conflict swiftly upon taking office.
As negotiations progressed, skepticism overshadowed the London talks, especially following the sudden cancellation of Secretary of State Marco Rubio's attendance due to scheduling issues. This abrupt change raised doubts regarding the negotiations' future direction. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that the American and Russian positions had not yet conformed, although consultations were ongoing.
In a significant development, a Russian drone attack in Marganets, a town in eastern Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, killed nine people, including eight women, and injured over 40 on the same day Zelenskyy advocated for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. He acknowledged Ukraine's readiness for any negotiations that could yield a ceasefire and peace talks, stating the necessity for a complete halt in hostilities.
Despite the urgency of the situation, achieving even a 30-day ceasefire has proven challenging as both sides continue to engage in attacks along the extensive front line. Zelenskyy criticized Russia for delaying negotiations, suggesting that Moscow aimed to manipulate the process. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff is slated to visit Moscow later in the week to continue discussions.
High-ranking officials, including retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg and Ukrainian delegation members led by Andrii Yermak, remained committed to discussing pathways towards a peace settlement. Yermak communicated via social media that Ukraine had consistently engaged in peaceful negotiations and stressed the need for an unconditional ceasefire as a decisive first step toward comprehensive peace.
As the situation stands, European allies exhibit concerns regarding the U.S. proposal to trade land for peace, yet acknowledge the reality of Russian control over significant Ukrainian territories. The potential for immediate ceasefire discussions will hinge on the willingness of both parties to accept terms based on the current line of contact.
