Updated March 19th 2025, 10:22 IST
New Delhi: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday held a crucial phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin amid ongoing ceasefire discussions regarding the Ukraine conflict. The much-anticipated conversation described as "very good and productive," Trump emphasised on the leaders’ shared commitment to ending hostilities in the region.
During the call, Trump stated that both leaders agreed on 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." He further reiterated his belief that the conflict would not have begun under his administration.
“This War would have never started if I were President! Many elements of a Contract for Peace were discussed, including the fact that thousands of soldiers are being killed, and both President Putin and President Zelenskyy would like to see it end. That process is now in full force and effect, and we will, hopefully, for the sake of Humanity, get the job done!” Trump said.
Following the conversation, the White House released a statement affirming progress toward a peaceful resolution.
Today, President Trump and President Putin spoke about the need for peace and a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. 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. This conflict should never have started and should have been ended long ago with sincere and good faith peace efforts. The leaders agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, full ceasefire and permanent peace. These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East," it said in its statement.
The statement highlighted the first step towards peace, including a ceasefire agreement on energy and infrastructure. Additionally, technical discussions on a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and broader negotiations for a complete ceasefire would commence immediately in the Middle East.
The leaders also spoke about broader geopolitical issues, including concerns in the Middle East and non-proliferation of strategic weapons. Both expressed a shared belief that Iran should never be in a position to threaten Israel.
Moscow confirmed the conversation and expressed gratitude for Trump's willingness to mediate a peaceful resolution.
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According to the Kremlin’s statement, President Vladimir Putin thanked Donald Trump for his efforts to facilitate the noble goal of ending hostilities and human losses. He reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful resolution that is comprehensive, sustainable, and long-term, taking into account Russia’s legitimate security interests.
Putin also addressed the conditions for an effective ceasefire, stressing the need for strict enforcement, halting Ukraine's forced mobilization, and preventing further Western military assistance to Kyiv. Concerns were raised about Kyiv’s history of disregarding previous agreements, which Russia sees as a key challenge in achieving sustainable peace.
During the discussion, Putin acknowledged Trump’s appeal to ensure the safety of Ukrainian soldiers trapped in Russian-controlled areas. He confirmed Russia’s willingness to abide by humanitarian principles, ensuring fair treatment and safety for any Ukrainian servicemen who surrender.
Both leaders recognized the importance of stabilizing global relations and discussed economic cooperation opportunities post-conflict. Areas of potential collaboration included trade, energy, and diplomacy. As a symbolic gesture, Trump reportedly supported Putin’s idea of organizing friendly hockey matches between Russian and American players from the NHL and KHL.
The leaders agreed to maintain open communication and establish expert groups to oversee ceasefire implementation and peace negotiations. Further discussions will focus on strategic stability, nuclear non-proliferation, and economic partnerships.
Both sides acknowledged their nations’ unique responsibilities in maintaining global security and agreed that improved U.S.-Russia relations could pave the way for economic growth and geopolitical stability.
Published March 19th 2025, 10:22 IST