**Trump's Next Move on Ukraine: The Pivotal Decision Ahead**

**With escalating military tensions and peace negotiations in the balance, Trump's response to recent developments in Ukraine could alter the course of the conflict significantly.**

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has responded cautiously to Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal for direct talks scheduled for next Thursday in Istanbul. While many expected Zelensky to criticize Putin for not agreeing to a 30-day ceasefire as requested by Ukraine and its Western allies, he called it “a positive sign that the Russians have finally begun to consider ending the war” in a post on social media platform X. Zelensky further indicated that Ukraine anticipates Russia will adhere to the proposed ceasefire, starting Monday.

However, interpretations of Zelensky’s optimistic tone may vary; both leaders are likely conscious of the optics, particularly regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's perception. Notably, Trump's reaction was notably positive, as he expressed on his Truth Social platform that a resolution to the conflict could be imminent, deeming it a “potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine!”

From Putin's perspective, addressing what he calls the “root causes of the conflict” is essential. For Russia, this includes Ukraine's aspirations to join a democratic Europe rather than reverting to Moscow's sphere of influence. Russia may also insist on a formal agreement preventing Ukraine from joining NATO.

On the diplomatic front, Russia's recent demands complicate the ceasefire negotiations. It has stated that any ceasefire must be conditional on the West ceasing military support to Ukraine, which would leave Ukraine vulnerable to further offensive actions. To defend against the ongoing threat, Ukraine urgently requires continuous support, especially air defense systems, to counter increasing drone and missile attacks from Russia.

Sunday morning brought new air raid alerts as Russian drones targeted Ukrainian cities, indicating a continuous threat as the situation remains dire. Among the heightened concerns is the potential for Russia to deploy advanced hypersonic missiles, which the Kremlin claims to be "unstoppable."

In light of these developments, the crucial question looms over how Trump will respond. He faces a pivotal decision: will he view Putin's overtures as genuine attempts at peace, or will he suspect that the Russian leader is merely delaying negotiations? Given Trump's historically warm relationship with Putin, it is conceivable that he might exert pressure on Ukraine, pushing for negotiations in Istanbul regardless of whether a ceasefire is confirmed.

Zelensky’s categorization of Putin’s proposal as a “positive sign,” and Sir Keir Starmer's recent visit to Kyiv alongside other European leaders, underscores the complex nature of current international diplomacy. As the conflict unfolds, the actions of global leaders, particularly Trump, will play a crucial role in shaping Ukraine's immediate future.

In summary, as the trajectory of the war in Ukraine remains uncertain, the international community watches closely for Trump's next move, which could cement or disrupt the fragile pathway to peace.