**Ukraine and Allies Unite Amid Trump-Putin Talks**
The international community is gearing up for a crucial meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, with Ukraine and its allies reportedly seeking a unified stance. The developments come as the White House intensifies efforts to broker a peace deal in the conflict-ridden region.
**A Fragile Peace Process**
US special envoy Steve Witkoff met Putin in Moscow on August 6, amidst growing tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Trump had previously announced an August 8 deadline for Russia to reach a ceasefire, but despite this, he has yet to impose sanctions on Moscow. Instead, the US leader has been focusing on finding a solution that could lead to peace.
**Calls with Top Officials**
A series of high-stakes calls have taken place in recent days, involving top officials from Ukraine, Europe, and the US. These conversations have shed light on the complex negotiations underway. According to Axios, President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump, and European leaders engaged in a call on August 6, where some participants believed Putin was ready to give up Russia’s claims to two key Ukrainian regions: Zaporizhzhia Oblast and Kherson Oblast.
**Contradicting Claims**
However, just the next day, US special envoy Steve Witkoff reportedly told another call that Putin was willing to freeze along current frontlines, which include occupied territory in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts. This apparent contradiction has left many questioning the Russian leader’s true intentions.
**Ukraine’s Red Lines**
For any potential peace deal to be acceptable to Ukraine, a referendum would be necessary if Kyiv were to cede its territory. Volodymyr Ivanyshyn, news editor for The Kyiv Independent, notes that such an agreement would require careful consideration and would not be taken lightly.
**The “Swapping” of Territories**
Trump has repeatedly mentioned the possibility of a peace deal involving “some swapping” of territories between Ukraine and Russia. This proposal has been met with skepticism by many in the international community, who fear it could embolden Putin’s aggressive ambitions.
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