London – Amid ongoing drone and missile strikes, the United States and Russia have resumed discussions regarding a potential peace agreement to end the conflict in Ukraine. Tensions remain high as diplomatic efforts appear to clash with realities on the battlefield.
On Monday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry released an interview with Foreign Secretary Sergei Lavrov, outlining Moscow’s conditions for a settlement. Lavrov reiterated demands including Ukraine’s permanent non-aligned status, international recognition of Russia’s annexation claims over occupied Ukrainian regions, and the lifting of sanctions imposed by the West.
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed a phone conversation with Lavrov, initiated at Russia’s request. According to the State Department, discussions centered on “next steps” toward peace and stressed “the urgent need to end the war.” Rubio emphasized that Washington remains skeptical about Moscow’s true intentions.
As part of its diplomatic gestures, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a unilateral ceasefire from May 8 to May 10, coinciding with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations. The Kremlin urged Ukraine to reciprocate but warned that violations would be met with a “strong response.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, however, rejected the ceasefire proposal, calling it a strategic ploy. Zelenskyy insisted that a genuine ceasefire must be immediate, unconditional, and last for at least 30 days to establish a solid foundation for real diplomacy.
Observers view the current dynamics as a critical test for diplomatic engagement. With peace talks advancing cautiously against the backdrop of continued violence, the coming weeks may determine whether negotiations can genuinely move forward or stall once again.
