Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump following the recent ceasefire agreement between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The discussion comes as both Ukraine and Russia accuse each other of violating the 30-day truce, initially intended to halt attacks on energy infrastructure.
Ceasefire Under Immediate Strain
The ceasefire agreement, announced on Tuesday, was meant to suspend attacks on energy facilities for 30 days. However, Russia launched new strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure on Wednesday, hitting energy sites and civilian buildings. Ukrainian officials reported fresh missile and drone attacks targeting key facilities, including a hospital in Sumy.
At the same time, Russia has accused Ukraine of violating the truce by attacking a fuel depot in the Russian region of Krasnodar. Moscow has called the strike a "provocation" intended to undermine Trump’s peace initiative, as reported by 20 Minutos.
Zelensky’s Response and European Reactions
Zelensky, currently on an official visit to Finland, expressed skepticism over the ceasefire, arguing that Putin has already broken his commitment. He called on the international community to increase pressure on Russia, urging a more decisive stance against continued aggression.
European leaders have also voiced doubts about the effectiveness of the truce. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz acknowledged the agreement as a first step but emphasized the need for Ukraine to be included in any meaningful peace negotiations.
Next Steps in Negotiations
The U.S. and Russia are expected to continue talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, focusing on further diplomatic efforts and security arrangements in the Black Sea region. Meanwhile, Trump’s handling of the Ukraine crisis remains under scrutiny, particularly after reports that he briefly suspended military aid to Kyiv before the ceasefire was announced.
With tensions still running high, Zelensky’s conversation with Trump is expected to clarify Washington’s position and determine Ukraine’s next course of action amid ongoing hostilities.
