In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated that a ceasefire in Ukraine is possible, provided that certain conditions are met. This statement follows a two-hour phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, during which both leaders discussed the ongoing conflict and potential pathways to peace.
President Trump announced that negotiations between Russia and Ukraine would commence “immediately,” with the possibility of hosting talks in a neutral location, such as the Vatican. However, President Putin emphasized that any ceasefire must address the “root causes” of the conflict, including Ukraine’s non-NATO status and the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from contested regions. He also reiterated Russia’s demands for the reinstatement of the Russian language in Ukrainian education and the lifting of Western sanctions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed skepticism regarding Russia’s commitment to a genuine ceasefire. He cautioned that previous ceasefire agreements were violated by Russia and urged for a comprehensive peace plan that includes security guarantees for Ukraine.
European leaders have welcomed the initiation of talks but have also stressed the importance of including Ukraine in the negotiation process. French President Emmanuel Macron has suggested that European peacekeeping forces could play a role in ensuring the stability of any potential ceasefire agreement.
As discussions progress, the international community remains hopeful that dialogue will lead to a lasting resolution to the conflict, though challenges persist in aligning the interests of all parties involved.
