WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreeing to a limited ceasefire in Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“Russia’s reported acceptance of a limited ceasefire on attacks on energy infrastructure and the pending release of prisoners of war from both Russia and Ukraine is welcome news. It falls far short of the full 30-day pause that Ukraine agreed to unequivocally over a week ago, however. If Putin and President Trump are sincerely pursuing a viable peace agreement, why does Putin refuse to comply with the same terms Ukraine accepted?

“I also have serious questions about what President Trump has promised Putin in exchange for a partial agreement that gives Russia economic relief while allowing it to continue attacking Ukrainian forces, especially given that President Trump has been unwilling to put any pressure on Putin. Instead, he continues to choose to pressure Ukraine, severely undercutting their ability to survive, let alone be in a position where they are able to negotiate a just and sustainable end to Putin’s war.

“Selling out Ukraine by lifting sanctions on Russia and allowing Putin to dictate the terms of a ceasefire will damage U.S. interests and national security. It will likely further whet Putin’s appetite to seize more territory in his bid to build a new Russian empire. That further threatens the stability of the region and the world—including endangering U.S. national security.

“Putin started this war and only he can end it. He won’t stop it until he is shown he cannot achieve his goal of taking over all of Ukraine. That includes applying pressure on Putin and providing arms and intelligence support for Ukraine to deter Russia while working with allies and partners to support lasting security for Ukraine in the future.”