Ukraine urges Putin to stop wasting the world's time following US talks in Moscow

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has sharply criticized Vladimir Putin for "wasting the world's time" after US-Russia discussions aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine yielded no concrete outcomes. "Russia must halt the violence it initiated. If Putin disregards this once again, consequences are inevitable," Sybiha stated.

Despite the stalemate, Sybiha noted that the US delegation described the talks as having "positive significance for the peace process" and invited Ukrainian officials for further discussions in the United States in the near future.

The talks in Moscow involved President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who met with Putin for nearly five hours at the Kremlin. The White House confirmed they briefed Trump on the "thorough, productive meeting." These talks followed extensive consultations between the US, Ukrainian, and European officials, amid concerns that any potential agreement could overly favor Russia.

Little progress appears to have been made in bridging the gap between Moscow and Kyiv. Putin's senior advisor, Yuri Ushakov, acknowledged that "no compromise" on ending the war was reached. While some US proposals were deemed partially acceptable, others were openly rejected by Russia's president.

Key disputes include the status of Ukrainian territories occupied by Russian forces and the question of security guarantees for Ukraine. Kyiv and its European allies argue that NATO membership for Ukraine would be the most effective deterrent against future Russian aggression, a plan strongly opposed by Russia and not supported by Trump. The Kremlin confirmed that Ukraines NATO membership was a central topic in the discussions.

Ushakov suggested that Russias military successes have strengthened its negotiating position. Russian forces recently claimed advances near Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, signaling progress to the US, although fighting continues and the city remains partially under Ukrainian control. Russia has expanded its control over Ukrainian territory by roughly 701 sq km in November, now holding about 19.3% of the country.

The Kremlin stated that Putin is willing to continue meetings with US officials "as many times as necessary," yet tensions between Moscow and Europe remain high. Putin accused European nations of obstructing peace efforts, presenting unacceptable demands, and undermining Russia-US relations. He also warned that while conflict with Europe is not desired, Russia is "ready for war."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed a deal that will phase out Russian gas imports to the EU by 2027, calling it "the dawn of a new era." EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen emphasized Europe's commitment to energy security and support for Ukraine.

Additionally, the European Commission proposed raising 90 billion to support Ukraines military and essential services during the ongoing war. The plan could involve using frozen Russian assets in Belgium or international borrowing. Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko endorsed the initiative, which would cover approximately two-thirds of Ukraine's financial needs over the next two years. Belgium and the European Central Bank have expressed legal and financial concerns about using frozen assets, while Germany supports the proposal.

Author: Lucas Grant