**U.S. Envoy Suggests Demilitarized Zone in Ukraine, But Putin’s Refusal Holds Up Progress**
In a surprise move, U.S. special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg has floated the idea of creating a demilitarized zone along the front lines between Ukrainian and Russian forces. This proposal involves both sides pulling back 15 kilometers from their current positions, creating a 30-kilometer area that would be monitored by observers from third countries.
Kellogg’s suggestion is a departure from Russia’s long-standing demand for Ukraine to withdraw from four occupied regions – Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. These areas were claimed by Russia as part of its annexation in 2022, but it has not fully controlled them since then.
The idea of a demilitarized zone is an interesting twist in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Such zones have been used in other conflicts to create buffer areas where violence can be minimized or even eliminated. However, it’s worth noting that Putin’s refusal to accept any kind of ceasefire or troop withdrawal has held up progress on this front.
**U.S. President Biden Weighs In**
Former U.S. President Joe Biden has chimed in on the matter, expressing concerns about the implications of conceding Ukrainian territory. He fears that giving in to Russian demands could erode confidence in Washington’s global role and undermine its credibility as a leader.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has remained silent on the issue, despite previous statements suggesting he would invite Russia back into international talks. When pressed for a response, Trump said it was not a good time, contradicting his earlier stance.
**Sanctions and War Efforts**
The European Commission is preparing its 17th sanctions package against Russia, targeting individuals and vessels associated with Moscow’s shadow fleet. This move comes as Ukraine continues to fight Russian forces, which have used a ballistic missile to target civilian infrastructure in the Sumy Oblast.
Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has announced that the country’s external financing needs for 2025 are fully met, covering its budgetary deficit. However, the ongoing war effort and economic strain on Ukraine continue to be pressing concerns.
**The Execution of Prisoners of War**
It is worth noting that executing prisoners of war is a breach of international law, specifically the Geneva Conventions, which qualify it as an international crime. This issue has not been explicitly addressed in recent reports or statements from world leaders.
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