Russia is facing accusations of insincere peace negotiations following its missile strike on Sumy, a city in northeastern Ukraine. The attack, which injured dozens, took place as Russian and US officials engaged in discussions aimed at pausing hostilities. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha criticized Russia, stating that its continued aggression contradicted its diplomatic efforts and rendered its peace statements "hollow."
The latest round of Russia-US talks took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where discussions centered on reviving the 2022 Black Sea grain deal. While Kyiv sought assurances for safe exports, Moscow reportedly aimed for sanction relief to facilitate fertilizer exports. Despite a 12-hour negotiation, no immediate resolution was reached, though a White House official described the talks as progressing "extremely well," with expectations of a forthcoming positive announcement.
However, skepticism remains due to Russia's continued military actions. Ukrainian officials reported that 65 people, including 14 children, were injured in Sumy. The attack targeted homes, a school, and a hospital, reinforcing claims that Russia intends to continue its campaign of destruction. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal argued that the incident demonstrated Russia’s commitment to terror rather than peace, urging the international community to increase pressure on Moscow.
Further complicating the situation, Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violating a recently agreed 30-day ceasefire, which prohibited attacks on infrastructure. Russia's defense ministry claimed that Ukraine launched a drone strike on an oil facility in southern Russia, while Ukraine condemned Moscow for its continued bombardments. In addition, reports emerged of Russia shooting down 227 Ukrainian drones overnight, underscoring the ongoing hostilities despite diplomatic negotiations.
Although US officials expressed optimism about securing a temporary ceasefire, Ukraine remains cautious. Ukrainian representatives participated in separate discussions with the US, emphasizing that their goal was a "just and lasting peace." Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged that negotiations would be difficult, suggesting that substantive progress remains elusive.
As the conflict persists, Russia’s actions raise doubts about its willingness to engage in genuine peace efforts. The timing of the Sumy attack, coinciding with peace talks, has reinforced perceptions that Moscow is using diplomacy as a strategic cover rather than a sincere attempt to end hostilities.
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