**US President Trump Hints at Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal**
In a major breakthrough, US President Donald Trump has announced that Russia and Ukraine are “very close to a deal”. This comes just hours after his envoy Steve Witkoff held high-level talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
According to Trump, the negotiations had been a “good day” of discussions, while the Kremlin described the talks as “constructive”. However, it’s worth noting that Ukraine was not present at these talks, sparking concerns about the country’s role in shaping its own peace deal.
**Ukraine Wants Pressure on Russia**
In a stark contrast to Trump’s optimism, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for real pressure on Russia to accept an unconditional ceasefire. This mirrors his earlier statement that territorial issues between Kyiv and Moscow could be discussed only if a full and unconditional ceasefire was agreed upon.
Reports suggest that Ukraine would have to give up large portions of land annexed by Russia under the proposed US peace plan. Zelensky has repeatedly rejected the idea of recognizing Crimea as part of Russia, emphasizing that only the Ukrainian people can decide which territories are Ukrainian.
**Crimea at the Center**
The disputed Crimean peninsula has become a major sticking point in negotiations. Trump’s support for Russia keeping Crimea has put him at odds with Zelensky, who says this is unacceptable. While Putin has signaled openness to talks with Zelensky, Kyiv remains skeptical about Moscow’s intentions.
**Details of US Peace Plan Remain Unclear**
Washington’s proposed peace deal has not been publicly released, but reports indicate it would involve giving Russia control over land annexed since 2014, including Crimea. This is a significant concession that could embolden Russian aggression in the region.
Meanwhile, European and Ukrainian officials are pushing for more concessions from Moscow, such as allowing Ukraine to join NATO and ensuring a ceasefire before discussing territorial issues.
**Zelensky Pushes Back**
In his video address on Friday night, Zelensky urged allies to apply more pressure on Russia. He also criticized Trump’s suggestion that Crimea would stay with Russia, saying this was true but not something he could agree with.
It remains unclear whether these talks will lead to a genuine peace deal or merely another temporary lull in fighting. As tensions continue to simmer, the international community watches closely for signs of progress – or more conflict.
Read More @ www.bbc.com
