Russia and Ukraine to Begin Immediate Ceasefire Talks, Says Trump
Washington, DC — US President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine will “immediately” begin negotiations for a ceasefire and an end to the war, following a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump described the call as having gone “very well” and stated that while he facilitated communication, “conditions for peace” must be negotiated directly between Kyiv and Moscow.
📞 Multiple High-Level Calls
Trump also held a separate call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who called it a “defining moment” and urged the US to remain actively involved in peace efforts. Zelensky stressed the importance of a “full and unconditional ceasefire”, adding that Ukraine would consider stronger sanctions if Moscow refuses to cooperate.
“These are matters of principle for Ukraine. No decisions should be made without us,” Zelensky said.
📝 Putin’s Proposal for Peace Memorandum
Speaking from a music school in Sochi, Putin confirmed that Russia is willing to work with Ukraine on a memorandum outlining a possible peace agreement, which could include:
- Principles for settlement
- Ceasefire timeline
- Framework for future negotiations
Putin described his discussion with Trump as “frank, informative, and constructive.”
🗨️ Trump on Truth Social:
“Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the war,” Trump posted.
“Only the two parties know the necessary details to negotiate a workable agreement.”
🇺🇸 International Involvement Encouraged
Zelensky insisted that both American and European leaders must be involved at a high level, warning that US disengagement would only empower Putin.
Following Trump’s call with Putin, a second joint call included:
- Zelensky
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
- Leaders of France, Germany, Italy, and Finland
Von der Leyen praised Trump’s efforts and emphasized:
“It’s important the US stays engaged.”
Italian PM Giorgia Meloni confirmed that Pope Leo’s offer to host peace talks at the Vatican was well received by all parties involved.
⚔️ Tensions Still High on the Ground
Despite diplomatic developments, violence continues:
- Ukraine accused Russia of killing 9 civilians in a minibus attack in the northeast.
- Russia claimed it intercepted Ukrainian drone strikes.
- The recent attack came just hours after a rare prisoner swap — the first face-to-face meeting between the two countries in over three years.
Zelensky’s aide, Andriy Yermak, said:
“Putin wants war,” expressing skepticism about Russia’s intentions.
🕊️ Past Ceasefires Lacked Credibility
- Russia previously declared temporary truces, including an 8–11 May ceasefire for WWII victory celebrations and a 30-hour Easter truce.
- Both sides accused each other of violations, and Kyiv refused to recognize them as genuine efforts for peace.
