Zelensky Open to Limited Cease-Fire Talks Following Trump-Putin Call

In the latest development of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that he is set to discuss the nuances of upcoming negotiations with President Trump concerning a potential cease-fire agreement with Russia.

In a news conference held on Wednesday, President Zelensky conveyed an intention to address the next steps following President Trump’s recent conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Kremlin had indicated during the call that Putin was amenable to a limited cease-fire specifically designed to halt assaults on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, though this offer does not extend to a 30-day unconditional truce that Ukraine had previously agreed to with U.S. backing.

“I am open to this limited cease-fire, but I believe it necessitates U.S. monitoring to ensure compliance,” Zelensky stated alongside Finnish President Alexander Stubb in Helsinki. He emphasized, “If the Russians do not strike our facilities, we will definitely not strike theirs,” illustrating the precarious nature of trust between the two nations.

Moreover, accusations concerning reciprocal attacks on energy installations were exchanged between Ukraine and Russia, underscoring the fragile communications. Zelensky, highlighting his skepticism towards some demands from the Russian leadership for broader cease-fire conditions, characterized them as time-consuming tactics designed to strengthen Russian military positioning.

He remarked, “It is clear that Russia is not ready to conclude this war. They continue setting additional conditions, showing no willingness for genuine dialogue.” Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to a more comprehensive cease-fire proposed after U.S.-led discussions earlier in Saudi Arabia, which anticipated a complete halt to hostilities across land, air, and sea—marking a significant milestone since the commencement of Russia's full-scale invasion three years ago.

This monthlong truce would have served as a foundation for deeper negotiations toward a lasting peace agreement, yet skepticism remains amidst ongoing hostilities.