The discussions come following intense phone calls with both leaders, seeking resolution in the ongoing war.
**Trump Brokers Peace Talks Between Russia and Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict**
**Trump Brokers Peace Talks Between Russia and Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict**
In a significant diplomatic development, Trump announces immediate ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine.
Donald Trump, the US President, has announced that Russia and Ukraine will begin immediate negotiations aimed at establishing a ceasefire and ultimately ending the war. This announcement follows a two-hour phone conversation Trump held with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where he expressed optimism about the potential for peace. Trump emphasized the need for both parties to negotiate their own terms, stating, "The conditions for that will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be, because they know details of a negotiation that nobody else would be aware of."
Putin also indicated his willingness to collaborate with Ukraine on a "memorandum on a possible future peace agreement," although he did not address the pressing demands from the US and European nations for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, characterizing the moment as a pivotal opportunity for peace, underscored the importance of Ukraine being directly involved in negotiations. He voiced concerns that decisions should not be made concerning his country without its participation.
Following Trump's dialogue with Putin, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine's demand for a "full and unconditional ceasefire," warning that failure to make strides toward peace could trigger stronger sanctions against Russia. He also stressed that the negotiation process must include representatives from both the United States and Europe. Zelensky remarked, "It is crucial for all of us that the United States does not distance itself from the talks and the pursuit of peace, because the only one who benefits from that is Putin."
During a subsequent White House event, Trump reaffirmed the US's commitment to mediating talks, stating he has a "red line" regarding when he might cease pushing Russia and Ukraine towards an agreement. He expressed that he believes Putin is ready to end the war. However, no timeline has been established for when these peace negotiations will begin or if any real concessions from Russia will materialize.
Putin shared his view on the call, stating it was "frank, informative, and constructive," and he expressed Russia's readiness to address the principles for peace, including a ceasefire timeline, if agreements are reached. Yet, no specific ceasefire duration was discussed, as confirmed by Yury Ushakov, an aide to Putin.
In related discussions, Zelensky participated in another phone call with Trump that included other world leaders, emphasizing the significance of international engagement in the peace process. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, thanked Trump for his efforts towards achieving a ceasefire, while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed the suggestion by Pope Leo to host possible peace talks in the Vatican.
Despite the diplomatic overtures, concern remains in Kyiv regarding Russia's intentions. Ukrainian officials noted that previous ceasefires declared by Russia have been temporary and unreliable, often accompanied by ongoing military actions. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, including recent drone strikes that have left at least ten dead, highlighting the fragility of the situation as both countries continue to grapple with the realities of war, first initiated by Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Putin also indicated his willingness to collaborate with Ukraine on a "memorandum on a possible future peace agreement," although he did not address the pressing demands from the US and European nations for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, characterizing the moment as a pivotal opportunity for peace, underscored the importance of Ukraine being directly involved in negotiations. He voiced concerns that decisions should not be made concerning his country without its participation.
Following Trump's dialogue with Putin, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine's demand for a "full and unconditional ceasefire," warning that failure to make strides toward peace could trigger stronger sanctions against Russia. He also stressed that the negotiation process must include representatives from both the United States and Europe. Zelensky remarked, "It is crucial for all of us that the United States does not distance itself from the talks and the pursuit of peace, because the only one who benefits from that is Putin."
During a subsequent White House event, Trump reaffirmed the US's commitment to mediating talks, stating he has a "red line" regarding when he might cease pushing Russia and Ukraine towards an agreement. He expressed that he believes Putin is ready to end the war. However, no timeline has been established for when these peace negotiations will begin or if any real concessions from Russia will materialize.
Putin shared his view on the call, stating it was "frank, informative, and constructive," and he expressed Russia's readiness to address the principles for peace, including a ceasefire timeline, if agreements are reached. Yet, no specific ceasefire duration was discussed, as confirmed by Yury Ushakov, an aide to Putin.
In related discussions, Zelensky participated in another phone call with Trump that included other world leaders, emphasizing the significance of international engagement in the peace process. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, thanked Trump for his efforts towards achieving a ceasefire, while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed the suggestion by Pope Leo to host possible peace talks in the Vatican.
Despite the diplomatic overtures, concern remains in Kyiv regarding Russia's intentions. Ukrainian officials noted that previous ceasefires declared by Russia have been temporary and unreliable, often accompanied by ongoing military actions. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, including recent drone strikes that have left at least ten dead, highlighting the fragility of the situation as both countries continue to grapple with the realities of war, first initiated by Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.
