US President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that negotiators are en route to Russia for talks on securing a ceasefire in Ukraine, after Kyiv’s agreement to a 30-day truce.
“People are going to Russia right now as we speak. And hopefully, we can get a ceasefire from Russia,” Trump said during a meeting with Ireland’s prime minister in the Oval Office.
While Trump did not elaborate, the White House later confirmed that special envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to travel to Moscow later this week.
Ukraine agreed on Tuesday to a US-backed ceasefire proposal during talks in Saudi Arabia, though President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remains skeptical of Russia’s commitment.
The Kremlin, meanwhile, stated it is awaiting further details from Washington on the plan.
Trump declined to specify when he would next speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin but expressed hope for a ceasefire. “It’s up to Russia now,” he said. “I’ve gotten some positive messages, but a positive message means nothing. This is a very serious situation, it could start World War Three.”
The US president warned that if Russia refuses to cooperate, he could impose “devastating” financial sanctions but emphasised his preference for diplomacy. “I don’t want to do that because I want to get peace,” he said.
Trump’s approach to Russia contrasts sharply with his recent stance on Ukraine. He had abruptly halted military aid to Kyiv on February 28 following a contentious televised argument with Zelenskyy in the Oval Office. Washington resumed assistance on Tuesday after Ukraine agreed to the truce and a deal granting the US preferential access to Ukrainian natural resources.
With Kyiv on board, Washington is now focused on securing Moscow’s approval. Vice President JD Vance confirmed that high-level discussions between US and Russian officials are taking place over the next two days.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Witkoff—an ex-property developer who has played a key role in ceasefire negotiations for both Ukraine and Gaza—is set to visit Moscow soon. National security advisor Mike Waltz also spoke with his Russian counterpart on Wednesday.
“We urge the Russians to sign on to this plan,” Leavitt said, adding that negotiations are in the final phase. “We are at the 10th yard line, and the president expects the Russians to help us run this into the end zone.”
