Putin Cites Ukraine Attacks as Reason for Peace Talk Delay

At an economic forum in Russia’s Far East, President Vladimir Putin stated that Ukrainian attacks on merchant ships and threats to civilian aircraft have delayed peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. He emphasized that no peace negotiations have occurred since February.

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy cautioned airlines and insurers about the dangers of flying over Russian airspace, asserting that only military targets would be targeted by Ukrainian forces. Zelenskiy’s administration has requested the U.N.’s aviation agency to advocate for a ban on flights over Russia due to the escalating conflict.

Both Russia and Ukraine have been intensifying long-range strikes and attacks on shipping, further complicating the situation and hindering any potential for dialogue.