- Trump and Putin discussed initiating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, but no concrete agreements were reached.
- European leaders pushed for a 30-day ceasefire while Russia remained firm on its demands, complicating negotiations.
- Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities continue, resulting in civilian casualties.
President Donald Trump held a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, aiming to initiate immediate peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Trump claimed the discussion was “very informative and very open,” while Putin expressed readiness to engage in talks, though he refrained from committing to a face-to-face meeting. Trump also claimed to have spoken with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO members about the proposed ceasefire.
U.S. Pushes for Economic Incentives
Vice President JD Vance emphasized the economic benefits that could arise from thawing relations between Russia and the West, noting that the U.S. has long suggested that economic incentives could be a path toward peace. However, he also warned that if Russia continued its aggression, the U.S. might consider walking away from the peace process altogether. Meanwhile, Putin’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the American effort, stating that Russia “highly values” U.S. support in negotiating a resolution.
European Leaders Call for Ceasefire
Ahead of Trump’s call with Putin, European leaders from Britain, France, Germany, and Italy urged Russia to accept a 30-day unconditional ceasefire. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed the sentiment, stating that the Kremlin “must show it wants peace” by adhering to the proposed ceasefire terms. Despite the push for negotiations, Putin has remained firm on his demands, reiterating that Russia’s goal is to address the “root causes” of the crisis.
Human Rights Concerns Amid Negotiations
While Trump continues to pursue negotiations, critics are calling out his perceived leniency toward Putin. Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink accused the administration of pressuring Ukraine to make concessions while ignoring Russia’s ongoing atrocities. Meanwhile, Russia has ramped up its domestic repression, labeling Amnesty International as an “undesirable organization” and accusing it of promoting “Russophobic” sentiments.
Violence Continues as Talks Unfold
Despite the diplomatic efforts, violence in Ukraine persists. Russian forces continue their relentless attacks, targeting civilian areas in cities like Kherson and Kyiv.
A 75-year-old woman was killed, and several others were injured in recent shelling. As both sides remain entrenched in their demands, the prospect of a meaningful ceasefire remains uncertain, leaving the fate of the conflict in limbo.
