Trump Urges Direct Peace Talks with Russia, Shifts Away from Ceasefire

In a significant diplomatic shift, U.S. President Donald Trump urged Ukraine to negotiate a direct peace agreement with Russia, bypassing ceasefire talks. This statement followed his summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which failed to produce any immediate cessation of hostilities.

Trump and Putin met in Alaska to discuss a resolution to the ongoing conflict, with Trump later stating that the best path forward is a formal peace settlement. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, set to visit the White House, has requested security assurances to prevent future invasions.

The reaction from Europe has been mixed, with leaders backing Ukraine's position and stressing continued pressure on Russia through sanctions. Despite reservations, Trump expressed optimism about a potential deal, signaling a potential new phase in diplomatic efforts to end the war.

(With inputs from agencies.)