Russia Issues Ultimatum for Peace in Ukraine, Putin-Trump Contact Soon

The Kremlin stated that Ukraine must withdraw its troops from Donbas as a precondition for peace. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov mentioned that a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump is expected soon, ahead of Trump's meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky. A Putin-Zelensky call is not currently under discussion.

Zelensky requested security guarantees for 50 years from Trump. According to leaks, Washington's peace plan proposed guarantees for 15 years, which Zelensky considers insufficient. Zelensky emphasized that Trump discussed a 20-point plan to end the war with Putin.

Zelensky stated that the peace plan will be put to a referendum in Ukraine, requiring a 60-day ceasefire. He also stated that a meeting with Russia would only be possible after an agreement between Trump and European leaders.

Zelensky and Trump agreed on the need for a diplomatic solution, but Zelensky warned that international support will continue if Russia refuses a peace agreement.