U.S.-Russia tensions escalate as Putin rejects Ukraine ceasefire, straining Trump’s diplomacy

Bloomberg reported the information.

Despite Trump’s outreach, Moscow remains cautious. Russian officials, wary of U.S. intentions, are unsure of the new administration’s strategy. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s stance, stating that military operations will not stop until a deal is reached that fully aligns with Russian interests.

Now in its third year, the war continues to exact a heavy toll. Russian troops are making slow gains at a high cost, while Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, recently met with Putin in Moscow to push for a temporary ceasefire as a first step toward negotiations.

Trump’s approach has sparked unease in Europe. His administration has avoided calling Russia the aggressor, signaled that Ukraine will not join NATO, and even suggested elections in Ukraine before a peace deal—moves seen as favoring Russia. A social media post from Trump calling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a “dictator” further surprised the Kremlin and deepened tensions.

Despite diplomatic engagements, Russia continues its military campaign. Mere hours after high-level talks in Saudi Arabia, Moscow launched a massive drone strike on Odesa, cutting power to thousands. Meanwhile, Trump’s administration has warned that economic pressure on Russia could intensify if Moscow refuses to negotiate.

The White House is reportedly aiming for a ceasefire by April, though it remains uncertain how forcefully it will press the issue—or if Putin is willing to compromise. While Trump has floated the idea of a summit with Putin, no date has been set, and fundamental disagreements between the two sides persist.

Putin’s ultimate goal remains unchanged: a Ukraine that turns away from the West. Without that assurance, any broader peace deal appears distant.