Zelensky Calls Trump After US-Russia Ceasefire Talks Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday engaged in discussions with former US President Donald Trump to receive details about Trump’s recent conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The talks between Trump and Putin focused on introducing a temporary ceasefire aimed at reducing tensions and mitigating the three-year conflict in Ukraine. According to Kyiv officials, Zelensky was briefed on the outcomes of a 90-minute phone call that took place between Trump and Putin on Tuesday. The Kremlin reportedly agreed to a limited 30-day pause on strikes targeting Ukraine’s power grid. However, both Ukraine and Russia accused each other of failing to adhere to the truce, highlighting the fragility of any agreement. Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense reported overnight missile and drone attacks by Russia, stating that one person was killed, and at least two hospitals were damaged during the strikes. Additionally, Ukraine’s national railway service confirmed that the strikes had targeted railway energy infrastructure in the central Dnipropetrovsk region. President Zelensky voiced disappointment, saying, “Today, Putin effectively rejected the proposal for a full ceasefire.” Meanwhile, Moscow accused Ukraine of intensifying its attacks despite the ongoing ceasefire discussions. Russia’s Ministry of Defense claimed that Ukrainian forces deliberately targeted an oil depot in southern Russia overnight, describing the move as an attempt to derail Trump’s efforts to mediate an end to the fighting. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov condemned the attacks, emphasizing that they were counterproductive to peace efforts.
US Mediation and Potential Ceasefire Deal
In Washington, US emissary Steve Witkoff revealed that technical discussions about a peace framework would begin in Saudi Arabia on Monday. Witkoff expressed optimism, suggesting that a ceasefire agreement could be secured “within a few weeks” if the negotiations progress. He also hinted at a potential meeting between Trump and Putin in Saudi Arabia, although no official timeline has been announced.
Prisoner Exchange and Ongoing Tensions
Amid ongoing talks, Ukrainian and Russian authorities confirmed a prisoner exchange involving 372 individuals, described as a “goodwill gesture.” Despite this, tensions remain high, with both Kyiv and Moscow refusing to concede on critical demands. Prior to calling Trump, Zelensky emphasized the dangers of making significant concessions to Russia. Reportedly, during Trump and Putin’s phone call, the Russian leader demanded an end to Western military support to Ukraine during any ceasefire period. Putin also insisted that Ukrainian forces abandon rearmament and suspend mandatory military mobilizations. In response, Kyiv warned that such conditions would leave Ukraine exposed to future Russian aggression. Zelensky has actively pressed for the United States to oversee any ceasefire deal involving energy infrastructure.
NATO Allies React to Ceasefire Talks
The prospect of reducing US guarantees for European security has alarmed NATO allies and provoked sentiments of unease, leading several European powers to pledge continued support for Ukraine. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their commitment to providing military aid to Kyiv. “Ukraine can count on us,” said Scholz, assuring unwavering support for the war-battered nation. Still, front-line Ukrainian soldiers express skepticism about the prospects of peace anytime soon. “How can we trust someone who attacks us and kills civilians, including children?” asked Oleksandr, a soldier recovering in the Donetsk region after being injured in battle.
Russia’s Territorial Claims
Reports from Russian sources suggest that President Putin is seeking formal recognition from Trump of territories captured by Russia. This includes the four regions of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson, alongside the previously annexed Crimean Peninsula. Although Russia claims to control these territories, it does not fully govern any of them. Putin’s recognition demands reportedly came with assurances of not advancing on the Ukrainian port city of Odesa or other territories if the US meets his requirements. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov neither confirmed nor denied the territorial recognition claims but hinted that the matter was discussed among Putin’s inner circle during a closed-door meeting with Russian business elites.
Trust and Skepticism Amid Peace Efforts
Though Trump described his call with Putin as “good and productive,” skepticism persists. The Kremlin’s interpretation of the ceasefire discussions revolves around protecting energy infrastructure, while Trump has suggested a broader agreement covering all civil infrastructure, including transportation and communications networks. Zelensky has echoed concerns shared by Ukrainian citizens and soldiers, stating that Russia is not genuinely prepared to end the conflict. As negotiations continue, the question remains whether these talks will lead to a peaceful resolution or simply buy time for further escalation in the already devastating war. While some in Moscow welcome the direction of the talks, many in Kyiv and the West remain wary of Putin’s intentions and possible concessions by Trump, fearing they could undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and long-term security.
