Trump Claims Temporary Pause in Fighting
US President Donald Trump said Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to a week-long pause in fighting in Ukraine. Trump shared this during a Cabinet meeting in Washington, DC. He said he personally urged Putin to stop firing on Ukrainian cities as a severe cold wave hits the region. Trump framed the pause as a humanitarian step to protect civilians facing extreme winter conditions. The Ukraine war has damaged energy systems and housing, making winter especially hard for residents.
Cold Weather Cited as Key Reason
Trump linked the decision directly to the weather. He stressed that missiles and attacks during extreme cold would worsen civilian suffering. “Because of the cold, extreme cold, I asked President Putin not to fire on Kyiv and other cities,” Trump said. He added that Putin agreed to the request. Trump described the response as positive and said the gesture could save lives. He also claimed Ukrainian officials welcomed the news, as many communities struggle with heating and electricity.
Ukraine Faces Severe Cold Wave
Ukraine is battling a strong cold snap. Weather agencies forecast temperatures between minus 20 and minus 27 degrees Celsius in many areas. Kyiv, Sumy, Poltava, Kharkiv and nearby regions expect freezing days and even colder nights. Emergency services have warned people about frostbite risks and power outages. Many families rely on fragile energy networks damaged during the war. Local authorities have urged residents to conserve heat and prepare for prolonged cold.
Harsh Winter Also Hits Russia
Russia is also seeing extreme winter weather. Parts of the Far East have recorded heavy snowfall and very low temperatures. Scientists say Arctic air masses drive this pattern. These waves of cold air have moved across Eastern Europe and Asia. Trump’s comments suggest weather now plays a role in military decisions. Still, officials have not released formal terms for any ceasefire. No monitoring plan or written agreement has surfaced. Analysts say a short pause could help civilians, but it may not change the wider course of the war.
