US President Donald Trump has blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for stalling peace negotiations by refusing to accept US-backed proposals, including recognition of Russia’s control over Crimea. Trump said a peace deal was “very close,” but Zelensky’s stance would “prolong the conflict.”
US Vice-President JD Vance echoed this, suggesting a ceasefire would require both Ukraine and Russia to give up territory “close to where [borders] are today.” Zelensky dismissed the idea as unconstitutional, reiterating Ukraine’s refusal to cede Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014. As Russian drone and missile attacks continue—killing civilians in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Marhanets—Zelensky has remained firm, saying “there’s nothing to talk about” when it comes to territorial concessions.
Meanwhile, Trump said he found dealing with Russia “easier” than Ukraine, but left the door open for a meeting with Zelensky at Pope Francis’s funeral this weekend. On the campaign trail, Trump has repeatedly claimed he could end the war in a day, though nearly 100 days into his presidency, a truce remains out of reach.
US Diplomatic Strategy Shifts Toward Moscow
Amid rising urgency, the US has pulled key officials out of a ceasefire meeting in London to focus on diplomacy in Moscow. Envoy Steve Witkoff will meet with Putin for the fourth time, while Gen. Keith Kellogg will represent the US in London.
This shift has surprised European allies. British officials were reportedly “wrongfooted” by the sudden exit of Secretary of State Marco Rubio and others, as US pressure grows for a peace deal that could involve territorial compromises.
Easter Ceasefire Collapses
Despite Russia declaring a temporary Easter truce, UK intelligence reports found no real pause in attacks. British Defence Secretary John Healey accused Putin of using the truce as a diplomatic ploy while intensifying strikes.
