**As the United Nations reports that June 2025 was the most deadly month for civilians in Ukraine since February 2022, and after negotiations stalled between the two countries in early June, Ukraine proposes new peace talks to end the conflict.**
By Kielce Gussie
It’s day 1,243 since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. An estimated 170,000 civilians have been killed in the conflict, highlighting the tragic human cost of war. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that nearly 13 million people are currently in dire need of humanitarian assistance, underscoring the immense suffering endured by the Ukrainian populace.
The situation between Russia and Ukraine remains at an impasse. While Ukrainian officials have proposed a new round of peace talks this week, Russia has yet to accept these proposals, leaving the path to resolution fraught with uncertainty.
Another chance for peace?
After negotiations stalled early last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need to “step up” the momentum of discussions. He reiterated his willingness to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that “a meeting at the leadership level is necessary to truly ensure lasting peace.” This sentiment reflects a growing urgency for diplomatic engagement amidst ongoing violence.
At least two people were killed and 15 were wounded, including a 12-year-old, in the overnight attacks. (AFP or licensors)
According to Russian media, no date has been set for this potential new round of talks; however, Istanbul is likely to remain the host city, a location that has held significant diplomatic discussions in the past.
The conflict continues
Meanwhile, the conflict rages on. On July 21, Russia launched one of its most extensive aerial assaults on Ukraine in recent months. This attack resulted in the deaths of two civilians and injuries to 15 others, including a child. Reports indicated that critical infrastructure such as subway stations, shops, houses, and even a kindergarten were severely damaged in the strikes.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot (c) assessing damages in Kyiv following a Russian attack, during a two-day visit aimed at supporting Ukraine in its fight against the invasion.
The pressing urgency of the situation is made clear by the latest UN report, which highlights that June 2025 was the deadliest month for civilians since the onset of the war, with 232 deaths and 1,343 injuries. The scale of the attacks has intensified, with missile, drone, and artillery strikes affecting every corner of the nation, even reaching cities far removed from active combat zones.
Ukraine Recovery Conference
Amid these ongoing challenges, the Ukraine Recovery Conference was held in Rome from July 10-11. This important event gathered various stakeholders, including Tetiana Stawnychy, President of Caritas Ukraine, and Fr. Vyacheslav Grynevych, Executive Director of Caritas-Spes Ukraine, who shared insights on the recovery efforts taking place across the country.
In discussions following the conference, Caritas representatives highlighted the urgent humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, revealing that one in three Ukrainians is in desperate need of support. They described their mission as essential for helping individuals recover from trauma and regain stability, a crucial component of rebuilding a war-torn society.
