Trump is ‘pressuring President Putin and the Russians,’ Leavitt tells reporters

The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, addressed reporters on Friday, expressing optimism about the potential for peace as the U.S. awaits Russia’s response to a proposed 30-day ceasefire agreement. Ukraine had agreed to the deal earlier in the week after discussions with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia, with the condition that Moscow commits to the plan.

Leavitt highlighted President Donald Trump’s recent social media post urging the Russians to accept the ceasefire proposal. She emphasized that the President is exerting pressure on President Putin and the Russian government to make the right decision. Leavitt stated, “Yesterday was a productive day for the United States of America and for the world. In terms of peace, we have never been this close to peace.”

The administration’s efforts were praised by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who commended Trump for breaking the deadlock in the Russia-Ukraine conflict through recent peace talks in Saudi Arabia. Rutte acknowledged the President’s role in initiating a dialogue with the Russians and Ukrainians, leading to successful negotiations.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for tougher sanctions on Russia and accused President Putin of attempting to prolong the war by stalling ceasefire talks. Trump, during a joint press conference with Rutte, expressed a preference for peace over sanctions but hinted at potential financial measures that could have severe consequences for Russia.

As the situation continues to evolve, the focus remains on diplomatic efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire and bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine. The international community, led by the United States, is working towards a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Rachel Wolf, a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and FOX Business, contributed to this article.