Kyiv Attack Leaves Over 60 Injured as Peace Negotiations Continue
A deadly missile and drone attack launched by Russian forces targeted Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, on Thursday, injuring at least 63 people, including six children. The attack came just hours after international peace talks were held in London involving U.S., European, and Ukrainian officials.
Russian Strikes Follow Hints of Peace Deal Progress
While the violence escalated on the ground, discussions in London signaled potential progress toward ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the situation, claiming Russia appears ready to negotiate.
“I think Moscow is willing to reach a settlement,” Trump said during a press briefing. “But negotiations with President Zelensky have been more difficult than expected. I assumed it would be easier to come to terms.”
Trump Blames Zelensky for Delays in Peace Deal
Trump accused Ukraine’s leadership of prolonging the war by refusing to make concessions. He pointed to the 2014 annexation of Crimea as an example, questioning why Ukraine didn’t resist the move at the time.
“If Crimea was truly non-negotiable, why didn’t Ukraine fight for it when Russia took control without resistance over a decade ago?” he asked.
Kremlin Says Zelensky’s Resignation Not a Condition for Peace
Russian government spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that removing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not among Moscow’s demands. However, he expressed concerns about the long-term stability of any agreement, suggesting future Ukrainian leaders could challenge its legitimacy.
Zelensky Rejects Territorial Concessions, Supports Diplomatic Dialogue
President Zelensky, speaking after the London meeting, dismissed proposals that Ukraine should cede Crimea or other occupied regions. He emphasized the emotional intensity of the discussions but acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue.
Leaked U.S. Peace Plan Suggests Major Concessions to Russia
According to international media reports, including Axios, a proposed U.S. peace plan would unofficially recognize Russia’s control over most territories it has occupied since 2022. The plan includes the return of a small portion of Russian-occupied land in the Kharkiv region to Ukraine.
Nuclear Plant and NATO Membership Key Issues
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, although located in Ukraine, would reportedly be managed by the U.S. under the deal, supplying electricity to both Ukraine and Russia. Additionally, the plan would block Ukraine’s future membership in NATO—an issue central to the broader conflict.
Conclusion: Ongoing Tensions Despite Diplomatic Efforts
Despite international efforts to negotiate an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, the latest attacks on Kyiv and conflicting positions from all sides highlight the complexity of reaching a lasting peace. As talks continue, civilians remain at risk, and the path to resolution remains uncertain.
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