### Russia Signals Conditional Willingness for Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions

Amid escalating tensions, Russia's ambassador to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzia, announced Moscow's readiness to consider a ceasefire with Ukraine. However, this willingness is contingent upon significant concessions from Ukraine and its Western allies. Specifically, Russia demands Ukraine halt its troop mobilizations and the West cease its arms deliveries.

Nebenzia's statement comes ahead of the much-anticipated peace talks scheduled for June 2 in Istanbul. The announcement has stirred concerns in Kyiv, where officials fear Russia's forthcoming demands may include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from territories Russia aims to annex.

"We are ready to consider a ceasefire," Nebenzia stated, emphasizing that reciprocal steps from Ukraine and the West are essential for any ceasefire agreement. Among the minimum requirements set forth by Russia is the cessation of Western military support to Ukraine and the halting of Ukrainian troop mobilizations.

This development follows a pattern of similar conditions previously rejected by Ukraine, which has warned that any pause in the conflict could provide Moscow with an opportunity to regroup and strengthen its position on the battlefield.

In an escalatory rhetoric at the UN, Nebenzia reiterated Russia's stance against what he termed "an anti-Russian neo-Nazi entity" near its borders—a description Moscow frequently uses to undermine Ukraine's pro-Western aspirations. "If necessary, we will fight for this as long as it takes," he added.

Ukraine has responded firmly to Nebenzia's assertions. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Moscow of using the UN platform to issue threats rather than engage in genuine negotiations. "This is a slap in the face to everyone calling for peace," Sybiha remarked on X, urging the international community to increase pressure on Moscow without delay.