Peace talks this week between Russia and the US, aimed at ending three years of war in Ukraine, have failed to impress Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines, who believe the conflict will continue if Kyiv remains excluded from negotiations.
Holding his assault rifle, an infantryman known as “Rugbyist” reflected on Ukraine’s determined resistance during the initial weeks of Russia’s February 2022 invasion—before Western aid arrived—and said they could stand strong again if necessary.
He admitted he never expected much from US President Donald Trump regarding Ukraine’s interests. “You can’t be betrayed by someone you never expected anything from,” he remarked.
Another soldier, “Pruzhynka” (meaning “spring”), was similarly dismissive of the Russian-US talks held in Saudi Arabia. Preparing to return to the front, he remained determined to fight.
“Maybe they decided something over there—but that’s their opinion,” the 21-year-old told Reuters at a training base in southeastern Ukraine. “Ukrainians won’t believe all that.”
Trump’s push for a rapid peace deal with Moscow, sidelining Ukraine, has sparked fears among Ukrainians and their allies. Yet, soldiers on the front lines remain resolute, driven by three years of intense battles and the loss of tens of thousands of comrades.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected any agreement made without Ukraine’s involvement, insisting on strong security guarantees from Kyiv’s partners before considering any settlement.
Trump envoy Keith Kellogg mentioned on Friday that he had “extensive and positive” talks with Zelensky during a visit to Kyiv but provided no further details.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin hinted at a potential meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, though specifics remain unclear.
On the battlefield, Ukrainian forces—outnumbered and under-equipped—struggle to hold back Russian advances along much of the vast eastern front. Fighting remains intense near Pokrovsk, a critical logistics hub, defended by units from Ukraine’s 68th Jaeger Brigade.
At a nearby training ground, troops voiced skepticism about the ongoing peace talks, expressing little hope for a swift resolution.
“There are many patriots among us—we’re descendants of the Cossacks,” said “Alladin,” a soldier leading training exercises. “We will fight till the end.”
