Zelensky Responds to Trump, Renews Ceasefire Offer

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump's comparison of Russia's war on Ukraine to 'children fighting in a park,' calling Russian President Putin a 'murderer' responsible for deadly attacks. Zelensky reiterated his openness to a ceasefire if Russia halts its aggression and even offered to forgo U.S. security guarantees in exchange for a 30-day cessation of hostilities. He urged the United States, especially Trump, to increase pressure on Russia through measures like secondary sanctions and to rally European allies. U.S. political responses have varied, with some lawmakers supporting tougher sanctions and continued aid, while critics such as Senator Tommy Tuberville accused Zelensky of trying to draw NATO into the conflict. Zelensky emphasized that outsiders cannot fully understand Ukrainians' suffering, noting that over 600 children have died since the Russian invasion began. Russia has rejected ceasefire proposals and escalated attacks after recent Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian targets.