US President Donald Trump will speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday, following talks in Turkey. The two sides agreed on a prisoner exchange, but negotiations on a ceasefire have stalled.
Russia has presented new demands for the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from certain regions before agreeing to a ceasefire. Trump said his goal is to stop the “bloodbath” that has killed over 5,000 soldiers per week. He will discuss this and trade with Putin first, followed by talks with Zelenskiy.
The Kremlin declined to comment on Russia’s terms, saying negotiations should be kept private. Ukrainian officials have called for stronger sanctions against Moscow, following a drone attack that killed nine civilians in Ukraine.
The EU is working on new sanctions against Russia, aiming to “suffocate” the Russian economy. However, after three years of intensified sanctions, it’s unclear how much more they can achieve.
Trump’s involvement has thrown Ukraine and its European leaders off balance, with some questioning his credibility. Despite this, Trump remains committed to stopping the conflict, and a productive meeting could bring an end to the war.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-demanded-kyiv-pull-back-troops-before-ceasefire-ukrainian-source-says-2025-05-17