London Peace Talks on Ukraine Downgraded as Key Diplomats Withdraw

High-level talks in London aimed at ending Russia's war in Ukraine have been downgraded after key officials, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, withdrew, reflecting deep divisions over the terms of a potential peace deal. The US delegation, now led by envoy Keith Kellogg, faced pushback from Kyiv over a proposed framework that reportedly included Ukraine recognizing Russia's annexation of Crimea and renouncing NATO ambitions, provisions strongly opposed by Ukrainian leaders. President Zelensky and Ukrainian officials have insisted that any negotiations must begin with a full and unconditional ceasefire, rejecting discussion of territorial concessions. The downgrading of the talks and the absence of top diplomats from the US, UK, France, and Germany underscore mounting frustration and a lack of consensus, particularly as the Trump administration warns it may abandon the peace process unless progress is made on its terms. European unity and continued support for Ukraine are now in question, as the US signals a willingness to pivot away if its proposals are not accepted. Meanwhile, Russia continues its military offensive, and the prospect of a breakthrough appears increasingly remote.