The conflict must not conclude with a "partial ceasefire." The United States, as a mediator, bears the responsibility to ensure fair and lasting peace.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin recently spoke on the phone, and Putin agreed to halt attacks on Ukrainian energy and infrastructure facilities for 30 days. Trump praised the talks as "very good and productive."

However, the gap between Russia and Ukraine's positions has only become more pronounced.

In the discussion, Putin also agreed to continue ceasefire negotiations, giving the credit to Trump. Yet, he rejected the United States' proposal for a 30-day comprehensive ceasefire that has been accepted by Ukraine. The path to achieving lasting peace remains unclear.

The halt on attacks targeting energy and infrastructure buildings was part of the ceasefire proposals by Ukraine and European nations. As Russia has also been subject to attacks on its oil-related facilities by Ukraine, the latest partial ceasefire agreement is also favorable for Moscow.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed support for the cessation of attacks but remains skeptical about Russia's commitment to peace.

Russia, holding a superior position in the war, takes a stance that there is no need to make concessions at this time. It also demands that the U.S. and Europe cease military support and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.

Washington earlier paused its support, which put Kyiv in a difficult position. Moscow likely aims to replicate this scenario.

Since the onset of the war, the Russian president has maintained that "the root causes of the crisis must be eliminated." He is believed to be referring to strategic goals of "neutralizing" Ukraine by preventing Kyiv from joining NATO, "demilitarization" by significantly reducing Ukraine's military capabilities and "denazification" by establishing a pro-Russian government in Kyiv. These are terms unacceptable to Ukraine.

Putin appears to be trying to create a more favorable situation in the conflict by prolonging negotiations.

Trump, meanwhile, aims to resolve international issues through major power diplomacy. The U.S. must not be drawn into Russia's manipulation, leading to concessions that unjustly undermine Ukraine's interests.