**Ukraine’s President Blames Russia’s Putin for Blocking Peace Efforts**
In a recent interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sounded the alarm about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s role in obstructing peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. Zelensky believes that Trump needs to understand that Putin lies and blocks efforts towards a peaceful resolution.
According to the Guardian, Zelensky told journalists in Kyiv that “Trump needs to believe that Putin actually lies” and that both sides should approach the issue sensibly. This comes ahead of planned talks between Ukraine, Russia, and top US officials in Turkey, which would be the first direct peace negotiations since 2022.
**Zelensky’s Warning: Don’t Let Putin Play Games**
Zelensky has warned that if Putin does not attend the talks or plays games with the process, it will be a sign that he is not interested in ending the war. The Ukrainian president also emphasized the need for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting on May 12 as a first step towards peace – a proposal that Russia has ignored.
**US Frustration Grows**
The White House has expressed frustration with the stalled peace efforts, and Trump has been critical of both Ukraine and Russia, blaming them for the deadlock in negotiations. The self-imposed 100-day deadline to broker a deal has passed, adding to the pressure on all parties involved.
**Commentary: A Delicate Balance**
In an era where trust is hard to come by, Zelensky’s comments highlight the complexity of navigating international diplomacy. Putin’s role as a key player in these negotiations is a double-edged sword – his absence could be seen as a sign that Russia is not interested in peace, but his presence might not guarantee success either.
**What Next?**
As talks proceed without clear guarantees from Putin, Zelensky’s warning to Trump and the international community serves as a reminder of the stakes involved. If these negotiations fail to yield meaningful results, it could lead to further escalation, underscoring the need for diplomacy and careful consideration of all parties’ interests.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
