Diplomacy

As peace negotiations to end Russia’s war in Ukraine continue behind closed doors, a dangerous shift in the tone and terms of international diplomacy is becoming increasingly visible. At stake is not only the future of Ukraine and the fate of those already suffering from war crimes and political repression, but the very foundation of the post-World War II international order.

In his victory speech early on Tuesday, newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney wasted no time outlining a bold and transformative vision for the country's future relationship with its largest trading partner, the United States. While election night is typically reserved for celebration, Carney struck a notably somber tone as he reflected on what he described as the end of an era.

As peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine dominate headlines, many Ukrainians living in exile are voicing strong scepticism about the viability of any ceasefire agreement with Vladimir Putin.

US President Donald Trump announced plans to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday to further discussions aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. In a statement made aboard Air Force One while returning from Florida, Trump revealed that negotiators from both sides had already begun talks about “dividing up certain assets” as part of an effort to broker an immediate ceasefire. Among these assets, Trump hinted that discussions would cover “land” and “power plants,” most likely referring to strategic infrastructure such as the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant—the largest in Europe.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reiterated Australia's unwavering support for Ukraine following a dramatic confrontation between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office.

Ukraine and the United States have reached an agreement on a critical minerals deal, marking a significant development in their economic and strategic partnership. The deal, which is expected to be signed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump during Zelenskyy’s upcoming visit to Washington, D.C., aims to allow joint development of Ukraine’s mineral wealth. Revenues from these resources will be directed into a newly created fund that will be shared by both nations.