End of Ukraine War in Sight? What Transpired Between Trump-Putin's Hour-Long Call

Ukraine War Latest News: In a high-stakes conversation lasting over two hours, US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin reached an agreement to temporarily halt strikes on energy and infrastructure targets in the Ukraine war.

However, Putin refrained from supporting a broader 30-day ceasefire that the US administration has been advocating.

The White House characterised the agreement as an initial step toward a “movement to peace,” expressing hope that it would eventually lead to a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and a comprehensive, lasting end to the conflict.

Moreover, the White House stated that negotiations on these measures would “begin immediately” in the Middle East. However, shortly after the Trump-Putin call, air raid sirens blared in Kyiv, followed by explosions. Local officials urged residents to take shelter.  

What Transpired During Trump-Putin Call?

Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin stressed on the need for a lasting peace. Both leaders agreed that the conflict should have ended long ago and stressed the importance of improving bilateral ties between the United States and Russia.

According to a White House readout, Trump and Putin concurred that the "blood and treasure" spent by both Ukraine and Russia in the war would be better directed toward the needs of their people. As a step toward de-escalation, they agreed to an immediate ceasefire targeting energy and infrastructure facilities, alongside technical negotiations for a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea. Talks on a full ceasefire and permanent peace are set to begin immediately in the Middle East.

The discussion also covered broader geopolitical issues, with both leaders seeing the Middle East as a potential area for cooperation to prevent future conflicts. They stressed on the importance of curbing the proliferation of strategic weapons and agreed to engage with other nations to ensure its widest possible enforcement. Notably, they shared the view that Iran should never be in a position to threaten Israel’s existence.

Looking beyond the Ukraine war, Trump and Putin acknowledged that a strengthened U.S.-Russia relationship could lead to significant economic opportunities and enhanced geopolitical stability. The two leaders expressed optimism that peace would pave the way for "enormous economic deals" benefiting both nations.

‘Very Good And Productive Conversation’

Trump, on the other hand, said he had a "very good and productive" conversation with Putin, during which they agreed to an immediate ceasefire on energy and infrastructure targets in Ukraine. He claimed that efforts were now underway for a "Complete Ceasefire" and an end to the war.

Taking to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump asserted that the war between Russia and Ukraine would never have begun if he were still president.

"We agreed to an immediate Ceasefire on all Energy and Infrastructure, with an understanding that we will be working quickly to have a Complete Ceasefire and, ultimately, an END to this very horrible War between Russia and Ukraine," Trump wrote.

He also indicated that a "Contract for Peace" was discussed, emphasizing that both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy want the conflict to end. "That process is now in full force and effect, and we will, hopefully, for the sake of Humanity, get the job done!" he added.

'Putin And Trump Speaking for The Second Time in 2 Weeks'

Russian lawmaker Vyacheslav Nikonov emphasized that the Russia-Ukraine peace talks are still in their early phases. He highlighted the importance of the recent discussions between Putin and Trump, pointing out that this marks their second conversation in just two weeks.

“This is only the starting point of peace negotiations,” Nikonov noted. “Putin and Trump are engaging in direct talks again, which is significant considering it's only the second such exchange between a Russian and American president in the past three years. We have successfully reopened diplomatic channels, co-sponsored United Nations Security Council resolutions, and reestablished our ambassadorial presence in the U.S. This is the beginning of what could be a long and potentially fruitful process.”

When Putin Set Condition Before Talks

Ahead of talks, Putin demanded that all weapons deliveries to Ukraine be halted during the 30-day ceasefire proposed by the United States president, Bloomberg News reported. According to the report, the Kremlin insisted that arms supplies from both the United States and Europe should stop, though the immediate priority is to block US military aid to Ukraine.