Russia-Ukraine war: We are closer to a ceasefire than ever, says former diplomat Sajjanhar

February 24, 2025, marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a conflict that has left destruction and geopolitical instability in its wake. Despite the protracted war, former diplomat Ashok Sajjanhar suggests that a ceasefire is now closer than ever. However, the ultimate resolution of the conflict remains a “big question mark.”In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Sajjanhar emphasised that while progress toward a ceasefire is evident, the terms of such an agreement are still unclear. “I think we are closer to a ceasefire than we have ever been in the past three years. But what worries me is whether this ceasefire is going to lead to a final, fair, and just peace agreement,” he stated. The concern stems from recent developments, including negotiations between US and Russian officials in Riyadh — talks that notably excluded Ukraine.

The shift in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump has further complicated the situation. Trump’s engagement with Moscow without Kyiv at the table and his controversial remarks about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have unsettled both Ukrainian officials and European allies. The former US president’s unpredictable nature leaves many uncertain about the future of American support for Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko dismissed any notion that Moscow is seeking peace, pointing to the recent drone attack — the largest since the war began — as evidence of Russia’s ongoing aggression. “Russia doesn’t want peace. That’s all. They want to continue aggression. They want to continue the war,” he said.Goncharenko also responded to concerns about Trump’s approach to resolving the conflict. While he acknowledged worries over shifting US rhetoric, he remained confident in continued American support. “The United States is our firm ally, and they have supported us for three years. I believe they will continue. If not, it would send a message that the US is not a reliable partner, and I don’t think President Trump wants that.”

The anniversary of the war has brought global leaders to Kyiv, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez among those showing solidarity with Ukraine.

Watch the accompanying video for the entire discussion.