**Russia Reiterates Demands for Ukraine Peace**
In an interview with the French outlet Le Point, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov laid out Moscow’s conditions for a ceasefire in Ukraine. The demands include the full recognition of Russia’s claim over four Ukrainian oblasts it partially occupies, neutral status for Ukraine, and an end to all Western military support.
“If Ukraine lays down its arms and withdraws from these regions, military operations will stop instantly,” Peskov said. “These four regions are inscribed in our constitution as an integral part of Russia.”
However, this proposal has been met with rejection by Ukraine’s leadership and its European partners. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that any deal that concedes sovereign territory is unacceptable.
“This violates our Constitution. This is our territory, the territory of the people of Ukraine,” he said.
**US Proposal Sparks Outrage**
Meanwhile, a proposal from the Trump administration has sparked outrage in Kyiv. The plan reportedly includes major concessions to Russia, including the US’s de jure recognition of Russia’s control over Crimea and de facto recognition of its occupation of other Ukrainian territories.
Ukraine’s leadership has firmly rejected this proposal, with President Zelensky stating that it is unacceptable for the US to recognize Russian control over Ukrainian territory.
**Kyiv Residents React**
We spoke to Kyiv residents about the US proposal. “Nobody is asking (President Volodymyr) Zelensky to recognize Crimea as Russian Territory, but if he wants Crimea, why didn’t they fight for it eleven years ago when it was handed over to Russia without a shot being fired?” one resident said.
**Strained Peace Efforts**
Despite the US proposal, Ukraine insists on an “immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire,” President Zelensky said. The European Commission is also exploring options to legally prohibit EU companies from signing new contracts for the supply of Russian fossil fuels.
Ukraine sees a full ceasefire as “the necessary first step” in any peace agreement, but Russia continues to engage with the US on a possible settlement of the war.
**Russian Demands**
Peskov’s demands are not new and have been repeatedly rejected by Ukraine. The Kremlin spokesperson also praised US President Donald Trump as a “strong leader” willing to engage in dialogue.
However, this praise comes at a time when Russia is facing widespread recruitment through official military selection points in Moscow. Despite earlier claims that Russia had “no need” for foreign fighters, the data reveals a different story.
**Commentary**
The repeated rejection of Ukraine’s sovereignty by Russia and its allies raises serious concerns about the integrity of any peace agreement. The proposal from the Trump administration to recognize Russian control over Crimea is seen as unacceptable in Kyiv.
Ukraine must stand firm on its demands for an unconditional ceasefire and maintain its commitment to defending its sovereignty. The international community must also support Ukraine’s position and ensure that any peace talks are conducted with transparency and respect for Ukrainian sovereignty.
In conclusion, the war in Ukraine remains a complex and sensitive issue, requiring careful consideration of all parties involved. The repeated rejection of Ukraine’s sovereignty by Russia and its allies raises serious concerns about the integrity of any peace agreement.
