On the 19th, U.S. President Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine would 'immediately begin negotiations,' but the Financial Times reported that Trump indicated to European leaders that the U.S. would no longer play a mediating role, allowing Ukraine and Russia to negotiate a ceasefire directly.

Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that the only beneficiary would be Putin. After a phone call with Putin and Zelensky, Trump wrote on social media that both sides would engage in ceasefire talks and strive to end the war. However, Russia's response has been more cautious, with the Kremlin stating that there would be no significant change in its position regarding the peace agreement.

Zelensky urged the U.S. not to 'self-marginalize' in efforts to promote peace and stressed that Ukraine is 'ready to negotiate directly with Russia in any form that can yield results.' He also called on Western partners to impose 'tougher sanctions' against Moscow.

However, sources indicated that Trump did not commit to any sanctions against Russia, shocking European leaders, who believe Trump may sacrifice Ukraine's interests.