Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are discussing a ceasefire in Ukraine amid tensions peace talks. Credits: Shutterstock, Rokas Tenys
After the much-anticipated call, Russian Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump agreed to temporarily suspend attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
However, leaders stopped achieving a wider ceasefire and highlighted the continued hurdles in peace negotiations.
Energy infrastructure ceasefire – but there is no wider peace agreement yet
Despite weeks of diplomatic efforts, Putin declined a broader, month-long ceasefire proposal during talks in Saudi Arabia, previously arranged by US officials and Ukraine. The Russian president instead set conditions for a complete ceasefire, demanding that foreign military support with Ukraine and end Intelligence Election sharing. This request has already been rejected by Ukraine’s European allies.
Following the call, Trump shared optimism on social media, describing his conversation with Putin as “very well productive.” He confirmed that they agreed to stop targets at Ukrainian energy facilities immediately, adding that he hoped this would soon lead to a complete ceasefire and the end of the conflict.
Ukraine welcomes limited ceasefires, but is cautious
Speaking from Helsinki shortly after Putin Trump’s call, Ukrainian President Voldy Zelensky carefully welcomed the agreement but called for clarity. Zelensky later expressed his frustration, saying Putin effectively refused a wider ceasefire while continuing his drone attack while raiding the hospital at Sloank’s Sammy and the energy facility.
“Unfortunately, we have seen further attacks on private infrastructure,” Zelensky said in a social media post. “Putin’s decision today shows that he is not yet ready for real peace.”
Hours later, both sides reported new hostility and accused each other of violating the agreement. Zelensky alleges that Russia launched more than 40 drones against Ukraine, and Russian authorities accused the Ukrainian strike of causing damage to a Krasnodar oil facility and attempting to invade Belgorod.
Mixed responses when diplomatic efforts continue
According to US envoy in the Middle East, Steve Witkov, the peace talks will continue this week in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. However, responses from international allies remain mixed.
German Prime Minister Olaf Scholz called the limited ceasefire “an important first step” and spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting the urgent need for a complete ceasefire. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Kiel spoke directly to Zelensky, reassuring him of Britain’s unwavering support amid increasing skepticism about Russia’s intentions.
Putin clearly shows that he expects major concessions from Ukraine and the West, including lifting sanctions and allowing Russian control over the occupied territories. Observers suggest that Putin may be using a partial ceasefire strategically to buy time and add challenging terms to negotiations.
With tensions still rising, the next talks in Saudi Arabia will have all eyes as leaders strive to turn vulnerable agreements into lasting peace.
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