President Donald Trump expressed optimism that US negotiators could secure a ceasefire in the Ukraine war, even as Kyiv and Moscow launched fresh aerial attacks early on Thursday, March 13th.
The United States wants Russia to agree to an unconditional halt to hostilities, officials said on Wednesday. The Kremlin said it was awaiting details of a US-Ukrainian proposal agreed this week, and gave no indication of its readiness to stop fighting that has left tens of thousands dead in the past three years.
President Vladimir Putin visited Russian troops who have made gains against Ukrainian forces battling to keep Russian territory seized in an offensive last year. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his country was ready to embrace a deal, and the US had indicated it would issue a "strong" response if Putin refuses an accord.
"People are going to Russia right now as we speak. And hopefully we can get a ceasefire from Russia," Trump told reporters during an Oval Office meeting with Ireland's prime minister Micheal Martin.
"I hope he's going to have a ceasefire.
8 Comments
Marishka
Diplomacy is always preferable to war. Let's give negotiations a chance before resorting to further violence.
Pupsik
No matter who negotiates it, a ceasefire will buy time for humanitarian aid and civilian protection.
Marishka
If Trump can use his unique relationship with Putin to bring an end to this war, then why not give him a chance?
Pupsik
Any ceasefire is better than the alternative of continued bloodshed and destruction.
Marishka
Trump cares more about business deals than humanitarian crises. He can take his 'hope' and shove it - people are dying!
Donatello
Even Putin understands that a prolonged war benefits no one. A ceasefire could be a first step towards de-escalation.
Leonardo
Despite their differences, all parties involved ultimately want an end to the war.
Raphael
We should support any initiative that brings the parties closer to a negotiated settlement.