Trump issues warning of severe repercussions if Putin impedes a truce in Ukraine prior to negotiations
In a significant development, US President Donald Trump has warned that Russia's Vladimir Putin will face "severe consequences" if he fails to agree to peace in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This statement was made during a virtual conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and European leaders.
The threat comes as Russian forces have made a sharp thrust into eastern Ukraine, increasing pressure on Kyiv to give up territory. This move could potentially carve up Ukraine's territory, a scenario that European leaders and Zelenskiy have repeatedly stressed should be avoided.
Trump's comments follow a recent meeting with Putin where he pressed for a ceasefire. However, Zelenskiy expressed skepticism about Putin's intentions, calling them a bluff and emphasizing the need for increased pressure, including sanctions from both the US and Europe.
The meeting between Trump and Putin, scheduled for Alaska on Friday, is aimed at discussing an end to the three-and-a-half-year-old conflict in Ukraine, the largest in Europe since World War Two. The talks will also likely focus on the possibility of a three-way meeting, depending on the outcome of the talks in Alaska.
Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, has reportedly made "great progress" at talks in Moscow. However, the details of these negotiations have not been disclosed.
A Gallup poll found that 69% of Ukrainians favor a negotiated end to the war as soon as possible. However, polls also indicate that Ukrainians do not want peace at any cost if that means significant concessions.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reiterated the principle that borders cannot be changed by force, a stance that has been consistently maintained by European leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron also agreed that Ukraine must be involved in any discussions about ceding land.
Zelenskiy has expressed concern that a land swap could leave Russia with almost a fifth of Ukraine, emboldening Putin to expand further west. He has also emphasized the need for security guarantees in a post-war settlement, a proposal that Trump has reportedly supported.
Trump has declined to clarify what the consequences could be if Russia does not agree to peace. However, he has said a meeting between him and Putin could swiftly be followed by a second meeting that would include the leader of Ukraine.
This development comes after weeks of Trump voicing frustration with Putin for resisting the US peace initiative. The outcome of the Alaska summit could provide encouragement for Kyiv after fears it could end up selling out Ukraine by carving up its territory.
- The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a major European conflict since World War Two, has prompted discussions on seeking peace, with US President Donald Trump noting severe consequences for Vladimir Putin if he fails to agree.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has expressed skepticism about Putin's intentions, stating that increased pressure, including sanctions from both the US and Europe, is necessary.
- Amidst these discussions, sports, health, lifestyle, news, business, and general-news channels may provide updates on the potential peace agreement and its implications on the region.
- As war-and-conflicts and politics continue to dominate headlines, the future of Ukraine's territory and international relations with Russia are issues of significant concern, with implications that extend beyond the immediate region, impacting global stability and economic relationships.
