**US Stalls on Ukraine Peace Talks, Waiting for Russia’s Response**
The United States is holding back on taking further steps in peace talks with Russia over the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to Bloomberg, a source close to the discussions revealed that Washington is waiting for Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev to report back to President Vladimir Putin before proceeding.
Dmitriev met with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Washington earlier this week. The visit came amidst growing frustration from President Trump over the stalled talks and Russia’s failure to deliver on a partial truce agreement in the Black Sea region.
**Tariffs Imposed, But Trade Remains Limited**
In an attempt to put pressure on Moscow, President Trump announced a 10% tariff on nearly all imports into the country. However, trade between the US and Russia remains limited due to existing sanctions. The White House has made it clear that any “meaningful trade” with Russia is non-existent.
**US Officials Frustrated with Russia’s Approach**
US officials are growing increasingly frustrated with Moscow’s slow pace in negotiations. A breakthrough on a partial truce last week quickly evaporated after Russian officials claimed that sanctions relief was a prerequisite for the agreement. This contradicted a US statement outlining the parameters of the deal.
**Dmitriev’s Visit and Praise for Trump**
Kirill Dmitriev, who heads the state-controlled Russian Direct Investment Fund, met with US officials in Washington on behalf of Putin on April 2 and 3. Following his visit, he praised the Trump administration for its constructive and respectful dialogue with Russia, stating that the two nations plan to restore and deepen their ties, including further economic cooperation.
**Tariffs May Undermine Defense Cooperation**
The tariffs imposed by President Trump may have serious consequences for international defense cooperation. Joint military projects, such as producing the F-35 fighter jet, air defense systems, and constructing nuclear submarines, could be jeopardized.
**Ukraine’s Military Situation**
In Ukraine, the situation remains dire. The body of a fourth victim was found trapped beneath rubble in Kharkiv on April 4, bringing the total number of casualties to over 1,380 in just one day. US Army General Christopher Cavoli warned that more F-16s are being prepared for deployment, and there are more pilots in training pipelines.
**International Support for Ukraine**
The international community continues to show support for Ukraine. The Danish government approved a 25th package of military assistance worth $970 million, which will support Ukraine from 2025 until 2027. NATO’s command and control structures could be used to deploy a “reassurance force” to Ukraine.
**Commentary**
The situation in Ukraine remains complex and sensitive. Russia’s approach to negotiations has been slow and unproductive, leading to frustration among US officials. The tariffs imposed by President Trump may have serious consequences for defense cooperation, but the international community continues to show support for Ukraine.
**Deeper Analysis**
The conflict in Ukraine is not just about territorial control or economic interests; it’s also a test of values and principles. Russia’s actions are seen as an attempt to undermine democratic countries and their shared values. The situation highlights the need for effective communication and cooperation among nations to prevent such conflicts from escalating further.
As Finland’s President Alexander Stubb suggested, either France or the UK should initiate contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis. It remains to be seen how this will play out in the coming days and weeks.
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