Ukraine's Defense Minister after prisoner swap: We hope for US help in achieving ceasefire

"First and foremost, Ukraine is committed to a ceasefire. We are grateful to the President (of the US – ed.) Donald Trump for his initiative. We are thankful to all our European and American partners who are helping us. This is the first stage," the minister explained.

He noted that a ceasefire has not yet been achieved, and that is exactly what Ukraine is striving for.

"And we hope that the United States will support Ukraine in achieving a ceasefire," he added.

When asked about a message for Trump, Umerov responded that, for now, Ukraine is expressing gratitude for his assistance.

Trump’s role in ending Russia’s war against Ukraine

On May 19, US President Donald Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Their conversation lasted two hours. Following the call, the US president announced that Russia and Ukraine would begin immediate talks on a ceasefire and ending the war.

Putin also made a statement after speaking with Trump. However, he claimed that "a ceasefire with Ukraine is possible after relevant agreements are reached."

Putin also mentioned a memorandum between Russia and Ukraine that could "include the issue of a ceasefire and principles for settlement."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded by saying that if the Russian side proposes any memorandums, it will not be a secret. In his view, such a document could serve as a foundation for a future "roadmap leading to the end of the war, namely a treaty."

After the call with Putin, Trump also phoned Zelenskyy and European leaders.

Meanwhile, according to media reports, during the phone call, Trump said that "Russia and Ukraine will now seek a solution between themselves."

More details on the statement that shocked EU leaders can be found in RBC-Ukraine’s report.