**US Slams Russia for Obstructing Peace Negotiations**
The United States has hit back at Russian claims that Ukraine and the US are responsible for delaying peace negotiations in Ukraine. According to US Special Representative Keith Kellogg, it is actually Moscow that continues to obstruct efforts to end the war.
Kellogg took to social media platform X to express his frustration with Russia’s actions. “Peskov’s recent comments on the state of negotiations are Orwellian,” he said. “Russian claims that it is the US and Ukraine stalling peace talks are unfounded.” Kellogg also accused Russia of trying to stall for time while continuing to bomb civilian targets in Ukraine.
This latest exchange comes after Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov accused Washington and Kyiv of holding up progress in peace talks on June 29. Peskov stated that future developments depend on Ukraine’s stance, the effectiveness of US mediation, and the situation on the battlefield.
However, Russia has continued its attacks on Ukrainian cities despite these remarks. The country recently rejected a US-backed ceasefire proposal and launched record numbers of drones against Ukrainian cities. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also made statements suggesting that all of Ukraine is under Moscow’s control, raising doubts about the Kremlin’s willingness to engage in meaningful negotiations.
The war in Ukraine has now entered its fourth summer with no comprehensive ceasefire in place. Two rounds of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine took place in Istanbul this year, but they failed to produce any breakthrough on ending hostilities.
**The Real Obstacle to Peace**
While some may argue that both sides are responsible for the lack of progress in peace negotiations, the facts suggest otherwise. As Kellogg pointed out, it is Moscow that continues to bomb civilian targets and reject ceasefire proposals. The fact that Russia has rejected a US-backed ceasefire proposal and continued its attacks on Ukrainian cities speaks volumes about its commitment to finding a peaceful solution.
In reality, the real obstacle to peace in Ukraine lies with Russia’s refusal to engage in meaningful negotiations. By blaming the US and Ukraine for stalling progress, Moscow is attempting to deflect attention from its own actions. As Kellogg said, “Russia cannot continue to stall for time while it bombs civilian targets in Ukraine.” It is high time for Moscow to take responsibility for its actions and work towards a peaceful resolution.
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