The Kremlin announced Sunday (April 12) that Russia will not extend the 32-hour Orthodox Easter truce with Ukraine unless President Volodymyr Zelensky yields to its long-standing demands, signalling a return to full-scale hostilities.&nbsp;"Sustainable peace can come when we secure our interests and achieve the goals we set from the very start. This can be done literally today. But Zelensky must accept these well-known solutions," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, according to Russian news agencies.&nbsp;"Until Zelensky musters the courage to assume this responsibility, the special military operation will continue after the truce expires," Peskov added, referring to the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;This hardline stance follows a fragile period of a limited ceasefire that was due to expire at the end of Sunday. While President Zelensky initially proposed the truce and Vladimir Putin later ordered it as a "humanitarian" gesture, it was marred by immediate reports of violations.&nbsp;Kyiv accused Russian forces of continuing drone strikes in several regions shortly after the ceasefire began Saturday afternoon, while Moscow countered with its own claims of nearly 2,000 Ukrainian violations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-failed-to-win-trust-of-iranian-delegation-parliament-speaker-after-failed-talks-1775994917349">US failed to win trust of Iranian delegation: Parliament speaker after failed talks</a>&nbsp;Despite the tension, the two nations successfully conducted a significant exchange of 175 prisoners of war each on Saturday, a rare moment of cooperation mediated by the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;As the religious holiday concludes, the refusal to extend the pause suggests a grim outlook for diplomatic breakthroughs, with both sides reporting the commitment of strategic reserves to the front lines.&nbsp;The war between Russia and Ukraine entered its fifth year, with negotiations involving US officials and delegations from both nations continuing despite a battlefield deadlock.&nbsp;American-led talks in Geneva have struggled to find common ground, as Moscow demands territorial concessions that Kyiv rejects. These efforts are further complicated by the 2026 West Asia conflict, which has diverted global diplomatic focus and bolstered Russia's economy through rising energy prices.

This hardline stance follows a fragile period of a limited ceasefire that was due to expire at the end of Sunday. While President Zelensky initially proposed the truce and Vladimir Putin later ordered it as a "humanitarian" gesture, it was marred by immediate reports of violations.

The Kremlin announced Sunday (April 12) that Russia will not extend the 32-hour Orthodox Easter truce with Ukraine unless President Volodymyr Zelensky yields to its long-standing demands, signalling a return to full-scale hostilities. "Sustainable peace can come when we secure our interests and achieve the goals we set from the very start. This can be done literally today. But Zelensky must accept these well-known solutions," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, according to Russian news agencies. "Until Zelensky musters the courage to assume this responsibility, the special military operation will continue after the truce expires," Peskov added, referring to the war in Ukraine. This hardline stance follows a fragile period of a limited ceasefire that was due to expire at the end of Sunday. While President Zelensky initially proposed the truce and Vladimir Putin later ordered it as a "humanitarian" gesture, it was marred by immediate reports of violations. Kyiv accused Russian forces of continuing drone strikes in several regions shortly after the ceasefire began Saturday afternoon, while Moscow countered with its own claims of nearly 2,000 Ukrainian violations. Also Read: US failed to win trust of Iranian delegation: Parliament speaker after failed talks Despite the tension, the two nations successfully conducted a significant exchange of 175 prisoners of war each on Saturday, a rare moment of cooperation mediated by the United Arab Emirates. As the religious holiday concludes, the refusal to extend the pause suggests a grim outlook for diplomatic breakthroughs, with both sides reporting the commitment of strategic reserves to the front lines. The war between Russia and Ukraine entered its fifth year, with negotiations involving US officials and delegations from both nations continuing despite a battlefield deadlock. American-led talks in Geneva have struggled to find common ground, as Moscow demands territorial concessions that Kyiv rejects. These efforts are further complicated by the 2026 West Asia conflict, which has diverted global diplomatic focus and bolstered Russia's economy through rising energy prices.

This hardline stance follows a fragile period of a limited ceasefire that was due to expire at the end of Sunday. While President Zelensky initially proposed the truce and Vladimir Putin later ordered it as a "humanitarian" gesture, it was marred by immediate reports of violations.

