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Europe Foreign Policy US Politics May 9, 2025

Trump Calls for ‘Unconditional Ceasefire’ in Russia-Ukraine Conflict, Seeks China’s Mediation

Photo: CNN Illustration/Getty Images

US President Donald Trump has called for an “unconditional ceasefire” in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Trump emphasized the urgency of ending the war, which has now entered its third year with no clear resolution in sight. Trump, who has long positioned himself as a dealmaker, suggested that China could play a pivotal role in mediating between Russia and Ukraine. “It is a natural thing to ask,” Trump said when questioned about Beijing’s potential involvement. “I think so, yes. China has the influence and the resources to bring the two sides closer together and make peace talks possible.” The president’s comments come at a time of heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing. Trump’s recent decision to impose steep tariffs of up to 145% on Chinese goods has drawn sharp criticism from Beijing, which has retaliated with 125% tariffs on US imports and export controls. Despite these economic hostilities, Trump appears to believe that China’s diplomatic clout could be instrumental in resolving the Ukraine crisis.

Meanwhile, Moscow’s annual Victory Day parade commemorating the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II kicked off with grandeur, despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin presided over the event, which showcased military hardware and paid tribute to veterans. The parade, however, was overshadowed by the ongoing war in Ukraine, with critics accusing the Kremlin of using the occasion to bolster nationalistic fervor.

Trump’s call for a ceasefire and his appeal for Chinese mediation have elicited mixed reactions globally. Supporters argue that his unconventional approach could break the deadlock in the conflict, while critics question the feasibility of involving China, given its close ties with Russia and strained relations with the US.

Ukraine has yet to officially respond to Trump’s proposal, but officials in Kiev have previously expressed skepticism about third-party mediation, insisting on the withdrawal of Russian forces as a precondition for any peace talks. Moscow, on the other hand, has welcomed the idea of international involvement, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating, “Any effort to end this conflict peacefully is worth considering.”

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to destabilize the region and strain global relations, Trump’s proposal highlights the growing desperation for a resolution. While the involvement of China remains uncertain, the call for an unconditional ceasefire underscores the need for innovative approaches to diplomacy in a world increasingly defined by geopolitical rivalries.

For now, the world watches as Moscow celebrates its military history amid an unresolved war, and as Trump’s audacious plan to engage China in peace efforts unfolds. Whether this marks a turning point in the conflict or remains a footnote in history, only time will tell.

By Paul Bumman

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