Ukraine's spy chief reveals new condition for Ukraine-Russia ceasefire

While Ukraine agreed to US calls for an unconditional ceasefire, Russian President Vladimir Putin told Donald Trump in a phone call that Russia "will not back down" from its military objectives, according to the Kremlin transcript.

Budanov said the ceasefire must be achieved well before the end of this year.

"Is it realistic to do so? Yes. Is it difficult — no. It takes at least three sides — Ukraine, Russia, and the US. And we will get to this position," he said.

Trumpэs call with Putin

On July 3, Putin announced a planned conversation with US President Donald Trump. Later, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Putin and Trump are completely different people with few common topics for discussion.

Trump said Putin threatened a retaliatory strike. It is unclear if the former US president tried to convince the Russian leader to avoid further escalation.

The Kremlin described the conversation as “frank and constructive.” Kremlin adviser on international affairs Yuri Ushakov said Trump and Putin are “on the same wavelength.” He added that Putin made it clear Moscow will not change its intentions regarding Ukraine and will continue pursuing its goals.

More details on the Trump-Putin call are in the RBC-Ukraine report.

Ukraine-Russia negotiations

The first round of talks took place on May 16 in Istanbul. The sides agreed to conduct a prisoner exchange on a 1,000-for-1,000 format. The second round of peace talks between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations concluded on June 2 in Istanbul.

Preparations are underway for a third meeting. It is likely to take place again in Istanbul, Türkiye. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Russia expressed readiness for the third round of talks with Ukraine.