Russia rules out extending Easter truce without Ukraine agreeing to its demands

On the fourth anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war, European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen, on Tuesday (Feb 24), said that the bloc would deliver on a multi-billion-euro loan for Ukraine despite Hungary, a Moscow-friendly nation of the 27-nation grouping, vetoing the proposal. Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban is stalling both the 90-billion-euro ($106-billion) loan as well as a fresh round of sanctions on Russia until Kyiv re-opens a key oil pipeline.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukraine, on the other hand, claimed the Druzhba pipeline, which crosses its territory to deliver Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary, was damagedon &nbsp;January 27 by Russian strikes.&nbsp;"Let me be crystal clear ... the loan was agreed by 27 heads of state and government in the European Council. They have given their word. This word cannot be broken," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;"We will deliver on the loan one way or the other. Let me be very clear. We have different options, and we will use them," she said at a press conference in Kyiv with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky marking the four-year anniversary of Russia's invasion.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-round-of-india-israel-fta-negotiations-begins-in-new-delhi-ahead-of-pm-modi-s-visit-1771951501537">First round of India-Israel FTA negotiations begins in New Delhi ahead of PM Modi’s visit</a>&nbsp;Zelensky blamed Russia for the destruction of the pipeline and said that Moscow forces are likely to strike it again even after it is fixed. He urged Orban to directly negotiate with Russian leader Vladimir Putin to halt strikes on the facility or agree on an "energy ceasefire" with Russia.&nbsp;Since the beginning of the war with Russia, the European Union and its Member States have provided Kyiv with around €193 billion in financial, military, and humanitarian assistance.&nbsp;The new proposed loan of €90 billion for the 2026–2027 period marks a significant structural shift in support. Agreed upon by EU leaders in late 2025 and formally advanced by the Council in February 2026, this "Ukraine Support Loan" is designed to cover two-thirds of Kyiv's projected financing needs. Approximately €60 billion of this package is specifically earmarked to bolster Ukraine's defence industrial base and military procurement, while the remaining €30 billion will provide essential budget support to maintain public services like healthcare and education.

Since the beginning of the war with Russia, the European Union and its Member States have provided Kyiv with around €193 billion in financial, military, and humanitarian assistance.

On the fourth anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war, European Union Chief Ursula von der Leyen, on Tuesday (Feb 24), said that the bloc would deliver on a multi-billion-euro loan for Ukraine despite Hungary, a Moscow-friendly nation of the 27-nation grouping, vetoing the proposal. Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban is stalling both the 90-billion-euro ($106-billion) loan as well as a fresh round of sanctions on Russia until Kyiv re-opens a key oil pipeline. Ukraine, on the other hand, claimed the Druzhba pipeline, which crosses its territory to deliver Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary, was damagedon January 27 by Russian strikes. "Let me be crystal clear ... the loan was agreed by 27 heads of state and government in the European Council. They have given their word. This word cannot be broken," von der Leyen said. "We will deliver on the loan one way or the other. Let me be very clear. We have different options, and we will use them," she said at a press conference in Kyiv with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky marking the four-year anniversary of Russia's invasion. Also Read: First round of India-Israel FTA negotiations begins in New Delhi ahead of PM Modi’s visit Zelensky blamed Russia for the destruction of the pipeline and said that Moscow forces are likely to strike it again even after it is fixed. He urged Orban to directly negotiate with Russian leader Vladimir Putin to halt strikes on the facility or agree on an "energy ceasefire" with Russia. Since the beginning of the war with Russia, the European Union and its Member States have provided Kyiv with around €193 billion in financial, military, and humanitarian assistance. The new proposed loan of €90 billion for the 2026–2027 period marks a significant structural shift in support. Agreed upon by EU leaders in late 2025 and formally advanced by the Council in February 2026, this "Ukraine Support Loan" is designed to cover two-thirds of Kyiv's projected financing needs. Approximately €60 billion of this package is specifically earmarked to bolster Ukraine's defence industrial base and military procurement, while the remaining €30 billion will provide essential budget support to maintain public services like healthcare and education.

Since the beginning of the war with Russia, the European Union and its Member States have provided Kyiv with around €193 billion in financial, military, and humanitarian assistance.

EU chief vows new €90 billion loan to Ukraine on top of €193 billion it already spent since start of war

