Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated that Russia may now be showing greater openness to a ceasefire, but warned both Ukraine and the United States to stay vigilant and not fall for superficial commitments.
His comments came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump stated that his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, had a productive meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump hailed the talks as showing “great progress,” though he did not share any specific outcomes.
Following the high-level engagement, Zelensky spoke with Trump in a call also joined by several European allies. In a post on social media platform X, the Ukrainian leader reiterated the need for a durable and meaningful peace, insisting that Russia must fully end the war it initiated.
Cautious Optimism Amid Diplomatic Developments
“Ukraine remains steadfast in defending its independence,” Zelensky wrote. “We seek a peace that is not only long-lasting but genuine. Russia must take full responsibility for bringing this war to an end.”
Trump, who has adopted a tougher stance toward Moscow in recent weeks, has reportedly given Putin until Friday to take clear steps toward peace or face new sanctions. A senior White House official confirmed that additional sanctions, including secondary measures targeting nations trading with Russia, are still scheduled for implementation by the end of the week.
Adding to the pressure, the U.S. also signed an executive order on Wednesday imposing an additional 25% tariff on India over its ongoing purchases of Russian oil.
Joint Strategy Talks Expected Among Allies
Zelensky, while cautiously welcoming the progress, expressed concern over being misled in the details of any proposed agreements. “Pressure works,” he said, “but we must not allow ourselves or our partners to be deceived.”
Despite ongoing Ukrainian appeals for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, Russia — which currently holds about 20% of Ukrainian territory and continues offensive operations in the east — has dismissed the proposal.
To align on a unified response, Zelensky noted that Ukraine’s national security team, along with advisors from allied nations, will soon convene to establish a coordinated position regarding the evolving negotiations.
