President Donald Trump revealed a major diplomatic win: Russia will refrain from striking Kyiv and other Ukrainian urban centers for one week amid extreme winter chills. The decision, announced January 30 from Washington, stems from humanitarian concerns as sub-zero temperatures exacerbate civilian suffering.
Special envoy Steve Witkoff updated the cabinet on surging peace talks momentum. ‘Progress since Geneva outpaces the last four years,’ he quoted Ukrainian counterparts. Key was a Sunday meeting in Abu Dhabi alongside five Russian generals, fostering solid headway. Further rounds are planned soon.
Witkoff highlighted advanced drafts for a security protocol and prosperity pact. ‘Ukrainians sense peace is near,’ he added. Trump shared overriding skeptical advisors to phone Putin directly: despite counsel against it, the outreach secured the freeze on hostilities. Ukraine’s dire straits in record cold demanded action, Trump noted, likening conditions to America’s.
As the conflict enters year four with heavy losses and ruin, Trump’s bold diplomacy—credited by Witkoff for breakthroughs—marks a shift. The U.S. pursues ‘peace through strength,’ sustaining talks across channels with Russia and Ukraine. This temporary halt signals potential for de-escalation, breathing life into weary hopes.