Leaders Lock Horns Over Ukraine Ceasefire

A recent phone chat between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump left Ukraine's hopes for a temporary truce in tatters. Both leaders dismissed the idea, suggesting it would only drag out the conflict. Instead, they pushed for a more permanent solution, with Russia insisting Ukraine make a big decision about Donbas.

Details of the Call

• Initiated by Trump, the call lasted over an hour and came just before Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
• Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov revealed that both presidents agreed a temporary ceasefire would only lead to more fighting.
• They argued that Ukraine should take bold steps to resolve the situation in Donbas, where Russia already controls most of the region.

Russia's Demands

• Russia wants Ukraine to pull back from the remaining 10% of Donbas under Kyiv's control.
• Trump has been working behind the scenes, with his envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner negotiating with Russia, Ukraine, and European powers.
• Trump has promised to end the conflict, but Ukraine and its allies fear he might leave them in the lurch.

Concerns and Tensions

• Ushakov noted that Trump was eager to end the war quickly and saw potential for economic cooperation between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine.
• Ukraine and its European allies worry that Trump might cut a deal that leaves them holding the bag, especially as Russia continues to gain ground.
• The situation remains tense, with both sides digging in their heels. Ukraine and its allies are concerned about Trump's motives, while Russia pushes for a decisive move from Kyiv.
• The path to peace seems far from clear.