No Major Breakthrough in Ukraine Peace Talks Despite Diplomatic Efforts

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for over three hours in Moscow, as part of ongoing efforts to negotiate an end to the Ukraine war. Despite the lengthy discussions, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov stated there was no indication of a breakthrough, noting the talks were "substantive, constructive and extremely frank."

Ushakov emphasized that the negotiations were timely and beneficial for both nations, with the U.S. representatives proposing various ideas for a settlement. Putin reiterated Russia's commitment to finding a political resolution, while also asserting that Russia is achieving tangible progress on the battlefield. The envoys are expected to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv to continue discussions.

In a related development, both Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a temporary cessation of strikes on Kyiv and Moscow, respectively. This truce comes as Ukraine seeks European support to utilize approximately €210 billion in frozen Russian assets to address a substantial defense funding gap. Meanwhile, the situation in the Black Sea continues to escalate, affecting global food prices and disrupting grain exports from both countries.

Source: www.independent.co.uk