US Threatens to Withdraw from Peace Talks Unless Ukraine and Russia Accept Ceasefire Deal
The United States has warned it will “walk away” from diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war unless both Kyiv and Moscow agree to new proposals aimed at securing a ceasefire.
US Vice-President JD Vance made the remarks during a visit to India, stating Washington had made a “very explicit proposal” and expected a clear response from both sides.
His comments follow the abrupt withdrawal of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and envoy Steve Witkoff from high-level talks in London involving the UK, France, Germany, and Ukraine. Instead, Trump-aligned figure General Keith Kellogg is representing the US in the UK, with Witkoff expected to travel to Moscow for his fourth meeting with President Vladimir Putin.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reiterated calls for an “immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire” and rejected reports the US may consider recognising Crimea as Russian territory—a move he described as non-negotiable.
Meanwhile, Russia resumed attacks following a brief Easter truce, with nine civilians killed in a drone strike in Marhanets and a critical power facility destroyed in Kherson.
The outcome of the current diplomatic push remains uncertain, with speculation mounting that Russia could be prepared to freeze the conflict along current frontlines in exchange for Western concessions.
