Controversial phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin has sent shockwaves through Ukraine, leaving Kyiv cornered and unable to agree to a so-called peace plan that appears to favor the Kremlin. After hours of discussion, the two leaders reportedly devised a ceasefire strategy that Ukraine simply cannot accept—one that benefits Russia while undermining Western support.
“The leaders agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, full ceasefire, and permanent peace,” the White House revealed in an official statement.
But a closer look at the Kremlin’s demands reveals a grim reality: Russia has not actually agreed to a ceasefire at all. Instead, Moscow insists that all foreign military and intelligence aid to Ukraine must be cut off before any substantial negotiations begin. That means the US and NATO must halt intelligence sharing and arms shipments—effectively leaving Ukraine defenseless.
This ultimatum could shatter Anglo-French attempts to build a ‘coalition of the willing’ to back Ukraine with long-term military support. It also deepens the divide between Europe and the US, as allies grow increasingly wary of Trump’s unpredictable stance on global security.
Meanwhile, Putin has cleverly framed the agreement as an olive branch, even reportedly ordering his forces to halt attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. But this move serves a tactical purpose: Ukraine has been highly effective in striking Russia’s energy assets, disrupting gas lines and refineries. A pause in these attacks gives Moscow a crucial window to reinforce its war machine without interference.
Perhaps most troubling is the discussion surrounding a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea. Ukraine has already dominated this front, sinking Russia’s prized battleship, the Moskva, and forcing the Russian fleet into retreat. A ceasefire now would provide Russia with the breathing room it desperately needs to reposition its forces for a fresh assault.
For Kyiv and its European allies, these so-called peace talks are nothing more than a stalling tactic designed to weaken Ukraine’s resistance. While the US and Russia continue their negotiations, Ukraine is left to fight for its survival—without the full backing of its once-loyal Western allies.
