**Ukraine Ready for Peace Talks with Russia, If Ceasefire is Agreed**
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has told US President Donald Trump that his country is ready to begin direct peace talks with Russia if a 30-day ceasefire is agreed upon. This announcement comes after a phone call between Trump, Zelenskyy, and European leaders on Saturday.
**European Leaders Unite Behind Ceasefire Plan**
The phone call was the result of a meeting between the leaders of France, the UK, Germany, and Poland with Zelenskyy in Kyiv. During this meeting, it was decided that the European leaders would join forces with Ukraine to confirm their unified position on Trump’s ceasefire plan. The leaders made it clear that if Russia refuses to agree to a ceasefire, European countries will impose new sanctions on Russia.
**Ukraine and Allies Ready for Ceasefire**
Ukraine’s foreign minister, Andrii Sybiha, stated that his country is ready for a full unconditional ceasefire on land, air, and at sea for at least 30 days starting from Monday. He also emphasized that if Russia agrees to the ceasefire and effective monitoring is ensured, a durable ceasefire and confidence-building measures can pave the way to peace negotiations.
**Russia’s Response Still Unclear**
While Ukraine has now agreed to Trump’s ceasefire proposal, the Kremlin hasn’t given a clear answer yet. A temporary three-day truce announced by Putin is set to expire on Saturday. The coordinated response from Ukraine and European leaders follows Trump’s call earlier this week for a 30-day ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war.
**Trump’s Threats and US State Secretary’s Claims**
Trump has been threatening to impose new sanctions on the side that refuses to agree to a ceasefire. Meanwhile, the US State Secretary claims that ceding territory is “the only way” to end Russia’s invasion, with frozen military aid potentially resuming based on talks.
**Commentary and Analysis**
The recent developments in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia show a willingness from both sides to explore peace negotiations. However, the fact remains that Russia has not yet given a clear response to Trump’s ceasefire proposal. The imposition of new sanctions by European countries is also a significant development, as it demonstrates their commitment to holding Russia accountable for its actions.
As the situation continues to unfold, it will be essential to monitor how both sides respond to each other’s demands. If a 30-day ceasefire is agreed upon and effective monitoring is ensured, it could pave the way for more substantial peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
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