The latest round of US-mediated peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Geneva ended after only two hours on Wednesday without a breakthrough. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the talks as “difficult” and accused Russia of deliberately delaying progress toward a deal to end the four-year-old war, that is now likely to enter its fifth year next week. Zelensky accused Russia of “trying to drag out negotiations that could already have reached the final stage”. Zelensky said no agreement had been reached on the thorniest questions at the negotiations in Switzerland, accusing Moscow of “trying to drag out” the process.&nbsp;“We can see that some groundwork has been done, but for now the positions differ, because the negotiations were not easy,” he told reporters after the talks.Zelensky said the status of Russian-occupied territories in eastern Ukraine and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which remains under Moscow’s control, were among the most contentious unresolved issues.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-uk-pm-rishi-sunak-hails-india-s-enormous-optimism-trust-for-ai-unlike-scepticism-in-west-1771424112864">Former UK PM Rishi Sunak hails India’s ‘enormous optimism, trust for AI,’ unlike scepticism in West</a>&nbsp;He further said that discussions had taken place along military and political tracks, including how a ceasefire can be implemented.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rustem Umerov, the head of Kyiv’s negotiating team, said separately that the second day had been “intensive and substantive”. Both sides were working toward decisions that can be sent to their presidents, he said.&nbsp;President Donald Trump has said twice in recent days that it is now up to Ukraine and Zelensky to ensure the talks were successful.&nbsp;The ending of the second day of talks after just two hours signals that a deal is still distant.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-extends-ai-impact-summit-by-a-day-amid-record-turnout-event-to-go-on-till-feb-21-1771411580595">Govt extends AI Impact Summit by a day amid record turnout, event to go on till Feb 21</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Talks difficult but businesslike, further rounds planned’</h2>&nbsp;Russia’s chief negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, described the Geneva discussions as “difficult but businesslike” as he left the talks, adding that further rounds of negotiations were planned and would follow soon.&nbsp;Moscow is demanding that Ukrainian territory in the east it holds be fully ceded, but Kyiv has rejected the precondition, though Zelensky has said he is willing to consider alternative arrangements, like the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from parts of the east and the establishment of a demilitarised zone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-hold-talks-with-google-ceo-sundar-pichai-at-india-ai-impact-summit-discuss-ai-innovation-and-talent-development-1771409823534">PM Modi hold talks with Google CEO Sundar Pichai at India AI Impact Summit; discuss AI innovation and talent development</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Ukrainian public would reject any peace deal requiring…’</h2>&nbsp;Zelensky told Axios on Tuesday that the Ukrainian public would reject any peace deal requiring Kyiv to unilaterally withdraw from the Donbas. “Emotionally, people will never forgive this. Never. They will not forgive … me, they will not forgive [the US],” he said.&nbsp;Another unresolved issue is security guarantees, with Zelensky repeatedly stressing that any territorial compromise would come only after Ukraine secures firm commitments from its western allies, including Washington.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eci-announces-rajya-sabha-polls-for-37-seats-across-10-states-on-march-16-1771409050709">ECI announces Rajya Sabha polls for 37 seats across 10 states on March 16</a>&nbsp;But the Trump administration, eager for an international policy win to bolster the president’s standing at home, has been pushing Kyiv to first agree to territorial concessions, offering security guarantees only afterwards.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the talks as difficult and said no agreement had been reached on the thorniest questions at the negotiations in Switzerland, accusing Moscow of “trying to drag out” the process.

The latest round of US-mediated peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Geneva ended after only two hours on Wednesday without a breakthrough. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the talks as “difficult” and accused Russia of deliberately delaying progress toward a deal to end the four-year-old war, that is now likely to enter its fifth year next week. Zelensky accused Russia of “trying to drag out negotiations that could already have reached the final stage”. Zelensky said no agreement had been reached on the thorniest questions at the negotiations in Switzerland, accusing Moscow of “trying to drag out” the process. “We can see that some groundwork has been done, but for now the positions differ, because the negotiations were not easy,” he told reporters after the talks. Zelensky said the status of Russian-occupied territories in eastern Ukraine and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which remains under Moscow’s control, were among the most contentious unresolved issues. Also Read: Former UK PM Rishi Sunak hails India’s ‘enormous optimism, trust for AI,’ unlike scepticism in West He further said that discussions had taken place along military and political tracks, including how a ceasefire can be implemented. Rustem Umerov, the head of Kyiv’s negotiating team, said separately that the second day had been “intensive and substantive”. Both sides were working toward decisions that can be sent to their presidents, he said. President Donald Trump has said twice in recent days that it is now up to Ukraine and Zelensky to ensure the talks were successful. The ending of the second day of talks after just two hours signals that a deal is still distant. Also Read: Govt extends AI Impact Summit by a day amid record turnout, event to go on till Feb 21 ‘Talks difficult but businesslike, further rounds planned’ Russia’s chief negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, described the Geneva discussions as “difficult but businesslike” as he left the talks, adding that further rounds of negotiations were planned and would follow soon. Moscow is demanding that Ukrainian territory in the east it holds be fully ceded, but Kyiv has rejected the precondition, though Zelensky has said he is willing to consider alternative arrangements, like the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from parts of the east and the establishment of a demilitarised zone. Also Read: PM Modi hold talks with Google CEO Sundar Pichai at India AI Impact Summit; discuss AI innovation and talent development ‘Ukrainian public would reject any peace deal requiring…’ Zelensky told Axios on Tuesday that the Ukrainian public would reject any peace deal requiring Kyiv to unilaterally withdraw from the Donbas. “Emotionally, people will never forgive this. Never. They will not forgive … me, they will not forgive [the US],” he said. Another unresolved issue is security guarantees, with Zelensky repeatedly stressing that any territorial compromise would come only after Ukraine secures firm commitments from its western allies, including Washington. Also Read: ECI announces Rajya Sabha polls for 37 seats across 10 states on March 16 But the Trump administration, eager for an international policy win to bolster the president’s standing at home, has been pushing Kyiv to first agree to territorial concessions, offering security guarantees only afterwards.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the talks as difficult and said no agreement had been reached on the thorniest questions at the negotiations in Switzerland, accusing Moscow of “trying to drag out” the process.

