Paul Waldie, Europe correspondent for The Globe and Mail, brings insightful coverage from the heart of Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. He discusses the recent limited ceasefire brokered between Presidents Trump and Putin, emphasizing its implications for future negotiations. Waldie highlights the evolving sentiments in Ukraine, from initial enthusiasm to a growing yearning for peace. He also sheds light on Kyiv's revitalized spirit despite the war, with a renewed sense of normalcy and infrastructure improvements stirring hope among its residents.
The limited ceasefire agreement emphasizes a temporary halt in targeting energy and infrastructure, reflecting a compromise rather than a complete resolution.
Public sentiment in Ukraine is shifting towards acceptance of occupied territories while prioritizing the immediate goal of ending the fighting.
Deep dives
Ceasefire Developments
A limited ceasefire agreement has been accepted by both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, intending to halt attacks on energy and infrastructure for 30 days. This tentative plan represents a compromise, as the previous negotiations aimed for a complete cessation of all military activities for the same duration. While Trump's involvement in brokering the ceasefire suggests a step toward peace, it still falls short of an all-encompassing agreement, leaving significant contentious issues unresolved. Future discussions will focus on the logistics and potential extensions of this ceasefire, particularly regarding maritime operations in the Black Sea.
Complex Relations and Negotiations
Trump's relationship with Putin influences the negotiation climate, raising concerns over the possibility of the U.S. conceding military aid and intelligence sharing to Russia. During the call, Putin expressed a desire for such concessions, but the U.S. side did not agree, indicating a complicated dynamic in the discussions. Additionally, a proposal for an NHL exhibition match between U.S. and Russian players was mentioned, highlighting attempts at easing tensions in an unconventional manner. The challenge remains in finding common ground for effective negotiations, as both national interests are significantly misaligned.
Shifting Perspectives in Ukraine
As the war continues, public sentiment in Ukraine has evolved, with citizens growing fatigued by ongoing conflict and more accepting of the territory currently occupied by Russia. Many recognize that the immediate goal should be ending the fighting and seeking a diplomatic resolution, rather than unrealistic expectations of reclaiming every inch of territory. The hardships experienced during winter and the ongoing military struggle have led to a noticeable shift in attitudes, as Ukrainians now grapple with accepting the status quo as occupied while working toward future recovery. This pragmatic viewpoint reflects the long-term challenges facing Ukraine as it strives for stability and peace amidst an unstable environment.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has agreed to a limited ceasefire with Ukraine after a discussion with U.S. President Donald Trump. The deal, also supported by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, would mean Russian and Ukrainian troops will stop targeting energy and infrastructure for 30 days.
This ceasefire plan falls short of the original proposal, which would’ve seen an immediate 30-day halt to all fighting. Further talks are planned, but at this point, there are still a number of contentious issues – including security guarantees – to be negotiated.
The Globe’s Europe correspondent, Paul Waldie, reported from Ukraine. He’ll talk about the call between Trump and Putin, the perspective from Kyiv right now, and where the peace talks are headed from here.