**US Vice President Threatens to Abandon Ukraine Peace Efforts if Belligerent Sides Refuse**
In a statement made during his visit to India on April 23, US Vice President JD Vance warned that the US might withdraw its peace efforts in Ukraine if the warring sides fail to accept a proposed deal. The proposal, described as “very explicit,” was presented to Russia and Ukraine, with Vance emphasizing the need for both parties to make concessions, including relinquishing some of the territory they control.
The comments come amidst reports that the US is willing to recognize Russian de facto control over occupied territories in Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts. However, this move has been met with opposition from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who maintains that Crimea remains a part of Ukraine.
**Concessions Needed for Peace**
Vance emphasized the importance of laying down arms and “freezing” the war, even if it means eventual borders may not exactly follow the current front line. This suggests that the US is willing to accept a compromise on territorial control in exchange for peace. However, such concessions would likely be difficult for both Russia and Ukraine to swallow.
**Escalating Violence**
The situation remains tense on the ground, with Russian drone attacks killing at least nine people and injuring 30 in Marhanets, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on April 23. The same day saw four civilians killed and 88 injured across various Ukrainian regions.
**Diplomatic Efforts Struggle to Advance**
Top European and US diplomats were set to discuss the proposed peace plan in London on April 23 but have since downgraded their attendance, amid reported disagreements over key points of the plan. This setback highlights the ongoing challenges in finding a mutually acceptable solution to the conflict.
**Commentary**
The prospect of the US abandoning its peace efforts should serve as a wake-up call for both Russia and Ukraine. The international community has consistently emphasized the need for concessions from all parties involved. While it’s unclear whether these warnings will be heeded, one thing is certain: further violence will only exacerbate the humanitarian crisis.
**Analysis**
The proposed US peace plan appears to prioritize stability over territorial integrity, reflecting a pragmatic approach to conflict resolution. However, this may come at the cost of undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty and the legitimacy of its government. The ongoing discussions between global leaders underscore the complexity of resolving this conflict, which will likely continue to dominate international headlines in the coming weeks.
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