Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to a 30-day halt on attacks targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure following a phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Putin refused to commit to a full 30-day ceasefire, undermining Trump’s hopes for a swift end to hostilities.
Partial Ceasefire Amid Stalemate
According to Kremlin sources, Putin’s concession is conditional. While Russia will pause strikes on Ukraine’s energy facilities, the Russian leader insisted that a broader ceasefire would require an end to Western military aid to Kyiv. This demand has been met with skepticism, as Ukraine and its allies have shown no willingness to accept such terms.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautiously welcomed the development, stating that Ukraine supports a mutual agreement to halt attacks on critical infrastructure. However, he emphasized the need for clear details before Kyiv can fully endorse the arrangement.
Trump Declares Progress, but Attacks Continue
Trump hailed the discussion as productive, posting on his Truth Social platform that he and Putin had agreed on an “immediate ceasefire for all Energy and Infrastructure.” He added that both sides would “work quickly toward a full ceasefire and ultimately, an END to this terrible war between Russia and Ukraine.”
Despite the Kremlin’s statement confirming Putin’s order, air raid sirens sounded in Kyiv just hours after the call, followed by explosions as Ukrainian air defenses intercepted incoming Russian drones. This raised doubts about Russia’s commitment to the agreement.
A Step Toward Peace or a Strategic Move?
The temporary ceasefire on energy infrastructure is seen as a calculated move rather than a breakthrough in peace efforts. Analysts suggest that Putin is testing the waters, using Trump’s involvement to shift the narrative while maintaining military pressure on Ukraine.
With the war still raging and no consensus on a full ceasefire, the situation remains tense. The coming days will reveal whether this limited agreement is a stepping stone toward peace or merely a strategic maneuver by the Kremlin.
