US President Donald Trump once again slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying that he is playing with fire as the war between Russia-Ukraine continues for more than three years now.Trump on Tuesday took to Truth Social, and stressed that Putin doesn't realised that if it weren't for him, "lots of bad things would have happened to Russia.""What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD. He’s playing with fire!," Trump said in his post.post

Earlier on Monday, Trump called Putin “absolutely CRAZY” for “needlessly killing a lot of people”.“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people, and I’m not just talking about soldiers.”However, Kremlin spokesperson react to Trump's remarks, saying that it may be due to “emotional overload” at this “very important moment.”“We are really grateful to the Americans and to President Trump personally for their assistance in organising and launching this negotiation process,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov added when asked about Trump’s remarks, reported Reuters.Trump’s comments come following a Russian strike in 30 Ukrainian cities and villages over the weekend that killed at least 12 people, including three children.Notably, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had earlier said that Washington’s “silence” over recent Russian attacks was encouraging Putin. He also urged “strong pressure” on Moscow with tougher sanctions.Weeks ago, Trump also insisted that there would be no peace between Russia and Ukraine "until (Vladimir) Putin and I get together". Following news of the Russian President Putin skipping the vital talks, US President Trump said that it was "obvious" Putin was going to snub the Istanbul peace talks.&nbsp;

Trump on Tuesday took to Truth Social, and stressed that Putin doesn't realised that if it weren't for him, "lots of bad things would have happened to Russia."

US President Donald Trump once again slammed Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying that he is playing with fire as the war between Russia-Ukraine continues for more than three years now. Trump on Tuesday took to Truth Social, and stressed that Putin doesn't realised that if it weren't for him, "lots of bad things would have happened to Russia." "What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD. He’s playing with fire!," Trump said in his post. post

Trump on Tuesday took to Truth Social, and stressed that Putin doesn't realised that if it weren't for him, "lots of bad things would have happened to Russia."

'Putin playing with fire': Trump slams Russian president, says REALLY BAD things would have happened if weren't for him

President Donald Trump on Monday called a reporter fake news when he asked him what he was going to do about the increased incursion and aerial assault from Russia. He replied, “We will see what we can do about it.” He then responded agitatedly, “I’m going to tell you? You're the fake news, aren't you?”Trump has been involved in ceasefire negotiations, yet Putin's actions, such as the large-scale drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, complicate these efforts.During his Presidential campaign, Trump repeatedly said he would end the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours. During his presidential debate, Trump said twice that it was in the best interest of the US to end the war when asked if he wanted Ukraine to win the war. He then blamed Biden for starting the war. &nbsp;Earlier in March, he suspended all military aid to Ukraine. Then, in May, he said that nothing would happen until Putin and he get together and talk.&nbsp;But now it seems like a daunting task. So his frustration is palpable. Even after a two-hour-long phone call with Putin, he does not seem to conjure up a concrete plan of action to restrict hostilities from both sides.In a truth social post, Trump said, “He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people, and I’m not just talking about soldiers. Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!”&nbsp;Kremlin replied to Trump's remark by saying he is suffering from “emotional overload” and claimed Russia is still committed to peace. Amidst this, Russia continues its aerial onslaught on Ukraine. However, Russia's response shows they don't want to antagonise the US president.On May 25, a Russian news agency claimed that there was an attempt to shoot down Putin's helicopter, which has complicated the situation even more and led to a serious escalation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump is visibly frustrated at his inability to stop the hostility between Russia and Ukraine and lashes out at a reporter when asked about Washington's plan of action.

President Donald Trump on Monday called a reporter fake news when he asked him what he was going to do about the increased incursion and aerial assault from Russia. He replied, “We will see what we can do about it.” He then responded agitatedly, “I’m going to tell you? You're the fake news, aren't you?” Trump has been involved in ceasefire negotiations, yet Putin's actions, such as the large-scale drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, complicate these efforts. During his Presidential campaign, Trump repeatedly said he would end the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours. During his presidential debate, Trump said twice that it was in the best interest of the US to end the war when asked if he wanted Ukraine to win the war. He then blamed Biden for starting the war. Earlier in March, he suspended all military aid to Ukraine. Then, in May, he said that nothing would happen until Putin and he get together and talk. But now it seems like a daunting task. So his frustration is palpable. Even after a two-hour-long phone call with Putin, he does not seem to conjure up a concrete plan of action to restrict hostilities from both sides. In a truth social post, Trump said, “He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people, and I’m not just talking about soldiers. Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!” Kremlin replied to Trump's remark by saying he is suffering from “emotional overload” and claimed Russia is still committed to peace. Amidst this, Russia continues its aerial onslaught on Ukraine. However, Russia's response shows they don't want to antagonise the US president. On May 25, a Russian news agency claimed that there was an attempt to shoot down Putin's helicopter, which has complicated the situation even more and led to a serious escalation.

Trump is visibly frustrated at his inability to stop the hostility between Russia and Ukraine and lashes out at a reporter when asked about Washington's plan of action.

Frustrated Trump calls a reporter "you're fake news" when asked what he was going to do about Vladimir Putin

The Kremlin on Monday (May 26) said that US President Donald Trump’s remarks on Russian President Vladimir Putin may be due to “emotional overload” at this “very important moment.” It also thanked the US president for his assistance in the Ukraine peace talks.&nbsp;This comes after Trump took to his Truth Social to call his Russian counterpart “absolutely CRAZY” for “needlessly killing a lot of people”.&nbsp;“We are really grateful to the Americans and to President Trump personally for their assistance in organising and launching this negotiation process,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said when asked about Trump’s remarks, reported Reuters.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-trump-s-war-us-president-calls-putin-crazy-blames-zelensky-for-causing-problems-1748238456076">‘Not Trump’s war’: US President calls Putin ‘CRAZY’, blames Zelensky for ‘causing problems’</a>&nbsp;“Of course, at the same time, this is a very crucial moment, which is associated, of course, with the emotional overload of everyone absolutely and with emotional reactions.”&nbsp;<h2>Trump calls Putin ‘crazy’</h2>&nbsp;Slamming Putin, Trump wrote, “I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people, and I’m not just talking about soldiers.”&nbsp;He further added, “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-won-t-stop-uranium-enrichment-amid-nuclear-talks-with-us-dismisses-trump-s-sancyion-threat-not-like-we-ll-die-of-hunger-1748255863387">Iran won't stop uranium enrichment, dismisses Trump's sanction threat 'not like we'll die of hunger'</a>&nbsp;Trump’s comments come following a Russian strike in 30 Ukrainian cities and villages over the weekend that killed at least 12 people, including three children.&nbsp;Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had said that Washington’s “silence” over recent Russian attacks was encouraging Putin. He also urged “strong pressure” on Moscow with tougher sanctions.&nbsp;In the post, Trump also blamed Zelensky for “causing problems”, saying that the Ukrainian leader is “doing his country no favours”. Trump also reiterated that the war is not his but Zelensky’s, Putin’s and former president Joe Biden’s.

This comes after Trump took to his Truth Social to call his Russian counterpart “absolutely CRAZY” for “needlessly killing a lot of people”.

