In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to a 30-day cessation of attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure following a detailed phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump. This agreement, however, stops short of a comprehensive ceasefire, as broader peace negotiations continue.
The Kremlin confirmed that President Putin has directed the Russian military to halt strikes against Ukraine's energy facilities for the next month. Despite this concession, Putin expressed reservations about a full ceasefire, citing concerns that it might allow Ukraine to bolster its military capabilities. He emphasized that any lasting resolution would require Ukraine to cease military mobilizations and for foreign military aid to be halted.
President Trump, who has prioritized ending the conflict, acknowledged the progress made but noted that further discussions are necessary to achieve a comprehensive peace agreement. He stated that the limited ceasefire is a positive step toward broader negotiations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the temporary halt in attacks on energy infrastructure but expressed concerns about the limited scope of the agreement. He reiterated Ukraine's readiness for a full ceasefire and called on Russia to engage in comprehensive peace talks.
European leaders have cautiously welcomed the development. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint statement expressing hope that the limited ceasefire would pave the way for broader peace negotiations. They emphasized the importance of a sustainable and comprehensive resolution to the conflict.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to achieve lasting peace in the region.