Trump Sends US Negotiators to Russia for Ukraine Ceasefire Talks
US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that American negotiators were en route to Russia to discuss a proposed ceasefire in Ukraine, following Kyiv’s agreement to a 30-day truce.
US Pushes for Ukraine Ceasefire Agreement
While Trump did not disclose specific details, reports indicate that special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to travel to Russia this week. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the next move is in Russia’s hands, stating that negotiations are the only way to bring an end to the ongoing war.
Putin Visits Troops as Russia Advances in Kursk
Amid ceasefire discussions, Russian state television broadcasted footage of President Vladimir Putin making a surprise visit to Russian troops in the western region of Kursk. This comes as Ukrainian forces continue their strategic withdrawal, with Ukraine’s army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi prioritizing troop safety.
“My priority has been and remains saving the lives of Ukrainian soldiers,” Syrskyi stated, adding that Ukrainian forces will relocate to “more favorable positions” if needed.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated that Kyiv is doing everything possible to protect its troops while accusing Russia of intensifying pressure on the battlefield.
Trump Warns of ‘Devastating’ Economic Consequences for Russia
Trump issued a strong warning to Russia, stating that the US has the power to impose severe economic measures if Moscow refuses to comply with the 30-day ceasefire proposal.
“I can do things financially that would be very bad for Russia,” Trump stated. “I don’t want to do them because I want peace.”
Despite receiving “positive messages” regarding the ceasefire, Trump cautioned that words alone are insufficient, calling the situation “serious.”
Russia to Review Ceasefire Terms
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia is reviewing the ceasefire terms but has not yet declared its stance on the agreement. Russian news agency Tass reported that Putin may address Ukraine-related issues at an upcoming press conference with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.
Moscow has previously dismissed temporary ceasefires, arguing they could allow Ukrainian forces to regroup. However, the Ukraine-US ceasefire proposal includes key measures such as:
- A temporary halt to military operations in the air, sea, and across the frontline.
- An exchange of prisoners of war.
- The release of civilian detainees.
- The return of Ukrainian children forcibly taken to Russia.
What’s Next?
As US and Russian officials prepare for negotiations, all eyes are on Moscow’s response. Will Russia agree to a temporary truce, or will the conflict escalate further? The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the future of the Ukraine war.
For the latest updates on Ukraine-Russia peace talks, stay tuned.
