Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded to US President Donald Trump’s recent appeal to release Ukrainian soldiers. In a statement on Friday, Trump called for the freeing of Ukrainian forces, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Putin, in return, assured that if Ukrainian soldiers surrender, their lives would be spared. He stated that under international law and Russian Federation regulations, the lives of surrendered soldiers would be guaranteed, ensuring they are treated appropriately.

Trump, in a social media post, shared his positive conversation with Putin, expressing optimism about the war ending soon. On the other hand, Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s Security Council Deputy Chairman, warned that if Ukrainian forces refused to surrender, they would be eliminated ruthlessly. In a statement, Trump emphasized that there is a high probability of ending this bloody war if the leaders agree to ceasefire discussions. He has urged both Moscow and Kyiv to come to the table and avoid an escalation that could lead to a third world war.