President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to speak about a potential cease-fire in Ukraine. This call marks their first conversation since Ukraine agreed to a month-long cease-fire, contingent on Russia doing the same. Trump has expressed his eagerness to mediate quickly, while Putin appears to be demanding more concessions.
Trump shared on Truth Social that many elements of a final agreement are already in place, but significant discussions remain. He has emphasized that the war “must end NOW” and is looking forward to the conversation.
Before the planned call, Putin spoke to Russian business leaders, expressing confidence and commenting on Western companies that left Russia following the invasion. He warned that those companies cannot easily regain their assets due to Russian regulations.
Recently, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and national security adviser Michael Waltz met with Ukrainian officials to discuss the cease-fire. After extensive talks, a joint statement was released stating that Ukraine supports Trump’s proposed cease-fire but only if Russia agrees. The U.S. also signaled it would resume military aid, which had previously been stalled.
Putin’s position remains cautious. He supports the idea of a cease-fire but has laid out numerous conditions, including demands that Ukraine stop military mobilization for the duration of any truce. He also insists on a peace deal addressing what he calls the “original causes” of the war, which includes Ukraine’s NATO aspirations.
The conversation may cover topics like territorial disputes and the future of Ukrainian infrastructure. Trump noted discussions about dividing certain assets, including power plants, hinting at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which has been a point of contention since its capture by Russia.
Energy experts warn that the Zaporizhzhia plant, Europe’s largest nuclear facility, is in poor condition after years of war. Resuming its operations would require significant investment, which might tempt Russia to negotiate its status in exchange for easing sanctions later.
The ongoing war has reached a critical phase. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Putin of stalling to strengthen Russia’s positions on the battlefield. Recent advances by Russian forces in the Kursk region have shifted the balance, leaving Ukraine fewer bargaining chips. There are concerns that this momentum could lead to increased aggression in the Sumy region.
Despite these setbacks, Ukraine has managed to push back against Russian advances in the eastern Donetsk region, reclaiming territory. Analysts are divided on whether Russian forces are exhausted after 15 months of combat or simply regrouping for another offensive.
Tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine have resurfaced under Trump’s administration, with Trump expressing frustration over Ukraine’s gratitude for American support. Zelensky has worked to improve relations, emphasizing his appreciation for U.S. military assistance.
In the broader context, any cease-fire would likely require concessions from Ukraine regarding territories occupied since 2014. Ukraine has called for security guarantees in exchange for a cease-fire, but no agreements have been finalized yet. European allies, including the UK and France, continue to pledge support, advocating for security measures to protect Ukraine moving forward.
For continuous updates on the war and assistance for Ukraine, refer to trusted sources like the U.S. Department of State and The New York Times.
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