WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump announced that negotiations to end the Ukraine war will begin immediately after speaking with Vladimir Putin.
The call, held Wednesday morning, marked the first known conversation between Trump and Putin since his inauguration last month.
This discussion followed Russia’s release of an American citizen imprisoned in the country, raising hopes for future diplomacy.
Trump administration officials see this exchange as a potential breakthrough in efforts to resolve the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
The war is nearing its fourth year, making negotiations crucial for achieving long-term stability in the region.
Key Discussion
Trump shared details of his conversation with Putin through a statement posted on Truth Social.
He said they discussed Ukraine, the Middle East, energy, artificial intelligence, and the power of the U.S. dollar.
According to the Kremlin, the conversation between the two leaders lasted nearly 90 minutes.
Trump had previously expressed his intention to engage with Putin to seek a peaceful resolution to the war.
This call aligns with his broader diplomatic strategy to strengthen relations with Russia.
Immediate Action
Trump emphasized that both sides agreed to start negotiations immediately to end the war in Ukraine.
He announced plans to call Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to inform him about the discussion with Putin.
“We agreed to work together closely, including visiting each other’s nations,” Trump said in his statement.
His administration aims to establish a negotiation framework that includes input from both Ukraine and Russia.
Trump’s approach contrasts with that of his predecessor, President Joe Biden, who had not spoken to Putin in years.
Past Diplomacy
Biden’s last conversation with Putin occurred nearly three years ago amid growing tensions between the U.S. and Russia.
The last U.S. president to visit Russia was Barack Obama, who attended a G20 summit in 2013.
Trump’s willingness to engage with Putin signals a shift in U.S. foreign policy toward Russia.
Some analysts believe this renewed dialogue could redefine global diplomacy and reshape alliances.
Others remain skeptical, citing past challenges in negotiating with Russia on security matters.
Future Relations
Steve Witkoff, one of Trump’s top negotiators, highlighted the significance of Russia’s release of Marc Fogel.
Fogel, a wrongfully detained American, was freed shortly before Trump’s conversation with Putin.
Witkoff called this development a sign of potential progress in negotiations to end the Ukraine war.
He suggested that Trump’s relationship with Putin could foster better diplomatic ties between the two nations.
“I think they had a great friendship, and I believe it will continue in a positive direction,” Witkoff stated.
Global Impact
Trump’s announcement has sparked global interest, with many watching how negotiations will unfold.
The success of these talks could determine the future of European security and U.S.-Russia relations.
While some see Trump’s approach as promising, others fear it may lead to uncertain outcomes.
The next steps will involve direct communication with Ukraine and additional diplomatic efforts.
Trump remains optimistic that his strategy will bring an end to the conflict and restore peace.
