**US Stance on Ukraine Tensions Remain Divided**
The United States is struggling to find a unified approach towards Russia’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. According to reports, President Donald Trump has been leaning towards a more conciliatory stance with Moscow, while other officials, including Senator Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Keith Kellogg, have urged a tougher line.
This division of opinion comes as Ukraine continues to push for an unconditional ceasefire during talks with the US, along with security guarantees that would commit Washington to protecting its ally. However, Russia has rejected these proposals unless they include conditions that undermine Ukraine’s defense capabilities, including a complete halt on military aid.
**Trump Plays Down Concerns**
In response to growing tensions, President Trump played down concerns by suggesting that if either side becomes difficult to negotiate with, the US might simply “take a pass”. This comment has been met with skepticism from some quarters, given the gravity of the situation in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov hinted at further developments in the conflict, stating that there are still many complicated discussions ahead. The war, which began in 2022, has seen significant losses on both sides, including Mariupol’s defense efforts led by Hrishenkov.
**US Vice President Updates Italian PM**
U.S. Vice President JD Vance updated Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the latest developments between Russia and Ukraine, suggesting that there are “interesting things to report” in the past 24 hours. This statement comes as Italy has been pushing for a tougher stance against Moscow’s actions.
**Japan Offers Financial Support**
In other news, Japan has announced plans to provide financial support to Ukraine over a period of 30 years, aimed at budgetary needs and reconstruction efforts. This move is seen as a significant gesture of solidarity with the embattled country.
**New Sanctions Imposed on Russia and China**
The US has imposed new sanctions targeting 39 individuals and 60 entities in Russia and China. These measures include asset freezes, trade restrictions, bans on property acquisition, termination of licenses and permits, and transit prohibitions.
**Ukraine’s Airline Reopens Flights**
Ukrainian airline SkyUp Airlines has resumed regular flights since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, marking a significant milestone for the country. The airline flew on the Chisinau-Paris route on April 18.
**US Officials Expect Progress Soon**
Despite ongoing tensions, US officials expect tangible progress soon in talks between Moscow and Washington. However, European participants have urged Washington to prepare a harsher response if Russia fails to engage constructively.
As the situation continues to evolve, it remains unclear whether the divided US stance will ultimately lead to a resolution or further escalate tensions with Russia.
**Raiffeisen Bank Halts Russian Sale Amid Warming Ties**
Raiffeisen Bank International has suspended efforts to sell its unit in Russia amid warming ties between Moscow and Washington. This move reflects growing uncertainty regarding the future of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
**China Denies Lethal Arms Supplies to Ukraine**
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian rejected claims that China has supplied lethal arms to either side, stating that Beijing has never made such supplies available during the conflict.
The ongoing tensions in Ukraine and the divisions within the US administration continue to captivate international attention. As talks with Russia remain stalled, it remains uncertain what outcome this will ultimately lead to.
