Newsroom
Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a message to former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding his proposed ceasefire in Ukraine, signaling “cautious optimism” for a potential agreement. This communication came through Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, during late-night talks in Moscow on Thursday.
Trump has long advocated for a swift ceasefire to prevent further escalation of the conflict, warning it could spiral into World War III. He reiterated his stance on Friday, calling for a “Cease Fire and Final Agreement” and suggesting he could help extract the U.S. from the “real ‘mess’ with Russia.”
Putin, while supportive of the ceasefire idea, raised concerns about crucial conditions needing to be addressed before a pause in fighting could occur. Despite these qualifications, Trump called Putin's support "very promising."
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that while there is still much to work out, both sides have reasons for optimism. Putin has specific demands, including Ukraine abandoning NATO membership ambitions, Russian control over four annexed Ukrainian regions, and a reduced Ukrainian military. He also wants Western sanctions eased and for Ukraine to hold elections, which Kyiv views as premature under martial law.
Peskov downplayed reports suggesting Russia opposed Trump's envoy Keith Kellogg being involved in high-level negotiations, calling it an internal U.S. matter.
With information from Reuters.
