Vice President JD Vance delivered a stark warning during his India visit, declaring the US would “walk away” from Ukraine negotiations unless both warring parties accept Washington’s proposed peace terms. The ultimatum comes as diplomatic efforts face new turbulence, with Britain abruptly downgrading planned ministerial-level talks to technical discussions.
Key Elements of US Proposal:
- Recognition of Russian sovereignty over Crimea (annexed in 2014)
- Territorial concessions from both sides along current frontlines
- 30-day renewable ceasefire on energy infrastructure attacks
The hardened US stance follows President Trump’s growing frustration with the stalled process, despite his campaign promise to swiftly end the conflict. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed reports of Putin’s readiness to freeze hostilities as “fakes,” while Ukrainian officials maintain they’ll only negotiate after a full ceasefire.
On-the-Ground Realities:
- Russian drone strikes killed 9 workers in Marganets, violating Easter truce
- Ukraine reports fresh attacks on Kyiv, Kharkiv, Poltava and Odesa regions
- Belgorod region sees civilian casualties from Ukrainian shelling
The diplomatic scramble continues behind the scenes, with US envoy Keith Kellogg still engaged in London talks and presidential emissary Steve Witkoff preparing Moscow meetings. But the collapse of planned foreign minister-level discussions signals deepening divisions, as European allies grow wary of Trump’s transactional approach prioritizing territorial concessions over Ukrainian sovereignty.
“Either say ‘yes’ or we walk away” — JD Vance’s blunt message encapsulates the administration’s hardening line, setting the stage for potentially the most consequential week in the 26-month conflict. With Trump demanding a deal “this week” and Ukraine’s energy grid under renewed assault, the coming days may determine whether Washington’s pressure tactics can break the deadlock—or accelerate a dangerous unraveling of Western unity.
