Summary
London talks aimed at securing a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia have been downgraded and will no longer include US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff.
The US state department blamed logistical reasons, but it was clear the decision was last-minute and left the Foreign Office wrongfooted.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out recognising occupied Crimea as Russian territory, after reports suggested this was being considered by the US and the Kremlin. “Ukraine does not legally recognise the occupation of Crimea. There’s nothing to talk about,” said Zelensky.
Ukraine’s ministry of strategic industries said it was “naïve” to expect Ukraine to change its position on “non-negotiable” issues such as Crimea.
That’s true, but he will still need new buyers because his previous allies, whom he has alienated greatly, will very likely reduce their order volume considerably.
I think that this so-called statesman, with his petty power games, has once again overestimated himself on this issue - as with others issues but in the same stupid manner.