A Fragile Ceasefire and a Workable Peace?

It appears that Russia and Ukraine are stumbling into the ceasefire which the Trump Administration has assisted both countries to achieve. While there was an outbreak of gunfire last night, both countries agreed to not destroy power plants, oil refineries and other infrastructure unnecessarily.

 

In addition, as reported by USA Today, a planned prisoner swap between the nations went ahead, with Russia and Ukraine releasing 175 prisoners each. Russia also released 22 wounded Ukrainian soldiers.

Moscow said the United Arab Emirates helped facilitate the prisoner exchange. Trump also met with the UAE's national security adviser at the White House hours after his call with Putin.

On Wednesday, Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy spoke for at least an hour. Afterwards, Trump spoke with the media in general to bring all present up to date.

As part of that conversation, it was revealed that an offer was made for the US to assume operations of Ukraine's nuclear power plants, as well as, the previously discussed mineral deal.

"We are very much on track, and I will ask Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, to give an accurate description of the points discussed," he said, promising more information soon.

Zelenskyy said at a press conference that a verbal commitment from Russia to abide by a ceasefire would not be enough.

He also said he would not accept a peace deal that requires Ukraine to recognize occupied territories as Russian, describing it as a red line in negotiations.

It is sputtering to a start, but all sides appear to be hopeful that the fighting may soon come to an end.

And at least, finally, the leaders are talking, even if through intermediaries.