Janice R. Andrews
Russian officials have expressed willingness to consider peace proposals from former President Donald Trump regarding Ukraine, while emphasizing that such proposals should prioritize ending the conflict rather than expanding military assistance to Kyiv. This development comes amid escalating Russian drone strikes in Ukraine, with recent attacks in Odesa causing one fatality and 13 injuries.
According to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, Moscow and Washington maintain communication through confidential channels concerning Ukraine. Speaking to Interfax news agency, Ryabkov stressed that any proposals must focus on peace rather than further arming Ukraine, though he did not specify whether these discussions involved the Biden administration or Trump’s team.
In Kyiv, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed optimism about potential engagement with a future Trump administration, highlighting past positive relations. He recalled Ukraine’s early support for Trump’s presidency and mentioned ongoing efforts to establish communication channels between their teams, emphasizing Ukraine’s pursuit of a “just peace.”
During his visit to Kyiv, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to Ukraine, advocating for expedited aid delivery and fewer restrictions on military support. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to face intensive Russian aerial attacks, with recent strikes damaging infrastructure in Odesa and Kharkiv province. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 32 Russian drones across ten regions, while electronically jamming 18 others.
The conflict’s air campaign has intensified on both sides, with Russia reporting the interception of 50 Ukrainian drones, primarily over the Bryansk region. As diplomatic efforts continue, observers await whether Trump’s potential peace proposals might lead to de-escalation or if the conflict will persist amid ongoing military operations.
The article has been streamlined while maintaining the key information and chronological flow of events.
