Description: The US State Department has announced that Vladimir Putin’s proposal for Ukraine to fall under an interim administration until presidential elections are held is categorically rejected. The Russian’s President proposal came as both sides agreed on temporary peace in the Black Sea, however, the Russian side had continuously questioned Volodymir Zelenskyy’s legitimacy as Ukrainian President. The US – led initiative for peace has been drawn out and entered stagnant phase upon several rejections regarding peacekeeping details by Russia. US President Donald Trump criticized Russia’s current position and blamed Putin for prolonging the peace initiative.
Impact: Russia once again reestablished its ultima ratio conditions for peace in Ukraine by reiterating their maximalist demands. The peace initiative is currently marginalized by Putin while other concessions such as access towards rare earth mineral deposits and economic cooperation are being discussed openly. Trump’s administration imposed itself as the sole peace mediator and rekindled relations with Russia, however, recent developments indicate early issues in the artificial partnership between the superpowers. Ukraine would aim at leveraging its European partners in continued support as the US proved itself to be an untrustworthy ally for the time being. Russia would continue to impose unilateral demands as they currently enjoy considerable advantageous position in the peace negotiations.