Russia warns there may not be a Ukraine ceasefire 'this year' in blow to Trump

Stalled Ukraine Ceasefire? Top Russian Negotiator Casts Doubt on Swift Resolution as Trump’s Wish for Enduring Peace Hangs in Balance

Hopes for a swift resolution to the war in Ukraine, a desire voiced by Donald Trump, have been dealt a blow as a senior Russian negotiator indicated that a ceasefire may not materialize “this year.” Grigory Karasin, who spearheaded the Russian delegation during recent discussions with the U.S. in Saudi Arabia, described the talks as “constructive” yet cautioned against expecting immediate breakthroughs. His remarks suggest Ukraine conflict negotiations remain complex and protracted, despite calls for de-escalation and a ceasefire in Ukraine.

Prolonged Conflict Expected: Ceasefire Unlikely This Year

Speaking with state broadcaster Rossiya 24, Mr. Karasin stated that a cessation of hostilities might not be achieved within the current year, or even by year’s end. This assertion follows an apparent agreement between Ukraine and Russia to implement a temporary truce concerning energy infrastructure and the Black Sea. While acknowledging the limited advancements made during the recent talks, Mr. Karasin, a former ambassador to the UK and chair of Russia’s Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, implied that further dialogue is anticipated.

Accusations and Broken Truces: Fragile Ceasefire Attempts

Both Moscow and Kyiv have already traded accusations regarding breaches of prior commitments to suspend strikes on energy facilities, highlighting the fragility of ceasefire attempts.

A previous 30-day ceasefire agreement, established earlier in the month, collapsed within mere hours, underscoring the deep mistrust and volatility of the situation.

Fears of Renewed Russian Offensive and Intensified Negotiations

The Ukrainian government, alongside military analysts, are expressing concerns that Russian forces are preparing to initiate a new military offensive in the coming weeks. This anticipated escalation is perceived as a strategy to maximize pressure on Ukraine and bolster the Kremlin’s negotiating leverage in any future ceasefire talks.

Ukraine Alleges Russia Delaying Peace Discussions for Territorial Gains

Ukrainian officials contend that President Vladimir Putin may deliberately prolong discussions aimed at ending the war as a tactic to secure additional territorial advantages.

Reports indicate Moscow is potentially planning a broad offensive across a roughly 621-mile stretch of the frontline.

On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of deliberately stalling ceasefire negotiations.

President Zelensky stated, “They’re dragging out the talks and trying to get the U.S. entangled in endless and pointless discussions about fabricated ‘conditions’ simply to gain time and then attempt to seize more territory.”

These sentiments echo those previously expressed by the U.S. President, who suggested Russia might be intentionally “dragging their feet” in the peace process.

Earlier this month, Russia declined to accept a comprehensive, unconditional 30-day ceasefire proposal. Donald Trump’s hopes for a swift end to the Russia-Ukraine war now appear increasingly uncertain.