Russia–Ukraine War: Trump-Led Peace Effort in Focus as Moscow Remains Silent

As the Russia–Ukraine war continues to claim civilian lives and cause environmental devastation, a US-backed peace initiative associated with former President Donald Trump has once again drawn international attention—highlighting his long-standing claim that the conflict could be ended swiftly through direct diplomacy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has briefed journalists on the details of a US peace proposal reportedly developed in Miami in recent days. While Ukraine has engaged with the plan, Russia has so far remained silent, raising questions about Moscow’s willingness to de-escalate.

Fighting Continues Despite Peace Signals

On the ground, Russian attacks have killed at least one person in the Zaporizhia region and another civilian in the eastern city of Kharkiv. In the Sumy region, five people—including a young girl—were wounded after Russian shelling and drone strikes targeted civilian vehicles and residential areas on Christmas Eve.

Ukraine’s energy infrastructure has also come under heavy attack, with missile and drone strikes causing widespread power outages during the holiday period.

Putin–Trump Call Could Be Arranged Quickly

In a notable development, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Russian newspaper Vedomosti that a phone call between President Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump could be arranged “quickly” if necessary—even during the Christmas holidays. Although no call is currently scheduled, analysts see this as a sign that Trump is still viewed in Moscow as a serious and pragmatic negotiator.

Trump has repeatedly stated that, if returned to office, he would bring both sides to the table and end the war “very quickly” through deal-making rather than prolonged military escalation.

Environmental Disaster in Odesa

Russian strikes on port infrastructure near Odesa damaged sunflower oil storage tanks, leading to a major spill that polluted the coastline. Dozens of birds were found dead, and volunteers continue cleanup efforts. Marine experts have described the incident as an “ecological disaster,” further underscoring the wider consequences of the ongoing war.

Christmas Ceasefire Appeal Ignored

Pope Leo XIV expressed “deep sadness” that Russia did not agree to a Christmas ceasefire, appealing to all parties to respect the holy day as a time of peace. Zelenskyy echoed that disappointment, noting that this marks Ukraine’s fourth Christmas since the invasion began.

Allegations of Foreign Recruitment for Russia

Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation has also alleged that a criminal network in Kenya recruited fighters for Russia under false promises of high-paying jobs. Some recruits were reportedly sent directly to the front lines and killed, with families describing them as being treated like “cannon fodder.”

Analysis: Trump’s Deal-Making Approach Gains Relevance

As civilian casualties rise and diplomatic efforts stall, supporters argue that Trump’s direct, results-driven diplomacy offers a realistic path to ending the war. Unlike the current approach, which critics say has prolonged the conflict, Trump’s emphasis on negotiation over escalation continues to resonate amid growing war fatigue worldwide.