‘Ceasefire upto Putin…’: Trump eyes direct deal with Russia; Ukraine wants seat at peace table
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said Russia alone must start peace, as it began the war. He stressed Europe’s role in talks and Trump’s openness, but demanded Ukraine's inclusion. Trump responded, saying the ceasefire timeline is now ‘up to Putin,’ warning 20,000 die monthly, mostly young troops. He urged fast action, rejecting delay or pre-talks with Putin, and hinted at US pressure to end the war.