Russia warns EU: your peacekeeping forces in Ukraine risk worsening conflict

Moscow rejects a proposal to send European troops, believing it could worsen the situation. Meanwhile, the U.S. reaches an agreement with Ukraine over mineral resources

Russia has issued a clear warning to the European Union about its proposal to send peacekeeping forces to Ukraine, calling the idea an initiative that risks “further aggravating” the ongoing conflict. During a press conference in Doha, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov ruled out considering sending European peacekeeping troops to Ukraine after a possible peace agreement. Lavrov accused European countries, particularly France and Britain, of adopting an approach that not only complicates the situation but also seeks to “suppress” any attempt to resolve the crisis. The minister stressed that Macron’s statements about a ceasefire and the introduction of peacekeeping forces are a “deception,” aimed only at “pumping Ukraine with weapons again.”

Lavrov also ruled out the possibility of a conflict freeze along the Line of Contact, calling such a possibility incompatible with the Russian Constitution.

U.S.-Russian diplomatic meetings

Meanwhile, a meeting between Russian and U.S. diplomats will be held tomorrow in Istanbul to discuss “systemic problems” related to the operation of the two countries’ embassies. Lavrov said it is hoped that the meeting will lead to significant progress in resolving these issues.

Donald Trump and Europe

Europe’s role in the conflict was the focus of several statements, including those of U.S. President Donald Trump. When asked about the presence of European troops in Ukraine, Trump replied that “for Vladimir Putin there is no problem” regarding the presence of European forces, but he later corrected his position, indicating that Europe will have to take responsibility for finding a solution to the conflict.

U.S.-Ukraine agreement on minerals

Ukrainian Premier Denys Shmyhal announced that the United States and Ukraine have reached a preliminary agreement whereby Washington will obtain Ukrainian mineral resources in exchange for payments for military support in the war against Russia. The agreement calls for the creation of a joint fund for Ukraine’s reconstruction, with management shared between the two countries. However, Ukrainian MP Mariia Ionova raised concerns about the transparency of the agreement’s content, highlighting the need for clear communication to the Ukrainian parliament before its official signing.

Russian attacks and civilian casualties

The situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, with Ukrainian state broadcaster Suspilne reporting the death of journalist Tetyana Kulyk, who was killed by a Russian drone that struck her home in the Kiev region. Two other people died in the attack.

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