**US Diplomacy Under Fire in Ukraine**
The world is watching as the United States attempts to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. However, the latest developments have left many questioning the effectiveness of US diplomacy.
On May 19, U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin for the second time in recent days, seeking a ceasefire in Ukraine. But instead of progress, the call seemed to only confuse matters further.
Trump claimed that “some progress was made” and that the tone of the conversation was “excellent.” However, this contradicted the views of Ukrainian officials and European allies, who were stunned by the outcome of the call.
**A Misstep in Diplomacy?**
Ukrainian lawmakers and experts are criticizing Trump’s approach, saying it has emboldened Russia to continue its aggression. “It is obvious that Russia is trying to buy time to continue the war and occupation,” wrote President Volodymyr Zelensky on social media.
The lack of progress in negotiations has left Ukraine feeling frustrated and worried about the future. “Ukraine, through years of dealing with Russia, has learned one very clear lesson: Putin constantly lies,” said Halyna Yanchenko, a lawmaker from the Servant of the People party.
**A Pattern of Appeasement?**
The US president’s willingness to walk away if Ukraine and Russia cannot negotiate a peace deal is seen as a green light for Russia to continue its aggression. This has led many to question Trump’s commitment to pressuring Putin.
“Trump doesn’t know how to deal with real gangsters,” said Andrii Osadchuk, a lawmaker from the Holos faction. “Putin has humiliated him in public several times in a row, and he still can’t get it right.”
**The Cost of Failed Negotiations**
As phone calls and negotiations play out on the global stage, those with the most at stake – Ukrainians living under Russian occupation – watch on with growing concern.
“I am worried that as a result of the negotiations, Crimea may be left under Russian control,” said an activist from occupied Crimea. “But I will continue to resist because Crimea was and is Ukraine, regardless of political decisions.”
**The Need for Action**
Experts are calling for concrete actions to be taken against Russia, such as stepped-up sanctions, military aid, and the confiscation of frozen assets.
“The EU has kept up its side of the bargain by imposing new sanctions,” said Olena Halushka, a board member at the Anti-Corruption Action Centre. “Now it’s time for the US to take action.”
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