January 1, Zelenskyy Pushes Talks as Trump Sets Deadline

Wyatt’s Take

• Zelenskyy thanks Trump for trying to end the war
• Trump moves nuclear subs after Russian threat
• Russia bombs Kyiv as peace talks stall

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised Donald Trump’s efforts to end the war in Ukraine and urged for direct talks with Russia. Trump made moves to deter Russia, while violence continues in Kyiv.

“We see and support President Trump’s efforts to end Russia’s war, to stop the killing, and to achieve a dignified and lasting peace. We are grateful to everyone around the world who supports peace efforts and helps us protect lives,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.

He called on Russia to join leader-level talks, saying Ukraine supports America’s push for real negotiations. According to Zelenskyy, “What is needed is Russia’s readiness.”

Trump responded to threats from former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev by moving two nuclear submarines for precaution.

“Based on the highly provocative statements of the former President of Russia, Dmitry Medvedev, who is now the Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, I have ordered two nuclear submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions, just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that. Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences. I hope this will not be one of those instances,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

The U.S. set a deadline for peace talks to end the war within one week. Acting U.S. Representative John Kelley said at the United Nations, “Both Russia and Ukraine must negotiate a ceasefire and durable peace. It is time to make a deal. President Trump has made clear this must be done by August 8. The United States is prepared to implement additional measures to secure peace.”

Kelley also named China, North Korea, and Iran as countries helping Russia’s war machine, though China hasn’t shipped weapons directly. He urged all countries to stop aiding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Despite these actions, Russia bombed Kyiv, killing 31 people including five children and wounding many. Russian officials claim they want peace, but their airstrikes show otherwise.

“We are not seeking to destroy [Ukraine], its culture or its identity. We would like Ukrainian [and] Russian cultures coexist in this country, as it used to be for decades without any problems or conflicts,” Russia’s Mission to the U.N. wrote on X.

Many in Ukraine are left picking up the pieces after another deadly assault, while global leaders talk but haven’t ended the suffering.

Stay informed about these high-stakes talks and what they could mean for America’s future.

Wyatt Matters

Americans know that securing peace should put the safety of families first and stand against foreign threats. When it comes to war and peace, straight talk and real action matter more than politics.

Read the full story here