Trump Seeks Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Amid Escalating Drone Attacks

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated a diplomatic effort to broker an early ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, making separate phone calls to Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump expressed frustration with both sides and emphasized his desire to end the conflict quickly, describing the war as a "bloodbath" that should never have happened. The calls are seen as a test of Trump's dealmaking abilities amid escalating violence, including a significant drone attack by Russia on Ukrainian regions. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy insists on an unconditional ceasefire before negotiations, while Putin has rejected Zelenskyy's offer to meet in Turkey, although both sides agreed on a prisoner exchange. Critics, including former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink, caution against peace at any price, warning it could amount to appeasement. The outcome of these efforts could influence global market stability, especially if further sanctions on Russia’s energy sector are imposed.