Ukraine War Stalemate: Zelensky warns of Russian delaying tactics
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of stalling peace efforts after Donald Trump claimed progress in ceasefire talks. While Putin expressed openness to a peace memorandum, Kremlin officials dismissed imminent negotiations, stating “there are no deadlines.”
The diplomatic flurry follows Trump’s calls with both leaders, where he announced imminent truce talks a claim undermined by ongoing heavy fighting.
Ukraine reported 177 frontline clashes in 24 hours, with over 1,000 Russian casualties claimed.
Meanwhile, Western allies ramped up pressure: the EU sanctioned 200 Russian “shadow fleet” oil tankers, while the UK targeted 18 vessels and military suppliers.
Germany’s defense minister bluntly stated Putin “is playing for time,” as Moscow continues its largest drone attacks since 2022.
Zelensky remains skeptical, urging tougher consequences if Russia maintains “unrealistic conditions.”
His government seeks sustained Western support, having rejected previous Russian ceasefires as insincere.
With Putin declining talks in Istanbul and dismissing a 30-day truce proposal, prospects for peace appear distant as the war enters its third year.
