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Trump Claims Russia and Ukraine Will Commence Ceasefire Negotiations
Former US President Donald Trump says Russia and Ukraine will “immediately” begin discussions aimed at achieving a ceasefire and ultimately ending the war, following a two-hour telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The potential for a peaceful resolution and negotiations has become a focal point amid ongoing tensions and geopolitical maneuvering.
Details of the Trump-Putin Call
Trump characterized the exchange as “very well,” also stating that the parameters for a peace agreement would require negotiation between the warring parties.
Putin’s Readiness
Putin indicated his willingness to cooperate with Ukraine on a “memorandum on a possible future peace agreement.” However, he did not address the demands from the US and European nations for an unconditional 30-day cessation of hostilities.
Zelensky’s Perspective
Trump also engaged with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who emphasized that “this is a defining moment” and urged the US to maintain its involvement in the discussions.
Ukraine’s Stance on Ceasefire and Sanctions
Following his individual discussion with Trump, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s desire for a “full and unconditional ceasefire.”
- He cautioned that if Moscow is unwilling to commit, “there must be stronger sanctions” imposed.
- Speaking before Trump’s conversation with Putin, Zelensky asserted that any decisions concerning Ukraine should not be made without the country’s involvement, describing them as “matters of principles” for Ukraine.
Memorandum Details
Zelensky acknowledged that he lacked comprehensive details regarding the “memorandum” but stated that once they received information from the Russians, they would “be able to formulate their vision accordingly.”
Trump’s Announcement and Conditions for Negotiation
In a post on his social media platform, Trump declared, “Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a Ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War,” noting that he had communicated this to Zelensky during a subsequent call that included other world leaders.
- “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.” Trump said.
Need for International Involvement
Zelensky emphasized that the negotiation process “must involve both American and European representatives at the appropriate level.”
Concerns About US Disengagement
“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,” he added.
Trump’s Commitment to Ending the War
The US president has consistently pledged to bring the conflict to an end and has expressed growing frustration with its continuation.
Putin’s View and Potential Ceasefire
Constructive Dialogue
Putin, who characterized his call with Trump as “frank, informative and constructive” and also mentioned the potential for a cessation of fighting.
Framework for Peace
“We have agreed with the US president that Russia will offer and is ready to work with Ukraine on a memorandum on a possible future peace agreement,” he confirmed.
Specifics of the Agreement
This agreement would define “a number of positions” including “principles of the settlement and a timeline for concluding a possible peace accord…including a possible ceasefire for a certain period of time, should relevant agreements be reached.”
Timeline for Ceasefire
According to Yury Ushakov, an advisor to the Russian president, a ceasefire timeframe was not “discussed… although Trump, of course, emphasizes his interest in reaching one or another agreement as soon as possible.”
International Support for Ceasefire Initiatives
Zelensky conducted a second call with Trump following the US president’s dialogue with Putin, which also included President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and the leaders of France, Italy, Germany and Finland.
Von der Leyen’s Gratitude
“I want to thank Leader Trump for his tireless efforts to bring a ceasefire to Ukraine,” von der Leyen said, adding: “It’s important that the US stays engaged.”
Pope’s Offer
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni noted that Pope Leo’s offer to host potential peace talks was a gesture welcomed by the US and other leaders in the call.
- Earlier, the Pope offered the Vatican as a venue for possible peace talks after Putin declined Zelensky’s offer to meet face-to-face in Turkey for negotiations.
Doubts About Russia’s Peace Intentions
Kyiv has expressed skepticism regarding Russia’s genuine desire for peace.
Yermak’s Assessment
“Putin wants war,” asserted Andriy Yermak, a top aide to the Ukrainian president, following Russia’s intensified drone attacks.
Recent Casualties and Attacks
Ukraine reports numerous fatalities from recent Russian strikes, including an attack on a civilian minibus. Russia claims to have intercepted Ukrainian drones.
Previous Ceasefire Attempts
Russia has declared ceasefires before, but these were only temporary.
- One such ceasefire occurred from May 8-11, coinciding with Russian victory celebrations, but Kyiv refused to participate, citing a lack of trust in Putin.
- The Kremlin announced another truce over Easter, during which both sides reported a reduction in combat but also accused each other of violations.