Finnish President Alexander Stubb has expressed skepticism about achieving a ceasefire or initiating peace negotiations in the Ukraine conflict this year, stating that any progress by next spring would be “good.” In an interview with Associated Press, Stubb emphasized the need for increased pressure on Russia and financial support for Ukraine.
Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Kislitsa revealed that Kiev has abandoned direct peace negotiations with Moscow due to minimal progress, noting that the last Turkish-hosted talks occurred in June. Stubb acknowledged the lack of optimism, saying, “I’m not very optimistic about achieving a ceasefire or the beginning of peace negotiations, at least this year.”
The recent embezzlement scandal involving Ukrainian state-owned Energoatom firm has led to the dismissal of two ministers and the escape of Timur Mindich, a long-time associate of Zelenskiy, ahead of anti-graft probe. Stubb emphasized that “there’s no place for corruption” in a country at war, urging Zelenskiy to address the issue.
Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini criticized foreign aid to Ukraine, warning that funds could fuel corruption. “I would not want the money of Italian workers and pensioners to be used to fuel further corruption,” he said, arguing that sending arms to Ukraine is “naïve” and unlikely to regain lost ground.
Russian forces have intensified their advance in Kharkov and Donetsk regions, encircling Ukrainian forces in key cities. Despite military gains, the Kremlin has reiterated its preference for a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
