Trump and Putin’s call yielded no cease-fire agreement on Ukraine, with both sides urged to continue negotiations.

President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a two-hour phone call on Monday regarding the conflict in Ukraine.

Putin declined to agree to an immediate cease-fire, despite pressure from Ukraine and European leaders for the U.S. to remain involved in negotiations.

After the call, Trump suggested that the U.S. might reconsider its role in the peace process, emphasising that a deal must be reached directly between Moscow and Kyiv.

Putin’s refusal to accept a proposed 30-day cease-fire presents ongoing challenges to Trump’s attempts to mediate. Trump expressed hope for productive discussions but did not publicly advocate for tougher sanctions against Russia.

Firm commitment

Ukrainian President Zelensky briefed Trump prior to the call, urging him to secure a firm commitment from Putin. Following the discussion, Zelensky reiterated the need for increased sanctions and continued U.S. involvement to ensure that the situation does not favour Russia.

Putin indicated a willingness to work on a memorandum outlining terms for a potential peace agreement but reiterated demands for significant concessions from Ukraine, including military reductions and NATO policies.

Trump stated that both parties would initiate negotiations aimed at establishing a cease-fire and ending the war. Despite a recent meeting between mid-level officials from both countries, progress remains limited.

Joe Biden, 82, diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, confirmed by his team after health scrutiny led to his presidential race withdrawal.

Joe Biden diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer. The 82-year-old former U.S. President is now battling cancer that has spread to his bones. Following a medical evaluation, Biden’s team confirmed the high-grade, hormone-sensitive cancer.

This comes after a year of mounting scrutiny over his health, ultimately leading him to withdraw from the presidential race.

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Trump to speak with Putin after failed peace talks in Istanbul, highlighting Russia’s resistance to cease-fire demands.

Peace in Ukraine remains elusive as recent talks in Istanbul revealed Russia’s reluctance to engage in a meaningful deal. President Trump plans a phone call with Putin on Monday, following discussions with Ukrainian President Zelensky and NATO leaders. These conversations come after Ukraine’s leaders showcased their willingness to negotiate, while European allies advised Zelensky on his engagement with Trump.

Putin’s absence from the talks and the choice of low-level representatives suggested a lack of serious intent to negotiate, particularly after rejecting Trump’s cease-fire proposal. As negotiations stalled, Russian military actions intensified, including a drone attack that killed nine civilians in Ukraine.

Putin’s demands for territorial concessions and military restrictions on Ukraine persisted, framing any cease-fire as advantageous only to Ukrainian forces. However, intelligence reports indicate Russia is regrouping for a potential renewed offensive.

European leaders united to support Ukraine, bolstered by a new German leadership willing to impose stricter sanctions on Russia. Their coordinated efforts aimed to showcase Putin’s refusal to engage, putting pressure on Trump to act.

Ultimately, the future of peace talks hinges on Putin’s response to Trump’s mediation efforts and the increasing pressure from European nations advocating for a firmer stance against Russian aggression, especially regarding energy exports. As diplomatic tensions rise, the international community watches closely.