Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia over two years ago, the conflict continues to escalate with recent developments indicating a push for peace negotiations. Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated the Kremlin's peace plan, which includes demands for Ukrainian troop withdrawal from specific regions and abandoning NATO aspirations.
While Russian forces have made progress in Donetsk and Luhansk, they have not fully occupied all targeted regions, such as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. In response, the Biden administration has shown unwavering support for Ukraine by announcing a new $400 million military aid package.
A recent two-day summit in Switzerland aimed at resolving the conflict saw key powers rejecting a joint communique agreed upon by over 80 countries and international organizations. Notably, countries like India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates, part of the BRICS economic group with significant ties to Russia, attended but did not sign the statement.
Former President Donald Trump's stance on NATO and his alignment with Putin, advocating to weaken the alliance, has raised concerns. Trump's past praise for Putin and skepticism towards US intelligence reports on Russian interference in the 2016 election have drawn criticism. Despite pledging to end the war in Ukraine during his presidency, Trump provided no concrete plan for resolution, claiming he could settle the conflict within a day if elected.
