Russia continues missile strikes as ceasefire talks falter

In the evolving conflict between Russia and Ukraine, on March 24, 2025, a missile strike targeting the city of Sumy in north-eastern Ukraine resulted in injuries to at least 65 individuals, including 14 children. This attack occurred concurrently with discussions between U.S. and Russian officials aimed at negotiating a ceasefire, highlighting a stark contrast between diplomatic efforts and ongoing hostilities. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the military actions, asserting that Russia must cease strikes instead of merely making superficial statements about peace. The situation is exacerbated by Russia's demands for relief from Western sanctions to facilitate the export of fertilizers as part of the negotiations. Despite attempts at dialogue, peace negotiations remain complex and challenging, chiefly due to ongoing military actions from both sides. The discussions in Riyadh, which lasted for 12 hours, were described by the Ukrainian delegation as “productive and focused.” However, there appears to be a significant disconnect between the intentions expressed during talks and the reality of continued violence on the frontlines. Both Russia and Ukraine are reported to have violated previously agreed-upon principles of halting energy and infrastructure attacks. As a further complication, Russia has suspended safe passage for cargo ships in the Black Sea since mid-2023, which it cites as a reason for its withdrawal from the Black Sea grain deal. Despite this, negotiators are hoping to establish a limited “ceasefire light” that would allow for trading and shipping activities to resume in the Black Sea region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other officials have underscored the need for increased international pressure to ensure Russia ceases its aggression and that justice is served for the casualties in Ukraine. The misalignment of military action and diplomatic dialogue indicates deep-rooted challenges in reaching a sustainable peace agreement. As both the Ukrainian and Russian leadership engage in separate discussions during the talks, some stakeholders express hope for incremental progress through indirect negotiations, though the high stakes of the ongoing conflict raise questions about the likelihood of a lasting resolution to the violence.