In a significant development, Vladimir Putin has agreed to a 30-day halt on targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure following a 90-minute phone call with former US President Donald Trump. According to the Kremlin, the discussion involved a “detailed and frank exchange of views,” with both leaders focusing on finding a long-term solution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Putin stressed that any resolution must be “comprehensive, sustainable, and long-term.”
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The conversation was hailed as “historic” by Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s envoy for international cooperation, who posted on X that “the world has become a much safer place today” under the leadership of Putin and Trump. The White House confirmed the ceasefire as the first step towards a lasting peace, with talks set to begin immediately to address the broader conflict. The ceasefire will focus on halting strikes on energy and infrastructure, alongside discussions on implementing a maritime truce in the Black Sea.
Ahead of the call, Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke to Trump, emphasising the need for Ukraine to be in the “strongest possible position” to secure a “just and lasting peace.” Downing Street also highlighted progress on Starmer’s “coalition of the willing,” which is set to support Ukraine once peace is achieved.
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Putin’s agreement to the ceasefire comes as a significant move in the long-running war, which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. While Putin had previously indicated his forces would continue to fight until certain conditions were met, this ceasefire marks a potential turning point towards a permanent resolution.
