Trump Hopes for Ceasefire by Easter, April 20th
U.S.-Russia High-Level Talks in Saudi Arabia on the 18th
Donald Trump, the U.S. President, expressed hope for a ceasefire in the Ukraine war by Easter, according to Bloomberg on the 16th. Although the previous promise of ending the war in “24 hours” has become unrealistic, Trump wishes for a ceasefire to be achieved at least by Easter.
A source familiar with the matter revealed that the Trump administration communicated to European officials their intention to secure a Ukraine ceasefire by April 20th, Easter.
However, because the high-level talks between the U.S. and Russia are set to begin on the 18th in Saudi Arabia, some consider an “Easter ceasefire” to be unrealistic. Another source indicated that it is more likely that a resolution will be reached by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, Trump mentioned to reporters that a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin could happen soon. European concerns have emerged that Ukraine, led by President Volodymyr Zelensky, might be sidelined, raising fears of unilateral concessions.
Nevertheless, Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, emphasized that genuine peace negotiations would involve Ukraine and European participation.
Zelensky Heads to Saudi for U.S.-Russia Talks…“Discussing Bilateral Economic Cooperation Only”
As the U.S.-Russia talks excluding Ukraine are imminent, a Ukrainian delegation is preparing for President Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia. Ukrainian First Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Yuliya Svyrydenko stated that the Ukrainian delegation met with local Saudi officials to discuss broadening investment and cooperation, highlighting interests in fields like social infrastructure, energy projects, and fertilizer production.
Previously, President Zelensky mentioned during the Munich Security Conference in Germany that he plans to officially visit Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Turkey, but no meetings with Russian or U.S. representatives are planned.
However, as the schedules of the U.S., Russian representatives, and President Zelensky in Saudi Arabia might overlap, there is interest in whether there will be undisclosed behind-the-scenes meetings among the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine.