Russia and Ukraine edge closer to peace talks: Trump leads charge

During an address to the joint chambers of Congress, U.S. President Donald Trump informed them of receiving a strong signal from Russia, indicating its willingness to make peace. Trump also highlighted the positive attitude of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky towards initiating talks aimed at ending the conflict.

The U.S. President noted that serious discussions were simultaneously underway with Russia, which resulted in strong signals of its readiness for peace. "Wouldn't that be beautiful?" Trump asked rhetorically, expressing hope for an end to the conflict.

It's time to stop this madness, he added, underlining the need to conclude the war that has been ongoing for three years.

Donald Trump quoted a passage from a letter from the President of Ukraine, in which Zelensky expressed readiness to start negotiations as soon as possible. The aim of these talks would be to achieve lasting peace and to sign a minerals agreement.

I appreciate that he sent this letter, said Trump, quoted by the BBC.

The President of Ukraine expressed his willingness "to sit at the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring about lasting peace." Zelensky emphasised that his country is ready to act "under President Trump's strong leadership to achieve lasting peace."

Zelensky went a step further, indicating initial steps allowing for a truce. He proposed an exchange of prisoners and a cessation of hostilities in the air and at sea. He added that Ukraine is ready for this, provided that "Russia does the same." According to the Ukrainian president, only then can we talk about a real start to the peace process.