Before Kyiv Visit, Kremlin Wants Ceasefire - But Only If Ukraine Stops Western Arms
Cessation of hostilities contingent upon conclusion of arms deliveries, as asserted by the Kremlin.
In a surprising move that's shaking up European diplomacy, the Kremlin has set a condition for a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict: a halt to US and EU arms shipments to Kyiv. According to the Kremlin's spokesman, Dmitri Peskow, such a move would give Ukraine an unfair advantage, potentially sabotaging the peace efforts.
Kyiv, on the other hand, is looking at a ceasefire as an opportunity to regroup, train new troops, and prepare for negotiations. Yet, Peskow hints at another reason behind the Kremlin's reluctance - Russia's progress in its offensive in Ukraine.
As a gaggle of European heads of state head to Kyiv, the world awaits a response from Russia. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has already thrown the ball into Moscow's court, encouraging a longer ceasefire to enable genuine peace talks.
The stage is set for a tense standoff. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has backed the US call for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire and promised strong pressure if Russia defaults on the agreement.
However, the Kremlin's conditions continue to complicate matters. For years, Moscow has been shelling Ukraine but now seems ready for peace, on their own terms. But is this a smart move in a battle that even Trump calls a "dumb war"?
- The Uneasy Peace: The ongoing conflict in Ukraine hasn't witnessed a ceasefire for some time, even during significant events like Easter and the 80th anniversary of World War II's end.
- Power Play: By demanding a halt to Western arms deliveries, the Kremlin is aiming to weaken Ukraine's military capabilities. This strategic move could undermine international support for Ukraine.
- International Drama: The broader geopolitical implications of this conflict are dramatic. Europe is faced with the potential of further sanctions against Russia, and the specter of escalating tensions between Russia and its allies.
Sources: ntv.de, gho/dpa
- Ukraine
- Russia
- Wars and Conflicts
- Vladimir Putin
- USA
- Trump
Interesting Anecdote: During Victory Day celebrations, Russia highlighted its growing ties with countries like China and North Korea, potentially bolstering its position in the ongoing conflict while seemingly downplaying the support of Western blocs.
- The European Parliament has also expressed its concern at the recent events in Ukraine, questioning Russia's true intentions in the ceasefire negotiations.
- Despite Vladimir Putin's supposed agreement to a ceasefire in Ukraine, the Kremlin's insistence on stopping Western arms shipments to Ukraine might create a stalemate in the peace process.
- As Russia and Ukraine negotiate ceasefire conditions, the USA, under the former president Trump, has criticized the conflict as a "dumb war," urging Russia to reconsider its strategic choice.
- Amidst the lingering tension in war-and-conflicts between Ukraine and Russia, politics continue to play a significant role, as EU leaders press for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire and threaten to apply sanctions if Russia defaults on the agreement.
