Putin Proposes Ukraine Ceasefire to Trump for May 9

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine during a phone call with United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday, while also addressing tensions over Iran's nuclear program and condemning a recent attempt on Trump's life.

The 90-minute conversation, initiated by Moscow and described by Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov as frank and businesslike, covered the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the situation in the Middle East. Putin suggested halting hostilities to coincide with Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9, marking the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Trump welcomed the idea, according to Ushakov, noting that the holiday represents a shared victory.

On Ukraine, Putin outlined the current military situation, stating that Russian forces hold the strategic initiative and are advancing positions. Both leaders expressed similar views on the Kyiv government's policies, which Putin described as prolonging the conflict with European support. The war, now in its fifth year since Russia's 2022 incursion, has caused widespread devastation, thousands of civilian deaths and millions displaced. Putin has previously offered limited truces,...