The Kremlin on Monday (May 26) said that US President Donald Trump’s remarks on Russian President Vladimir Putin may be due to “emotional overload” at this “very important moment.” It also thanked the US president for his assistance in the Ukraine peace talks. This comes after Trump took to his Truth Social to call his Russian counterpart “absolutely CRAZY” for “needlessly killing a lot of people”. “We are really grateful to the Americans and to President Trump personally for their assistance in organising and launching this negotiation process,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said when asked about Trump’s remarks, reported Reuters. Also read | ‘Not Trump’s war’: US President calls Putin ‘CRAZY’, blames Zelensky for ‘causing problems’ “Of course, at the same time, this is a very crucial moment, which is associated, of course, with the emotional overload of everyone absolutely and with emotional reactions.” Trump calls Putin ‘crazy’ Slamming Putin, Trump wrote, “I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people, and I’m not just talking about soldiers.” He further added, “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!” Also read | Iran won't stop uranium enrichment, dismisses Trump's sanction threat 'not like we'll die of hunger' Trump’s comments come following a Russian strike in 30 Ukrainian cities and villages over the weekend that killed at least 12 people, including three children. Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had said that Washington’s “silence” over recent Russian attacks was encouraging Putin. He also urged “strong pressure” on Moscow with tougher sanctions. In the post, Trump also blamed Zelensky for “causing problems”, saying that the Ukrainian leader is “doing his country no favours”. Trump also reiterated that the war is not his but Zelensky’s, Putin’s and former president Joe Biden’s.

This comes after Trump took to his Truth Social to call his Russian counterpart “absolutely CRAZY” for “needlessly killing a lot of people”.

‘Emotional overload’: Kremlin responds to Trump’s ‘crazy’ remark for Putin

For the first time in three years, Russia and Ukraine have opened low-level talks. The first round, held in Turkey, ended with no apparent signs of progress. Meanwhile, intense fighting continues on the frontlines, with Moscow claiming new territorial gains. As both diplomacy and warfare unfold in parallel, the stakes remain dangerously high.

Ukraine Calls On Allies To Keep Pressure On Russia After Talks Yield No Ceasefire

Russia & Ukraine To Exchange 1000 Prisoners Of War, Have Not Agreed To A Ceasefire

First Russia-Ukraine Talks in 3 Years Begin Amid Fierce Fighting

In the midst of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio did say that a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv can only be achieved through direct talks between Trump and Putin.

Trump Pushes For Direct Talks With Putin Amid Russia-Ukraine Peace Efforts

Putin Will Not Travel To Istanbul For Peace Talks With Zelensky

In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered Ukraine the opportunity to restart peace talks without preconditions, proposing Turkey as the meeting venue. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed a desire for a ceasefire and welcomed Putin to Turkey for dialogues. Both leaders have not met face-to-face since 2019, raising questions about the feasibility of these peace talks.

Russia-Ukraine War: Marco Rubio to participate in Russia-Ukraine talks on Thursday

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky urges Trump to meet with Putin happen

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that US President Donald Trump joining peace talks with Russia in Turkey might give Vladimir Putin an &lsquo;impetus&rsquo; to attend. &ldquo;We have invited President Trump to join us. I do not know the US president&rsquo;s decision, but if he confirms his participation, I think it would give additional impetus for Putin to come,&rdquo; Zelensky said at a press conference in Kyiv. The Kremlin has made no comment on whether Putin will travel to Turkiye himself or not.
President Trump offered to join the talks that Russia&rsquo;s President Vladimir Putin suggested should be held directly with Ukraine after criticism of the Western &ldquo;ultimatums&rdquo; to end the conflict between the two nations.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gets-f-15-escort-lavender-carpet-welcome-to-saudi-arabia-9064913">Trump gets &lsquo;lavender&rsquo; carpet welcome to Saudi Arabia after F-15 escort</a> Trump said on Monday he was &ldquo;thinking about actually flying over&rdquo; to the Turkish city of Istanbul to attend the negotiations expected to take place on Thursday. The initiative was welcomed by Zelensky, but there was no reaction from Moscow. &ldquo;All of us in Ukraine would appreciate it if President Trump could be there with us at this meeting in Turkey. This is the right idea. We can change a lot,&rdquo; Zelenskyy said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-mamnwjtg-8jxz1rf3-rgnch6tf">
I have just heard President Trump's statement. Very important words. I supported <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> idea of a full and unconditional ceasefire &mdash; long enough to provide the foundation for diplomacy. And we want it, we are ready to uphold silence on our end. I supported President Trump&hellip;
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1921955780682502280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
 Trump publicly asked Zelensky to attend after Putin proposed the direct talks following a rejection of a 30-day ceasefire Ukraine and its Western allies insisted should come first. The Ukrainian leader&rsquo;s adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, reiterated that Zelensky would only meet Putin and no other members of the Russian delegation.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-compares-agility-of-indias-modern-weapons-to-maharana-prataps-legendary-horse-chetak-9064665" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PM Modi compares agility of India&rsquo;s modern weapons to Maharana Pratap&rsquo;s legendary horse Chetak</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-compares-agility-of-indias-modern-weapons-to-maharana-prataps-legendary-horse-chetak-9064665" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a> &ldquo;We are committed to a serious search for ways of a long-term peaceful settlement,&rdquo; Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday but did not say whether Putin will travel to Turkiye. If Zelensky and Putin happen to meet on Thursday, it would be their first face-to-face meeting since December 2019. Meanwhile, Ukraine said its air defence units destroyed all 10 drones that Russia launched overnight on Tuesday. Russia accused Ukraine of attacking its Belgorod region, with the governor Vyacheslav Gladkov saying on Tuesday that Ukrainian forces used 65 drones and more than 100 rounds of ammunition to attack his region in the past day.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-saw-the-true-face-of-pak-when-its-army-officials-attended-funerals-of-terrorists-pm-modi-9064451" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;World saw the true face of Pak when its army officials attended funerals of terrorists&rsquo;: PM Modi</a>
&nbsp;

World: President Trump offered to join the talks that Russia’s President Vladimir Putin suggested should be held directly with Ukraine after criticism of the Western “ultimatums” to end the conflict between the two nations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that US President Donald Trump joining peace talks with Russia in Turkey might give Vladimir Putin an ‘impetus’ to attend. “We have invited President Trump to join us. I do not know the US president’s decision, but if he confirms his participation, I think it would give additional impetus for Putin to come,” Zelensky said at a press conference in Kyiv. The Kremlin has made no comment on whether Putin will travel to Turkiye himself or not. President Trump offered to join the talks that Russia’s President Vladimir Putin suggested should be held directly with Ukraine after criticism of the Western “ultimatums” to end the conflict between the two nations. Also Read | Trump gets ‘lavender’ carpet welcome to Saudi Arabia after F-15 escort Trump said on Monday he was “thinking about actually flying over” to the Turkish city of Istanbul to attend the negotiations expected to take place on Thursday. The initiative was welcomed by Zelensky, but there was no reaction from Moscow. “All of us in Ukraine would appreciate it if President Trump could be there with us at this meeting in Turkey. This is the right idea. We can change a lot,” Zelenskyy said. I have just heard President Trump's statement. Very important words. I supported @POTUS idea of a full and unconditional ceasefire — long enough to provide the foundation for diplomacy. And we want it, we are ready to uphold silence on our end. I supported President Trump… — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 12, 2025 Trump publicly asked Zelensky to attend after Putin proposed the direct talks following a rejection of a 30-day ceasefire Ukraine and its Western allies insisted should come first. The Ukrainian leader’s adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, reiterated that Zelensky would only meet Putin and no other members of the Russian delegation. Also Read | PM Modi compares agility of India’s modern weapons to Maharana Pratap’s legendary horse Chetak “We are committed to a serious search for ways of a long-term peaceful settlement,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday but did not say whether Putin will travel to Turkiye. If Zelensky and Putin happen to meet on Thursday, it would be their first face-to-face meeting since December 2019. Meanwhile, Ukraine said its air defence units destroyed all 10 drones that Russia launched overnight on Tuesday. Russia accused Ukraine of attacking its Belgorod region, with the governor Vyacheslav Gladkov saying on Tuesday that Ukrainian forces used 65 drones and more than 100 rounds of ammunition to attack his region in the past day. Also Read | ‘World saw the true face of Pak when its army officials attended funerals of terrorists’: PM Modi

Zelensky says Trump’s presence at peace talks would prompt Putin to attend

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Demands Ceasefire In Response To Putin's Call For Talks | World DNA

Over the next five years, India plans to launch 52 spy satellites, significantly enhancing its surveillance capabilities from space.