‘Russia trying to drag out process,’ says Zelensky as Ukraine talks end without breakthrough

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Saturday that he is sending a Navy carrier force north towards Greenland. He warned that growing Russian strength is a major security concern today. While addressing the annual event in Munich, the prime minister underscored that Russia is actively rebuilding its armed forces.&nbsp;Starmer also criticised what he called the “easy answers” from political extremes, meaning far-left and far-right parties. He suggested that supporting parties like Reform UK or the Green Party could weaken national security decisions and potentially make conflict in Europe more likely. He claimed that they would undermine the national security of Britain and bring war to Europe if they were in power because both parties are extremists who are 'soft on Russia and weak on NATO'.&nbsp;He lashed out at past leaders for 'looking the other way' over Russia and warned that by the end of the decade, Russia will be ready to invade the rest of Europe. 'Now we feel the solidity of peace, the very ground that we stand on softening under our feet,' he said in the conference, the Daily Mail reported.&nbsp;"It is the job of leaders to be ahead of these seismic shifts, yet that is against the grain of history. Time and again, leaders have looked the other way, only rearming when disaster is upon them. This time must be different. Even as the war goes on, Russia is rearming, reconvening their armed forces and industrial base. NATO has warned that Russia could be ready to use military force against the alliance by the end of this decade," he added.&nbsp;WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-second-alleged-drug-boat-in-a-week-bringing-death-toll-to-over-130-1771073952167/%20embedd<h3>Russia to attack west?</h3>Starmer highlighted that a peace deal in Ukraine is not going to 'end' the threat to the West from Russia, rather it will increase as Putin could advance his country's rearmament. Disclosing about the massive deployment of some of the UK's fiercest naval assets, he said, 'I can announce today that the UK will deploy our carrier strike group to the north Atlantic and the high north this year, led by the HMS Prince of Wales, operating alongside the US, Canada and other NATO allies.'&nbsp;The move is believed to indicate a possible deployment toward Greenland amid heightened tensions involving the Danish territory, though the exact timing of the operation remains unclear. A standard carrier strike group typically includes a Queen Elizabeth–class aircraft carrier, two escort warships, a submarine, and a fleet tanker.&nbsp;Elsewhere in his remarks, Starmer stopped short of naming Reform UK and the Greens but made clear his view that neither party is equipped to adequately safeguard Britain’s security. Echoing historic pre–First World War rhetoric, he warned that such parties would lead only to “division and capitulation,” cautioning that the “lamps would go out across Europe once again”, a phrase originally used by former foreign secretary Sir Edward Grey in 1914, on the eve of war with Germany.&nbsp;"It's striking that the different ends of the spectrum share so much,' Starmer said. 'Soft on Russia and weak on NATO — if not outright opposed. [They are] determined to sacrifice the longstanding relationships that we want and need to build on the altar of their ideology. The future they offer is one of division and then capitulation. The lamps would go out across Europe once again," he added.&nbsp;"We must level with the public and build consent for the decisions we will have to take to keep us all safe. Because if we don't, the peddlers of easy answers on the extremes of left and right are ready," he further added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-needs-to-take-responsibility-for-its-security-eu-chief-says-bloc-mobilising-800-bn-for-defence-capabilites-1771070840146">'Europe needs to take responsibility for its security': EU chief says bloc mobilising €800 bn for defence capabilities</a>

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also warned that a peace deal in Ukraine is not going to 'end' the threat to the West from Russia, rather it will increase as Putin could advance his country's rearmament. 

