Russian President Vladimir Putin met with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss the American proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in the war with Ukraine. Putin expressed support for a truce in principle but highlighted the need for further clarification on key details before reaching an agreement. While Ukraine has endorsed the proposal, Russia’s military has gained momentum on the battlefield, potentially making Putin hesitant to rush into a ceasefire while feeling he has the upper hand.

There is a possibility of a phone call between Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump to address outstanding ceasefire issues following Witkoff’s delivery of messages in Washington. Both sides recognize the importance of such a call. Despite some cautious optimism surrounding the ceasefire proposal, significant work remains, given the differing objectives of Moscow and Kyiv.

The evolving relationship between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine under Trump’s administration contrasts with the previous approach under Biden. Trump has employed various tactics, including threats of sanctions, to push for peace negotiations, while also aligning with some Kremlin positions on the conflict. Notably, Russian air defenses intercepted Ukrainian drones near Moscow, causing minor property damage but no injuries.

As discussions continue and tensions simmer, the path to a ceasefire remains complex, with potential hurdles to overcome in the coming weeks or months. The dynamics between the involved parties, coupled with the evolving geopolitical landscape, suggest a challenging road ahead in achieving lasting peace in the region.