Many Complications in Ukraine Peace Process

Ignoring Europe and Ukraine, President Trump spoke to President Putin to determine a way forward for ending the three-year-old conflict.

- HARSHA KAKAR

The US handout read "the leaders agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire." Talks on a "maritime ceasefire, full ceasefire and permanent peace" will soon commence. There was also discussion on normalization of US-Russia ties including cooperation in the Middle East, where Russia backs Iran. The 30-day ceasefire as desired by Trump never happened.

The Kremlin in its readout mentioned that Putin declared his readiness towards ending the conflict. It added that Putin "outlined a number of significant points regarding ensuring effective control over a possible ceasefire along the entire line of contact." A major condition placed by Putin was "cessation of foreign military aid and provision of intelligence information to Kiev." It was reported that Putin delayed commencement of talks by an hour, displaying he holds the key.

The two nations are submitting a list of energy infrastructure which would not be attacked. The partial ceasefire will be effective once lists are accepted. Many European nations believe that Putin has no intent on peace, unless it is on Russian terms. On the contrary, Russian diplomats mention that Moscow desires lasting peace with a permanent solution, not short-term measures.

Trump also had a 'fantastic' conversation with Ukrainian President Zelenskky. This was their first conversation after the debacle in the White House in end February. Trump agreed to help Ukraine source additional Patriot air defence systems as also provide intelligence, contrary to Putin's demand. Zelenskky thanked Trump for his support, accepted the partial ceasefire, and later tweeted, "lasting peace can be achieved this year."