Ukraine: the beginning of the end, or the end of the beginning?

The White House has announced that it has made significant progress toward an agreement to end the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, while acknowledging the need to resolve a few sensitive issues still under discussion. Both sides reported massive air strikes on their territory last night. Ukrainian authorities reported at least six deaths.

Ukraine and Russia each blamed the enemy for a wave of missile and drone attacks. The Russian army claims to have intercepted 249 Ukrainian drones, most of which were shot down over the Black Sea, in the Krasnodar region, in Crimea, and around Rostov. On the Ukrainian side, several explosions in Kyiv caused civilian casualties and significant damage to energy infrastructure.

Diplomatic discussions continued, notably through secret meetings between American and Russian delegations in Abu Dhabi, with the participation of the head of Ukrainian military intelligence, according to some sources. Negotiations are currently focused on a 19-point peace plan, following adjustments aimed at removing certain controversial elements such as the future size of the Ukrainian army. Ukraine also wants a quick meeting between Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump to finalize the outstanding points.

In view of the various documents circulating, it seems that the Ukrainians and Europeans have managed to soften Trump's initial plan, which was aligned with Russia, by removing the aspects that were the most problematic for Ukraine's sovereignty.

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed “the opportunity to make real progress towards a lasting peace,” while insisting on the need for robust security guarantees for Ukraine. He also stressed the importance for the European Union to show unity and firmness in the face of Russia's stance, while reiterating that the management of Russian assets frozen in Europe must remain in European hands. 

The management of these assets (some €140 billion) is one of the European Union's main bargaining chips. L’Express

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IN SHORT
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