In a significant phone call today, President Donald J. Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed ending the Ukraine war, emphasizing the urgent need for a lasting peace. The White House readout highlighted their agreement to kickstart peace efforts with an initial ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure, followed by technical negotiations for a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and a comprehensive peace deal. These talks are set to begin immediately in the Middle East.
Both leaders lamented the prolonged conflict, noting that resources spent on the war could better serve their citizens. They also explored broader cooperation, including preventing future Middle East conflicts and curbing strategic weapons proliferation, while sharing a stance against Iran’s potential to threaten Israel.
The call underscored a mutual vision for improved U.S.-Russia relations, with Trump and Putin agreeing that such a shift could unlock "enormous economic deals" and enhance geopolitical stability. This development marks a pivotal step toward de-escalating one of Europe’s deadliest conflicts since World War II.