Zelensky to speak with Trump today on partial ceasefire and Ukraine’s territorial integrity
As Zelensky prepares to speak with Trump, questions arise over Russia’s true commitment to peace. Despite a proposed ceasefire, new attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure cast doubt on Putin’s intentions. Meanwhile, a major prisoner exchange sparks cautious optimism—will diplomacy prevail?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that he will hold a phone conversation today with former U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the next steps following Russia’s recently proposed partial ceasefire. This announcement came during a press conference in Helsinki, where Zelensky met with Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
Ceasefire in question: Zelensky accuses Putin of breaking 30-day truce agreement
The conversation follows Trump’s recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which Russia agreed to a 30-day halt in attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. However, Putin demanded an end to foreign military and intelligence support for Ukraine as part of the deal.
Despite Russia’s commitment, Zelensky accused Putin of continuing attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities. Overnight, missile and drone strikes hit hospitals and a power station in Dnipropetrovsk, leading Zelensky to argue that Russia is not genuinely committed to peace.
Ukraine stands firm on sovereignty as prisoner exchange offers hope for peace
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine will not recognize any Russian-occupied territories, including Crimea, and will not accept concessions regarding foreign military aid. He also urged the United States to implement monitoring mechanisms to ensure that Russia upholds its ceasefire commitments.
Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine conducted a prisoner exchange, with each side releasing 175 prisoners of war. Additionally, Russia handed over 22 severely wounded Ukrainian soldiers for urgent medical treatment, a move seen by European leaders as a potential step toward peace in Ukraine.