- India,
- 10-Aug-2025 12:17 PM IST
Russia-Ukraine War: The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine shows no signs of abating. According to recent reports, Russian forces are continuously intensifying attacks on Ukraine, especially in the eastern regions. This escalation came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky categorically declared that he would not ceasefire on Russia's terms nor hand over an inch of his land to Russia. This statement has complicated the proposed peace talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.Zelensky's announcement came at a time when Trump and Putin are scheduled to meet in Alaska on August 15. According to various media reports, Trump seems ready to agree to some of Putin's conditions, but Zelensky rejected it outright. There are reports of dissatisfaction between Trump and Putin with this decision, and Russian attacks on Ukraine are increasing.Ceasefire hopes dashedAfter Zelensky's statement, all possibilities of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine have almost ended. He said that no decision can be taken without Ukraine, and there is no question of leaving the land. This announcement has put a damper on Trump's peace efforts, and the Alaska talks have become mired in controversies even before they began. European leaders are also talking about supporting Ukraine, and appealing to increase pressure on Russia.Intense attacks by Russian forcesAfter Zelensky's announcement, Russian forces have further intensified their campaign in eastern Ukraine. Reports suggest that Russian forces are attacking on various fronts from Kharkiv to Kiev, and from Sumy to Odessa. There are reports of heavy bombing in cities like Mykolaiv and Odessa. Russia's aim appears to be to divide Ukraine into two parts and gain full control over the eastern region, threatening more than half of Ukraine's territory. Recent assessments have talked about a Russian offensive campaign, although particularly intense attacks in the last 8 hours have not been confirmed.Reason for Russia's attacksRussia's new attacks are believed to be directly related to Zelensky's refusal. The Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska on August 15 was to be focused on a peace agreement. Both leaders were ready for a ceasefire, but Zelensky's statement changed everything.Why did Zelensky oppose Trump's decision?Trump and Russia were ready to agree on some conditions for a ceasefire, but Zelensky rejected it. The reason is that the Ukrainian army and people do not want a deal on Russia's terms. In a recent survey, 76% of Ukrainians have rejected a ceasefire on Russia's terms. The Ukrainian army chief also said that any agreement should be made keeping in mind Ukraine's interests. Zelensky fears that going against the public and the army could prove politically fatal for him.What was included in Russia's proposal?Putin had prepared a ceasefire proposal, which asked Ukraine to leave Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhia and Kherson regions. Also, there was a demand for the US to recognize Crimea as Russian territory. Trump has said that he would consider these conditions, and land swaps are necessary.Why did Trump agree to Putin's conditions?One reason for Trump's stance is the incident of Michael Gloss, the son of a CIA officer killed in the Ukraine war last year. Gloss was killed fighting for Russia, and Putin honored him with the Order of Lenin award. This award was delivered to his family through Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff. Witkoff had recently met Putin in Moscow, and Trump was impressed by this positive step.
