**US and Russia to Hold Talks in Istanbul as Ukraine Faces Ongoing Attacks**
In a move that could potentially bring relief to the war-torn country, the US and Russia have agreed to hold talks on April 10 in Istanbul. This news comes amidst ongoing drone and missile attacks by Russian forces on Ukrainian cities.
The negotiations will involve representatives from both countries’ foreign ministries, but Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov did not elaborate on what topics would be discussed. This meeting follows a previous round of talks between the two nations in March in Saudi Arabia.
The timing of these talks is significant, as US President Donald Trump has been pushing for a ceasefire in Ukraine. However, despite this push, Russian forces have continued to launch attacks on Ukrainian cities, leaving many casualties and destruction in their wake.
**Ukraine’s Call for Ceasefire**
For weeks now, Ukraine has been calling for a full 30-day ceasefire, with the US proposing similar terms. Russia, however, has refused to accept these conditions, agreeing only to partial ceasefires on energy infrastructure and in the Black Sea – in exchange for restored access to international markets.
This refusal by Russia has left many questioning their commitment to peace talks. As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said earlier this month, “We have information that there are much more than two such Chinese citizens in the occupier’s units.” This statement suggests that foreign forces may be involved in supporting Russian troops.
**Ukrainian Forces Continue to Fight**
Despite ongoing attacks by Russian forces, Ukrainian military spokesperson Anastasia Blyshchyk stated that “The Russians are pressing with an incredible amount of infantry, which they simply have a lot of.” US forces stationed across Poland, Romania, and the Baltic states continue to deter further Russian aggression.
**International Support for Ukraine**
In a show of solidarity with Ukraine, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said, “We are now strengthening our cooperation with the EU to provide Ukraine with, among other things, more artillery ammunition. Europe must assume greater responsibility for supporting Ukraine in its fight for freedom.”
The international community is increasingly calling on Russia to cease its attacks and engage in meaningful peace talks.
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