India to launch 52 spy satellites, which were extensively used in Russia-Ukraine war

Russia's shadow fleet will be hit with the largest ever sanctions package today, ramping up pressure on Putin

UK Announces New Russia 'Shadow Fleet' Sanctions

Following a &ldquo;good&rdquo; telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 8), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that &ldquo;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ukraine">Ukraine</a>&nbsp;is ready to engage in talks in any format&rdquo;, but demanded that Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the three-year-long war.
&ldquo;I had a good conversation with @POTUS. We congratulated our nations on Victory in Europe Day &mdash; the victory over Nazism,&rdquo; the Ukrainian leader said in an X post. &ldquo;We welcomed the Ukrainian Parliament&rsquo;s ratification of the Economic Partnership Agreement &mdash; a truly historic document that opens up many new opportunities for cooperation.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-confirms-the-full-and-comprehesive-deal-is-with-the-uk-further-details-to-be-revealed-9048595">Trump confirms the 'full and comprehesive' deal is with the UK, further details to be revealed</a>
Zelensky added that he discussed the need for continued peace efforts, including concrete steps that could be taken. He said that Trump asked him about the situation on the battlefield, and he provided &ldquo;a brief overview&rdquo;.
&ldquo;I also informed him that Ukraine is ready for a 30-day ceasefire, starting even today. We are waiting for Russia to support this proposal. I also reaffirmed that Ukraine is ready to engage in talks in any format. But for that, Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the war, starting with a full unconditional ceasefire,&rdquo; Zelensky wrote on X. &ldquo;President Trump confirmed that he wants this war to end, is ready to help, and supports the need for a ceasefire. We agreed on our further contacts.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-holds-good-and-productive-phone-call-with-turkish-president-discuss-russia-ukraine-war-gaza-syria-9038408">Trump holds &lsquo;good and productive&rsquo; phone call with Turkish President, discuss Russia-Ukraine war, Gaza, Syria</a>
<h2>Trump calls for &lsquo;30-day unconditional ceasefire&rsquo;</h2>
Trump said that the talks with Russia and Ukraine are ongoing and the US has called for a &ldquo;30-day unconditional ceasefire&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Hopefully, an acceptable ceasefire will be observed, and both Countries will be held accountable for respecting the sanctity of these direct negotiations. If the ceasefire is not respected, the U.S. and its partners will impose further sanctions,&rdquo; the US president wrote on his Truth Social platform.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-she-hopes-nuclear-weapons-will-not-be-required-against-ukraine-video-9031926">Putin says he 'hopes' nuclear weapons 'will not be required' against Ukraine | VIDEO</a>
&ldquo;As President, I will stay committed to securing Peace between Russia and Ukraine, together with the Europeans, and a Lasting Peace it will be! This ceasefire must ultimately build toward a Peace Agreement. It can all be done very quickly, and I will be available on a moment&rsquo;s notice if my services are needed,&rdquo; he added.
Watch | Russia Victory Day parade: Putin's order for three-day truce with Ukraine enters force
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0805_ARJUN_DRONES_730AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0805_ARJUN_DRONES_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=141&amp;tags=Russia, Victory Day Parade, World News, WION" title="Russia Victory Day parade: Putin's order for three-day truce with Ukraine enters force" id="PL_iframe_block-mafw1nmj-bl3jxfvo-df18lgs7"></iframe>
&nbsp;

Zelensky added that he discussed the need for continued peace efforts, including concrete steps that could be taken. He said that Trump asked him about the situation on the battlefield and he provided “a brief overview”. World

Following a “good” telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 8), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that “Ukraine is ready to engage in talks in any format”, but demanded that Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the three-year-long war. “I had a good conversation with @POTUS. We congratulated our nations on Victory in Europe Day — the victory over Nazism,” the Ukrainian leader said in an X post. “We welcomed the Ukrainian Parliament’s ratification of the Economic Partnership Agreement — a truly historic document that opens up many new opportunities for cooperation.” Also read | Trump confirms the 'full and comprehesive' deal is with the UK, further details to be revealed Zelensky added that he discussed the need for continued peace efforts, including concrete steps that could be taken. He said that Trump asked him about the situation on the battlefield, and he provided “a brief overview”. “I also informed him that Ukraine is ready for a 30-day ceasefire, starting even today. We are waiting for Russia to support this proposal. I also reaffirmed that Ukraine is ready to engage in talks in any format. But for that, Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the war, starting with a full unconditional ceasefire,” Zelensky wrote on X. “President Trump confirmed that he wants this war to end, is ready to help, and supports the need for a ceasefire. We agreed on our further contacts.” Also read | Trump holds ‘good and productive’ phone call with Turkish President, discuss Russia-Ukraine war, Gaza, Syria Trump calls for ‘30-day unconditional ceasefire’ Trump said that the talks with Russia and Ukraine are ongoing and the US has called for a “30-day unconditional ceasefire”. “Hopefully, an acceptable ceasefire will be observed, and both Countries will be held accountable for respecting the sanctity of these direct negotiations. If the ceasefire is not respected, the U.S. and its partners will impose further sanctions,” the US president wrote on his Truth Social platform. Also read | Putin says he 'hopes' nuclear weapons 'will not be required' against Ukraine | VIDEO “As President, I will stay committed to securing Peace between Russia and Ukraine, together with the Europeans, and a Lasting Peace it will be! This ceasefire must ultimately build toward a Peace Agreement. It can all be done very quickly, and I will be available on a moment’s notice if my services are needed,” he added. Watch | Russia Victory Day parade: Putin's order for three-day truce with Ukraine enters force

‘Ukraine ready for talks in any format’: Zelensky tells Trump, but demands Russia to show ‘intentions to end war’

