Ukrainian lawmaker: It’s an ‘illusion’ Russia-Ukraine war can end ‘just by talking to Putin’

Diplomatic Efforts & Stance - The Trump administration aimed to facilitate a leader-level meeting between Presidents Putin and Zilinski to resolve the Ukraine conflict [2] - Russia appeared to stall the potential meeting, suggesting lower-level talks should precede it and dismissing NATO's security guarantee discussions without Russia's involvement [4] - The White House maintained that President Putin committed to a future meeting with President Zilinski, contradicting the Russian Foreign Minister's statements [6][7] - The US administration continues to engage with Russian and Ukrainian officials to broker a bilateral meeting to stop the conflict [8] - The US President expressed willingness to join a trilateral summit if necessary, but the initial Russia-Ukraine meeting remains uncertain [9] Potential Consequences & Sanctions - The French President suggested imposing sanctions against Russia if there is no progress toward a meeting [10] - The US Senate may consider action, including secondary sanctions, if Russia does not make any moves towards peace [18] - A Ukrainian member of parliament urged for immediate sanctions from the US and EU if a direct meeting between presidents does not occur [32] - Confiscation of Russian assets for arming Ukraine and security measures was proposed as a way to pressure Russia [34] European Perspective & Unity - European leaders view the fall of Ukraine to Russia as a threat to their own security and are united in their support for Ukraine [19][20] - Europe needs American intelligence and air support, but not troops on the ground [21] - A coalition of willing countries, co-led by Canada, is planning a security force composition without Russia's veto [22] - The situation is considered a credibility issue for the US and Europe, potentially undermining the international order [23] Ukrainian Perspective & Concerns - A Ukrainian member of parliament expressed concern that Russia is trying to avoid sanctions and will delay any meeting [27] - Russia's demands from 2022, including control over Ukraine and influence on its path to NATO and the EU, remain unchanged [28][29] - There is skepticism about Russia's willingness to end the war or make a deal, as their actions indicate otherwise [26][27] - Security guarantees that people can trust are needed before discussing freezing the conflict at current battle lines [38]