Russia Under Fire for Insincere Peace Negotiations Amid Ongoing Attacks

Ukrainian officials voiced strong criticism against Russia’s sincerity in peace talks following missile attacks on Sumy, while US and Russian representatives met in Saudi Arabia to discuss a possible ceasefire.

Russia has ignited fresh accusations of duplicity after launching a missile strike on the northeastern city of Sumy, Ukraine, injuring numerous civilians amid diplomatic talks aimed at reducing hostilities. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the strikes, stating that Russia should cease its attacks rather than make "hollow statements about peace." This assault coincided with a 12-hour meeting in Riyadh between US and Russian officials, focusing primarily on revitalizing a 2022 grain export deal that would allow Ukraine to ship products across the Black Sea. Moscow seeks to lessen Western sanctions to facilitate its fertiliser exports.

Reports from a White House official suggested the discussions went "extremely well," with anticipation of a positive announcement forthcoming. Back-to-back meetings were scheduled for Ukrainian and US delegates following the Russia-US dialogue. Despite a hopeful atmosphere, achieving a ceasefire remains complicated due to ongoing military confrontations. For now, parties have debated a "ceasefire light" primarily concerning shipping in the Black Sea region.

The striking incident in Sumy resulted in injuries to 65 individuals, including 14 children, with damage reported to schools, hospitals, and residential buildings. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal criticized the assault as another demonstration of Russia's intent to perpetuate terror in Ukraine, urging the international community to heighten pressure on Moscow to halt its aggression.

Despite ongoing negotiations, both sides are accused of violating last week's tentative 30-day ceasefire agreement. Russia's defence ministry claims that Ukraine conducted a drone attack on southern Russian infrastructure, while Ukrainian authorities report continued air strikes in Kyiv. As the war, started by Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, continues, the question of lasting peace remains elusive amid the backdrop of violence and diplomatic efforts.

As negotiations proceed, US envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism over the potential for meaningful progress, emphasizing Ukraine's need for a fair and enduring resolution. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the substantial challenges ahead in the negotiations, indicating that the path to peace is still at its inception.