Washington DC [US]: US President Donald Trump confirmed ongoing peace negotiations with Russia and expressed a strong desire to see an end to the war in Ukraine, citing the devastating human toll.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump told reporters,
“We are talking to Russia. We would like them to stop. I don’t like them bombing on and on, and every week thousands of young people being killed.”
The remarks highlight a potential shift in diplomatic engagement as pressure mounts on Russia following renewed missile strikes from the Black Sea, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said targeted civilian areas.
Zelenskyy: Ukraine Agrees to US Proposal for Ceasefire, Awaits Global Action
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Zelenskyy said:
“A ceasefire at sea is not just about free navigation and the export of food products — it is, above all, about overall security and bringing peace closer.”
He emphasized that Ukraine had agreed to a US proposal for a full, unconditional ceasefire, but claimed President Vladimir Putin has refused to comply.
“We are awaiting a response from the United States — none has come so far — and we also expect a response from all in Europe and around the world who truly want peace,” Zelenskyy added.
Macron, Rubio Echo Urgent Need for Ceasefire
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed the Ukrainian President’s concerns, calling for immediate international action:
“Russia continues the war with renewed intensity, showing no regard for civilians… These Russian strikes must end. There must be a ceasefire as soon as possible. And strong actions if Russia continues to seek to buy time and refuse peace.”
Meanwhile, CNN reported that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with a Russian envoy on April 4 and delivered a blunt message:
“The clock is ticking on when there needs to be a breakthrough in the peace talks to end the Ukraine war.”
What’s Next?
With Ukraine, France, and the US signaling urgency, all eyes are now on Moscow and whether Putin will respond to the ceasefire overtures. Analysts say the coming weeks may determine the future trajectory of the conflict—either toward de-escalation or deeper entrenchment.