During a high-level conference in Turkey, Russia and Ukraine’s top diplomats accused each other of violating a tentative deal brokered by the U.S. to pause strikes on energy infrastructure, highlighting the difficulties in negotiating an end to the 3-year-old war. Despite agreeing in principle to a limited 30-day ceasefire last month, both sides disagreed on the start time and accused each other of breaching the agreement almost immediately.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that Ukraine had been attacking Russia from the beginning, while Ukraine’s Andrii Sybiha accused Russia of launching numerous missiles and bombs at civilians since agreeing to the ceasefire. Russia asserted that it had adhered to the terms of the deal, while Ukraine endorsed a broader U.S. ceasefire proposal that Russia has blocked by imposing conditions.
The ongoing conflict has seen Russia hold the advantage, with Ukraine warning of a new offensive in the spring. Despite efforts by the U.S. and European allies to broker agreements, progress has been slow. Additionally, details of a prospective deal to ensure safe navigation for commercial vessels in the Black Sea were discussed, though Russia insisted on lifting restrictions first.
The situation remains tense, with Ukraine losing a second F-16 fighter jet and pilot to a Russian missile strike. Russian drones also killed civilians in Ukraine’s Kherson region. The conflict has led to continued mistrust and accusations between the two countries, making peace negotiations a challenging endeavor.
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