A day after speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky engaged in a call with US President Donald Trump, where he confirmed his willingness to accept a partial ceasefire with Russia.
Zelensky stated that the ceasefire agreement, backed by Washington, would halt attacks on power plants, ports, and railway infrastructure, providing immediate relief to Ukraine’s critical services, reports BBC.
However, he clarified that until a formal agreement is signed, drone and missile strikes would persist.
Detailing his conversation with Trump, Zelensky described it as “very positive, candid, and meaningful.” He expressed optimism that with US leadership, a long-term peace settlement could be achieved within the year.
“We believe that under the leadership of the United States and President Trump, a lasting peace is within reach,” Zelensky stated.
He also revealed discussions on placing the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant under US supervision, given its strategic importance and current occupation by Russian forces. Trump reportedly advised Ukraine to transfer ownership of all its power plants to the United States for security reasons, a proposal that remains under review.
The Ukrainian president emphasised that restarting operations at Zaporizhzhia, Europe’s largest nuclear plant, could take up to two years but is critical for both Ukraine and Europe’s energy security.
Despite the ceasefire progress, Zelensky acknowledged that full de-escalation remains uncertain as long as Ukrainian forces maintain their presence in Russia’s Kursk region.
When asked whether Trump had pressured him to accept Moscow’s demands, Zelensky firmly denied any coercion. “Nothing of the sort happened. You all know I speak candidly—if it had, I would have told you,” he asserted.
Following his discussion with Trump, Zelensky announced plans to brief European leaders on the ceasefire talks, underlining the need for continued Western engagement.
Trump confirmed his hour-long call with Zelensky, stating that the conversation built upon his earlier discussion with Putin.
“Ukraine outlined its requests and requirements,” Trump said, adding that the talks were “constructive” and that progress was being made.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz have been tasked with providing further details on the negotiations.
While diplomatic efforts continue, Ukraine’s military capabilities have been bolstered with additional F-16 fighter jets. Though Zelensky did not disclose the exact number, he confirmed that deliveries had taken place.
Ukraine first received US-made F-16s in August 2024, supplied by Denmark and the Netherlands. In 2025, the Netherlands delivered additional jets, fulfilling part of a pledge to provide 24 aircraft along with spare parts and missiles.
In total, European allies—including Denmark, Belgium, and Norway—have committed over 60 F-16s to Ukraine. Meanwhile, the UK and Romania have taken charge of pilot training for these advanced fighter jets.
Amid these developments, top military officials from 20 European countries convened in London to discuss a proposed peacekeeping framework for Ukraine.
The closed-door meeting was led by the newly formed “Coalition of the Willing,” spearheaded by the UK and France. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer made a brief appearance towards the meeting’s conclusion, underscoring Britain’s commitment to Ukraine’s security.
As diplomatic negotiations continue and military reinforcements arrive, Ukraine stands at a crucial crossroads—balancing its battlefield resilience with the possibility of a negotiated peace.
