Trump: “Russia must act — thousands are dying every week”

U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Russia to immediately start peace negotiations to end the war. He posted the statement on his Truth Social account.

“Russia must act. Too many people are dying — thousands of casualties every week,” Trump wrote.

Witkoff to meet Putin for negotiations
The statement came shortly before Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff was set to travel to Russia and meet with President Vladimir Putin.

Reports say the two sides are expected to discuss potential ceasefire conditions. Witkoff had earlier met with Kirill Dmitriev, Russia’s envoy for international economic cooperation and head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund.

New sanctions if Russia refuses?
According to Axios, Trump’s team warned that if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire, new sanctions may be imposed by the end of April.

Trump described Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as “a senseless and horrific war.”

Prisoner swap also completed
On April 11, U.S. and Russian officials conducted a prisoner exchange in Abu Dhabi:

• Russia released Ksenia Karelia, a dual U.S.–Russian citizen;
  
• The U.S. returned Artur Petrov, who was detained in Cyprus in 2023 and holds German and Russian citizenship. He was suspected of illegally exporting U.S.-made microelectronics.
  

Trump: “Glad you’re home”
Trump shared Karelia’s thank-you video on his Truth Social page, writing:
“Glad you’re home.”

What do you think — can Trump’s active stance help end the war faster?