Russian President Vladimir Putin, 72, the longest-serving Kremlin chief since Josef Stalin, said in a documentary aired on Sunday that he has been thinking about succession, and indicated that there could be a contest between multiple candidates. Putin, a former KGB lieutenant colonel, took over the presidency from Boris Yeltsin on the last day of 1999 and served as president till 2008, then as prime minister until 2012, and then again as president from 2012 to the present.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-you-all-desire-will-happen-assures-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-on-pahalgam-retaliation-9032695" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;What you all desire will happen,&rsquo; assures defence minister Rajnath Singh on Pahalgam retaliation</a>
The documentary film by Saida Medvedeva and Pavel Zarubin, titled &ldquo;Russia. The Kremlin. Putin. 25 Years,&rdquo; was released on the Rossiya 1 TV channel, reported state news agency RIA.
&ldquo;I always think about it,&rdquo; said Putin when asked if he thought about the succession in a film by state television about him spending a quarter of a century as Russia&rsquo;s paramount leader. &ldquo;In the end, the choice is up to the people, to the Russian people, to the citizens, to the voters,&rdquo; Putin said, adding, &ldquo;I think that there should be a person, or rather several people, so that the people have a choice.&rdquo;
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-a-failed-state-gen-munirs-remarks-nonsensical-oppn-leader-asaduddin-owaisi-9032050" rel="noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Pakistan a failed state, Gen Munir&rsquo;s remarks nonsensical&rsquo;: Oppn leader Asaduddin Owaisi</a>
There is no clear successor to Putin right now though under the Russian constitution, if the president was unable to fulfil his duties, then the prime minister&mdash;currently Mikhail Mishustin&mdash;would assume presidential powers.
&ldquo;A person who does not have the people&rsquo;s trust will hardly have a chance to do something serious.,&rdquo; Putin remarked. Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/99-russian-soldiers-die-for-every-kilometre-gained-in-ukraine-and-putin-doesnt-seem-to-care-9030092" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Low quality troops, high casualties&rsquo;: 99 Russian soldiers die for every kilometre gained in Ukraine and Putin doesn&rsquo;t seem to care</a> Questioned on the prospects for a ceasefire and settlement with Kyiv, Putin said reconciliation between Russia and Ukraine is inevitable. &ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s inevitable, despite all the tragedy we&rsquo;re going through right now. It&rsquo;s a matter of time,&rdquo; he said.
Asked to comment on relations with China, Putin said 25 years ago the centres of economic growth started shifting to the Asia-Pacific region. &ldquo;Not only to China, but also to other countries in this region. Russia and China are neighbours and should build good relations for the development of both countries.&rdquo;

World: Putin, a former KGB lieutenant colonel, took over the presidency from Boris Yeltsin on the last day of 1999 and served as president till 2008, then as prime minister until 2012, and then again as president from 2012 to the present.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, 72, the longest-serving Kremlin chief since Josef Stalin, said in a documentary aired on Sunday that he has been thinking about succession, and indicated that there could be a contest between multiple candidates. Putin, a former KGB lieutenant colonel, took over the presidency from Boris Yeltsin on the last day of 1999 and served as president till 2008, then as prime minister until 2012, and then again as president from 2012 to the present. Also Read | ‘What you all desire will happen,’ assures defence minister Rajnath Singh on Pahalgam retaliation The documentary film by Saida Medvedeva and Pavel Zarubin, titled “Russia. The Kremlin. Putin. 25 Years,” was released on the Rossiya 1 TV channel, reported state news agency RIA. “I always think about it,” said Putin when asked if he thought about the succession in a film by state television about him spending a quarter of a century as Russia’s paramount leader. “In the end, the choice is up to the people, to the Russian people, to the citizens, to the voters,” Putin said, adding, “I think that there should be a person, or rather several people, so that the people have a choice.” Also Read | ‘Pakistan a failed state, Gen Munir’s remarks nonsensical’: Oppn leader Asaduddin Owaisi There is no clear successor to Putin right now though under the Russian constitution, if the president was unable to fulfil his duties, then the prime minister—currently Mikhail Mishustin—would assume presidential powers. “A person who does not have the people’s trust will hardly have a chance to do something serious.,” Putin remarked. Also Read: ‘Low quality troops, high casualties’: 99 Russian soldiers die for every kilometre gained in Ukraine and Putin doesn’t seem to care Questioned on the prospects for a ceasefire and settlement with Kyiv, Putin said reconciliation between Russia and Ukraine is inevitable. “I think it’s inevitable, despite all the tragedy we’re going through right now. It’s a matter of time,” he said. Asked to comment on relations with China, Putin said 25 years ago the centres of economic growth started shifting to the Asia-Pacific region. “Not only to China, but also to other countries in this region. Russia and China are neighbours and should build good relations for the development of both countries.”

Russian President Putin, 72, says succession always on his mind, hints at tough contest

It is no secret that Russian President Vladimir Putin lives a lavish life. The $1.32 billion palace he lives in was reportedly once decked up with a striptease stage, pole-dancing hookah hall, casino, gaming room and an "aqua disco". However, all of that is gone now, as per leaked videos, and has been replaced with a church that also has a "throne" for Putin's personal use. The revelations were made by Russian investigative outlet Proekt last year.
Now the world is getting a peek at his Kremlin apartment, where he has been living for the past three years, with gold as its theme. A video shows Putin talking to a reporter outside his residence before he opens the door for him and lets him in. "Yes, this is the apartment," he tells the reporter named Zarubin.&nbsp;
They go inside a grand hall, and the viewer can easily notice a pattern going on. The door is gold-plated, the walls are gilded, there are mirrors with gold frames and gold chandeliers. He also has a few plants that add contrast to the room. A portrait of Russian Emperor Alexander III is seen on a table. The sofas are a shade of beige, with a huge white piano in one corner.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-announces-easter-truce-in-ukraine-conflict-orders-military-to-halt-fighting-8980135" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Putin announces &lsquo;Easter truce&rsquo; in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting</a>
The apartment also has a dark-wood-lined library, two bedrooms, and a small "home church."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-ma7vwnfw-ddqqkpux-2dyya6cz">
Room tour of Putin's apartment: the Russian president showed his Kremlin home for the first time. He has been living in an apartment in the center of the capital for the past three years. Here Putin received Xi Jinping and talked with him by the fireplace over a cup of tea 1/ <a href="https://t.co/kslS3hrEpR">pic.twitter.com/kslS3hrEpR</a>
&mdash; ☦️Jacob🇷🇺Charite☦️ Иагов (@jaccocharite) <a href="https://twitter.com/jaccocharite/status/1918377249663021072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
In 2023, Putin said in an interview that he hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for an informal meeting in this apartment. He revealed at the time that he spends a lot of time at this apartment in the Kremlin. "I work here and spend the night very often, so we moved there and, sitting by the fireplace and drinking tea, talked about everything slowly," Putin said.
<h2>Putin's $956 million palace was revamped&nbsp;</h2>
Putin found himself at the centre of controversy when a probe revealed details about the Gelendzhik castle, also known as Putin's Palace. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation released documents stating that the grand palace was built for Putin's personal use. It cost a whopping US$956 million to construct the palace at the time. Putin denied that the palace belonged to him, and later, the Kremlin claimed that it belonged to his childhood friend Arkady Rotenburg.
Last year, videos showing an audacious revamp of the palace, which has a 16-storey underground complex, leaked. As Putin told Russians to embrace traditional values, he got the kinky stuff removed from his palace as well. He got rid of the casino, the stripping pole and everything that was gold.&nbsp;
The church was installed, complete with an altar and images of sacred religious icons.&nbsp;
While Putin lives a grand life, his soldiers continue to die on the frontline in the country's war against Ukraine. According to British intelligence, a total of 250,000 Russian soldiers have died since February 2022, with 900,000 overall casualties. "Putin and the Russian military leadership [is] highly likely to prioritise their military objectives over the lives of Russian soldiers," it stated.

