U.S. President Donald Trump characterized his recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin as “lengthy and highly productive,” stating that both leaders had agreed to begin negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine.
In a statement on his Truth Social platform, Trump revealed that both parties had instructed their teams to initiate discussions without delay.
Shortly after, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that he, too, had spoken with Trump regarding efforts to establish a “lasting and reliable peace.”
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These developments coincided with remarks from Trump and his defense secretary, suggesting that Ukraine’s chances of joining NATO were slim—a position that could be disappointing for Kyiv.
Zelensky later announced plans to meet with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at an upcoming Ukraine defense summit in Munich.
On social media, Trump reiterated his stance that it was time to end what he called a “ridiculous war” marked by “massive and totally unnecessary death and destruction.” He extended his support to both Russian and Ukrainian citizens.
Although no date was set for an in-person meeting, Trump told reporters at the White House that he and Putin would hold talks in Saudi Arabia. He added that both leaders had extended invitations to visit each other’s capitals.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed Putin’s approval of Trump’s proposal to advance peace talks. Peskov stated that their conversation lasted approximately 90 minutes, during which Putin invited Trump to Moscow.
Trump also commented on Ukraine’s territorial integrity, suggesting that it was unlikely Kyiv would reclaim all of its pre-2014 borders, though he speculated that “some of that land will come back.” His remarks echoed those of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who recently stated at a NATO summit that Ukraine’s membership in the alliance was unlikely.
Following Trump’s engagement with Putin, several European nations—including the UK, France, and Germany—issued a statement emphasizing their role in any future negotiations on Ukraine. They stressed the importance of security guarantees for Kyiv and reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the U.S. on the matter.
The shift in U.S. foreign policy under Trump, particularly his more cautious stance on Ukraine, has been met with approval in Moscow.
Zelensky has consistently asserted that Ukraine must be directly involved in any peace negotiations. However, Trump’s direct discussions with Putin have raised concerns about Kyiv’s level of influence in determining its own future.
The war, now nearing its third year since Russia’s full-scale invasion, has led to significant territorial losses for Ukraine. While Kyiv successfully defended its capital, Russian forces continue to occupy vast areas in the eastern and southern regions. Both sides remain engaged in ongoing airstrikes and counterattacks, with Ukraine recently targeting Russia’s Kursk region.
Casualty figures remain difficult to verify due to government restrictions on reporting, but estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands—mainly soldiers—have been killed or wounded. Additionally, millions of Ukrainian civilians have been displaced, with many seeking refuge in other countries.
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