In a significant political development American President Donald Trump is set to dial his Russian counterpart Putin today to discuss efforts to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and also discuss his 30 days ceasefire offer that has been accepted by Ukraine. This anticipated dialogue has got the whole world curious about the potential outcome.
The Russia – Ukraine war began in February 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine citing security concerns and Ukraine’s anticipated membership into NATO. The war which Russia thought would be over in a week is still raging thanks to the unwavering support of the previous US government and the European nations to Ukraine. So far the war has resulted in thousands of casualties on both sides and massive displacement of civilians particularly on the Ukrainian side.
In the last three years there have been several round of peace talks but nothing has come out of it. America and European Union have imposed sanctions against Russia but that has failed to make much impact on the ground and Russia has continued its onslaught against Ukraine. Meanwhile Ukraine under the strong leadership of President Volodymyr Zelensky has maintained a strong resistance backed by western powers.
This upcoming conversation between Trump and Putin holds considerable importance, given Trump’s self proclaimed prowess of being the greatest deal maker. Trump is also known to share a good rapport with Putin and there is a mutual admiration between both the Presidents.
Earlier in February Trump had an on camera meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky which did not go as per plan and there was heated exchange of words between Zelensky and US President. Later realising the consequence of the failed talk Zelensky agreed to the ceasefire proposal of the US President.
The ceasefire proposal that Trump and Putin are likely to discuss has the following important points.
1: Ceasefire Agreement : To establish a 30 day unconditional ceasefire to create foundation for final end to the war. This is the tricky part as Kremlin believe that they are at an advantageous position in the war and the ceasefire would only help the Ukrainian army to rearm and regroup themselves.
2: Territorial Issues : Addressing Russia’s claims over Crimea and the occupied regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, along with Ukraine’s insistence on reclaiming lost territory.
3: Security Assurances: Discussing Russia’s demand for NATO to halt its eastward expansion and Ukraine’s potential membership in the alliance. The anticipated induction of Ukraine into NATO has been one of the major reasons cited by Russia to initiate the war against Ukraine. Much to Russia’s disliking Sweden and Finland which were not members of NATO joined it after Russia attacked Ukraine.
When asked about the proposed talk Trump said ” We’ll be talking about land. We’ll be talking about power plants and we are already already talking about that, dividing up certain assets.” Trump did not provide any detail but he was most likely referring to Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia facility in Ukraine which is the largest nuclear plant in Europe.
Kremlin confirms talks : Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has confirmed that Putin would speak with Trump but did not comment on Trump’s remarks about land and power plants.
Ukraine’s Position: Though Ukraine has agreed to 30 days ceasefire Zelensky has consistently said that the sovereignty of his country is non negotiable and Russia must surrender the territory it has seized.
