Morning Update: Growing Frustration Over Putin’s Stance on Ukraine
Europe watches with increasing concern as efforts to advance peace in Ukraine yield minimal results despite ongoing attacks, while Russia—the aggressor—enjoys overt diplomatic support from China.
Ministers from EU nations are gathering in Copenhagen this morning, where the bloc’s latest position on the matter is expected to be revealed.
Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, stated last night that “all options remain open” as Russian President Vladimir Putin has “acted contrary to his earlier commitments” following his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.
“In fact, he has escalated military strikes in a deeply troubling manner,” Bessent said in an interview with Fox News.
His remarks reflect rising dissatisfaction within the U.S. government over stalled progress in Ukraine. However, Trump himself has yet to comment publicly.
Meanwhile, Putin has been engaged in high-level diplomacy in China, holding private discussions with Xi Jinping and India’s Narendra Modi.
On Tuesday, Putin praised the “historic depth” of Russia’s ties with China during his meeting with Xi, while Modi shared an image on social media of the two leaders seated together in a car, commending Putin for his “thoughtful” dialogue.
Modi confirmed discussions focused on “a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict,” though it remains uncertain whether their approach aligns with Europe’s preferred solution.
The day’s developments will be closely monitored, and key updates will follow.
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