**Ukraine Crisis: Multiple Developments as World Leaders Weigh in on Possible Peace Talks**
The situation in Ukraine continues to unfold, with various countries and leaders weighing in on the possibility of peace talks. In recent days, there have been several key developments that could potentially shape the outcome of any negotiations.
**Drone Attacks Claim Lives in Russia**
On Monday, Russia reported that three people were killed in Ukrainian drone attacks on the Tula and Nizhny Novgorod regions. The attack also targeted Moscow, according to Russian officials. This latest escalation comes as Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has been advocating for a place at the table with world leaders, including Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
**European Leaders Stand Firm on Protecting Ukraine’s Interests**
In a joint statement, European leaders emphasized that any diplomatic solution must protect both Ukrainian and European interests. This stance was echoed by Zelenskiy himself, who warned that decisions taken without Ukraine would be “stillborn.”
**Germany Hopes for Zelenskiy’s Participation in Trump-Putin Talks**
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed hope that Zelenskiy would be involved in the upcoming talks between Trump and Putin. This development is significant, as it suggests a growing recognition of Ukraine’s importance in any peace negotiations.
**Nordic-Baltic Leaders Reaffirm Support for Ukraine**
The leaders of eight Nordic-Baltic nations reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, emphasizing that peace can only be achieved through consistent pressure on Russia to halt its “unlawful” war. This statement further underscores the international community’s commitment to standing by Ukraine.
**Vance Says Peace Deal Unlikely to Satisfy Either Side**
US Vice President JD Vance acknowledged that a settlement between Ukraine and Russia would likely not satisfy either side. This candid assessment highlights the challenges ahead for any peace talks.
**Azerbaijan’s President Condemns Russian Strikes, but Energy Cooperation Continues**
Despite condemning Russian air strikes on Azerbaijani oil and gas facilities in Ukraine, Azerbaijan’s president indicated that energy cooperation between the two countries would continue.
**European Union Official Stresses Importance of Involving Ukraine and EU in Any Deal**
Kaja Kallas, the European Union foreign policy chief, emphasized that any deal between Washington and Moscow to end the war in Ukraine must include Ukraine and the EU. This stance ensures that Ukrainian interests are protected.
**Three Killed by Unexploded Objects on Ukraine’s Beaches**
In a separate incident, three swimmers were killed by unexploded objects on beaches in Ukraine’s Odesa region. This tragic event highlights the ongoing dangers faced by civilians in Ukraine.
As world leaders navigate these complex developments, one thing is clear: any peace talks must prioritize Ukrainian interests and involve all relevant parties to have a chance of success.
Read More @ www.reuters.com
