US "Will Not Pressure Russia and Ukraine for Ceasefire Talks"... Donbas Faces Imminent Collapse

"Some Western Countries Skeptical About Supporting Ukraine"
Concerns Over Prolonged Inflation Due to Ongoing War

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The U.S. government has officially stated that it will not pressure Ukraine to negotiate a ceasefire with Russia. This move is seen as a response to growing ceasefire pressures, especially from European countries, amid the deteriorating situation as the fall of Donbas approaches. There are increasing concerns that prolonged war could weaken not only military support for Ukraine but also sanctions against Russia.

According to the New York Times (NYT) on the 14th (local time), Colin Kahl, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense for Policy, attending a security conference held by the Center for a New American Security in Washington, D.C., said, "We will not comment on the methods, parties, or timing of ceasefire negotiations for Ukraine," adding, "These matters are for them to decide themselves, and our role is to help them resist Russia's fierce attacks," emphasizing continued support.

This statement is interpreted as a response to the ceasefire pressures emerging mainly from European countries. The NYT cited some Western officials saying, "Among some Western countries, skepticism is growing that Ukraine can win the war," noting, "Ukraine is suffering over 200 troop casualties per day, and with the entire Donbas region on the brink of collapse, the unity and resolve for sanctions against Russia that appeared early in the invasion have significantly weakened."

According to CNN, the Ukrainian forces have almost been pushed out of Severodonetsk, the largest strategic point in the Donbas region, and Russian forces are reported to have already seized nearly 90% of the Donbas area. If Severodonetsk, which serves as the supply hub for the entire Donbas front, falls completely, most of the Donbas region and surrounding areas are feared to be lost to Russia.

In particular, the NYT pointed out that concerns are growing among major European countries such as France, Germany, and Italy that the war could become entrenched, leading to prolonged soaring inflation.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.