Washington: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated Wednesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin might be persuaded to agree to a ceasefire through sustained pressure. Rutte made these remarks during a news conference at the White House alongside US President Donald Trump.

According to Anadolu Agency, Rutte expressed confidence that consistent pressure could bring Putin to the negotiating table for a ceasefire, potentially leading to further discussions. He discussed with Trump the possible contributions of NATO to ending the Russia-Ukraine war and outlined steps to convince Putin to accept a ceasefire.

Rutte highlighted Trump's unique position and vision, suggesting that Trump could effectively engage with Putin to alter his approach. He emphasized the US's active role in providing security guarantees to Ukraine, noting close cooperation with countries such as Canada, Japan, and Australia, alongside European nations, within the security framework.

Earlier at the White House, Trump conveyed his frustration over the stagnant progress in negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine. His comments coincided with the US imposing new sanctions on Russia's largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, due to Moscow's perceived lack of commitment to the peace process.