US President Donald Trump said Russia agreed to halt strikes on Kyiv and other cities. He said Vladimir Putin accepted his personal request during extreme cold. The move aims to ease Ukraine’s humanitarian crisis amid freezing temperatures.
Trump said Russian attacks had cut heating and power to millions. He described the cold as unprecedented for the region. He told a White House meeting that Putin agreed to pause attacks for a week. However, the Kremlin has not confirmed the claim.
Read more: Trump claims Zelenskiy, not Putin, blocks Ukraine accord
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed Trump’s statement. He said Kyiv was counting on Washington to ensure the pause. Zelensky added that the idea was discussed during talks in Abu Dhabi. Ukraine also faces temperatures dropping to minus 30 degrees Celsius.
Similarly, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz supported efforts toward a truce. He stressed that Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure continue. He strongly condemned ongoing strikes despite diplomatic moves. European leaders urged urgent relief for affected civilians.
Read more: Trump hails ‘very productive’ call with Putin ahead of Zelensky meeting
Looking ahead, fresh talks are planned in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Trump said progress toward a ceasefire was being made. His envoy also expressed confidence due to Trump’s ties with Putin. The war, however, continues as Ukraine faces intense fighting and bitter cold.