**Trump Equates Russia-Ukraine Conflict to "Children Fighting," Signals Potential Withdrawal from Peace Efforts**

President Trump on Thursday likened the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine to "children fighting in the park," suggesting it may be better to let them continue their struggle for a time. This analogy highlights his view that neither nation is ready to make peace and indicates he may be reconsidering his initiative to mediate a resolution.

During a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Trump recounted how he had shared this analogy with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a phone call on Wednesday. Trump's remarks come amidst rising questions about whether he will impose new sanctions on Russia or permit the sanctions bill advocated by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) to proceed.

Chancellor Merz, while expressing his views tactfully, urged President Trump to adopt a tougher stance on Putin, implying that Trump's intervention could potentially halt the conflict through increased pressure on the Russian leader.

In a related development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other European leaders joined a conference call with Trump immediately after his conversation with Putin on Monday. They were anticipating news of a ceasefire agreement, or, failing that, an announcement of U.S. penalties against Putin for non-compliance. However, Trump's apparent hesitance to take definitive action left some participants "surprised" or "shocked," according to sources.

Throughout his presidency, Trump has shifted his position on Ukraine, often appearing to accommodate Putin's interests even when receiving little in return. Critics argue that Trump is being manipulated, with Putin having no genuine intention of seeking peace. Conversely, White House officials maintain confidence that Putin is on the verge of making concrete moves towards a peace deal.

In a notable twist, President Trump on Thursday also called for an "ideally 30-day unconditional ceasefire" between Russia and Ukraine, backed by a threat of sanctions if the ceasefire is not honored. The impact of this pronouncement on the battlefield remains uncertain, but it signifies a new turn in the ongoing diplomatic efforts.