Putin's Kremlin apartment is filled with all things golden - the door, the windows, chandeliers, mirrors and more. The video gives a peek into the Russian president's luxurious life. World Trending

It is no secret that Russian President Vladimir Putin lives a lavish life. The $1.32 billion palace he lives in was reportedly once decked up with a striptease stage, pole-dancing hookah hall, casino, gaming room and an "aqua disco". However, all of that is gone now, as per leaked videos, and has been replaced with a church that also has a "throne" for Putin's personal use. The revelations were made by Russian investigative outlet Proekt last year. Now the world is getting a peek at his Kremlin apartment, where he has been living for the past three years, with gold as its theme. A video shows Putin talking to a reporter outside his residence before he opens the door for him and lets him in. "Yes, this is the apartment," he tells the reporter named Zarubin. They go inside a grand hall, and the viewer can easily notice a pattern going on. The door is gold-plated, the walls are gilded, there are mirrors with gold frames and gold chandeliers. He also has a few plants that add contrast to the room. A portrait of Russian Emperor Alexander III is seen on a table. The sofas are a shade of beige, with a huge white piano in one corner. Also Read: Putin announces ‘Easter truce’ in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting The apartment also has a dark-wood-lined library, two bedrooms, and a small "home church." Room tour of Putin's apartment: the Russian president showed his Kremlin home for the first time. He has been living in an apartment in the center of the capital for the past three years. Here Putin received Xi Jinping and talked with him by the fireplace over a cup of tea 1/ pic.twitter.com/kslS3hrEpR — ☦️Jacob🇷🇺Charite☦️ Иагов (@jaccocharite) May 2, 2025 In 2023, Putin said in an interview that he hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for an informal meeting in this apartment. He revealed at the time that he spends a lot of time at this apartment in the Kremlin. "I work here and spend the night very often, so we moved there and, sitting by the fireplace and drinking tea, talked about everything slowly," Putin said. Putin's $956 million palace was revamped Putin found himself at the centre of controversy when a probe revealed details about the Gelendzhik castle, also known as Putin's Palace. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation released documents stating that the grand palace was built for Putin's personal use. It cost a whopping US$956 million to construct the palace at the time. Putin denied that the palace belonged to him, and later, the Kremlin claimed that it belonged to his childhood friend Arkady Rotenburg. Last year, videos showing an audacious revamp of the palace, which has a 16-storey underground complex, leaked. As Putin told Russians to embrace traditional values, he got the kinky stuff removed from his palace as well. He got rid of the casino, the stripping pole and everything that was gold. The church was installed, complete with an altar and images of sacred religious icons. While Putin lives a grand life, his soldiers continue to die on the frontline in the country's war against Ukraine. According to British intelligence, a total of 250,000 Russian soldiers have died since February 2022, with 900,000 overall casualties. "Putin and the Russian military leadership [is] highly likely to prioritise their military objectives over the lives of Russian soldiers," it stated.

Putin's Palace has a 'throne' for his personal use. His apartment in Kremlin is equally flashy. See video

Russian forces launched heavy attacks on Ukraine’s Kharkiv city, causing widespread destruction and injuring at least 50 people. The assault marks a new escalation in the ongoing war, drawing international condemnation.

Russia-Ukraine War: Kharkiv devastated by Russian strikes, 50 reported injured

Trump's primary liaison to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Steve Witkoff has been called a "bumbling f***ing idiot" by a White House insider. The source claimed that Witkoff takes part in meetings alone, and does not follow the protocols.&nbsp;
US President Donald Trump's special peace talks envoy has been actively participating in the talks with the Russian president.&nbsp;
Moreover, Witkoff has also tried to negotiate a ceasefire in the Middle East in negotiations with Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-hours-2-proposals-secret-putin-witkoff-meet-puts-direct-talks-on-table-where-does-the-russia-ukraine-peace-plan-stand-now-9002380">3 hours, 2 proposals: Secret Putin-Witkoff meet puts &lsquo;direct talks&rsquo; on table. Where does Russia-Ukraine peace plan stand now?</a>
Sometimes, the US special envoy also uses Kremlin translators in a major breach of diplomatic protocol, the source alleged, according to a New York Post report.&nbsp;
The source further told the Daily Beast that Witkoff did not follow the usual security procedures in his meetings with Putin and other Russian negotiators in Moscow.&nbsp;
&ldquo;There are certain protocols involved whenever there are talks at the Kremlin&ndash;and Witkoff does not follow them,&rdquo; the insider said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-russian-general-yaroslav-moskalik-killed-in-car-bomb-as-witkoff-visits-moscow-kremlin-russia-ukraine-war-9001256">&lsquo;Terrorist attack&rsquo;: Top Russian general killed in car bomb as Witkoff visits Moscow - Inside blasts targeting Kremlin insiders</a>
During the last meeting in Russia, Witkoff reportedly went to meet Putin without the unusual group of advisers, while the Russian president came with his aides, Yury Ushakov, and Kiriv Dmitiev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Nice guy, but a bumbling f***ing idiot. He should not be doing this alone,&rdquo; a member of Trump&rsquo;s first administration told the Post.
Meanwhile, former US Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul took to X, calling Witkoff a "mailman for Putin".&nbsp;
&ldquo;If Trump finally got serious about mediating an end to the war in Ukraine, he would appoint one person to talk to both sides &mdash; shuttle diplomacy &mdash; and preferably someone with some experience in diplomacy. Witkoff acts as a mailman for Putin. He is not negotiating anything,&rdquo; McFaul said.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hostages-parents-express-frustration-over-netanyahus-lack-of-efforts-witkoff-cried-israeli-pm-didnt-even-know-our-son-was-wounded-8969152">Hostage's parents express frustration over Netanyahu's 'lack of efforts'; 'Witkoff cried, Israeli PM didn&rsquo;t even know our son was wounded'</a>
Notably, Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff held their fourth round of discussions on Friday (April 25), with the Kremlin confirming that the talks were both &ldquo;constructive&rdquo; and &ldquo;very useful.&rdquo;
The meeting lasted three hours and included a discussion on the possibility of restarting direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;
&ldquo;There was a three-hour conversation that was constructive and very useful,&rdquo; Ushakov said. &ldquo;There was a discussion on the possibility of renewing direct negotiations between representatives of the Russian Federation and Ukraine.&rdquo;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/steve-witkoff-compared-l&eacute;lys&eacute;e-palace-in-paris-to-donald-trumps-mar-a-lago-residence-watch-8975545">Steve Witkoff compares l'&Eacute;lys&eacute;e Palace in Paris to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, WATCH</a>

Witkoff reportedly went to meet Putin without the unusual group of advisers, while the Russian president came with his aides, Yury Ushakov, and Kiriv Dmitiev. WORLD

