The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has cast doubt on Russia’s willingness to engage in meaningful peace talks, stating that Moscow "can't really be trusted" as discussions continue over a proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.
Following a high-level EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting, Kallas emphasized that while there was widespread political backing for a €40 billion defense initiative, skepticism remained over Russia’s intentions. “They will seize this opportunity to present all kinds of demands,” she warned, reinforcing the view that Russia is yet to fully engage in negotiations.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the U.S. and Ukraine, Kallas described the situation as "shuttle diplomacy" rather than structured negotiations. “There’s no negotiation table yet because Russia is not coming to the negotiation table,” she stated.
As discussions on Ukraine’s future unfold, Lithuania has accused Russia’s GRU military intelligence agency of orchestrating arson attacks in Vilnius and Warsaw last spring. Two Ukrainian nationals have been charged in Lithuania for allegedly planting an explosive device in an Ikea store, while in Poland, a massive shopping center was burned down in what authorities believe was Russian sabotage.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk used the findings to highlight Russia’s ongoing hybrid warfare efforts, warning European leaders against trusting Moscow. “Good to know before negotiations. Such is the nature of this state,” he posted on X.
Even as ceasefire discussions continue, both Russia and Ukraine have intensified drone strikes. Ukrainian police reported the death of a local resident in Myrnohrad due to a Russian drone attack, while widespread power outages have hit several regions following overnight bombardments.
Meanwhile, in Pokrovsk, three children were wounded in Russian shelling. Local governor Vadym Filashkin criticized parents for returning to frontline areas despite evacuation warnings. “If you don’t care about yourselves, at least take care of your children! Evacuate!” he urged.
As efforts to secure a ceasefire intensify, the UK and France have spearheaded a "coalition of the willing," with over 30 nations expected to contribute to Ukraine’s defense and stabilization efforts. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that Britain is committed to deploying "boots on the ground, and planes in the air" to support the initiative.
While operational details are still under discussion, Starmer’s spokesperson stressed that a U.S. security guarantee is crucial for lasting peace in the region.