
US President Donald Trump has said he will hold key phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy next week in a renewed effort to broker a ceasefire and end the war in Ukraine. The initiative comes after direct talks between Moscow and Kiev, the first since 2022, in which Russia reportedly demanded control of five Ukrainian territories, a demand that has met with strong opposition from Ukraine.
According to White House sources, Trump has expressed optimism about reaching a temporary 30-day ceasefire, supported by Ukraine and some European allies. In a post on the Truth Social platform, he stressed the need to stop the bloodshed and bring about a lasting peace, saying: “We are very close to a deal. Now is the time for Russia and Ukraine to sit down at the high-level negotiating table to finalize peace!”
Zelenskyy, for his part, has reiterated Ukraine's position on a complete and unconditional ceasefire, rejecting any proposal that would legitimize Russia's annexation of Ukrainian territories, including Crimea annexed in 2014. In a recent statement, he said: "Ukraine is ready for peace, but not for surrender. We want stable security and respect for our sovereignty."
Meanwhile, the Kremlin has confirmed its readiness for dialogue, but has set tough conditions, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four regions claimed by Russia and the lifting of international sanctions. These demands have been deemed unacceptable by Kiev and part of the international community.
Trump's initiative has prompted mixed reactions. European leaders, such as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, have welcomed the ceasefire efforts but have insisted that any deal must include Ukraine and guarantee its long-term security. Meanwhile, some critics in Europe and the United States express concern that Trump's proposals could favor Russia, giving it territorial advantages.
The upcoming talks are expected to be crucial in determining whether this initiative will lead to historic progress or encounter new obstacles. Meanwhile, the war continues to have serious consequences, with huge human losses and destruction in Ukraine, while the world closely follows the peace efforts.
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