Trump, Putin Agree to Ceasefire Talks, Vatican to Host

Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine would immediately commence negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire and ending the ongoing conflict. This revelation came after a two-hour telephone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump emphasized that the specific terms of the ceasefire would be determined through direct negotiations between the two parties, as they possess the detailed knowledge necessary for such discussions.

Trump highlighted the positive tone and atmosphere of the conversation, noting that both leaders agreed on the importance of resolving the conflict. He further stated that Russia has the potential to create substantial employment and wealth through expanded trade with the United States, a prospect he supports. Similarly, Trump mentioned that Ukraine stands to benefit significantly from increased trade opportunities.

Following the call, Trump promptly informed several key international leaders about the outcome, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb. Additionally, Trump revealed that the Vatican has expressed a strong interest in hosting the negotiations, with the Pope himself indicating a willingness to facilitate the process.

Putin, in his remarks, described the conversation as "very frank and valuable," and confirmed that both leaders had agreed to cooperate on the details of a potential peace memorandum. This memorandum would outline the principles of a solution, the timeline for a potential peace agreement, and the conditions under which a temporary ceasefire could be implemented. However, Putin did not provide specific details on the conditions required for a resolution or the timeline for a ceasefire.

Putin also noted the significance of the recent direct talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul, which marked the first such negotiations in three years. He emphasized that these talks were a positive step towards resolving the crisis. This call was the third official conversation between Trump and Putin since Trump returned to the White House in January. Trump had also previously spoken with Ukrainian President Zelensky.

The announcement of immediate ceasefire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by the Vatican, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict. The involvement of international leaders and the potential for expanded trade opportunities highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. As the negotiations proceed, the focus will be on the specific terms and conditions agreed upon by both parties, with the ultimate goal of achieving a lasting peace.