In a high-stakes 90-minute call, US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, discussed the urgent need for peace and a ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Both leaders acknowledged the devastating toll of the conflict and emphasised that the resources spent on war would be better utilised for the welfare of their respective nations.

"Both leaders agreed this conflict needs to end with a lasting peace. They also stressed the need for improved bilateral relations between the United States and Russia. The blood and treasure that both Ukraine and Russia have been spending in this war would be better spent on the needs of their people," read a statement from the White House. 

The discussion centred on initiating peace efforts, beginning with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, followed by negotiations on implementing a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea. The leaders agreed that these talks, aimed at achieving a full and lasting ceasefire, would commence immediately in the Middle East.

Beyond Ukraine, Trump and Putin also explored broader geopolitical concerns, particularly in the Middle East. They expressed a shared commitment to preventing future conflicts and limiting the proliferation of strategic weapons. The conversation notably included a discussion on Iran, with both leaders concurring that Iran should never be in a position to threaten Israel’s existence.

Earlier, Russian envoy Dmitriev also hinted at a potential shift in global stability, stating, “Under the leadership of President Putin and President Trump, the world has become a much safer place today.” His cryptic remark has fueled speculation about whether the discussion focused on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, arms control, or broader diplomatic efforts between the two nations.

 

White House Signals Progress On Ceasefire Negotiations

Before the call concluded, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino provided an update on social media, indicating that the discussion was “going well.” This call comes at a crucial time, as the White House claims to be making progress on negotiating a temporary ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. According to sources familiar with the talks, one of the key objectives was to secure an agreement on what concessions Russia might be willing to make.

Discussions likely included whether Moscow would consider withdrawing its forces from territories it has occupied over the past three years since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Trump Hints At Potential Territorial Negotiations

While aboard Air Force One on Sunday, President Trump hinted at the nature of the discussions, suggesting that US negotiators have explored “dividing up certain assets.”

Although he did not elaborate, this statement has raised concerns about whether any potential settlement could involve territorial compromises.

Key Officials Present At White House During Call

As the call between Trump and Putin took place, key figures in the administration, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, were reportedly present at the White House. Their involvement suggests the discussion carried considerable weight in shaping US foreign policy toward Russia and Ukraine.