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Kremlin Affirms Putin’s Readiness for Dialogue with Trump Amidst Ukraine Ceasefire Frustration
Moscow has stated that President Vladimir Putin remains “open” to discussions with Donald Trump, following the former US president’s expression of “strong displeasure” regarding the limited progress on a ceasefire in Ukraine. This development unfolds as international efforts to de-escalate the conflict continue.
Ongoing Dialogue Remains a Possibility
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the complexities of the negotiation process, stating, “This process is protracted, likely due to the intricate nature of the issues at hand. The president remains willing to engage with President Trump.”
Peskov clarified that while no call is currently scheduled, communication would be arranged promptly should the need arise. “There is no scheduled call between the leaders,” he added, “but when necessary, their communication will be swiftly facilitated.”
Zelensky Urges Decisive US Action for Peace
This announcement follows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s appeal to his US counterpart to exert greater pressure on Russia to pursue peace. Zelensky’s plea came after reports that Trump voiced significant frustration with Putin over the stalled ceasefire negotiations.
Trump’s Discontent with Putin’s Stance on Zelensky
Trump’s dissatisfaction reportedly stems from Putin’s recent remarks questioning Zelensky’s legitimacy as the Ukrainian leader. Putin’s suggestion last week that the current Ukrainian administration should be replaced with an interim government has seemingly provoked a reaction from Trump.
Shift in Trump’s Tone Welcomed in Kyiv
For Kyiv officials, Trump’s apparent change in stance is a positive development. This contrasts with Trump’s previous statements referring to Zelensky as a “dictator without elections” and expressing weariness with the ongoing conflict and US aid to Ukraine.
Potential for New Sanctions on Russia
During a recent interview, Trump indicated that Moscow could face renewed economic sanctions if peace negotiations remain unproductive. These measures, he suggested, could include substantial tariffs, ranging from 25 to 50 percent, on Russian oil imports. Furthermore, Trump warned that nations continuing to purchase oil from Russia risk losing access to business opportunities in the United States.
Zelensky’s Call for Increased US Engagement
Following Trump’s public criticism, Zelensky utilized social media to emphasize Ukraine’s need for stronger engagement with the United States. He stressed the importance of finding effective means to compel Russia towards peace and establishing security guarantees as a crucial next step following any ceasefire agreement.
In his online statement, Zelensky asserted, “Currently, Russia persists in seeking justifications to prolong this war. Putin is employing the same tactics he has utilized since 2014.”
He further cautioned, “This poses a danger to all, and it necessitates a fitting response from the United States, Europe, and all our global partners committed to achieving peace.”
UK-US Discussions Include Ukraine
In related diplomatic activity, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently engaged in discussions with Trump. While their conversation encompassed “productive negotiations between their respective teams on a UK-US economic prosperity deal,” Ukraine was also a topic of discussion.
Downing Street confirmed the call, noting that Trump conveyed best wishes to King Charles III. Discussions also covered the UK-US economic agreement, with both leaders agreeing to maintain momentum in ongoing negotiations. On Ukraine, the Prime Minister briefed President Trump on the “productive discussions” at a recent meeting of the Coalition of Willing in Paris, reinforcing the shared commitment to sustaining “collective pressure on Putin.” Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact.
Trump’s “Liberation Day” Tariffs
Separately, Trump is expected to announce new tariff measures as part of what he terms a “Liberation Day” initiative. This policy aims to reduce US reliance on foreign economies and encourage the repatriation of businesses to American soil.
Peace Talks Face Setbacks
These developments underscore the fragility of peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. While progress appeared possible earlier in the month, recent events suggest a potential breakdown in diplomatic efforts. Trump’s recent remarks reflect his frustration with this apparent setback.
“If we are in the midst of negotiations, you could say that I was very displeased, annoyed, when Putin yesterday began to question Zelensky’s credibility because that is counterproductive to reaching a resolution,” Trump stated.
He elaborated that Putin’s suggestion of “new leadership” in Ukraine would inevitably prolong the conflict, hindering any prospects for a swift agreement.
Putin Advocates for Zelensky’s Resignation
Putin, during a public appearance in Murmansk, Russia, reiterated his stance that Zelensky should resign to expedite a peace agreement. Putin asserted Russia’s “strategic advantage” on the war’s front lines.
He further claimed that Russian forces have transitioned from a phase of attrition to a new stage, vowing to “finish them off” in a renewed threat against Ukraine.
Putin Calls for UN Role in Kyiv Leadership
Speaking during a visit to a nuclear submarine launch, Putin suggested that the United Nations should intervene to establish control in Kyiv. He advocated for the installation of “competent” leadership in Ukraine, deemed more amenable to signing a peace accord.
The Russian leader questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy to enter into any agreements, citing the Ukrainian president’s extended term in office beyond his original mandate.
It is important to note that Ukrainian law prohibits elections during periods of martial law.
Trump Acknowledges Putin’s Awareness of his Displeasure
Trump has indicated that Putin is aware of his “anger” but maintains that their overall relationship remains “positive.” He also stated his intention to speak with the Russian leader again in the near future.
Trump reiterated his frustration to news outlets regarding Putin’s recent comments that appeared to derail earlier progress in peace talks.
“I was annoyed about it,” Trump repeated concerning Putin’s statements to the media.
Trump Threatens “Secondary Sanctions”
Trump pledged that if a peace agreement is not reached and Russia is deemed responsible for the impasse, he will impose “secondary sanctions” on Russia.
“Any entity purchasing oil from Russia will be barred from selling their products, of any kind, not just oil, into the United States,” he declared, outlining the potential economic consequences for Moscow and its trade partners.
Tense Meeting Between Zelensky and Trump
Last month, Zelensky engaged in a meeting with Trump and former Vice President J.D. Vance in the Oval Office. Reports from the meeting indicated a degree of tension. Press accounts described an exchange where Trump and Vance reportedly pressed Zelensky to express gratitude to the US for its substantial military assistance and its role in facilitating peace negotiations with Russia.
Trump Touts Negotiation Prowess
Trump has consistently emphasized his ability to navigate complex negotiations with adversaries and has portrayed his relationship with Putin as a valuable asset for the United States in international relations and peace efforts.
Continued Conflict on the Ground
Despite diplomatic overtures and peace talks, military operations persist. Moscow has maintained its offensive in Ukraine, continuing to conduct bombardments in the eastern regions of the country.
Russian forces reportedly captured two villages, Shchebraki in Zaporizhzhia and Panteleimonivka in Donetsk, in eastern and southern Ukraine respectively, on March 29. This territorial advancement occurs as Russian forces continue their incursions into Ukrainian territory, despite ongoing ceasefire efforts.
Russia Resettles Citizens in Occupied Territories
Reports indicate that Russia is engaged in resettling hundreds of thousands of its citizens in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, a move described by some as resembling “ethnic cleansing,” aimed at consolidating control over captured territories.
Russia’s defense ministry has confirmed the capture of Shchebraki and Panteleimonivka. Allegedly, Russians relocating to these areas have been offered enhanced salaries and the opportunity to occupy homes vacated by displaced Ukrainian residents.