Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that the United States has set a deadline for Ukraine and Russia to reach an agreement to end the ongoing conflict that has persisted for nearly four years. In remarks to the press, Zelensky indicated that both parties are expected to finalize a resolution by June 2024. If this deadline is not met, the US administration is likely to intensify pressure on both sides to comply.
Zelensky stated, “The Americans are proposing the parties end the war by the beginning of this summer and will probably put pressure on the parties precisely according to this schedule.” His statements were shared with reporters on Friday but were embargoed for release until Saturday morning. He emphasized that the US is committed to facilitating a resolution, saying, “They want to do everything by June. And they will do everything to end the war. And they want a clear schedule of all events.”
The proposed timeline includes plans for the next round of trilateral talks to be held in the United States, with Miami being a likely location. Zelensky confirmed Ukraine’s participation in these discussions, signaling a willingness to engage in diplomatic efforts.
This latest deadline follows a series of US-brokered talks in Abu Dhabi, which did not yield any significant breakthroughs. Both Ukraine and Russia continue to hold firm to their respective positions, with Russia demanding that Ukraine withdraw from the Donbas region, where intense fighting still occurs. Ukraine, on the other hand, has made it clear that such a withdrawal is unacceptable.
As the conflict continues, the international community remains hopeful that renewed diplomatic efforts will lead to a lasting peace. With the June deadline fast approaching, the focus will be on how both parties respond to the increasing pressure from the United States.
