Overview
- The Trump administration has moved away from a proposed 30-day ceasefire, focusing instead on facilitating direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
- Vice President JD Vance stated that Russia's demands for concessions are excessive and remain a primary obstacle to peace talks.
- A recently signed U.S.-Ukraine minerals agreement ties military aid to American access to Ukraine's natural resources, adding a new dimension to the diplomatic efforts.
- Former President Joe Biden criticized the Trump administration’s strategy, likening it to appeasement and warning against territorial concessions to Russia.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a symbolic three-day ceasefire for Victory Day celebrations, but broader negotiations remain at an impasse.