**Cease-Fire Negotiations: Putin and Trump Discuss Ukraine Conflict**

In a crucial phone call, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump engage in negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict, focusing on energy infrastructure strikes.

During a significant phone call, Russian President Vladimir Putin communicated his acceptance of a temporarily halted attack on energy infrastructure in Ukraine, provided both sides commit to the agreement, as reported by the Kremlin. However, Putin rejected a broader 30-day cease-fire proposed by the U.S. and Ukrainian leadership.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed willingness to consider a halt on strikes targeting energy facilities but emphasized that any agreement must be equitable. "It cannot be the case that Russia attacks our energy sector, and we remain silent," he stated, promising a response to any continued aggression.

Putin articulated to Trump that the resolution to the ongoing conflict hinges on an end to Western military and intelligence support for Ukraine. Analysts warn that such a move would leave Ukraine vulnerable to Russian advances, potentially compromising its sovereignty.

The White House regards the proposed pause on energy-related strikes as a foundational step towards peace, though the output from the conversation suggests that expectations for a comprehensive cease-fire remain unfulfilled.

Experts believe that halting attacks on energy targets could benefit both nations, as Ukraine continues to face extensive damage to its power grid, while Russia's oil and gas facilities are crucial for its financial resources. Concurrently, the U.S. is looking for access to Ukraine's mineral resources, which demand substantial energy for processing, making the conflict intricately linked to energy infrastructure.

As tensions mount, Russia has intensified its campaign of sabotage, aiming to compel Europe and the U.S. to reconsider their levels of support for Ukraine, indicating that the situation remains fluid and complex.