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Saturday that he is sending a Navy carrier force north towards Greenland. He warned that growing Russian strength is a major security concern today. While addressing the annual event in Munich, the prime minister underscored that Russia is actively rebuilding its armed forces. Starmer also criticised what he called the “easy answers” from political extremes, meaning far-left and far-right parties. He suggested that supporting parties like Reform UK or the Green Party could weaken national security decisions and potentially make conflict in Europe more likely. He claimed that they would undermine the national security of Britain and bring war to Europe if they were in power because both parties are extremists who are 'soft on Russia and weak on NATO'. He lashed out at past leaders for 'looking the other way' over Russia and warned that by the end of the decade, Russia will be ready to invade the rest of Europe. 'Now we feel the solidity of peace, the very ground that we stand on softening under our feet,' he said in the conference, the Daily Mail reported. "It is the job of leaders to be ahead of these seismic shifts, yet that is against the grain of history. Time and again, leaders have looked the other way, only rearming when disaster is upon them. This time must be different. Even as the war goes on, Russia is rearming, reconvening their armed forces and industrial base. NATO has warned that Russia could be ready to use military force against the alliance by the end of this decade," he added. WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-strikes-second-alleged-drug-boat-in-a-week-bringing-death-toll-to-over-130-1771073952167/%20embedd Russia to attack west? Starmer highlighted that a peace deal in Ukraine is not going to 'end' the threat to the West from Russia, rather it will increase as Putin could advance his country's rearmament. Disclosing about the massive deployment of some of the UK's fiercest naval assets, he said, 'I can announce today that the UK will deploy our carrier strike group to the north Atlantic and the high north this year, led by the HMS Prince of Wales, operating alongside the US, Canada and other NATO allies.' The move is believed to indicate a possible deployment toward Greenland amid heightened tensions involving the Danish territory, though the exact timing of the operation remains unclear. A standard carrier strike group typically includes a Queen Elizabeth–class aircraft carrier, two escort warships, a submarine, and a fleet tanker. Elsewhere in his remarks, Starmer stopped short of naming Reform UK and the Greens but made clear his view that neither party is equipped to adequately safeguard Britain’s security. Echoing historic pre–First World War rhetoric, he warned that such parties would lead only to “division and capitulation,” cautioning that the “lamps would go out across Europe once again”, a phrase originally used by former foreign secretary Sir Edward Grey in 1914, on the eve of war with Germany. "It's striking that the different ends of the spectrum share so much,' Starmer said. 'Soft on Russia and weak on NATO — if not outright opposed. [They are] determined to sacrifice the longstanding relationships that we want and need to build on the altar of their ideology. The future they offer is one of division and then capitulation. The lamps would go out across Europe once again," he added. "We must level with the public and build consent for the decisions we will have to take to keep us all safe. Because if we don't, the peddlers of easy answers on the extremes of left and right are ready," he further added. Also read: 'Europe needs to take responsibility for its security': EU chief says bloc mobilising €800 bn for defence capabilities

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also warned that a peace deal in Ukraine is not going to 'end' the threat to the West from Russia, rather it will increase as Putin could advance his country's rearmament.&nbsp;

Russia to strike Europe? Here's why UK PM Keir Starmer is sending royal navy towards Greenland

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Dec 31) that a peace deal with Russia was close, just "10 per cent" away, but far from settled, warning that the remaining gaps could decide the future of Ukraine and much of Europe. In a New Year’s Eve address released on Telegram, Zelensky said negotiations were "90 per cent ready," leaving what he described as a critical final 10 per cent still unresolved. Those unresolved issues, he stressed, were "far more than just numbers".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-say-he-s-glad-us-didn-t-give-ukraine-tomahawks-after-putin-alleges-drone-attack-on-residence-1767063879561">Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence?</a><h2>What exactly did Zelensky say?</h2>The Ukrainian president in his New Year's Eve address, said, "The peace agreement is 90 per cent ready. Ten per cent remains. And that is far more than just numbers." He insisted that "the 10 per cent" will determine the "fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe".He also made clear that Ukraine wants the war to end, but not at any price. Any settlement, he said, must include firm security guarantees to prevent Russia from launching another invasion once the fighting stops.Watch what he said here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Happy New Year, Ukraine! 🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/WkAFpSHb9p">pic.twitter.com/WkAFpSHb9p</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2006480579622260858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>From "one day" to over 345 days: Ukraine-Russia peace remains stalled</h2>US President Donald trump before his Jan 20 inauguration, repeatedly claimed that he could stop the war in "one day", but 345 days after his inauguration, the peace talks remain stalled.Ukraine's allies, led by the United States, have been trying for months to broker a deal that could bring both Moscow and Kyiv to the table. Those efforts have so far stalled on the most sensitive issue of all: territory.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-ends-2025-with-hateful-late-night-truth-social-tirade-tells-rivals-to-rot-in-hell-in-ny26-1767235319298">Trump ends 2025 with hateful Truth Social tirade, tells rivals to 'rot in hell'</a>Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly demanded full control of the eastern Donbas region as part of any agreement. Zelensky rejected the idea that conceding that territory would end the conflict.Slamming the Russian President, Zelensky added, “'Pull out from the Donbas, and it will all be over.' That is how deception sounds when translated from Russian -- into Ukrainian, into English, into German, into French, and, in fact, into any language in the world.”