Trump's primary liaison to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Steve Witkoff has been called a "bumbling f***ing idiot" by a White House insider. The source claimed that Witkoff takes part in meetings alone, and does not follow the protocols. US President Donald Trump's special peace talks envoy has been actively participating in the talks with the Russian president. Moreover, Witkoff has also tried to negotiate a ceasefire in the Middle East in negotiations with Israel and Hamas. Also read: 3 hours, 2 proposals: Secret Putin-Witkoff meet puts ‘direct talks’ on table. Where does Russia-Ukraine peace plan stand now? Sometimes, the US special envoy also uses Kremlin translators in a major breach of diplomatic protocol, the source alleged, according to a New York Post report. The source further told the Daily Beast that Witkoff did not follow the usual security procedures in his meetings with Putin and other Russian negotiators in Moscow. “There are certain protocols involved whenever there are talks at the Kremlin–and Witkoff does not follow them,” the insider said. Also read: ‘Terrorist attack’: Top Russian general killed in car bomb as Witkoff visits Moscow - Inside blasts targeting Kremlin insiders During the last meeting in Russia, Witkoff reportedly went to meet Putin without the unusual group of advisers, while the Russian president came with his aides, Yury Ushakov, and Kiriv Dmitiev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund. “Nice guy, but a bumbling f***ing idiot. He should not be doing this alone,” a member of Trump’s first administration told the Post. Meanwhile, former US Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul took to X, calling Witkoff a "mailman for Putin". “If Trump finally got serious about mediating an end to the war in Ukraine, he would appoint one person to talk to both sides — shuttle diplomacy — and preferably someone with some experience in diplomacy. Witkoff acts as a mailman for Putin. He is not negotiating anything,” McFaul said. Also read: Hostage's parents express frustration over Netanyahu's 'lack of efforts'; 'Witkoff cried, Israeli PM didn’t even know our son was wounded' Notably, Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff held their fourth round of discussions on Friday (April 25), with the Kremlin confirming that the talks were both “constructive” and “very useful.” The meeting lasted three hours and included a discussion on the possibility of restarting direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. “There was a three-hour conversation that was constructive and very useful,” Ushakov said. “There was a discussion on the possibility of renewing direct negotiations between representatives of the Russian Federation and Ukraine.” Also read: Steve Witkoff compares l'Élysée Palace in Paris to Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, WATCH

'Bumbling f***ing idiot': Trump allies bash Russian envoy Steve Witkoff, calls him 'mailman for Putin'

On May 1, 2025, a Russian drone strike killed seven people in Oleshky, Kherson region, Ukraine. The attack occurred shortly after Ukraine and the U.S. signed a significant minerals deal. This agreement grants the U.S. preferential access to Ukrainian mineral resources and establishes a joint reconstruction fund, aiming to bolster Ukraine's economy amid ongoing conflict with Russia .

Russia-Ukraine War: Russia's MASS drone attack destroys Ukraine's Oleshky

The US and Ukraine signed a "historic" economic partnership deal, agreeing to split profits from the sale of Ukrainian minerals and rare earths in the future. President Donald Trump had hinted that the deal would provide financial motivation for America to continue to invest in Kyiv's defence and its reconstruction after a future peace deal with Russia. The deal has been signed after weeks of intense negotiation to allow Washington access to Kyiv's rare minerals deposits, both countries said.

US And Ukraine Sign Long-awaited Minerals Deal

US And Ukraine Sign Minerals Deal That Solidifies Kyiv’s Defense Against Russia

US And Ukraine Sign Critical Minerals Deal, 'new Form Of Commitment'

Russian missile and drone strikes on Kyiv killed at least eight people, injuring another 77 in the deadliest attack on Ukraine's capital since last July. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky cut short his trip to South Africa. We take a closer look at how Ukraine's stock of anti-missile defense batteries is running dangerously low. Watch in for more details!

In Rare Rebuke, Donald Trump Urges Putin To End War After Russia's Deadly Attack

Russia-Ukraine War: Trump Is Hopeful Of Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal This Week. Zelensky Claims Russian forces have launched a brutal ballistic missile assault on Kharkiv, turning the city into a warzone once again. Explosions, destruction, and rising civilian casualties—this is one of the most intense escalations in weeks.

Trump Slams Zelensky For Refusing Russian Control Of Crimea

Russia is ramping up pressure on Ukraine’s eastern front, redeploying drones to a new flashpoint.

Russia Redeploys Drones for Summer Push in Ukraine's Donetsk

Ukrainian air force issued air raid alerts for capital Kyiv while several blasts shook the eastern city of Mykolaiv hours after the end of the one-day Easter ceasefire which was declared by the Russian president. Watch in for more details!

Ukraine's Proposal To Halt Russian Strikes On Civilian Infrastructure

Although Russian President Vladimir Putin announced "Easter truce" in the ongoing Ukraine war, a Kyiv-based MP said that air raid sirens sounded in the Ukrainian capital.&nbsp;
MP Lisa Yasko said that the drones were entering Kyiv, adding that the city witnessed a "one-hour" attack.&nbsp;
"So it doesn't feel like a ceasefire," she told BBC.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-dismisses-vladimir-putins-easter-truce-labels-it-another-attempt-to-play-with-human-lives-russia-ukraine-war-8980598">Zelensky dismisses Putin's Easter truce, labels it 'another attempt to play with human lives'</a>
<h2>"It is like a joke"</h2>
Ukrainian MP Yasko said that even if a ceasefire happens, it is like a joke.&nbsp;"A ceasefire for one day, even if it happens, is like a joke," she told BBC News Channel.
She further suggested that the surprise announcement could be a manoeuvre by Putin to appease the US.&nbsp;
"We need a real ceasefire, with real conditions met by Putin," she added.
Putin on Saturday (April 19) announced an Easter truce, ceasing "all military operations" in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-announces-easter-truce-in-ukraine-conflict-orders-military-to-halt-fighting-8980135">Putin announces &lsquo;Easter truce&rsquo; in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting</a>
The Russian president, in televised comments, said that the temporary ceasefire will last from 6pm today (4pm UK time) until Monday.
"Guided by humanitarian considerations, today from 18:00 to midnight from Sunday to Monday, the Russian side declares an Easter truce. I order all military actions to be stopped for this period," Putin said while speaking to Russian chief of staff Valery Gerasimov.
Reacting to Putin's announcement, Ukrainian foreign minister Andriy Sybiha said that Putin's words "cannot be trusted", adding that "Russia can agree at any time to the proposal for a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire".
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-threatens-to-exit-talks-as-global-pressure-mounts-on-zelensky-8980530">Russia-Ukraine war: Trump threatens to exit talks as global pressure mounts on Zelensky</a>
"Putin has now made statements about his alleged readiness for a cease-fire. 30 hours instead of 30 days,&rdquo; Sybiha said. "Unfortunately, we have had a long history of his statements not matching his actions."
However, Sybiha did not give a clear "yes" or "no" to Russia's proposal.&nbsp;
"We want to see Russian forces actually ceasefire in all directions. We also urge all of our partners and the international community to be vigilant," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-us-president-donald-trumps-warning-scare-off-vladimir-putin-heres-how-russian-president-lived-up-to-trumps-easter-truce-promise-ukraine-8980401">Did Trump's warning scare off Putin? Here's how Russian president lived up to Trump's 'Easter truce' promise</a>

Ukrainian MP said that even if a ceasefire happens, it is like a joke. "A ceasefire for one day, even if it happens, is like a joke," she told BBC News Channel. WORLD

