Ukraine, Russia trade strikes as US-backed talks resume
Ukraine, Russia trade strikes as US-backed talks resume
As US-led negotiations on Ukraine’s conflict with Russia restart, both sides report casualties from recent attacks. The talks, ongoing in Miami, aim to refocus global attention on ending the war after the Middle East tensions dominated headlines following the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Thousands in Chernihiv, a northern Ukrainian region, remain without electricity, adding to the disruption caused by strikes targeting infrastructure.
On Saturday, Russian and Ukrainian forces exchanged attacks, resulting in multiple fatalities. Ukrainian officials confirmed four deaths in the country, while Russian authorities noted casualties in the Belgorod border region. In Zaporizhia, a strike killed two people and left six others injured, according to local governor Ivan Fedorov. Neighboring Dnipropetrovsk also reported two deaths and five injuries from the fighting.
US Mediation Efforts Continue
The discussions, led by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are part of broader mediation attempts to narrow remaining disagreements. Witkoff described the session as “constructive,” emphasizing efforts to pave the way for a comprehensive peace agreement. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the talks’ significance, stating they were “important for the whole world” and would continue into Sunday.
“The key issue is to understand how ready Russia is to move toward a real end to the war — honestly and with dignity — especially now, when geopolitical tensions have increased due to the situation around Iran,” Zelenskyy added.
Despite initial optimism, the Trump administration has faced criticism for its perceived alignment with Russia in securing a ceasefire. Accusations include favoring a draft proposal that urged Ukraine to surrender territory under Kyiv’s control. Zelenskyy’s primary goal, he stated, is to ensure trilateral negotiations continue and that European allies can access US military supplies.
Russia, however, has shown hesitation, prioritizing territorial gains to strengthen its negotiating position. The ongoing war in Iran has also boosted Russia’s economic leverage, as the US allows temporary purchases of its fuel amid rising energy prices. Meanwhile, Ukraine awaits a €90-billion funding package from the EU, delayed by Hungary’s Viktor Orban.
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