By Gloria Nosa
U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday dismissed the prospect of an immediate ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, insisting instead that only a direct peace agreement could bring the devastating war to an end.
The remarks came after a three-hour summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, which concluded without a breakthrough on halting hostilities. Both Washington and the Kremlin highlighted areas of “constructive dialogue” but acknowledged that no consensus had been reached on a truce.
“A great and very successful day in Alaska!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform after returning to Washington. He added that his discussions with Putin had been “very good,” and noted he had also spoken by phone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders, including NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
According to Trump, all parties agreed that a durable peace could not be achieved through a temporary ceasefire.
“The best way to end this horrific war is through a Peace Agreement, not a mere Ceasefire Agreement, which too often fails,” he said.
Zelensky confirmed he would travel to Washington for a meeting with Trump at the White House on Monday, a visit both leaders said could lay the groundwork for broader negotiations. Trump suggested that if progress is made, a follow-up meeting with Putin may be arranged, though he stopped short of confirming whether it would involve three-way talks.
“Potentially, millions of people’s lives will be saved,” Trump declared.
Despite the diplomatic overtures, the fighting showed no signs of abating. Ukraine’s military reported overnight attacks involving 85 drones and a ballistic missile, while Moscow claimed its forces had captured two additional villages.
Zelensky, in an earlier social media post, voiced cautious support for Trump’s proposal, saying Ukraine remained committed to pursuing “a real peace that will last.”
