Former President Donald Trump announced that he has spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of efforts to promote peace in Ukraine. This conversation came after Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and various European leaders at the White House.
In a statement shared on Truth Social, Trump revealed that he initiated arrangements for a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy. He emphasized that these discussions are vital for addressing the prolonged conflict, which has lasted almost four years.
Following the dialogues with European leaders, Trump indicated that he would also facilitate a trilateral meeting involving both presidents and himself. “This was a very good, early step,” he noted.
Yury Ushakov, a senior aide to Putin, described their phone call as “candid and very constructive.” He indicated that Putin is open to direct negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian delegations, a promising development in the pursuit of peace.
During discussions, it emerged that Trump’s call to Putin aligned with talks President Zelenskyy had earlier in the day. Reports suggest that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated Putin agreed to meet with Zelenskyy in two weeks.
Trump was heard in a private moment with French President Emmanuel Macron, expressing his belief that Putin is eager to reach a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
After the White House meetings, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude towards Trump and the European leaders for their commitment to peace. He remarked on the detailed discussions held, covering significant issues such as battlefield conditions and humanitarian concerns.
Zelenskyy also highlighted the United States’ readiness to support peace guarantees, particularly regarding the return of children and the release of prisoners of war. He thanked Trump for backing a leaders’ meeting, which he deemed essential for addressing sensitive matters.
The situation remains dynamic, with many eyes on the upcoming discussions.
