Headline: Ceasefire Talks Between Presidents Trump and Putin Expected This Week

Headline: Ceasefire Talks Between Presidents Trump and Putin Expected This Week

Washington, March 17: U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are expected to hold a phone discussion this week regarding a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed the plans on Sunday following what he described as a "positive" meeting with Putin in Moscow. Witkoff emphasized enhanced U.S.-Ukraine coordination and ongoing communication between the two leaders.

Ceasefire Proposal and Progress:

Ukraine agreed to the 30-day ceasefire proposal last week, but tensions remain high as Russia continues its battle to expel Ukrainian forces completely from the Kursk region. In a social media post on Friday, Trump noted a "good chance" of ending the war and urged Putin to spare the lives of Ukrainian troops. Putin assured that Russia would guarantee the safety of surrendering soldiers. Kremlin sources stated that Putin conveyed "cautious optimism" about the ceasefire plan in a message to Trump via Witkoff.

Challenges and U.S. Stance:

U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, questioned by ABC on whether Russia could retain control of occupied eastern Ukraine, responded, "Are we going to drive every Russian soldier off every inch of Ukrainian soil?" He stressed the need for negotiations grounded in "reality." Secretary of State Marco Rubio told CBS that a lasting peace deal would require "hard compromises from both Russia and Ukraine," but such talks are unlikely while hostilities persist.

Trump Administration Pressure:

Trump warned that failure to secure a ceasefire could escalate into a global conflict. In response to Russian discontent over peace talks, the administration narrowed General Keith Kellogg’s role as special envoy to focus solely on Ukraine. Additionally, a U.S. license permitting energy transactions with Russian financial institutions expired last week, increasing pressure on Moscow. The Treasury Department is also considering stricter sanctions on Russian oil firms, building on policies initiated under President Biden.

Analysis:

Analysts suggest the ceasefire proposal hinges on political and geopolitical compromises. The key challenge lies in balancing Ukraine’s territorial integrity with Russia’s demands. The effectiveness of Trump-Putin diplomacy and international pressure in securing a truce remains to be seen.