Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on March 15, 2024, that his country is witnessing a lack of willingness from Ukraine to engage in peace negotiations. This remark follows nearly four years of conflict since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. During a press conference, Putin reiterated that he is open to discussions but insists that Ukraine must accept significant territorial concessions and a degree of demilitarization—conditions that Kyiv has consistently rejected.
Putin claimed that Russian forces have “fully seized strategic initiative” in the ongoing conflict. He announced plans for further territorial advances along a nearly 600-mile front line in eastern Ukraine before the year’s end. “Our troops are advancing across the line of contact, faster in some areas and slower in others, but the enemy is retreating in all sectors,” he declared.
As tensions escalate, Ukraine reported a significant military achievement, claiming responsibility for a drone strike against an oil tanker within Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” in the Mediterranean Sea. The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) announced that it had struck the Oman-flagged oil tanker Qendil, which was reportedly empty at the time of the attack and thus did not pose an ecological threat. This operation marks Ukraine’s first strike on such a vessel in neutral waters, occurring over 2,000 kilometers from its territory.
The SBU released a video purportedly showing explosions on the tanker’s deck, reinforcing their claim. An SBU official stated, “Russia used this tanker to circumvent sanctions and earn money that went to the war against Ukraine. Therefore, this is an absolutely legitimate target.”
While Ukraine has actively targeted Russian fuel vessels and infrastructure, this recent strike signifies a broader scope of Ukraine’s military operations as it seeks to disrupt Moscow’s financial resources for the conflict. The Qendil was en route from the Indian port of Sikka to Russia’s Ust-Luga and has not been listed among the ships sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury.
In response to the ongoing conflict, the European Union announced a substantial support package exceeding $100 billion for Ukraine. However, EU leaders could not reach a consensus on utilizing frozen Russian assets for this financial aid. Instead, they opted for an interest-free loan to assist Ukraine with its military and economic needs over the next two years.
While the EU prepared this support, Putin warned of severe consequences for any European nations that attempt to use Russian assets, labeling such actions as “daylight robbery.” He cautioned that this could have serious repercussions for those involved.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever emphasized the importance of the EU’s agreement, stating that failure to reach a resolution would have been a disservice to both Ukraine and Europe. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz supported the arrangement, asserting that the funds secured would sufficiently cover Ukraine’s military needs for the upcoming years.
Ukrainian officials welcomed the EU’s decision but reiterated the necessity of accessing frozen Russian assets as a means of bolstering their defense efforts. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya acknowledged the challenges faced but expressed optimism about the outcome of the negotiations, noting, “It was a long night for European leaders, but they were able to come up with a workable result.”
As the situation continues to evolve, both Ukraine and Russia remain steadfast in their respective positions, with the potential for further escalation in the conflict.
