**Ukraine War Reaches Boiling Point as Peace Talks Loom**
As the clock ticks down to Monday’s crucial peace talks in Istanbul, tensions between Russia and Ukraine are reaching a boiling point. The situation is becoming increasingly volatile, with both sides exchanging threats and accusations.
**Russia Refuses to Submit Terms, US Threatens Oil Tariffs**
In a surprise move, Russia has refused to submit its terms for the peace talks, citing a desire to “pressure” Ukraine into agreeing to meet on June 2. Meanwhile, the United States has threatened to impose oil tariffs on Russia if it blocks the peace process.
**Ukraine Hits Russian Base in Vladivostok**
In a daring operation, Ukrainian forces have reportedly hit a Russian marine base over 6,000 kilometers from Ukraine. The blast was so powerful that it damaged several buildings and injured people nearby.
**US Senators Plan to Make Russian Oil 500% More Expensive**
Just days before the Istanbul talks, US senators have announced plans to make Russian oil 500% more expensive by imposing crushing tariffs on Russian oil exports.
**European Union Calls for Independence through Defense Spending**
As tensions escalate, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for greater independence from Russia through increased defense spending and Ukrainian membership in the EU.
**Russian Army Attacks Ukraine with Drones**
In a separate development, the Russian army has launched drone attacks on a trolleybus depot in Kharkiv and a Nova Poshta terminal in Odesa. The attacks injured 10 people and damaged several buildings.
**Macron Warns US to Act Against Russia’s Aggression**
French President Emmanuel Macron has warned the United States that its credibility is at stake if it fails to act against Russian aggression in Ukraine.
**Trump Envoy Open to Freeze NATO Expansion**
In a surprise move, Trump’s special envoy has announced that the United States is open to freezing NATO expansion as part of a peace deal with Russia.
As the situation on the ground becomes increasingly volatile, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will bear fruit. The clock is ticking down to Monday’s crucial peace talks in Istanbul – and only time will tell if they will bring an end to the conflict or further escalate tensions.
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com
