According to U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump is expected to have a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin this week to discuss ways to resolve the three-year conflict in Ukraine. Witkoff described his recent meeting with Putin in Moscow as “positive” and anticipates a call between the two presidents soon. Trump is seeking Putin’s support for a proposed 30-day ceasefire that Ukraine has agreed to, as both sides are engaged in heavy aerial attacks. The aim is to prevent Russia from displacing Ukrainian forces from the western region of Kursk. Trump expressed optimism on social media that the war could finally come to an end, and urged Putin not to harm Ukrainian troops. Putin indicated willingness to spare the lives of Ukrainian soldiers if they surrender. The Kremlin noted that a potential ceasefire deal was being discussed with cautious optimism. However, challenges remain before Russia agrees to a ceasefire and a lasting peaceful resolution. Officials stressed the need for hard work and concessions from both sides to achieve peace. Trump has warned of the risk of the conflict escalating into a larger conflict if a ceasefire is not established. The U.S. has taken measures to encourage cooperation, such as limiting General Keith Kellogg’s role in peace talks and considering sanctions on Russian energy companies. These efforts are part of ongoing negotiations to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