Volodymyr Zelensky says a Ukraine-Russia peace deal is “90 percent ready,” but warns the final 10 percent could decide Ukraine’s future and Europe’s security. As talks stall over territory, Kyiv insists peace cannot come without hard guarantees against another Russian invasion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Wednesday (Dec 31) that a peace deal with Russia was close, just "10 per cent" away, but far from settled, warning that the remaining gaps could decide the future of Ukraine and much of Europe. In a New Year’s Eve address released on Telegram, Zelensky said negotiations were "90 per cent ready," leaving what he described as a critical final 10 per cent still unresolved. Those unresolved issues, he stressed, were "far more than just numbers". Also read | Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleged drone attack on residence? What exactly did Zelensky say? The Ukrainian president in his New Year's Eve address, said, "The peace agreement is 90 per cent ready. Ten per cent remains. And that is far more than just numbers." He insisted that "the 10 per cent" will determine the "fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe". He also made clear that Ukraine wants the war to end, but not at any price. Any settlement, he said, must include firm security guarantees to prevent Russia from launching another invasion once the fighting stops. Watch what he said here:

Volodymyr Zelensky says a Ukraine-Russia peace deal is “90 percent ready,” but warns the final 10 percent could decide Ukraine’s future and Europe’s security. As talks stall over territory, Kyiv insists peace cannot come without hard guarantees against another Russian invasion.

Zelensky says Ukraine-Russia peace deal is 90 percent ready, warns final '10%' gap is critical

US President Donald Trump reacted to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&rsquo;s remark suggesting that the peace deal between Ukraine and Russia &ldquo;is still very, very far away.&rdquo;
In a social media post, Trump slammed Zelensky, saying it was the worst statement that the Ukrainian leader could have made, adding that the US will not put up with it for much longer.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-accuses-zelensky-of-not-wanting-peace-blames-him-for-clash-with-trump-8774121">Kremlin accuses Zelensky of not wanting peace, blames him for clash with Trump</a>
&ldquo;This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer! It is what I was saying, this guy doesn&rsquo;t want there to be Peace as long as he has America&rsquo;s backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S. &ndash; Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?&rdquo; the president wrote on Truth Social.
This comes following a tense argument between the two leaders during the White House meeting last week.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-hes-the-only-us-president-who-didnt-surrender-ukraines-land-to-putin-russia-zelensky-8775264">Trump claims he&rsquo;s the only US prez who didn&rsquo;t &lsquo;surrender&rsquo; Ukraine&rsquo;s land to Putin, but history says otherwise</a>
On late Sunday (Mar 2), Zelensky said, &ldquo;I think our relationship (with the U.S.) will continue, because it&rsquo;s more than an occasional relationship,&rdquo; referring to Washington&rsquo;s support for the country during the past three years of war.
&ldquo;I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America&rdquo; to continue the aid, he said at a briefing in Ukraine before leaving London.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-interested-in-quick-return-of-the-war-says-zelensky-as-european-leaders-meet-in-london-8771823">&lsquo;Putin is interested in quick return of the war,&rsquo; says Zelensky as European leaders meet in London</a>
<h2>European summit</h2>
On Sunday (Mar 2), the Ukrainian president attended the defence summit of European leaders hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to gather support for Ukraine amid the political uncertainty with the US.
Following the defence summit in London on Sunday (Mar 2), British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a &pound;1.6 billion ($2 billion) package for air missiles to Ukraine. On Saturday (Mar 1), Starmer and Zelensky signed off a USD 2.8 billion loan deal to bolster Ukraine's defences against Russian attacks.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World | Trending | In a social media post, Trump slammed Zelensky, saying it was the worst statement that the Ukrainian leader could have made, adding that the US will not put up with it for much longer.

