From: Transform Ukraine By Douglas Landro / April 5, 2025
As Dmitriev Speaks of “Significant Progress” in Ceasefire Talks, Putin’s Forces Strike Zelensky’s Hometown, Killing Nine Children; Denmark and Norway Boost Ukraine Aid by Billions
Summary of the Day — April 4, 2025
The stunning contradiction between words and actions in Russia’s approach to peace came into stark relief on Thursday, as Kremlin negotiator Kirill Dmitriev’s Washington diplomatic mission was punctuated by a deadly Russian ballistic missile strike on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown of Kryvyi Rih. The attack killed at least 18 people—including nine children—and wounded 61 others, devastating a residential neighborhood and nearby playground. Meanwhile, in Washington, Dmitriev claimed “significant progress” toward a ceasefire following meetings with Trump administration officials, even as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that America would “know soon enough” whether Russia is truly serious about peace. The violent juxtaposition occurred against a backdrop of renewed European support, with Denmark announcing €900 million in military aid and Norway tripling its assistance to €7.8 billion, even as Trump’s new global tariffs prompted fears about their impact on allied defense production.
Kremlin Courtship: Dmitriev Touts “Significant Progress” While Meeting Top U.S. Officials
Russian Direct Investment Fund CEO Kirill Dmitriev emerged from high-level discussions with Trump administration officials in Washington claiming “significant progress” toward a ceasefire in Ukraine. His April 2-3 visit, which came after the U.S. temporarily lifted sanctions to permit his travel, included meetings with Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and concluded with optimistic statements about renewed economic ties between Moscow and Washington.
Voice of Ukraine 