In a significant diplomatic development, US President Donald Trump reported a “lengthy and highly productive” phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which both leaders expressed a commitment to “immediately” commence negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This announcement marks a notable shift in the dynamics of US-Russia relations.
Trump shared details of the conversation on his platform, Truth Social, revealing that both presidents extended invitations to visit each other’s countries. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating he would be reaching out to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky “right now” to brief him on their discussion.
According to the Kremlin, the call lasted an impressive one and a half hours, during which both leaders concurred that the “time has come to work together” to find a resolution to the war, which has been ongoing since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Putin expressed optimism that a “long-term settlement” could be achieved and formally invited Trump to Moscow to continue discussions.
The phone call occurred in the wake of a recent prisoner exchange, in which the US released Russian cryptocurrency figure Alexander Vinnik in exchange for American teacher Marc Fogel. This event has been viewed as contributing to a thaw in relations between the two nations.
In his post, Trump praised Putin, noting that the Russian leader even referenced Trump’s campaign motto, “COMMON SENSE,” during their conversation. The US leader highlighted their mutual desire to “stop the millions of deaths taking place in the War with Russia/Ukraine,” although he utilized an unverified figure for the war’s toll.
Trump elaborated on their consensus to closely collaborate, including reciprocal visits to their respective nations. He articulated a belief in the potential success of the upcoming negotiations, announcing that he had tasked several key figures with leading the diplomatic efforts. Among those appointed were US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
This announcement suggests a shift toward a more engaged dialogue between the United States and Russia, with the potential for significant implications for the future of the Ukraine conflict and international relations at large.
