Kremlin, Ukraine Disagree Over Peace Proposals Ahead of Istanbul Talks

Tensions remain high as Ukraine demands Russia immediately share its draft roadmap for ceasefire talks, a request Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov deems "unconstructive," emphasizing that Ukraine should confirm its willingness to negotiate rather than pressing for early access to Russia's proposals. Russian and Ukrainian delegations are expected to meet soon in Istanbul to discuss the ceasefire drafts, with Moscow asserting its document is ready and Kiev accused of delaying talks. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's announcement that Germany and its allies have lifted range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine has been criticized by the Kremlin as provocative and an obstacle to peace efforts. Meanwhile, large-scale Russian air attacks on Ukrainian cities have drawn condemnation from European leaders, including Merz, who called them a "slap in the face" to ceasefire advocates. The U.S. perspective highlights skepticism over Russia's commitment to peace, with critiques of inconsistent policies and stalled negotiations under former President Trump, underscoring the complexity of diplomatic efforts amid ongoing hostilities. Overall, diplomatic efforts toward a ceasefire face challenges due to mutual distrust, military escalations, and diverging international positions.