US President Donald Trump reacted to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s remark suggesting that the peace deal between Ukraine and Russia “is still very, very far away.” In a social media post, Trump slammed Zelensky, saying it was the worst statement that the Ukrainian leader could have made, adding that the US will not put up with it for much longer. Also read | Kremlin accuses Zelensky of not wanting peace, blames him for clash with Trump “This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer! It is what I was saying, this guy doesn’t want there to be Peace as long as he has America’s backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S. – Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?” the president wrote on Truth Social. This comes following a tense argument between the two leaders during the White House meeting last week. Also read | Trump claims he’s the only US prez who didn’t ‘surrender’ Ukraine’s land to Putin, but history says otherwise On late Sunday (Mar 2), Zelensky said, “I think our relationship (with the U.S.) will continue, because it’s more than an occasional relationship,” referring to Washington’s support for the country during the past three years of war. “I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America” to continue the aid, he said at a briefing in Ukraine before leaving London. Also read | ‘Putin is interested in quick return of the war,’ says Zelensky as European leaders meet in London European summit On Sunday (Mar 2), the Ukrainian president attended the defence summit of European leaders hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to gather support for Ukraine amid the political uncertainty with the US. Following the defence summit in London on Sunday (Mar 2), British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a £1.6 billion ($2 billion) package for air missiles to Ukraine. On Saturday (Mar 1), Starmer and Zelensky signed off a USD 2.8 billion loan deal to bolster Ukraine's defences against Russian attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

‘This guy doesn’t want peace’: Trump slams Zelensky’s remark suggesting Ukraine peace deal is ‘far away’

During the Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore, Indonesia's defense minister Prabowo Subianto, put forth a plan to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. However, his proposal received prompt criticism from other attendees. Subianto called for immediate cessation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, citing the adverse effects of the conflict on Asian nations' economies and food supplies.

He suggested a ceasefire at the current positions of the conflicting parties and the establishment of demilitarised zones, which would be guaranteed by observers and United Nations peacekeeping forces. 
&nbsp; 
“I call on Russia and Ukraine to embark on an immediate cessation of hostilities,” Subianto said.&nbsp;

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Subianto also proposed a "referendum in the disputed areas" to be organised by the UN. Furthermore, he expressed Indonesia's readiness to contribute units to a potential UN peacekeeping operation.

Indonesia, following its non-aligned diplomacy approach, had previously attempted to mediate peace.&nbsp;

The Indonesian President, Joko Widodo, visited Kyiv and Moscow and held meetings with the leaders of both countries. However, Subianto's proposal faced criticism at the summit, with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stating that peace in Ukraine must be achieved on "just" terms, implying a fair resolution.&nbsp;

Subianto responded by emphasising Indonesia's perspective and history, stating that he was presenting a conflict resolution plan without taking sides.

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"I'm putting forward a conflict resolution plan," he added. "I'm not saying who is right or who is wrong."

Indonesia had previously voted in favour of a UN resolution condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but it has not implemented economic sanctions against Moscow.

<h2>China's peace plan on Russia-Ukraine conflict&nbsp;</h2>

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a document called "China's Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis" on the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Watch | Pakistan to begin barter trade with Afghanistan, Iran and Russia

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This document outlines a 12-point peace plan proposed by China to bring an end to the hostilities between Russia and Ukraine. The plan includes calling for a ceasefire, taking into account Russia's security concerns, providing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, facilitating prisoner exchanges, and lifting unilateral sanctions, among other measures.

However, this peace plan was met with skepticism by European Union politicians due to its vagueness. While Beijing claims to be a neutral party in the conflict, it has faced criticism for its refusal to condemn Russia's invasion.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the United States and Western allies have provided substantial military and financial aid to Ukraine since the invasion.

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During the Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore, Indonesia's defense minister Prabowo Subianto, put forth a plan to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. However, his proposal received prompt criticism from other attendees.

During the Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore, Indonesia's defense minister Prabowo Subianto, put forth a plan to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. However, his proposal received prompt criticism from other attendees. Subianto called for immediate cessation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, citing the adverse effects of the conflict on Asian nations' economies and food supplies. He suggested a ceasefire at the current positions of the conflicting parties and the establishment of demilitarised zones, which would be guaranteed by observers and United Nations peacekeeping forces. “I call on Russia and Ukraine to embark on an immediate cessation of hostilities,” Subianto said. Also Read | India's electric two-wheeler retail sales hit record high in May 2023 Subianto also proposed a "referendum in the disputed areas" to be organised by the UN. Furthermore, he expressed Indonesia's readiness to contribute units to a potential UN peacekeeping operation. Indonesia, following its non-aligned diplomacy approach, had previously attempted to mediate peace. The Indonesian President, Joko Widodo, visited Kyiv and Moscow and held meetings with the leaders of both countries. However, Subianto's proposal faced criticism at the summit, with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stating that peace in Ukraine must be achieved on "just" terms, implying a fair resolution. Subianto responded by emphasising Indonesia's perspective and history, stating that he was presenting a conflict resolution plan without taking sides. Also Read | Elon Musk's tweet on #WhatIsAWoman fans Twitter buzz. Here's all you need to know "I'm putting forward a conflict resolution plan," he added. "I'm not saying who is right or who is wrong." Indonesia had previously voted in favour of a UN resolution condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but it has not implemented economic sanctions against Moscow. China's peace plan on Russia-Ukraine conflict China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a document called "China's Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis" on the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Watch | Pakistan to begin barter trade with Afghanistan, Iran and Russia × This document outlines a 12-point peace plan proposed by China to bring an end to the hostilities between Russia and Ukraine. The plan includes calling for a ceasefire, taking into account Russia's security concerns, providing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, facilitating prisoner exchanges, and lifting unilateral sanctions, among other measures. However, this peace plan was met with skepticism by European Union politicians due to its vagueness. While Beijing claims to be a neutral party in the conflict, it has faced criticism for its refusal to condemn Russia's invasion. Meanwhile, the United States and Western allies have provided substantial military and financial aid to Ukraine since the invasion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indonesia’s peace plan to end Russia-Ukraine war draws criticism at Shangri-La Dialogue

