Morning headlines focused on Putin's qualified acceptance of a ceasefire proposal, which Zelensky denounced as "manipulative" while Trump showed "signs of impatience." This diplomatic chess continued as Putin met with Trump's emissary Witkoff, after which the Kremlin expressed "cautious optimism."
By midday, Trump announced a "productive" call with Putin while urging him to "spare the lives" of Ukrainian soldiers supposedly surrounded in Kursk. Ukrainian officials promptly rejected Trump's characterization of their military situation.
The G7 threatened Russia with new sanctions if it rejected the ceasefire proposal, while Macron criticized Russia's "delaying statements" and urged acceptance of the American proposal.
Economic headlines reported gold prices surpassing $3,000 amid Trump's trade threats against European goods. Despite fiscal concerns, France maintained its AA- credit rating from Fitch, though with a negative outlook.