Three years into the conflict, the war in Ukraine remains a major concern. Russian troops invaded neighboring Ukraine on February 24, 2022, citing protection of Russian-speakers and opposition to Ukraine’s NATO membership. The invasion has resulted in significant human losses, with tens of thousands killed on both sides.
The eastern European nation continues to resist, receiving support from the US and its allies. However, recent developments have raised concerns about the exclusion of Ukrainian officials in ceasefire talks between the US and Russia.
Ceasefire talks are underway, led by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz. The prospect of a meeting between US and Russian officials has sparked hopes for a resolution to the conflict. However, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed strong objections to his exclusion from these talks.
The history of conflict between Russia and Ukraine predates 2022. Tensions have flared since Ukraine declared independence in 1991, with Putin refusing to accept its sovereignty. In 2014, Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula, further straining relations.
Estimates of casualties vary, but it is estimated that over 46,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed, along with tens of thousands more unaccounted for. The conflict has also had a devastating impact on civilians, with many killed or displaced in areas under Russian control.
As the war rages on, the international community remains engaged in efforts to find a resolution. Will the current ceasefire talks be successful? Only time will tell.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/02/24/ukraine-russia-war-year-3/79308081007