Ceasefire Agreement Reached on Energy Infrastructure Attacks
In a significant diplomatic development, former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a one-hour phone conversation on Wednesday, following Trump’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The White House confirmed that the leaders agreed on a partial ceasefire, specifically halting attacks on energy infrastructure—a key step toward potential peace talks.
Trump described the exchange as a “very good telephone call”, indicating progress in aligning both Ukraine and Russia on their “requests and needs.”
White House: ‘We’ve Never Been Closer to Peace’
During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt framed the development as a breakthrough, stating:
“We have moved beyond just the economic minerals deal framework and are now looking at a lasting ceasefire. Right now, we’re at a partial ceasefire, but we have never been closer to peace than we are today.”
Leavitt also announced that Trump’s diplomatic team would travel to Saudi Arabia later this week to advance ceasefire negotiations, with discussions focusing on expanding the agreement to the Black Sea as a step toward full de-escalation.
Zelenskyy Welcomes Truce But Calls for Monitoring
Speaking at a press conference in Helsinki, where he met Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Zelenskyy cautiously welcomed the ceasefire agreement but emphasized the need for international monitoring and guarantees.
“Just the assertion and the word of Putin that he will not strike energy sites is too little. War has made us practical people. We need monitoring, we need guarantees, and we need actions—not just promises.”
Zelenskyy also stated that Ukraine would provide a list of critical infrastructure sites requiring protection and insisted that U.S. and European oversight would be necessary for enforcement.
“If Russia doesn’t strike our infrastructure, we will not strike theirs. But we will not rely solely on their assurances—we need independent verification.”
Trump and Zelenskyy Discuss Ukraine’s Security Needs
During the call, Zelenskyy also requested additional air defense systems, specifically Patriot missile batteries, to defend Ukrainian cities from potential Russian strikes.
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump assured Zelenskyy the U.S. would work with European partners to explore available options:
“President Trump assured President Zelenskyy that he would coordinate with European partners to identify available defense systems. The focus remains on protecting civilians and ensuring Ukraine’s security while advancing toward a broader peace deal.”
Trump also proposed American assistance in securing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, suggesting that U.S. utility companies could help strengthen the country’s power grid and nuclear facilities against future threats.
“The United States could play a vital role in ensuring Ukraine’s electrical supply and nuclear power plants are protected. American involvement would be the best safeguard against future threats,” Trump reportedly told Zelenskyy.
Next Steps: Saudi Arabia Peace Talks
The next phase of negotiations will take place in Saudi Arabia, where technical teams will discuss ways to expand the ceasefire and further peace efforts. With Trump actively involved, the talks could mark a turning point in efforts to de-escalate the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
