Zelenskyy demands tougher sanctions on Russia, says Putin is trying to prolong war

As tensions rise between Russia, the United States, and Ukraine, the prospect of a 30-day ceasefire hangs in the balance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking to prolong the conflict, claiming that Putin is hesitant to directly inform President Trump of his desire to continue the war.

Zelenskyy took to X to voice his concerns, stating, “Putin is afraid to tell President Trump directly that he wants to continue this war and keep killing Ukrainians. That’s why, in Moscow, they are surrounding the ceasefire idea with such preconditions that it either fails or gets dragged out for as long as possible.”

After Ukraine agreed to the U.S. ceasefire proposal earlier in the week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio pointed the finger at Russia, emphasizing that the “ball is now in [Russia’s] court.” Zelenskyy echoed this sentiment, asserting that Russia is the one stalling and being unconstructive, emphasizing that Putin is the driving force behind the prolonged conflict.

In response to Zelenskyy’s claims, President Trump expressed his desire for peace but acknowledged the potential for imposing tougher sanctions on Russia. While Trump stated that he did not want to resort to sanctions, he emphasized that the U.S. could take financial actions that would be “devastating for Russia.”

Putin, on the other hand, indicated that he agreed with the U.S. plan for a 30-day ceasefire in principle but hinted that Russia would not sign onto the agreement as it currently stands. Ukraine has signaled its willingness to commit to the plan following discussions with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia, contingent upon Russia’s agreement.

As the diplomatic dance continues, Trump emphasized the importance of Russia coming to the table and agreeing to the ceasefire. He warned that failure to do so would be a “very disappointing moment for the world.” Throughout his campaign, Trump vowed to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, asserting that under his leadership in 2020, the war, which commenced with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2021, would not have transpired.

In a complex geopolitical landscape fraught with tension and uncertainty, the path to peace remains elusive. As world leaders navigate the delicate balance of power and diplomacy, the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance. Only time will tell if a ceasefire agreement can be reached, bringing an end to the bloodshed and suffering that has plagued the region for far too long.