Following an intense week of military operations, US President Donald Trump has declared that there is ‘progress’ in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This statement was made during a White House dinner with leaders of Central Asian countries, where Trump took pride in the supposed resolution of eight wars in eight months. He expressed a hopeful outlook for a new resolution, specifically targeting Russia and Ukraine, which he claims has not yet been achieved. While the situation on the ground continues to worsen for Ukrainian forces, the administration emphasizes diplomatic efforts as the primary avenue to resolve the crisis.
Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, shared similar optimism, indicating that significant diplomatic talks have progressed. Witkoff emphasized the necessity of technical discussions at the lower level before the leaders can negotiate. Meanwhile, Moscow has praised the Trump administration’s efforts to address the root of the conflict, but insists that any resolution must be lasting. Russia has also accused Ukraine and its Western partners of avoiding meaningful diplomacy. The US administration continues to call for increased military support for Ukraine, while Russia asserts that such aid only allows Kiev to regroup and rearm. The situation on the ground remains precarious, with reports of Russian forces encircling Ukrainian troops and demanding their surrender. Despite these developments, both sides maintain their positions, with no immediate signs of a breakthrough in negotiations.