June 3, 2025 – The second round of Ukraine–Russia talks in Istanbul on June 2 revealed once again that the Kremlin’s so-called “peace” proposals are nothing more than a smokescreen for continued aggression.
While Ukraine showed goodwill by agreeing to humanitarian measures, including a prisoner exchange and repatriation of fallen soldiers, Russia used the talks to issue ultimatums: surrender territory, abandon NATO ambitions, limit defence capabilities, and lift sanctions.
This is not diplomacy. It’s coercion in formal wear.
Ukraine rightfully rejected the demands and called for:
- A full and immediate ceasefire
- The return of deported children
- The release of civilian hostages
- A comprehensive “all-for-all” prisoner exchange
- Real international guarantees for security
Russia’s offer of a narrow 2–3 day ceasefire for body retrieval was a manipulative gesture, timed to appeal to wavering international actors, especially the U.S. leadership. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to bomb Ukrainian cities in their largest drone campaign since 2022.
We condemn this blatant abuse of diplomacy and call on the international community to act now:
- Strengthen military aid to Ukraine
- Enforce harsher sanctions on Russia and its enablers
- Hold war criminals accountable
- Demand the return of all abducted children
Ukraine doesn’t need false promises – it needs defence, justice, and global solidarity. Every concession rewards terror.
The time for hesitation has passed. Every false ceasefire, every delayed response, costs innocent lives. Peace must not be bought with submission, and justice must not be postponed.
Those who speak of “peace at any cost” must ask: Whose peace? At whose cost?
True peace cannot be built on annexation, appeasement, and lies. It must be rooted in justice, sovereignty, and the protection of human rights.
We stand with Ukraine—not only in words, but in action.
Westminster Alliance for Ukraine
Defending Democracy Global Initiative
