Trump and Zelenskyy Discuss Partial Ceasefire on Energy Infrastructure
In a significant development in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conversation aimed at establishing a partial ceasefire focused on energy infrastructure. This dialogue occurred on Wednesday, following a previous attempt by Trump to negotiate a broader 30-day ceasefire with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which was ultimately unsuccessful.
Background of the Discussion
The call came after Trump’s bid to secure a complete truce between the nations failed, although Putin was reported to have agreed to pause attacks specifically targeting energy assets. Following this conversation with Putin, Trump briefed Zelenskyy on the details, as conveyed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Michael Waltz.
Agreements and Next Steps
During the hour-long talk, Trump and Zelenskyy reached an agreement on the necessity of a partial ceasefire concerning energy operations. The next steps involve technical teams from both countries meeting in Saudi Arabia to explore the possibility of expanding this ceasefire to the Black Sea, potentially laying the groundwork for a comprehensive peace settlement. The officials expressed optimism that this could serve as a catalyst for lasting security in the region.
Zelenskyy’s Commitment
Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine’s readiness to suspend attacks on energy targets pending the resolution of specific details. He noted, “I supported this step, and Ukraine confirmed that we are ready to implement it,” also mentioning discussions on this issue that took place in Jeddah last week.
The Ukrainian leader plans to create a list of critical facilities that would be off-limits under any forthcoming agreement with Russia.
Concerns Over Russian Compliance
Despite the progress, Zelenskyy expressed doubts regarding Russia’s commitment to uphold its end of any arrangement. He stated, “Just assurances and only Putin’s words that he orders not to strike energy facilities — that is not enough,” indicating the pragmatic outlook that has emerged from the prolonged conflict. “If the Russians do not strike our facilities, we will certainly not strike theirs,” he added.
Continued Strikes and Recent Military Developments
Following the diplomatic calls, military exchanges persisted, with reports emerging of strikes on both sides, including damage to a Ukrainian hospital and a gas pipeline and attacks on Russian oil infrastructure. The Kremlin also claimed to have thwarted multiple drone attacks aimed at its energy sites.
Relationship Dynamics
This latest conversation was the first between Trump and Zelenskyy since their contentious exchange last month, where Trump criticized Zelenskyy for his approach to peace negotiations. The subsequent withdrawals of U.S. military aid were reversed after Ukraine agreed to a temporary truce during discussions in Saudi Arabia.
Optimism for Future Cooperation
Both leaders conveyed a more optimistic tone following the Wednesday call. Trump characterized the dialogue as “very good,” while Zelenskyy highlighted the “positive, very substantive and frank conversation” they had. Additionally, the Biden administration reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting Ukraine with additional air defense systems, primarily in Europe.
Continued Support and Intelligence Sharing
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that intelligence sharing with Ukraine would persist despite ongoing discussions regarding military assistance and concessions from the U.S. “Intelligence sharing, and in terms of defense for Ukraine, will continue to be shared,” she stated.
Report contributed by ABC News’ Ellie Kaufman and David Brennan.