**US Cancels Talks with Russia on Restoring Diplomatic Relations, Moscow Claims**
The United States has canceled the next round of talks with Russia aimed at restoring diplomatic relations, according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova. The announcement was made on June 16, days after Russian Ambassador to the US Alexander Darchiev said that delegations from both countries were expected to meet in Moscow soon.
The planned talks were part of ongoing discussions between the US and Russia focused on peace efforts in Ukraine and the resumption of bilateral ties. Zakharova stated that the upcoming round was intended to “eliminate irritants” and help normalize the operations of both nations’ diplomatic missions. However, Washington has yet to comment on Zakharova’s claims.
This development comes as President Donald Trump continues to advocate for a ceasefire and peace agreement in Ukraine, likening the conflict to a fight between children that should not be interrupted too quickly. Kyiv and its allies remain skeptical of Trump’s approach toward peace efforts, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky repeatedly calling for stronger US action.
**Background on Diplomatic Efforts**
The first talks since Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine took place on February 18 in Riyadh, where the two sides discussed bilateral relations, a potential presidential meeting, and ways to end Russia’s war against Ukraine. The recent round of talks on April 10 in Istanbul resulted in agreements to move future consultations to their respective capitals.
The US State Department described the April 10 talks as having a “constructive approach.” The closed-door consultations lasted about six hours and focused on ensuring stable banking services for diplomatic missions, with both delegations exchanging notes on the issue and agreeing to continue discussions.
**Russia’s Actions in Ukraine**
Meanwhile, Russia continues to launch drone attacks on Ukrainian territory. On June 15-16, a series of drone attacks targeted the capital city of Kyiv and regional settlements in Kyiv Oblast, injuring a 60-year-old man. Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russia launched 138 drones overnight, including Iranian-designed Shahed-type suicide drones.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that five Ukrainian citizens, including three children, were killed in an attack on a residential building in Bat Yam, south of Tel Aviv. The incident highlights the ongoing conflict and its far-reaching consequences for civilians on both sides.
**North Korea’s Losses in Ukraine**
A UK defense intelligence report revealed that North Korea has lost over 6,000 troops in Russia’s Kursk Oblast – more than half of its deployed force. This development adds to the growing list of maximalist demands presented by Moscow in its so-called “peace memorandum.”
**Ukraine’s Repatriation Efforts**
The repatriation of Ukrainian bodies continues, with President Zelensky announcing that agreements signed in Austria cover agriculture, reconstruction, and the return of abducted Ukrainian children from Russia. The latest repatriation marks the final stage of an exchange agreement, bringing the total number of Ukrainian bodies returned under the deal to 6,057.
**Sanctions and Economic Consequences**
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of sanctions in securing a real ceasefire and ending the war. She stated that “sanctions are critical to that end” and urged for continued pressure on Russia to secure a lasting peace.
The consequences of Russia’s actions are far-reaching, with Andy Hunder, President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine, stating that “this is not just an attack against Ukraine, but also an attack where American business is being hit.”
**US Response**
President Trump has expressed his willingness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the conflict. However, the US response to the cancellation of talks remains unclear.
The situation on the ground continues to be fluid, with both sides suffering losses and civilians caught in the crossfire. As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community is watching closely for any signs of progress toward a lasting peace.
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