Peace Talks Pivot: Trump's Surprising Shift on Ukraine Ceasefire

In a dramatic policy reversal, former U.S. President Donald Trump has shifted his stance from championing a ceasefire to advocating for an outright peace agreement to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This announcement followed his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, held in the backdrop of a recent summit in Alaska.

Discussions with European allies after the summit revealed Putin's desire to retain control over key regions in the contested Donbas area, yet he reportedly expressed openness to a temporary stalemate in other regions. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remains staunchly opposed to ceding control over these territories.

The summit's aftermath has left the international community in a state of uncertainty, with Trump planning further meetings. Meanwhile, European allies urge for strong security guarantees for Ukraine, wary of Russia's intentions as negotiations continue to unfold.

(With inputs from agencies.)