Trump Hopes for Russian Ceasefire as Putin Signals 'Not Yet'

President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Thursday that Russia might agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine, marking the potential first step toward ending the brutal three-year war. Speaking from the Oval Office alongside NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump stated, "We know where we are with Ukraine. Hopefully, they’ll do the right thing."

Trump’s comments came shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered an address in Moscow, where he acknowledged Trump's ceasefire push. Putin praised the effort "in principle" but signaled that he was not ready to commit to the proposed 30-day ceasefire just yet.

During the Oval Office press conference, Trump described Putin's remarks as "promising" but admitted they fell short of what was needed. "He put out a very promising statement, but it wasn't complete," Trump said. "I'd love to meet with him or talk to him, but we have to get it over with fast."

Trump also noted that ongoing disputes related to critical issues, such as the Zaporizhzhia power plant and Ukraine's potential NATO membership, remain sticking points in reaching an agreement. Putin had touched upon these grievances in his Moscow address, underscoring the difficulties in hammering out a final deal.

According to Trump, much of the groundwork for a potential agreement has already been laid. "A lot of the details of a final agreement have actually been discussed," he said. "Now we're going to see whether or not Russia is there. If they're not, it'll be a very disappointing moment for the world."

While the ceasefire talks have yet to yield concrete results, observers are hoping that this diplomatic dance leads to meaningful progress. The world is watching closely, and patience is running thin.