Although Russian President Vladimir Putin announced "Easter truce" in the ongoing Ukraine war, a Kyiv-based MP said that air raid sirens sounded in the Ukrainian capital. MP Lisa Yasko said that the drones were entering Kyiv, adding that the city witnessed a "one-hour" attack. "So it doesn't feel like a ceasefire," she told BBC. Also read: Zelensky dismisses Putin's Easter truce, labels it 'another attempt to play with human lives' "It is like a joke" Ukrainian MP Yasko said that even if a ceasefire happens, it is like a joke. "A ceasefire for one day, even if it happens, is like a joke," she told BBC News Channel. She further suggested that the surprise announcement could be a manoeuvre by Putin to appease the US. "We need a real ceasefire, with real conditions met by Putin," she added. Putin on Saturday (April 19) announced an Easter truce, ceasing "all military operations" in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Also read: Putin announces ‘Easter truce’ in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting The Russian president, in televised comments, said that the temporary ceasefire will last from 6pm today (4pm UK time) until Monday. "Guided by humanitarian considerations, today from 18:00 to midnight from Sunday to Monday, the Russian side declares an Easter truce. I order all military actions to be stopped for this period," Putin said while speaking to Russian chief of staff Valery Gerasimov. Reacting to Putin's announcement, Ukrainian foreign minister Andriy Sybiha said that Putin's words "cannot be trusted", adding that "Russia can agree at any time to the proposal for a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire". WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump threatens to exit talks as global pressure mounts on Zelensky "Putin has now made statements about his alleged readiness for a cease-fire. 30 hours instead of 30 days,” Sybiha said. "Unfortunately, we have had a long history of his statements not matching his actions." However, Sybiha did not give a clear "yes" or "no" to Russia's proposal. "We want to see Russian forces actually ceasefire in all directions. We also urge all of our partners and the international community to be vigilant," he added. Also read: Did Trump's warning scare off Putin? Here's how Russian president lived up to Trump's 'Easter truce' promise

Despite 'Easter truce' Kyiv saw 'one-hour attack': Ukrainian MP says Putin's announcement 'attempt to appease US'

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (April 19) announced an Easter truce, ceasing "all military operations" in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-announces-easter-truce-in-ukraine-conflict-orders-military-to-halt-fighting-8980135">Russia-Ukraine war</a>.
Putin, in televised comments, said that the temporary ceasefire will last from 6pm today (4pm UK time) until Monday.
"Guided by humanitarian considerations, today from 18:00 to midnight from Sunday to Monday, the Russian side declares an Easter truce. I order all military actions to be stopped for this period," Putin said while speaking to Russian chief of staff Valery Gerasimov.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-win-for-russian-president-putin-us-may-recognise-crimea-as-part-of-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-8977745">BIG win for Russian president Putin? US may recognise Crimea as part of Russia-Ukraine peace deal</a>
Earlier in March, US President Donald Trump hoped a "broad ceasefire" could happen weeks before Easter.&nbsp;
The White House aimed for a "truce agreement by April 20," according to Bloomberg. The date is significant because this year both Western and Orthodox churches mark Easter on the same day.
&ldquo;We are working for a ceasefire and a lasting peace,&rdquo; White House spokesman Brian Hughes said. &ldquo;We won&rsquo;t have the terms of discussions or timing be played out in the media.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youre-fools-horrible-people-trump-warns-us-may-take-a-pass-if-russia-ukraine-stall-on-peace-deal-8977413">'You're fools, horrible people': Trump warns US may 'take a pass' if Russia, Ukraine stall peace deal</a>
On Friday, Trump also warned that he will "take a pass" on brokering further Ukraine peace talks unless there is "quick progress" from the two nations.
Getting a little more blunt, Trump said, "Now if for some reason one of the two parties makes it very difficult, we're just going to say: 'You're foolish. You're fools. You're horrible people -- and we're going to just take a pass."
Coming to Putin's announcement of Easter truce, Russia further assumes that the Ukrainian side "will follow our example". However, it did not hesitate to warn Ukraine, in case it repels the "possible violations of truce".&nbsp;
"At the same time, our troops must be ready to repel possible violations of the truce and provocations from the enemy, any of its aggressive actions," it added.
Trump, before returning to the White House in January, said that he can end the war in 24 hours, which he has recently claimed that he was being sarcastic.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-has-retaken-over-99-of-kursk-region-territory-seized-by-ukraine-army-chief-breaking-8980310">Russia Has Retaken Over 99% of Kursk Region Territory Seized By Ukraine: Army Chief | Breaking</a>
&nbsp;

White House aimed for a "truce agreement by April 20." The date is significant because this year both Western and Orthodox churches mark Easter on the same day. WORLD

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (April 19) announced an Easter truce, ceasing "all military operations" in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Putin, in televised comments, said that the temporary ceasefire will last from 6pm today (4pm UK time) until Monday. "Guided by humanitarian considerations, today from 18:00 to midnight from Sunday to Monday, the Russian side declares an Easter truce. I order all military actions to be stopped for this period," Putin said while speaking to Russian chief of staff Valery Gerasimov. Also read: BIG win for Russian president Putin? US may recognise Crimea as part of Russia-Ukraine peace deal Earlier in March, US President Donald Trump hoped a "broad ceasefire" could happen weeks before Easter. The White House aimed for a "truce agreement by April 20," according to Bloomberg. The date is significant because this year both Western and Orthodox churches mark Easter on the same day. “We are working for a ceasefire and a lasting peace,” White House spokesman Brian Hughes said. “We won’t have the terms of discussions or timing be played out in the media.” Also read: 'You're fools, horrible people': Trump warns US may 'take a pass' if Russia, Ukraine stall peace deal On Friday, Trump also warned that he will "take a pass" on brokering further Ukraine peace talks unless there is "quick progress" from the two nations. Getting a little more blunt, Trump said, "Now if for some reason one of the two parties makes it very difficult, we're just going to say: 'You're foolish. You're fools. You're horrible people -- and we're going to just take a pass." Coming to Putin's announcement of Easter truce, Russia further assumes that the Ukrainian side "will follow our example". However, it did not hesitate to warn Ukraine, in case it repels the "possible violations of truce". "At the same time, our troops must be ready to repel possible violations of the truce and provocations from the enemy, any of its aggressive actions," it added. Trump, before returning to the White House in January, said that he can end the war in 24 hours, which he has recently claimed that he was being sarcastic. WATCH | Russia Has Retaken Over 99% of Kursk Region Territory Seized By Ukraine: Army Chief | Breaking

Did Trump's warning scare off Putin? Here's how Russian president lived up to Trump's 'Easter truce' promise

