Following heavy Russian attacks, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has softened his stance and offered a ceasefire. He has expressed a desire for negotiations with Russia and called for an official meeting for peace.
Russia-Ukraine: The two-year-long war between Russia and Ukraine has taken a new turn. After the recent intense military attacks by Russia on several parts of Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has softened his stance. For the first time, he has given positive signals regarding a ceasefire. Zelenskyy has clearly stated that his government is ready to negotiate a ceasefire with Russia. He said that an official meeting to end the war is extremely necessary, and Ukraine will make every possible effort in this direction.
President's Address to the Nation
Addressing the nation last evening, Zelenskyy said in his statement, "Russia is hesitant to make a decision. Every possible effort will be made to achieve a ceasefire. An official meeting is extremely necessary to establish long-term peace." Zelenskyy made this statement at a time when Russia has intensified missile and drone attacks on major Ukrainian cities.
Increased Activity After Foreign Minister's Report
Prior to this development, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha submitted a detailed report to the President. This report provided information on various issues related to the ceasefire. According to the report, the Ukrainian government is considering the possibilities of a ceasefire, security arrangements, the status of international sanctions, and the framework for negotiations with Russia. Following this report, Zelenskyy clarified his position and showed seriousness towards negotiations.
Former Defense Minister Given Responsibility
The potential negotiations for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine are now being led by Ukraine's former Defense Minister, Umerov. He has recently been assigned the responsibility of the National Security and Defense Council. Umerov has extensive experience in security and military affairs and will now lead the negotiation process.
However, previous talks between the two countries ended without any concrete results. This time, the government's strategy is to move the talks forward with a new structure and leadership.
Russia's Conditions and Ukraine's Rejection
Russia has set some strict conditions for a ceasefire. The most prominent demand is that Ukraine hand over the four regions occupied by Russia. In addition, Russia has also demanded that Ukraine not take any steps towards NATO membership and maintain neutrality in its military policy.
Ukraine has completely rejected these conditions. President Zelenskyy has clearly stated that Ukraine will not give up its land at any cost and that the country's integrity will not be compromised. The government also says that if negotiations are to take place, they should be on an equal footing and without any preconditions.
Donald Trump's Warning
Amidst this entire development, former US President Donald Trump has also taken a tough stance on Russia. Trump has given Russia a deadline of 50 days, saying that if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire within this timeframe, a 100 percent tariff will be imposed on it. In addition, he has warned that a 500 percent tariff will also be imposed on countries that trade with Russia.
