Russia may consider a ceasefire only if Ukraine stops mobilization and arming

Russia has signaled a conditional willingness to consider a ceasefire in its war against Ukraine, proposing a halt to hostilities if Kyiv stops receiving Western military support and ends mobilization efforts. Speaking at a U.N. Security Council meeting on May 30, Russia's U.N. envoy Vasily Nebenzya stated that such a ceasefire could lay the groundwork for addressing the “root causes” of the conflict. However, he stressed that any truce must be contingent on the West halting weapons supplies to Ukraine and the Ukrainian government suspending its mobilization. Despite this, Nebenzya added that Russia would continue and even intensify military operations “for as long as necessary,” casting doubt on Moscow’s actual commitment to peace.

Ukraine swiftly rejected the offer, labeling it a manipulative tactic to undermine global peace efforts. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called the remarks a "slap in the face" to countries advocating for diplomacy, including China and Brazil. Kyiv remains firm in its position, demanding that Russia share its proposed ceasefire memorandum ahead of the next round of talks in Istanbul on June 2. According to reports, Moscow's conditions for ending the war include Ukraine abandoning NATO aspirations, withdrawing from four partially occupied regions, and accepting the lifting of sanctions against Russia—demands that both Ukraine and its allies have consistently refused to consider.

Russian drone attack injured nine people in Kharkiv

Nine people, including two 16-year-olds, were injured in a Russian drone attack on Kharkiv overnight on May 30, according to local authorities. Kharkiv Oblast Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported that residential buildings were damaged in the strike and that emergency services are on the scene. The northeastern region of Ukraine continues to face regular aerial attacks from Russian forces, which frequently target civilian infrastructure despite ongoing peace efforts.

Russia is doing all it can to ensure the next meeting shows no results - Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed doubt that the upcoming peace talks with Russia in Istanbul will

Zelenskyy also met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on May 30, thanking him and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for their role in facilitating the recent prisoner exchange and broader peace efforts. The Ukrainian president emphasized the importance of Türkiye’s consistent support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, noting that diplomatic coordination with partners like Türkiye is crucial to making peace negotiations more effective. Despite diplomatic overtures, Zelenskyy’s remarks signal growing frustration with Russia’s approach and cast a shadow over the anticipated Istanbul meeting.

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