Photo : The Kyiv Independent
Photo : The Kyiv Independent
By Padmashree Anandhan
WAR ON GROUND
On 16 April, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine and the US were making “good progress” toward concluding a strategic minerals deal, which faced delays. The agreement allows the US to receive royalty payments from Ukraine’s extraction of critical minerals as a form of economic partnership, rather than debt repayment for past military aid. Zelenskyy stated that the legal framework was nearly complete, and Ukraine’s Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed adjustments to the draft, with a memorandum of intent expected soon and a final parliamentary vote.
Drones strikes reported across Dnipro and Kherson city
On 16 April, The Kyiv Independent reported on a Russian drone strike on the city of Dnipro that resulted in the deaths of three, including a child, and left at least 30 others injured, including five children. The attack, involving Shahed drones, caused widespread destruction, damaging dozens of residential buildings, a school, a dormitory, a gym, and several commercial and administrative facilities. Fires broke out across the city due to the strikes. On the same day, Russian forces launched artillery and drone attacks on the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, killing three civilians and injuring two others. This included residential areas, including a high-rise building and several homes. This comes as Russia continues its attacks on Ukrainian-controlled territories along the Dnipro River and coincides with a deadly missile strike on Sumy.
THE MOSCOW VIEW
Claims by Russia
Russian spokesperson critical of Zelenskyy postponing elections
On 16 April, RT reported on Russia’s President Press Secretary, Dmitry Peskov statement. He criticized Ukraine's decision to extend martial law for another 90 days, arguing it is a tactic by President Zelensky to hold onto power and delay elections, despite his term having officially ended nearly a year ago. Moscow views Zelensky as illegitimate and sees Ukraine’s parliament as the only legal authority. Peskov also cited former President Poroshenko’s warning of Ukraine’s drift toward authoritarianism and criticized Kyiv for maintaining a ban on negotiations with Russia. Additionally, he accused Ukraine of violating a US-mediated moratorium on energy strikes, which Russia claims to still follow.
THE WEST VIEW
Responses from the US and Europe
US eases its position on the minerals deal with Ukraine
On 16 April, the US was observed to have eased its position on a proposed minerals deal with Ukraine. This comes after the recent drafts suggest that past US military aid, estimated at USD 90 billion, will not be treated as debt requiring repayment. While not officially confirmed, Zelenskyy implied a shift in the progress from earlier demands under the Trump administration, which included full control over Ukraine’s natural resources and interest on aid repayment.
The Washington Post looks at prolonging ceasefire talks and stalled peace process
On 16 April, The Washington Post reported on Russia’s announcement of the end of a 30-day pause in attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Despite ongoing US-brokered negotiations, Moscow signaled no willingness to compromise, reiterating its demands, including Ukraine’s recognition of Russian sovereignty over five annexed regions and acceptance of neutrality and demilitarization. The Trump administration, through envoy Steve Witkoff, has expressed optimism about a potential deal, though critics argue his approach echoes Kremlin narratives and lacks expert oversight. Meanwhile, the ceasefire has been flawed by ongoing mutual accusations of violations, and recent Russian attacks have killed dozens of Ukrainian civilians, raising doubts about any near-term resolution. Trump's unwillingness to hold Russia accountable and his shifting of blame onto Ukraine and Biden have drawn criticism, as has his barring of European partners from the peace process.
US officials to discuss ways to end the war with European allies
On 16 April, US officials, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are holding a high-level meeting with European allies in Paris to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. The meeting, which includes the UK’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Ukrainian ministers, marks the most significant transatlantic engagement on the conflict since February. European diplomats plan to press the US to apply more pressure on Russia for an unconditional ceasefire, following recent deadly Russian missile strikes in Sumy and Kryvyi Rih. Witkoff is expected to discuss his recent talks with Putin, amid to secure a ceasefire. Meanwhile, Zelensky’s team insists on direct involvement of Ukraine in any peace deal.