The White House reported that negotiations to achieve a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine will soon begin in the Middle East, but did not specify who will lead the talks. In the phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, they agreed that the first step towards peace will be to stop the attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
In the conversation, Putin committed to limiting Russian attacks on energy assets in Ukraine and they agreed on a ceasefire in that sector, as well as to discuss the possibility of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea. Although the White House announced a phone conversation lasting over 90 minutes, there was no agreement on the broad 30-day ceasefire requested by the United States.
Russia's demand for a "complete halt" to foreign military aid to Ukraine poses a challenge for Trump, who had previously asked for a ceasefire before reaching a long-term agreement. This stance raises concerns among Ukraine and its European allies, who fear that Russia will not comply with the agreements, leaving Ukraine exposed to potential attacks in the future.
President Putin, according to The Guardian, would have accepted a ceasefire agreement for energy infrastructure, although with conditions such as effective control of the agreement, stopping the mobilization of Ukrainian forces, and rearmament. Despite tensions and concerns about Russia's commitment, talks will commence immediately in the Middle East in search of establishing that crucial first ceasefire in the region.
