Trump Announces Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Talks After Putin Call

On the 19th, Donald Trump held a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Following the call, Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine would immediately commence negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire. Trump emphasized that these negotiations are not only about stopping the fighting but also about ending the war entirely. The specific terms of the agreement would be determined through bilateral discussions, as both parties possess unique insights into the negotiation process.

Trump described the tone and atmosphere of the call as positive, noting that Russia expressed a desire to engage in large-scale trade with the U.S. following the resolution of the conflict. He endorsed this idea, highlighting the potential for both Russia and Ukraine to benefit economically from trade during the post-conflict reconstruction phase. Trump also mentioned that the Vatican has expressed a willingness to mediate the negotiations.

Following his conversation with Putin, Trump also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as well as the leaders of France, Italy, Germany, and Finland. These discussions underscored the international community's interest in resolving the conflict through diplomatic means.

In response to Trump's announcement, Putin issued a statement indicating that the call was productive and constructive. He reiterated Russia's commitment to a peaceful resolution of the crisis, emphasizing the need for more effective pathways to peace. Putin mentioned that the resumption of talks in Istanbul is a positive step forward. He also stated that Russia is prepared to work with Ukraine on drafting a memorandum outlining the principles for a future peace agreement, including specific terms for a ceasefire and the timeline for signing a peace treaty.

Zelenskyy, in his remarks following the call with Trump, reiterated Ukraine's key demands: an immediate ceasefire, continued sanctions against Russia, and the exclusion of Ukraine from any decisions made without its involvement. He noted that Trump had informed him about the discussions between the U.S. and Russia on a memorandum that could serve as the foundation for a ceasefire and eventual peace agreement. Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine's willingness to engage in direct negotiations with Russia, provided that the terms are acceptable and do not involve territorial concessions or the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from its territory.

Zelenskyy also emphasized that Ukraine is open to negotiations in various formats and locations, including Turkey, the Vatican, and Switzerland. However, he made it clear that Ukraine will not compromise on its territorial integrity and will not withdraw its troops from its sovereign land. The principles for ending the war, as outlined by Ukraine, include a ceasefire, the exchange of prisoners, and the return of Ukrainian children.

The developments highlight the complex and delicate nature of the negotiations, with all parties expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue while maintaining their respective positions. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.