Donald Trump drops a bombshell! The former US President claims Vladimir Putin has pledged not to attack Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, due to icy weather conditions.
Russia hasn't confirmed this truce, but Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomes the news. Bitter cold is set to hit Ukraine with temperatures plunging to -24C (-11F) even as Russia intensifies its assault on energy infrastructure.
In a high-stakes televised cabinet meeting, Trump said, "I personally asked Putin to hold fire on Kyiv and other towns for a week, and he agreed." Some doubted the payoff of his call, but Trump insists, "He did it."
Trump's announcement caught Ukrainians off guard. Desperate for relief, they’re joyful but skeptical. Zelensky took to social media, praising Trump’s "important statement" on securing Ukrainian cities amid the winter freeze. Both nations reportedly made headway on this topic in UAE negotiations.
Ukraine promises to reciprocate by halting attacks on Russian oil refineries. Despite this optimistic note, the air is thick with doubt. No official Russian confirmation leaves everyone on edge as attacks persist, strangling energy supplies.
The chilling reality? Cities crippled, millions frozen out of power and warmth. Repair crews race against time, often thwarted by renewed airstrikes. Even when power returns, it's fleeting—just long enough to charge but far from warming the frostbitten homes.
What’s next? Everyone’s holding their breath to see if Putin and Trump's reported ‘deal’ will hold or if it’s all a frostbitten fantasy.
Key Takeaways:
Trump claims Putin will halt attacks amid extreme cold.
Zelensky cautiously welcomes the unconfirmed truce.
Ukraine pauses refinery strikes in response despite ongoing chaos.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-01-29
-
1