US awaits Putin ceasefire proposal for Russia-Ukraine conflict after Trump call

The United States is currently awaiting a proposal from Russian President Vladimir Putin that could potentially lead to a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, according to Secretary Marco Rubio. During a Senate appropriations subcommittee hearing on Tuesday, Rubio revealed that Putin has indicated his intention to submit a proposal that would pave the way for a ceasefire and subsequent negotiations.

Rubio expressed cautious optimism about the potential for a deal, stating that he believes Putin will always make a deal that he deems to be in Russia’s best interests. Following a two-hour phone call between President Donald Trump and Putin on Monday, Trump expressed confidence in Putin’s desire for peace, stating that he believes the Russian leader has “had enough” of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Despite the lack of an immediate breakthrough during the phone call, Trump emphasized his belief that Putin wants to bring an end to the conflict, which has been ongoing for more than three years. The President also hinted at the possibility of new sanctions against Russia, though he indicated that he was not yet ready to impose them.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been actively engaging in peace negotiations and recently met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. Trump praised Zelenskyy as a strong leader and noted that he believes the Ukrainian President is committed to finding a resolution to the conflict.

In response to the ongoing negotiations, the European Union has implemented new sanctions against Russia, and there are discussions on Capitol Hill about the possibility of passing additional sanctions. Trump has hinted at the potential for further sanctions in the future but indicated that there is also a chance for progress in the peace talks.

As the situation continues to evolve, Trump mentioned the possibility of direct peace negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv, with the Vatican potentially serving as a host for peace talks. The international community remains cautiously optimistic about the prospects for a ceasefire and eventual resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.