Putin agreed to suspend attacks in Kyiv amid winter: Trump

US President Donald Trump has said that Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed, at his personal request, to temporarily suspend attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities.

Speaking at a Cabinet meeting at the White House on Thursday (January 29), Trump said he asked Putin to halt strikes for one week, citing the severe winter hardships faced by civilians in Ukraine.

“I personally requested it. He agreed. I would say this is a very positive development,” Trump said.

The announcement comes amid widespread power, heating, and water shortages in Ukraine following repeated Russian attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure, leaving millions exposed to extreme cold.

Trump described the conditions as “record-breaking winter” comparable to extreme cold in Washington, warning that Ukrainian citizens have never faced such circumstances before.

The Kremlin has not formally confirmed Trump’s claim. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the US for its role, expressing confidence in Washington to help ensure the temporary pause is implemented.

Trump did not specify when discussions with Putin took place or the exact start of the alleged ceasefire. He added that despite advice from some to avoid the issue, Putin ultimately consented to the temporary halt.