Zelensky Pushes for New Peace Talks as Russian Bombardment Intensifies

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has offered Russia fresh peace negotiations in a renewed attempt to end the ongoing conflict, following a wave of aggressive missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian territory. The proposal comes amid escalating violence, rising civilian casualties, and renewed global attention on the cost of the war.

In a televised national address, Zelensky called for a ceasefire and urged Moscow to stop “hiding from decisions,” as Ukraine endured one of the most intense attacks in recent months. Over 300 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and more than 30 cruise missiles were launched by Russian forces, striking multiple regions, including Odesa and Sumy. At least one person was killed, and several others, including a child, were injured during the assault, which also damaged residential areas and key infrastructure.

The Ukrainian leader’s proposal involves resuming negotiations as early as next week, with Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov already extending a formal invitation to the Russian side. The two nations previously held talks in Istanbul, where prisoner exchanges were agreed, but no meaningful breakthrough was made toward ending the conflict that began with Russia’s 2022 invasion.

The United States, under the leadership of President Donald Trump, has taken a tougher stance, warning that further sanctions may be imposed on Russia if progress on peace is not made within the next 50 days. The shift in Washington’s approach underscores growing impatience with the prolonged stalemate and the toll it is taking across the region.

In a related development, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Moscow of forcibly deporting Ukrainian nationals into Georgia, often without valid identification. Many of those expelled are believed to be former prisoners who are now left stranded in transit zones without proper support.

Ukraine’s latest push for dialogue comes as its military continues to defend key regions and mount its cross-border operations. Drone attacks by Kyiv on Moscow have prompted temporary airport closures, further demonstrating how the war’s impact is reaching far beyond the front lines.

As the conflict stretches into its third year, the UK and its European partners remain focused on stability in the region. With the humanitarian toll mounting and the strategic risks deepening, Zelensky’s call for renewed talks may signal a pragmatic effort to prevent further escalation, though whether the Kremlin is ready to respond in kind remains to be seen.