- Russia hails US willingness to block Ukraine’s NATO entry and recognize Crimea as Russian.
- Ceasefire violations continue; deadly attacks resume immediately after Easter truce.
- Trump pushes for peace deal favoring Moscow, sparking major geopolitical concern.
The Kremlin has expressed satisfaction with reports that the U.S. is open to barring Ukraine from NATO and possibly recognizing Russia’s control of Crimea.
Despite a 30-hour Easter ceasefire declared by Russia, Ukrainian officials reported nearly 3,000 attacks, including strikes on civilian infrastructure.
Putin Renews Assaults as US Considers Peace Terms Favoring Russia
U.S. diplomatic positioning appears to be shifting, with unconfirmed reports indicating readiness to exclude Ukraine from NATO and recognize Crimea as part of Russia. This approach, reportedly shaped by Trump’s influence, may accelerate a peace deal but undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty and long-term security goals.
Trump’s public comments portray Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy as partly to blame for the war and downplay Russian attacks, including a deadly strike in Sumy. His stance has drawn criticism for potentially emboldening Moscow while demanding concessions only from Kyiv.
On the ground, the war shows no signs of de-escalation. Ukraine’s military reported continued shelling, drone attacks, and attempts to advance on Ukrainian positions during and after the truce. Kherson and Donetsk were among the hardest hit, with multiple civilian deaths and injuries reported.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy had proposed extending the truce for 30 days, but Russia declined. He emphasized the need for a genuine ceasefire, warning that any false peace would allow Russia time to regroup. The Kremlin, meanwhile, continues to demand Ukraine’s “demilitarization” and Zelenskyy’s removal.
As diplomatic winds appear to shift in Russia’s favor, Ukraine remains under heavy fire, raising fears that any peace deal reached under pressure could come at the cost of justice and territorial integrity.
“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” — Albert Einstein