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared an Easter truce, the Kremlin press service reported on Saturday. &ldquo;The Russian President declared an Easter truce,&rdquo; the release said. The truce will come into effect today from 18:00 hours and will last till midnight on Sunday.
The head of state ordered a halt to all military actions for the duration of the Easter truce, reported Ria Novosti, a Russian state-owned domestic news agency.
Putin ordered the Russian military to halt fighting until the end of the Easter holidays, the Kremlin announced on Saturday.
&ldquo;Guided by humanitarian considerations, today from 18:00 to midnight from Sunday to Monday, the Russian side declares an Easter truce. I order all military actions to be stopped for this period,&rdquo; Putin was quoted as saying.&nbsp; However, he insisted that Russian &ldquo;troops must be ready to repel possible violations of the truce and provocations from the enemy, any of its aggressive actions&rdquo;. The Kremlin added that Russia assumes that the Ukrainian side will follow its example and stop hostilities, and the course of the truce will show the readiness of the Kyiv regime to desire and be able to resolve the issue peacefully.
Putin made the announcement during a televised meeting with Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov.&nbsp; Briefing Putin on the situation, Gerasimov said the &lsquo;North&rsquo; group of troops is conducting an offensive to liberate areas of the Kursk region. He added that 1,260 square kilometres, i.e., 99.5% of the area occupied by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, has been liberated and military action is taking place in just two areas: around the settlements of Oleshnya and Gornal. The Russian Ministry of Defence released a statement confirming that Russia will stop all military operations from 18:00 Moscow time (16:00 BST) today until midnight on 21 April (22:00 BST). 
<h2>&lsquo;You&rsquo;re foolish, you&rsquo;re fools&hellip;, we&rsquo;re going to take a pass&rsquo;: Trump warned on Friday</h2>
 The truce comes after President Donald Trump shared his despondency over the stalemate on Friday and said that the United States will walk away from efforts to broker a Russia-Ukraine peace deal unless there are clear signs of progress soon. &ldquo;Quickly, we want to get it done,&rdquo; Trump told reporters at the White House.&nbsp; &ldquo;Now if for some reason one of the two parties makes it very difficult, we&rsquo;re just going to say, &lsquo;you&rsquo;re foolish, you&rsquo;re fools, you&rsquo;re horrible people, and we&rsquo;re going to just take a pass. But hopefully we won&rsquo;t have to do that.&rdquo; Trump&rsquo;s comments followed remarks by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said the sides had just days to show progress or Washington would walk. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re not going to continue with this endeavour for weeks and months on end. So we need to determine very quickly now, and I&rsquo;m talking about a matter of days, whether or not this is doable in the next few weeks,&rdquo; Rubio said in Paris after meeting European and Ukrainian leaders. &ldquo;If it&rsquo;s not possible, if we&rsquo;re so far apart that this is not going to happen, then I think the president is probably at a point where he&rsquo;s going to say, &lsquo;Well, we&rsquo;re done&rsquo;.&rdquo;
 However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not share any reaction to the Easter truce announcement. The Ukrainian president has just posted an update on X about the Kursk region.
Zelensky said Ukrainian troops were &ldquo;holding their positions&rdquo;.
He wrote, "I have just received a report from commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Today, our forces continued their activity on the territory of the Kursk region and are holding their positions. In the Belgorod region, our warriors have advanced and expanded our zone of control. As for yet another attempt by Putin to play with human lives &mdash; at this moment, air raid alerts are spreading across Ukraine. At 17:15, Russian attack drones were detected in our skies. Ukrainian air defense and aviation have already begun working to protect us. Shahed drones in our skies reveal Putin&rsquo;s true attitude toward Easter and toward human life."
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9ody1sz-n1nvnmyb-x3duoy8n">
I have just received a report from Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Today, our forces continued their activity on the territory of the Kursk region and are holding their positions. In the Belgorod region, our warriors have advanced and expanded our zone of control. As for&hellip;
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1913604278729560151?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
Russia and Ukraine swapped hundreds of prisoners in the war&rsquo;s largest exchange, according to Russia&rsquo;s Ministry of Defence.
Zelensky also shared that 277 Ukrainian soldiers have returned home from Russian captivity&nbsp;as part of the swap mediated by the UAE.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9oe83bu-wostrnj7-7fmzscda">
Our people are home&mdash;one of the best pieces of news that can be. Another 277 warriors have returned home from Russian captivity. The warriors of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard of Ukraine, the State Special Transport Service, and the border guards. They defended&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/bm4OF80o7o">pic.twitter.com/bm4OF80o7o</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1913610218023313676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2025</a></blockquote>

World: The truce will come into effect today from 18:00 hours. The head of state ordered a halt to all military actions for the duration of the Easter truce, reported Ria Novosti, a Russian state-owned domestic news agency.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared an Easter truce, the Kremlin press service reported on Saturday. “The Russian President declared an Easter truce,” the release said. The truce will come into effect today from 18:00 hours and will last till midnight on Sunday. The head of state ordered a halt to all military actions for the duration of the Easter truce, reported Ria Novosti, a Russian state-owned domestic news agency. Putin ordered the Russian military to halt fighting until the end of the Easter holidays, the Kremlin announced on Saturday. “Guided by humanitarian considerations, today from 18:00 to midnight from Sunday to Monday, the Russian side declares an Easter truce. I order all military actions to be stopped for this period,” Putin was quoted as saying. However, he insisted that Russian “troops must be ready to repel possible violations of the truce and provocations from the enemy, any of its aggressive actions”. The Kremlin added that Russia assumes that the Ukrainian side will follow its example and stop hostilities, and the course of the truce will show the readiness of the Kyiv regime to desire and be able to resolve the issue peacefully. Putin made the announcement during a televised meeting with Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov. Briefing Putin on the situation, Gerasimov said the ‘North’ group of troops is conducting an offensive to liberate areas of the Kursk region. He added that 1,260 square kilometres, i.e., 99.5% of the area occupied by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, has been liberated and military action is taking place in just two areas: around the settlements of Oleshnya and Gornal. The Russian Ministry of Defence released a statement confirming that Russia will stop all military operations from 18:00 Moscow time (16:00 BST) today until midnight on 21 April (22:00 BST). ‘You’re foolish, you’re fools…, we’re going to take a pass’: Trump warned on Friday The truce comes after President Donald Trump shared his despondency over the stalemate on Friday and said that the United States will walk away from efforts to broker a Russia-Ukraine peace deal unless there are clear signs of progress soon. “Quickly, we want to get it done,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “Now if for some reason one of the two parties makes it very difficult, we’re just going to say, ‘you’re foolish, you’re fools, you’re horrible people, and we’re going to just take a pass. But hopefully we won’t have to do that.” Trump’s comments followed remarks by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said the sides had just days to show progress or Washington would walk. “We’re not going to continue with this endeavour for weeks and months on end. So we need to determine very quickly now, and I’m talking about a matter of days, whether or not this is doable in the next few weeks,” Rubio said in Paris after meeting European and Ukrainian leaders. “If it’s not possible, if we’re so far apart that this is not going to happen, then I think the president is probably at a point where he’s going to say, ‘Well, we’re done’.” However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not share any reaction to the Easter truce announcement. The Ukrainian president has just posted an update on X about the Kursk region. Zelensky said Ukrainian troops were “holding their positions”. He wrote, "I have just received a report from commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Today, our forces continued their activity on the territory of the Kursk region and are holding their positions. In the Belgorod region, our warriors have advanced and expanded our zone of control. As for yet another attempt by Putin to play with human lives — at this moment, air raid alerts are spreading across Ukraine. At 17:15, Russian attack drones were detected in our skies. Ukrainian air defense and aviation have already begun working to protect us. Shahed drones in our skies reveal Putin’s true attitude toward Easter and toward human life." I have just received a report from Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Today, our forces continued their activity on the territory of the Kursk region and are holding their positions. In the Belgorod region, our warriors have advanced and expanded our zone of control. As for… — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 19, 2025 Russia and Ukraine swapped hundreds of prisoners in the war’s largest exchange, according to Russia’s Ministry of Defence. Zelensky also shared that 277 Ukrainian soldiers have returned home from Russian captivity as part of the swap mediated by the UAE. Our people are home—one of the best pieces of news that can be. Another 277 warriors have returned home from Russian captivity. The warriors of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard of Ukraine, the State Special Transport Service, and the border guards. They defended… pic.twitter.com/bm4OF80o7o — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 19, 2025

Putin announces ‘Easter truce’ in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting

The US is holding high-level talks with European and Ukrainian leaders. While Finland is now sounding the alarm, Helsinki fears that Moscow may be preparing something far more dangerous. This story takes a closer look at the growing concerns.

Finland keeps border with Russia closed 'until further notice'

putin

Putin, News on Putin, stories on Putin, articles on Putin, Putin stories at Wion, Putin news, Putin latest news