**Ukraine Reacts to Trump’s Ceasefire Ultimatum**
As the war in Ukraine continues, residents of Kyiv are growing weary. The emotional toll of the invasion and the physical toll of sleepless nights due to air raid sirens, explosions, and attack drones have taken a heavy hit on the city.
US President Donald Trump’s decision to give Russia 50 days to agree to a ceasefire or face “very severe tariffs… at about 100%” has not been well-received by many in Ukraine. One of the country’s most prominent politicians, Kyiv Mayor Vitaly Klitschko, questioned why there was a delay in taking action against Russia.
**A Bittersweet Reaction**
Ukrainian MP Kira Rudik described Trump’s announcement as “bittersweet”. While it brought hope for an end to the war, it also gave Russian President Vladimir Putin another 50 days to continue his deadly bombardment. “It is very hard and very personal for us because we don’t know if some of us will survive for these 50 days,” she told the BBC.
The situation on the ground is dire. Last month, more than 230 civilians were killed in Ukraine, with many more wounded. This is the highest number of civilian casualties in three years, according to UN human rights monitors.
**A Mixed Reaction**
While some residents expressed optimism that additional weapons sent by the US and paid for by Nato member states could “speed up the end of the war”, others were skeptical. Yuliia and Alisa, two residents of Kyiv, doubted Trump’s intentions, saying they worried about his relationship with the Kremlin.
“I don’t believe it is real help for Ukraine… it’s all about his ego,” Yuliia said. Alisa added that “nothing will change despite what Trump does or does not say”. Nina, however, was more optimistic, believing that the additional weapons could lead to a quicker end to the war.
**A Plea for Peace**
For many in Ukraine, the war has become a personal and emotional struggle. Artem, whose father is serving in the Ukrainian army, expressed hope for peace, saying “we want everything to be the way we want… and we want peace”.
As Trump talks of imposing new tariffs on Russia, the images of fallen soldiers stare out from photos plastered around St Michael’s monastery in Kyiv. These reminders serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
**A Longer Road Ahead**
The situation in Ukraine remains precarious. While some hope that additional weapons and tariffs could lead to an end to the war, others fear that it may be too little, too late. The coming 50 days will be crucial in determining the course of the conflict.
Read More @ www.bbc.com
