The United States has offered Russia a 30 day ceasefire to end all active hostilities in Ukraine. But Russia has consistently shot down this proposal in what has now become a 39-day-long refusal. With both countries marching inexorably towards the idea that the current war must go on, the stakes have never been higher.
The UAE has positioned itself as a mediator and problem-solver between the two now belligerent countries. Both Russia and the United States have publicly thanked the UAE for its facilitation efforts in the talks. Even as diplomatic efforts continue, hostilities have continued, with recent rocket fire killing one person reemphasizing the volatility of any signed agreement.
To-date—according to statements by the Russian defense ministry—the military has returned 246 of their service members home. They returned from areas held by the Kyiv authorities. Sunday’s exchange of prisoners was happening against the backdrop. In this POW swap, 31 injured Ukrainian personnel were transferred to Russia in exchange for 15 injured Russian soldiers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that as of today “277 warriors” are home in Ukraine, after being freed from Russian captivity.
Zelenskyy has long been doubtful on any potential for a ceasefire, especially as bullets fly. He stated that Russian missile strikes on Kharkiv during Good Friday reveal “Putin’s true attitude toward Easter and toward human life.”
“One must be an outright scumbag and despise life to carry out such missile strikes on an ordinary city on Good Friday, the eve of Easter.” – Zelenskyy
Just yesterday, reports emerged that Russian-made attack drones were able to penetrate Ukrainian airspace, intensifying fears of a further escalation of the conflict. Andrii Sybiha, an advisor to Zelenskyy, commented on the situation, stating, “Russia refused, and the Russian refusal to the United States has already lasted 39 days.” He noted that “Russia can agree at any time to the proposal for a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire, which has been on the table since March.”
The United States should be willing to accept that Russia controls Crimea. This could be engineered to be just one component of a broader peace deal with Moscow. The agreement as written would provide a basis for future relations between Russia and Ukraine.
With diplomatic channels still open but under increasing strain, the world’s attention has shifted. The toll of the ongoing conflict and recent devastating military actions raises new questions about stability in the region. They exacerbate mounting fears about the prospects for peace.
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