Trump's week in review: Challenging universal injunctions, arresting pro-Hamas protesters
4. Trump touts ‘good and productive discussions’ with Putin; Russia open to cease-fire deal
In a statement posted to Truth Social on Friday, Trump said members of his administration “had very good and productive discussions with President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday.” He expressed optimism that “there is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can come to an end,” referring to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine that has engulfed Eastern Europe over the past three years.
Trump noted how “AT THIS VERY MOMENT, THOUSANDS OF UKRAINIAN TROOPS ARE COMPLETELY SURROUNDED BY THE RUSSIAN MILITARY, AND IN A VERY BAD AND VULNERABLE POSITION.”
He added that he had “strongly requested to President Putin that their lives be spared,” suggesting the possibility of the current showdown leading to “a horrible massacre, one not seen since World War II.” He concluded his message by saying, “God bless them all!”
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During a press conference on Thursday, Putin expressed tepid support for a cease-fire agreement between Russia and Ukraine brokered by the U.S. “We agree with the proposals to cease hostilities,” he said. “We proceed from the fact that this cessation should be such that it would lead to long-term peace and would eliminate the original causes of this crisis.”
“Who will give orders to cease hostilities?” Putin asked. “What will be the price of such orders?”
During a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Thursday, Trump asserted that Putin “put out a very promising statement,” but stressed that it “wasn’t complete.”
Trump further stressed his hope that “they’ll do the right thing” and accept the cease-fire.
Ryan Foley is a reporter for The Christian Post. He can be reached at: ryan.foley@christianpost.com
