Ukraine Slams 'Hollow' Peace Talks Amid Renewed Attacks

Ukrainian officials condemn recent Russian missile strikes, urging for a strengthened diplomatic approach backed by sanctions as peace talks proceed in Riyadh.

Russia is facing backlash from Ukraine following recent missile attacks that have left dozens injured, particularly in the city of Sumy, where civilian infrastructure including hospitals was reportedly targeted. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Russia must prioritize an end to attacks rather than merely offering empty promises of peace. He emphasized that meaningful diplomacy with Moscow must be reinforced with military aid, sanctions, and sustained pressure.

The missile strike occurred while U.S. and Russian negotiators were engaged in talks in Riyadh, aiming to discuss the revival of a grain export deal reportedly essential for Ukraine. In exchange, Russia is seeking relief from Western sanctions to facilitate its fertilizer exports. Following the cessation of safe passage for cargo ships by Russia in mid-2023, tensions remain high between the two nations.

Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, hostilities continue to flare, with Ukrainian officials reporting that 65 individuals, including 14 children, were injured in the Sumy strike. Ukraine's Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal, criticized Russia's actions as not only terroristic but counterproductive to peace. He called on the international community to increase pressure on Russia to halt its aggression and ensure justice for Ukrainian citizens.

With both sides actively accusing each other of breaching ceasefire agreements, Russian state media reported a drone attack attributed to Ukraine on an oil pumping station, claiming to have intercepted numerous drones across various regions. Concurrently, a separate airstrike in Kyiv caused casualties, bringing additional scrutiny to the ongoing hostilities.

As U.S. mediation continues in pursuit of a broader ceasefire arranged by Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, there are hints of optimism toward reaching a lasting peace. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov expressed the discussions were both focused and productive, but the path remains fraught with challenges, as indicated by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov's warnings of tough negotiations ahead. The war, still ongoing since February 2022, has seen Russia control nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory, intensifying the urgency of these talks.