Donald Trump revealed a temporary halt in Russian attacks on Ukraine. He shared this during a cabinet meeting at the White House. The announcement came on January 29, 2026.
Furthermore, Trump explained the reason behind the pause. Extreme cold weather affected Ukraine at that time. Temperatures dropped to record lows in Kyiv.
Trump’s Personal Request to Putin
Trump contacted Vladimir Putin directly. He asked the Russian leader to stop strikes for one week. Putin agreed to the request, according to Trump.
In addition, Trump described the conversation. “I personally asked President Putin not to fire into Kyiv and the various towns for a week, and he agreed to do that,” he stated.
Moreover he highlighted the weather’s role. “Because of the cold, extreme cold, they have the same that we do,” Trump added. The cold reached -24C in some areas. Additionally Trump praised the outcome. “I have to tell you it was very nice,” he said. He noted that others doubted the success.
Russia’s Silence and Ukraine’s Response
Russia did not confirm the agreement. Officials in Moscow stayed quiet on the matter. This left the claim unverified from their side. Meanwhile Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky reacted positively. He welcomed Trump’s announcement. Zelensky expected Russia to honor the promise.
Meanwhile the pause offered relief to Ukrainians. Many faced blackouts and no heat due to prior attacks. Russian strikes targeted energy sites for months.
Impact of Winter Conditions
The war intensified hardships in winter. Russia bombed power plants and grids. This campaign aimed to weaken morale in Ukraine.
As a result, thousands of apartments lost heat in Kyiv. Residents endured freezing temperatures without power. The cold snap made conditions even worse.
Furthermore, Trump linked the pause to these issues. “The last thing those people need right now is missiles raining down on their towns and cities,” he explained.
Broader Context of Peace Talks
The announcement signaled progress in talks. Trump pushed for negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Recent meetings showed some momentum.
In addition, the US provided aid to Ukraine. The European Union also sent emergency funds. These efforts supported the country amid the conflict.
Moreover the one week halt focused on cities like Kyiv. It did not cover all areas of fighting. Battles continued in other regions. As a result, observers watched closely for compliance.
The pause highlighted diplomacy’s role in the war. It offered a brief respite from violence. The statement drew global attention. Media outlets reported on the development. People hoped for longer term peace.
