Russia refuses to meet with Ukraine and the US on peace talks - Vance

Vance: Russia refuses to hold bilateral meetings with Ukraine and trilateral talks with US

Moscow is once again blocking any initiatives to achieve peace, US National Security Adviser Jake Vance says

Statement on negotiations

Russia refused to participate in the bilateral meetings with Ukraine, and in trilateral negotiations with the participation of representatives of the United States and President Donald Trump. This was announced by US National Security Adviser Jake Vance.

According to him, such actions of the Kremlin demonstrate Moscow's unwillingness to engage in a substantive dialogue and indicate attempts to prolong the war.

Why it matters

Russia's rejection of the dialogue format complicates the prospects for a peaceful settlement. Vance's statements were a response to Kyiv and Washington's proposals for new platforms for negotiations, which could be a step towards reducing tensions.

Context.

• Ukraine has repeatedly stated that it is ready to negotiate only if security and territorial integrity are guaranteed.

• The US insists that any peace process must meet Ukraine's interests and cannot be based on Moscow's ultimatums.

• Russia, on the other hand, continues to set conditions that are unacceptable to Kyiv and refuses to accept the proposed meeting formats.

Reaction of Kyiv and partners

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said that Russia's refusal once again proves its unwillingness to end the aggression peacefully. Washington stressed that the United States and its allies are ready to continue to increase pressure on the Kremlin until it agrees to a fair settlement.

Conclusion: Russia is once again disrupting negotiation initiatives, and this once again confirms it: The Kremlin is not interested in peace. Ukraine and its partners call on the world to further increase pressure on Moscow.