Trump's ultimatum to Moscow

US President Donald Trump once again called for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine on Thursday and threatened sanctions against anyone who violated the agreement.

"Talks with Russia and Ukraine are ongoing. Ideally, the United States demands an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. Hopefully, an agreeable ceasefire will be respected and both countries will be required to uphold the sanctity of these direct negotiations. If the ceasefire isn't respected, the United States and its partners will impose further sanctions," he stated during an interview at the White House.

"Everything can be accomplished very quickly, and I will be available at any time if my services are needed," he said, after noting that "thousands of young soldiers die every week and everyone should want this to stop."

"I want this to stop, and so does the United States," he declared.

Mr. Trump's remarks follow a telephone call with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, who assured him that Kiev was ready to engage in peace talks with Moscow "in any form".

"But for that, Russia must demonstrate the seriousness of its intentions to end the war, starting with a full and unconditional ceasefire."

(MH with AnVa - Source: USA Today - Photo: © DPA - Newscom - Bonnie Cash)