Peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, mediated by the United States in Geneva, ended abruptly on Wednesday without any tangible progress. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the discussions as difficult and accused Russia of deliberately prolonging the process. He claimed on social media that Moscow was using tactics to delay reaching a final peace agreement. According to Russian state media, the meeting concluded shortly after Zelensky’s remarks. Russian chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky said another round of talks would be held soon, though no date was set.

The talks reportedly lasted about two hours, while some Russian sources described them as highly tense and lasting up to six hours in multiple formats. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said the dialogue brought meaningful progress toward ending the war, and both sides agreed to continue discussions. However, Russia maintained its demand for Ukrainian troop withdrawal from parts of eastern Ukraine, which Kyiv rejected outright.

Separately, Zelensky announced sanctions against Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, accusing him of aiding in the killing of Ukrainians. Russian official Nikolai Patrushev warned that Moscow could deploy its navy if Western nations attempted to seize Russian oil tankers under sanctions.

Ukrainian and Russian delegations are set to resume their second round of peace talks in Geneva on Wednesday, mediated by the United States. Despite renewed diplomatic efforts, neither side has indicated progress toward ending what has become Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. The war, now nearing its fourth year, has killed hundreds of thousands, displaced millions, and devastated large parts of eastern and southern Ukraine.

Previous rounds of talks in Abu Dhabi failed to yield results, and sources close to the Russian delegation described the latest Geneva session as tense, lasting six hours. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he is ready to move toward an “honorable agreement” but questioned Russia’s sincerity, accusing Moscow of prioritizing missile strikes over real diplomacy. Russia, which launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, currently controls about one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, and demands full control of Donetsk.

Kyiv has rejected Moscow’s territorial demands and insists on security guarantees before signing any deal. Analysts note that while Russia faces growing economic strain, Ukrainian forces recently regained 201 square kilometers in their fastest advance in over two years.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep sorrow and sympathy over the loss of lives in a fire at the Crans-Montana ski resort in Switzerland. In a condolence message sent on Friday to Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin, Yunus conveyed his heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Bangladesh.

According to the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing, Yunus said he was deeply saddened by the tragic incident that claimed many valuable lives. He extended sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and the people of Switzerland, expressing solidarity with those affected by the tragedy. He prayed for peace for the departed souls and strength for their families to endure the loss.

Yunus also wished a speedy recovery for those injured in the fire, assuring that the thoughts and prayers of the Bangladeshi people remain with the victims and their families during this difficult time.

At least 40 people were killed and 100 others injured after a powerful explosion and fire ripped through a bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana early Wednesday. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. during a New Year’s Eve celebration, according to Swiss police cited by Italy’s foreign ministry. The bar, popular among tourists, was crowded with people welcoming the new year when the blast occurred.

Authorities said the explosion is not being treated as an act of terrorism, though the exact cause remains unclear. Emergency services, including police, firefighters, and medical teams, rushed to the scene, supported by several helicopters in the rescue operation. Booths were set up to assist relatives of the victims.

Police have completely sealed off the area and declared a no-fly zone over Crans-Montana to facilitate rescue efforts.

Switzerland’s unique Vocational Education and Training (VET) system starts at age 15, combining practical work experience with classroom learning. Nearly two-thirds of students choose vocational paths over university, gaining paid apprenticeships in over 250 recognized professions. This dual system ensures students develop relevant skills aligned with labor market needs, contributing to Switzerland’s low youth unemployment. The flexible structure also allows career shifts without bureaucratic hurdles, making it a model for producing a competitive, skilled workforce that drives the country’s strong economy.