Critics blast US ceasefire mission as Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner faced widespread criticism from European media after their latest attempt to broker a ceasefire in Ukraine. Their visit to Moscow was followed by renewed Russian missile and drone attacks on Kyiv, killing at least four civilians. Ukraine had temporarily halted its own strikes to allow the envoys' safe passage, but the diplomatic effort appears to have failed.
European media outlets sharply criticized the envoys' performance, while Washington has pursued these talks without its European partners since halting military aid. Both sides temporarily halted strikes to ensure safe passage for the envoys, but the pause collapsed once they departed, resulting in deadly attacks on Kyiv.
Russian officials reiterated their determination to fulfill all military objectives, with one former president warning that nuclear weapons could be used under certain conditions. Ukrainian leadership insists that only military leverage can compel meaningful negotiations. The timing of the visit marked the anniversary of Ukraine's Kharkiv counteroffensive, which had cut Russian territorial gains from over a quarter to under a fifth of the country, though Moscow has since achieved only marginal advances.
The failed mission could deepen European distrust of US-led mediation, potentially fracturing Western unity on sanctions and support. For Ukrainian civilians, the resumption of attacks after a brief lull may reinforce the perception that diplomatic overtures merely provide Russia with tactical pauses to regroup. This dynamic could also embolden hardliners in Moscow, while undermining the credibility of ceasefire frameworks, leaving frontline communities exposed to prolonged instability and humanitarian strain.