**Ukraine’s Presidential Office Chief Heads to US Amid Stalled Peace Talks**
Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, is set to travel to the United States, a source close to the Presidential Office told the Kyiv Independent on June 3. This move comes as peace talks between Russia and Ukraine have hit a snag once again.
The latest round of negotiations in Istanbul on June 2 focused on a new prisoner exchange but failed to yield any significant breakthroughs in finding a lasting solution to the conflict. President Volodymyr Zelensky has been vocal about his desire for stronger sanctions against Russia if the peace talks stall. He recently urged US President Donald Trump to impose additional sanctions, citing the need for “strong new sanctions” from both the EU and the United States.
The US president had previously hinted that he would not rush into imposing new sanctions on Russia, saying he did not want to jeopardize a potential peace deal. However, with talks now seemingly stalled, Zelensky’s appeal for stronger action may be music to Trump’s ears.
**Russia Accused of Stalling as Prisoner Exchange Agreement Reached**
The Ukrainian delegation was left frustrated by the outcome of the Istanbul talks, with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov condemning Russia for “once again stalling for time.” In contrast, Ukraine agreed to work on a prisoner exchange with up to 1,200 captives from each side. However, this offer was rejected in favor of a temporary two- to three-day ceasefire in specific areas of the front line to allow for the retrieval of fallen soldiers’ bodies.
This latest development has left many wondering if Russia is genuinely interested in finding a peaceful resolution or simply using the talks as a delaying tactic. The fact that Ukraine and Russia have managed to agree on some aspects, such as the prisoner exchange, suggests that both sides are willing to engage in negotiations but may be struggling to find common ground.
**Zelensky Seeks New Agreements with US on Arms Purchases**
In an effort to boost its military capabilities, Zelensky has revealed that Ukraine is seeking new agreements with the United States on arms purchases. This move comes as the assistance allocated under the previous Biden administration is running out, and Ukraine’s defense team has offered Washington the option of selling U.S. weapons instead of donating them.
This development raises questions about the sustainability of Ukraine’s military campaign against Russia. Will the US be willing to provide more substantial support, or will this lead to a further escalation of tensions between Moscow and Kyiv?
**The Importance of Independent Journalism in Times of Crisis**
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