"Zelensky also revealed he's willing to bring that plan up for a referendum if Russia agrees to a ceasefire of at least 60 days. While Zelensky emphasized that significant progress has been made, Trump's plan still demands painful territorial concessions from Ukraine in the Donbas region, which borders Russia. Zelensky is still hoping to improve those terms and said he'll need to seek approval of the Ukrainian people if they can't get to a "strong" position on territory."
"Behind the scenes: Putin's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, told reporters the call was Trump's initiative and lasted an hour and 15 minutes. Ushakov said the call was "in a friendly tone" and noted that Trump listened to Putin's assessment regarding the peace talks. Ushakov claimed Putin and Trump both think Ukraine "needs to make a decision about Donbas without delay.""
Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin two hours before meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss a U.S. peace plan. Zelensky seeks a framework with Trump to end the war and is willing to put the plan to a referendum if Russia agrees to a ceasefire of at least 60 days. Zelensky regards a 60-day ceasefire as the minimum for campaigning, voting, and legitimacy. Trump's plan requires territorial concessions in the Donbas region, and Zelensky aims to improve those terms and potentially secure Ukrainian approval if a strong territorial position cannot be achieved. Putin's adviser characterized the Trump–Putin call as initiated by Trump and cordial.
Read at Axios
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