Russia has officially responded to the recent peace talks between the United States and Ukraine that took place earlier this week.
The war between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since February 2022, when Russian forces launched a full-scale invasion. After more than three years of conflict, the United States is increasing its efforts to help facilitate a ceasefire and end the war.
As part of these efforts, U.S. and Ukrainian officials recently met in Saudi Arabia for a negotiation session that reportedly lasted for eight hours. The discussions seemed to be productive—significantly more so than the tense talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House last month.
Following the talks, the U.S. and Ukraine issued a joint statement outlining their goal to secure a 30-day ceasefire with Russia. Trump later supported this goal, warning of severe consequences if Moscow refused to comply.
“We could do things that would be very bad for Russia,” Trump told reporters. “It would be devastating for Russia, but I don’t want to do that because I want to see peace.”
In addition to seeking a ceasefire, the U.S. also committed to resuming military aid and security assistance to Ukraine. However, discussions surrounding a potential raw minerals trade deal remain unresolved.
While the U.S. and Ukraine have maintained close communication throughout this process, Russia has expressed frustration over being left out of the negotiations.
In an interview with pro-Kremlin U.S. bloggers, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized the peace talks, accusing the West of deliberately sidelining Russia.
“Nobody is talking to us,” Lavrov said, according to the New York Post. “They keep saying, ‘nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine,’ but they’re doing everything about Russia without Russia.”
Lavrov also emphasized that Russia would not sign any agreements that could put its people at risk. He reiterated Moscow’s strong opposition to NATO forces entering Ukraine, declaring that such a move would be unacceptable “under any conditions.”
Ukraine has long sought NATO membership, a goal that Russia has vehemently opposed. Moscow is reportedly pushing to prevent any foreign military presence in Ukraine as a condition for a peace deal, according to Reuters.
Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin is said to be seeking international recognition of Russia’s claim over Crimea, a region that was part of the Soviet Union before Ukraine became independent.
Despite Lavrov’s complaints about being excluded from the negotiations, reports indicate that Russia recently presented the U.S. with a list of demands, challenging the idea that it has been entirely left out of the talks.
These demands mirror those made by Russia during talks with the Biden administration in 2021 and 2022. However, those discussions ultimately broke down, and Russia went ahead with its invasion in February 2022.
With these conflicting statements and ongoing tensions, it remains unclear whether Putin is genuinely open to a ceasefire or whether he intends to prolong the conflict.
Lucky Items for Each Zodiac Sign in 2025 ✨🔮
As we step into 2025, each zodiac sign has a special item that can attract good luck, positive energy, and success. Here’s what you should keep close to maximize your fortune this year!
♈ Aries (March 21 – April 19) – Red Bracelet 🔴
Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and energy. A red bracelet (especially made of string or beads) will enhance their confidence, bring protection, and boost their luck in new ventures.
♉ Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – Jade Stone 💚
Taurus thrives with stability and prosperity. A jade stone (as a ring, necklace, or charm) will attract financial growth, emotional balance, and good health throughout 2025.
♊ Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – Silver Pendant 🩶
Geminis are quick thinkers and communicators. A silver pendant (especially in the shape of a feather or key) will help them stay focused, improve luck in decision-making, and attract new opportunities.
♋ Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – Moonstone 🌙
Ruled by the Moon, Cancer benefits from a moonstone (as a ring, bracelet, or charm) to enhance intuition, emotional stability, and protection from negative energy.
♌ Leo (July 23 – August 22) – Gold Coin or Sun Charm ☀️
Leos love to shine, and a small gold coin or a sun-shaped charm will enhance their charisma, bring career success, and help them maintain their leadership energy in 2025.
♍ Virgo (August 23 – September 22) – Amethyst Crystal 💜
Virgos thrive on clarity and precision. An amethyst crystal (as jewelry or a small pocket stone) will help them reduce stress, attract wisdom, and maintain mental balance.
♎ Libra (September 23 – October 22) – Rose Quartz Heart 💗
Libras seek harmony and love. A rose quartz heart-shaped stone will boost romantic luck, improve relationships, and help them maintain inner peace throughout the year.
♏ Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) – Obsidian Stone ⚫
Scorpios are powerful yet need protection. A black obsidian stone (worn as a ring or bracelet) will shield them from negative energy and strengthen their intuition in 2025.
♐ Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) – Horseshoe Charm 🧲
Sagittarians are adventurous and lucky by nature. A horseshoe charm (as a necklace or keychain) will enhance their good fortune, protect them during travels, and attract exciting opportunities.
♑ Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) – Tiger’s Eye Bracelet 🐅
Capricorns are hardworking and goal-oriented. A tiger’s eye bracelet will bring strength, focus, and career success while protecting them from negative influences.
♒ Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) – Evil Eye Amulet 👁️
As a visionary sign, Aquarius can attract envy. Wearing an evil eye amulet (as jewelry or a keychain) will protect them from negativity and enhance their innovative energy in 2025.
♓ Pisces (February 19 – March 20) – Seashell Charm 🐚
Pisces is deeply connected to water and intuition. A seashell charm (kept in their pocket or as a necklace) will bring emotional balance, enhance creativity, and attract good fortune.
✨ Which lucky item will you carry in 2025? ✨ 😍