President Donald Trump expressed hope on Thursday that Russia would agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine, marking what he described as a potential first step toward ending the ongoing three-year war.
Speaking from the Oval Office alongside NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump stated, “We know where we are with Ukraine. Hopefully, they’ll do the right thing,” referencing Russia’s role in the conflict.
His remarks followed an earlier statement from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who addressed the public in Moscow. During his speech, Putin acknowledged Trump’s ceasefire proposal, agreeing with the idea in “principle” but stopping short of committing to the 30-day proposal currently on the table.
Reacting to Putin’s comments, Trump described them as “promising but incomplete.” The former president emphasized his willingness to engage with the Russian leader if necessary. “I’d love to meet or talk to him, but we have to get it over with fast,” Trump added.
Trump also acknowledged that Russian officials had raised concerns about issues such as the Zaporizhzhia power plant and Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, both of which Putin had mentioned during his Moscow address.
“A lot of the details of a final agreement have been discussed,” Trump told reporters, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts. He stressed the importance of a resolution, warning, “If they’re not [ready], it’ll be a very disappointing moment for the world.”
