**Moscow and Kyiv Still Far Apart on Peace Talks**
The situation in Ukraine remains tense as the Kremlin continues to attack Ukrainian regions. Despite this, Moscow is waiting for a signal from Kyiv to resume bilateral peace negotiations. Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly proclaimed Russia’s readiness for peace talks while pushing for maximalist demands.
According to Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, “Kyiv should take some action in this regard (to resume talks). There is a legal ban. So far, we don’t see any action.” This comes as Ukraine maintains that it is ready for negotiations but insists on preserving its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
**Kyiv Accuses Russia of Stalling Peace Efforts**
Ukrainian officials have accused Russia of deliberately stalling peace efforts. Andrii Kovalenko, an official at Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, called Peskov’s recent remarks a manipulation. “Peskov is manipulating again. When Russia says it is ready to start negotiations, for some reason, they forget to halt fire,” Kovalenko said.
**Ukraine Refuses to Negotiate Under Conditional Terms**
President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized that any peace process must preserve Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Kyiv insists that territorial issues can only be addressed after a full ceasefire. Last week, Zelensky stated that Ukraine’s willingness to enter negotiations with Russia following a potential truce is already a “big compromise” by Kyiv.
**U.S. Leadership Plays Role in Peace Negotiations**
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed his push for a potential peace deal between Ukraine and Russia. Following his meeting with Zelensky at the Vatican on April 26, Trump urged Putin to stop attacks on Ukraine and finalize a U.S.-brokered peace deal to end the war.
**Russia Continues Attacks**
Russian forces have continued their regular attacks on Ukrainian regions over the past day. At least six civilians were killed, and at least 13 injured in these attacks. The situation remains dire for Ukraine as Russia continues its aggression.
**NATO and EU Commitment to Support Ukraine**
Despite the ongoing conflict, NATO and EU member states continue to support Ukraine. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has stated that Germany will continue to support Ukraine with military aid even if the U.S. cuts back its assistance.
**Russian Annexation and North Korea’s Involvement**
The annexation of Ukrainian regions by Russia remains a contentious issue. Russian businessman Albert Avdolyan was involved in the annexation process, according to reports. Furthermore, North Korea has deployed troops to support Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
**Deadly Attack on Kyiv**
A deadly attack on Kyiv left a dozen civilians dead and many more injured. This incident has sparked concerns among world leaders about the ongoing conflict.
The situation remains tense as both sides continue their positions on peace negotiations. The international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this devastating conflict.
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