Russia Sets Stringent Ukraine Peace Terms Amid Ongoing Attacks

Russian President Vladimir Putin has presented uncompromising peace terms to Ukraine, demanding recognition of Crimea and four other Ukrainian regions as Russian territory, and requiring Ukraine to withdraw forces from these areas or accept limitations on military aid and redeployment. The peace negotiations in Istanbul were brief and yielded no breakthrough, though both sides agreed on prisoner exchanges and the return of soldiers' bodies. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the necessity of a stable and secure Ukraine for long-term regional security, reaffirming NATO's support for Ukraine's defense and efforts to end the war. Meanwhile, President Trump has engaged directly with Putin, praising his diplomacy while warning against increased attacks on Ukraine, threatening sanctions if Russia does not support his peace proposals. Analysts suggest Putin is playing a psychological game with Trump, aiming to secure concessions by perceiving the issue as more critical to Russia than to the U.S. Despite Putin's harsh stance, there remains a delicate balance as both leaders communicate amid ongoing conflict and diplomatic efforts.