Ukraine War Twist: The conflict between Russia and Ukraine that has been going on since 2022 is not limited to just two countries, but it is affecting the security system of the whole of Europe and the world. The deep impact of this war is visible on the lives of millions of people, the economy and international relations. In such a situation, whenever there are peace talks or there are signs of it, the eyes of the whole world are fixed on it. Recently, European leaders and former US President Donald Trump claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to a face-to-face meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. But Russia’s official rhetoric tells a different story.
Russia’s cautious stance: “Preparation is necessary” excuse
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov made it clear that Moscow is not rejecting any format of talks, but he laid down the condition that any kind of meeting of the leaders should be held with “extreme caution and full preparation”. This statement in itself shows that Russia is avoiding saying yes directly. The Kremlin also only said that Putin is ready for the “idea” that the level of talks can be raised in the future. That is, Russia is still avoiding giving a definite promise.
Budapest’s option and Hungary’s dilemma
The US also announced that there was a discussion between Trump and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on whether Budapest could host this meeting. But there was no confirmation from Hungary. Hungary is already preparing to exit the International Criminal Court (ICC). If Putin goes to Hungary, the government there may have to arrest him due to the warrant issued against him. In such a situation, this situation can become even more uncomfortable for Putin. This is the reason why Hungary’s official stance is also still unclear.
Proposal of Austria and Switzerland
Austria and Switzerland have also made it clear that they are ready to host this meeting. Switzerland even said that they can keep their ICC obligations aside during Putin’s visit, because Geneva is the European headquarters of the United Nations and has a special diplomatic role. French President Emmanuel Macron also described Geneva as a possible place, while Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker supported any such effort that moves towards lasting peace while protecting European and Ukrainian security.
Donald Trump’s changed stance
Trump said in a recent interview that he would not implement the peace agreement by sending American troops to Ukraine under any circumstances. However, he indicated that America can strengthen the agreement by providing air support. This in itself shows a big change in American policy. Trump also said that it is not possible for Ukraine to become part of NATO, but some kind of security guarantee can be given.
According to him, European allies may be ready to send troops on the ground, while the US can provide technical and air support. However, he also admitted that Putin may eventually refuse to accept this agreement.
NATO meetings and future direction
Meanwhile, NATO military leaders are also going to meet to discuss Ukraine. Senior US and NATO officials will be involved in this. According to reports, the results of the recent meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska will also be discussed in this meeting. It is clear from this that not only diplomatic talks are being held, but the situation is also being closely monitored at the military level.
Russia’s new air strike
Amid reports of talks, Russia on Monday carried out an air strike on Ukraine that has been bigger than a month. The Ukrainian Air Force said that Russia fired 270 drones and 10 missiles. These attacks caused a massive fire in power plants and oil refineries in Ukraine’s Poltava region. At the same time, a civilian was killed in shelling in the Dnipropetrovsk region.
Ukraine’s counterattack
Ukraine also does not seem ready to back down. Ukrainian drone attacks late Tuesday night disrupted power supply in the Russian-controlled Zaporizhia region. However, the nuclear plant remained safe. This plant has been under Russian occupation for a long time, but there is constant international concern about its security.
Exchange of martyrs’ bodies
Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine also exchanged the bodies of each other’s soldiers killed in the war. According to reports, Russia returned the bodies of 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers, while in return it received the bodies of 19 of its soldiers. This exchange makes clear the cruelty and human cost of the war.
Conclusion: Hope for peace or political manipulation?
Looking at the entire development, it is difficult to say whether peace talks are really near or this is just political rhetoric and a pressure strategy. Russia still clearly does not seem ready, while European countries and the US want to push the talks forward in some form or the other. For Ukraine, it is simply a question of survival, while for Putin it has become an issue of his political credibility.
The coming weeks will be extremely important. If Putin and Zelensky actually sit face to face, it will be one of the biggest diplomatic events of the 21st century. But if this attempt fails, the war could become even longer and more horrific.
FAQs:
Q. Has Vladimir Putin agreed to a direct meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy?
A. European leaders and Donald Trump claim he has, but Russia officially remains cautious, saying such talks need thorough preparation.
Q. Which countries have offered to host the peace talks?
A. Hungary, Austria, and Switzerland have been mentioned as potential hosts, with Geneva seen as a strong option.
Q. What role does Donald Trump want the US to play in Ukraine?
A. Trump ruled out sending US troops but suggested providing air support and security guarantees with European allies.