The international community is actively discussing potential peace negotiations, new sanctions against Russia, and changes in U.S. policy toward Ukraine. Following the suspension of military aid to Kyiv, Trump has begun speaking more harshly about the Kremlin, while Europe is stepping up military support for Ukraine.
Donald Trump’s Statements on Russia and Ukraine
President Trump saidthat he believes the Russian president wants to end the war in Ukraine. He mentioned that it is becoming "increasingly difficult" for him to deal with Ukraine and believes that Russia holds "all the trump cards" in the negotiations. Trump also emphasized that, from the perspective of achieving a final settlement, it might be easier to negotiate with Russia.
Putin Ready for a Ceasefire, But on His Own Terms
Putin saidthat he is willing to consider a ceasefire, but only under conditions that include securing Russian control over the occupied territories, lifting some sanctions on Moscow, and guaranteeing that Ukraine will not join NATO.
Ukraine rejected these conditions as "unacceptable," while European leaders called for continued military support for Kyiv, stating that such "ceasefires" only serve to freeze the conflict.
Suspension of Military Aid to Ukraine
President Trump explained his decision to suspend military aid to Ukraine by claiming that Kyiv "does not want a settlement." He stated, "If they don’t want a settlement, we will leave… I am doing this because I want to stop the deaths. That is more important than anything else."
Talks in Saudi Arabia
U.S. Special Representative for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, reaffirmedthat the U.S. and Ukraine will meet next week in Saudi Arabia.
This will be the first in-person meeting between the two countries following tensions between Trump and Zelensky in the White House. Washington hopes that this meeting will help achieve a ceasefire and pave the way for a peace agreement, though Kyiv remains cautious about Putin's plans. The meeting is expected to take place on March 11 and will build on recent phone negotiations between officials from both countries. Discussions will also include a mineral extraction deal, which is key to U.S. support for Ukraine.
Threats of New Sanctions Against Russia
President Trump threatened to impose massive sanctions on Russia, including banking restrictions and tariffs, if Moscow continues its attacks on Ukraine.
He urged both Moscow and Kyiv to immediately begin negotiations to reach a peace agreement.
France and NATO Warn of New Threats
French President Emmanuel Macron has saidthat Putin might threaten the UK and Europe because he "feels vulnerable." Meanwhile, Poland’s Prime Minister cautioned that Russia is preparing for an even larger war within the next 3-4 years if the West does not increase support for Ukraine.
Europe is preparing for a possible escalation of the conflict and is increasing defense budgets. Poland and the Baltic states are urging NATO to take a more active role in deterring Russia.ї.
Photo: ТСН.ua
Author: Inna Mikhno