Productive Talks Between Trump and Putin
US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he had engaged in “good, productive” discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming to secure Russia’s agreement to a US-endorsed ceasefire proposal in Ukraine. Trump shared on his Truth Social platform, “There is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end.”
Ceasefire Proposal Stalled
The Kremlin confirmed US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff departed Moscow without reaching an immediate accord on halting the conflict. Despite US efforts, Putin hesitated to commit to a provisional 30-day ceasefire plan, which sought to halt combat activities in Russia’s expansive invasion of Ukraine, including engagements in the Black Sea and along the frontline.
Putin acknowledged the “idea” of a ceasefire was appropriate but cited unresolved issues, especially concerning the Russian region of Kursk, where Ukrainian forces launched a surprising incursion last year. He queried, “Will all those (Ukrainian troops) who are there come out without a fight? Or will the Ukrainian leadership order them to lay down arms and surrender?”
Zelenskyy’s Response and Ukraine’s Stance
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Putin of intentionally protracting the peace process and reiterated key deal elements proposed by Ukraine and the US, such as the return of prisoners and the repatriation of Ukrainian children forcibly relocated to Russia. Zelenskyy emphasized, “Ukraine seeks peace and spares no effort to achieve it as soon as possible.”
Disputed Claims of Encirclement
In his Truth Social post, Trump alleged that thousands of Ukrainian troops were “completely surrounded” by Russian forces, albeit without evidence. He urged Putin to spare their lives, seemingly referencing Russia’s Kursk. However, Ukraine’s General Staff refuted claims of encirclement as “fabricated … for political manipulation and to exert pressure on Ukraine and its partners.” They affirmed that Ukrainian forces had successfully regrouped, maintaining a stable situation over recent days.
