Ukraine holds immense geopolitical significance for Russia, and the ongoing conflict has elevated its importance on the world stage. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia’s status as a global superpower diminished,

Putin’s refusal to compromise on Ukraine, say analysts, is a colossal error costing Russia regional influence, lucrative energy markets and its place in the world.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said his country had proposed holding a meeting with Russia next week, more than a month after the previous round of direct talks, while the Kremlin hedged on a potential meeting with US President Donald Trump.