As the Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate, Kyiv has refused to agree to a ceasefire deal with Moscow that involves giving up territory. As per the latest report from ground zero, Russia has increased the attacks in the eastern and southern parts of the country. It has been understood that Russia is pounding the Donbas and Mykolaiv regions with airstrikes and artillery fire.&nbsp;

Andriy Yermak, who is Ukraine's presidential chief of staff, said in a Twitter post on Sunday: "The war must end with the complete restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty."&nbsp;

Recently, on Saturday, Mykhailo Podolyak who is Ukraine's lead negotiator and Zelensky adviser also ruled out any territorial concessions.&nbsp;

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Rejecting immediate ceasefire calls, Podolyak said, "The (Russian) forces must leave the country and after that the resumption of the peace process will be possible."&nbsp;

In an interview with the news agency Reuters, Podolyak noted that the concessions would backfire because Russia would use the break in fighting to come back stronger.&nbsp;

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WATCH |&nbsp;Ukrainian Artist paints to raise funds for war

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On Sunday, Polish President Andrzej Duda told telling lawmakers in Kyiv that there should be global calls for Russia's complete withdrawal from Ukraine.&nbsp;

He noted that sacrificing any territory would be a "huge blow" to the entire West. "Worrying voices have appeared, saying that Ukraine should give in to (President Vladimir) Putin's demands," Duda said.&nbsp;

He added, "Only Ukraine has the right to decide about its future." He was addressing the Ukrainian parliament, becoming the first foreign leader to do so in person since Russia's February 24 invasion.&nbsp;

Recently, immediate ceasefire calls were made by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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As the Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate, Kyiv has refused to agree to a ceasefire deal with Moscow that involves giving up territory. As per the latest report from ground zero, Russia has increased the attacks in the eastern and southern parts of the country.

As the Russia-Ukraine war continues to escalate, Kyiv has refused to agree to a ceasefire deal with Moscow that involves giving up territory. As per the latest report from ground zero, Russia has increased the attacks in the eastern and southern parts of the country. It has been understood that Russia is pounding the Donbas and Mykolaiv regions with airstrikes and artillery fire. Andriy Yermak, who is Ukraine's presidential chief of staff, said in a Twitter post on Sunday: "The war must end with the complete restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty." Recently, on Saturday, Mykhailo Podolyak who is Ukraine's lead negotiator and Zelensky adviser also ruled out any territorial concessions. ALSO READ | Ukraine's EU membership '15 or 20 years' away, says French minister Rejecting immediate ceasefire calls, Podolyak said, "The (Russian) forces must leave the country and after that the resumption of the peace process will be possible." In an interview with the news agency Reuters, Podolyak noted that the concessions would backfire because Russia would use the break in fighting to come back stronger. ALSO READ | Biden permanently banned from entering Russia, Trump isn't WATCH | Ukrainian Artist paints to raise funds for war × On Sunday, Polish President Andrzej Duda told telling lawmakers in Kyiv that there should be global calls for Russia's complete withdrawal from Ukraine. He noted that sacrificing any territory would be a "huge blow" to the entire West. "Worrying voices have appeared, saying that Ukraine should give in to (President Vladimir) Putin's demands," Duda said. He added, "Only Ukraine has the right to decide about its future." He was addressing the Ukrainian parliament, becoming the first foreign leader to do so in person since Russia's February 24 invasion. Recently, immediate ceasefire calls were made by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine rules out ceasefire or any territorial concessions to Russia