US and Russia Discuss Potential Ceasefire in Ukraine Amid Divergent Views

US President Donald Trump commended a recent meeting between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin as a step towards a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, although differing perspectives emerge about Russia's willingness to engage.

US President Donald Trump has hailed the recent discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin as "good and productive," focusing on a ceasefire proposal for the ongoing war in Ukraine. The meeting between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Putin took place in Moscow, where they exchanged views and expressed a shared cautious optimism regarding the peace initiative, as confirmed by the Kremlin.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump indicated that these talks offered "a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end." However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky countered these pronouncements, asserting that Russia is intent on prolonging the conflict and is likely to "reject" the ceasefire proposal.

Zelensky contended that Russia is deliberately creating obstacles to hinder diplomacy, claiming that "the world sees" how the Kremlin intends to extend the war further. He elaborated that while Putin may not outright dismiss suggestions for peace, he often drags discussions on, rendering effective solutions impractical.

Earlier this week, Ukraine tentatively accepted the US's ceasefire proposal; however, Russia has yet to conjoin this agreement. Zelensky outlined that a possible resolution could involve an exchange of prisoners and a 30-day comprehensive ceasefire, which may facilitate progress toward a lasting peace.

Despite the ongoing tensions, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed confidence about the discussions in Moscow, maintaining that they were productive. She acknowledged that Trump has intensified pressure on Putin to make constructive decisions regarding the conflict. In his posts, Trump also urged Putin to protect the lives of besieged Ukrainian troops in Kursk, warning of a potential massacre reminiscent of World War Two.

As the conflict continues, the situation in the Kursk region remains tense, with Russian forces claiming control of several areas and Ukrainian troops reportedly isolated. Meanwhile, G7 nations met in Quebec to express unanimous support for the US's ceasefire initiative and await Russia's response. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the collective call for a ceasefire "without conditions."

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to host a video conference with up to 25 countries on Saturday to discuss a peacekeeping coalition aimed at ensuring stability and sustaining peace in the region. This coalition was described as a "coalition of the willing," highlighting a collaborative effort to reinforce peace in Ukraine.