Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of deliberately delaying peace talks to continue its military offensive, as the conflict nears its fourth year. His statement follows failed negotiations in Istanbul and recent calls between US President Donald Trump, Zelenskyy, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Despite renewed diplomatic contact, no truce has been reached. Zelenskyy criticized Russia’s delegation, calling them “empty heads” and alleging Moscow is using talks as a cover to advance on the battlefield. Meanwhile, Trump described his latest two-hour call with Putin as a potential breakthrough, though Putin again refused to agree to an immediate ceasefire.
Instead of a truce, Putin proposed a vague “memorandum” outlining positions—a move analysts say allows Russia to continue fighting without making real concessions. Ukrainian officials said they have not seen the memorandum but remain open to reviewing it.
Zelenskyy urged tougher international pressure, especially from the US and EU, calling for stronger banking and energy sanctions to cripple Russia’s war funding. EU leaders echoed this, with foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas demanding “consequences” if Russia keeps rejecting peace terms. The EU has already approved its 17th round of sanctions, targeting Russia’s shadow shipping fleet.
As China calls for continued talks, skepticism grows globally. German officials and Moscow citizens alike doubt the sincerity of Putin’s peace efforts, as Russian forces gain ground and the Kremlin boasts of its resilience to sanctions by deepening ties with China and India.