**US Proposes Peace Deal for Ukraine, but with Russian Control and Eased Sanctions**
In a surprising move, the US has proposed a peace deal to end Russia’s war against Ukraine. However, the proposal would leave occupied territories under Russian control and ease sanctions against Moscow, according to reports by Bloomberg.
The US plan was discussed during ceasefire talks between European, Ukrainian, and US officials in Paris. The outlines of the proposal include an effective freeze on Russia’s war efforts, with Kyiv’s aspirations to join NATO off the table. It is unclear if the US would recognize Russia’s de facto control over occupied territories or make it a formal recognition.
The reports come as tensions remain high between Ukraine and Russia. A Russian missile attack on Kharkiv killed one person and injured at least 112 others, including eight children. The attack damaged several buildings and an educational institution.
**US Prioritizes Other Issues if Peace Deal Fails**
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the US would stop trying to negotiate a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia within days if there is no sign that an agreement is reachable. Rubio stated that President Donald Trump has other priorities and emphasized that “we’re not going to continue with this endeavour for weeks and months on end.”
Rubio also echoed Trump’s sentiment, saying “the Ukraine war is a terrible thing, but it’s not our war.” The US has spent billions of dollars supporting the Ukrainian side in the conflict. Rubio suggested that the US would focus on other issues if peace talks stall.
**Kremlin Spokesman Cites Progress, Despite Ceasefire Violations**
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed “progress” in peace talks but noted that the one-month period for a ban on energy infrastructure strikes had expired. However, Russia has consistently violated this agreement, attacking energy facilities over 30 times since it was proposed.
Peskov’s statement comes as Ukraine continues to reject US-mediated proposals for a full 30-day ceasefire until Moscow agrees to abide by its terms.
**Analysis**
The proposed US peace deal has sparked debate and concern among Ukrainian officials. President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly stated that Ukraine would not recognize occupied regions as Russian as part of any peace deal. The proposal’s focus on easing sanctions and leaving occupied territories under Russian control has raised questions about the implications for Ukraine.
The US prioritization of other issues if peace talks fail could have significant consequences for Ukraine, which relies heavily on international support. As tensions continue to escalate, it remains to be seen whether a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement can be reached between Ukraine and Russia.
**Note**
This article was written with the aim of providing a clear and concise understanding of recent developments in the conflict. The views expressed are those of the author, not necessarily those of the US or Ukrainian governments. If you value our reporting and want to support our work, please consider joining the Kyiv Independent community.
