Downing Street has welcomed “the progress President Trump has made towards a ceasefire” following his call with Vladimir Putin, but insisted negotiations must lead to a “just and lasting peace for Ukraine”.
A path towards peace in Ukraine will begin with a ceasefire on energy infrastructure, the US president and his Russian counterpart agreed during Tuesday’s phone call, before moves to end fighting in the Black Sea take place, and then a sustained ceasefire.
Talks to iron out agreement on the 30-day ceasefire will take place “immediately” in the Middle East, according to the US government.
Following the call, a Downing Street spokeswoman said: “We welcome the progress President Trump has made towards a ceasefire and in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
“This process must lead to a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.
“We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes to ensure Russia can never launch an illegal invasion again.”
