US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have reached an agreement on a limited 30-day ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure in Ukraine. The decision aims to pave the way for comprehensive peace talks. Negotiations regarding a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and further discussions on permanent peace are set to begin immediately, according to the White House.
The Kremlin stated that Putin refrained from committing to a broader truce out of concern that Ukraine might use the opportunity to mobilize forces and rearm. He emphasized that stopping military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv must be prerequisites for any lasting peace agreement.
Trump, seeking to end Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II, hopes the ceasefire will become a stepping stone to a complete resolution. However, his approach, which hints at potential territorial concessions by Ukraine, has raised skepticism among US allies.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remains firm, rejecting any compromise on Ukraine’s sovereignty. During his visit to Finland, Zelensky reiterated that Russia must withdraw from all occupied territories, warning that Moscow’s actions could escalate beyond Ukraine if unchecked.
The conflict, which has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and displaced millions, continues to challenge global leaders in their attempt to balance diplomacy and security.
