Trump Announces Putin's Agreement to Suspend Ukraine Bombing During Extreme Cold
In a significant development amid the ongoing conflict, US President Donald Trump has publicly stated that he successfully persuaded Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt bombing operations in Ukrainian cities and towns. This announcement comes as Ukraine braces for an extreme cold snap that threatens to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Direct Appeal and Russian Response
During a Cabinet meeting at the White House on Thursday, President Trump revealed details of his personal intervention. "I personally asked President Putin not to fire into Kyiv and the various towns for a week, and he agreed to do that," Trump declared. He further noted that Ukrainian leadership was initially skeptical but ultimately "very happy" with the Russian leader's commitment.
Trump emphasized the timing of this agreement, stating, "On top of everything else, that's not what they need — is missiles coming into their towns and cities," highlighting the additional challenges posed by the impending severe weather conditions.
Contradictory Reports and Ongoing Violence
Despite Trump's claims, reports from the ground paint a different picture. The Russian embassy in Washington has not yet commented on the alleged agreement. Meanwhile, according to AFP citing local authorities, Russian attacks resulted in six fatalities in Ukraine on the same day as Trump's announcement.
The situation remains tense as Ukraine prepares for temperatures to plunge far below freezing this week. Many residents are already grappling with heating and electricity outages due to infrastructure damaged by recent Russian assaults.
Ukrainian Concerns and Intelligence Warnings
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed grave concerns in a Telegram post on Wednesday, indicating that intelligence suggests Russia is preparing a large-scale drone and missile attack targeting the country's energy infrastructure. "Everyone who truly wants peace must think about how to ensure that the Russians are preparing not for new massive attacks but for ending the war," Zelenskiy urged.
Peace Negotiations and Diplomatic Efforts
Amid these developments, Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff provided an optimistic update on ongoing peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. He revealed that significant progress has been made, with "a security protocol agreement that's largely finished" and "a prosperity agreement that's largely finished."
Witkoff expressed confidence in the diplomatic process, stating, "I think the people of Ukraine are now hopeful and expectant that we're going to deliver a peace deal sometime soon." These crucial discussions are scheduled to resume early next month, offering a potential pathway toward resolution.
The convergence of extreme weather, ongoing military actions, and diplomatic negotiations creates a complex and urgent situation in Ukraine, with international attention focused on whether temporary pauses in violence can translate into lasting peace.
