Trump, Putin wrap 2-hour call, no ceasefire advances made
President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a two-hour phone call on Monday, with the aim of urging Russia to put an end to its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Both leaders characterized the call positively, with Putin describing it as “frank” and “useful.” However, the specific outcomes of the conversation are not immediately clear.
Trump took to social media to commend the call, stating that it went “very well” and expressing optimism that negotiations between Russia and Ukraine would lead to a ceasefire and ultimately bring an end to the war. He emphasized that the details of the negotiation process would be determined by the two parties involved.
In a statement following the call, Putin acknowledged the possibility of a ceasefire with Ukraine but stressed the need for compromises that would be acceptable to both sides. Despite efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in Turkey on Friday, details of these compromises remain uncertain.
The ceasefire talks faltered after the Ukrainian delegation rejected demands from the Russian side, including the complete withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four regions that Russia annexed in 2022. These regions include Kherson, Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia.
The Russian delegation also reportedly insisted that the international community recognize the annexed regions as part of Russia and cease providing aid to Ukraine, including plans to deploy peacekeeping forces once the conflict ends.
Following the call, Trump informed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and several European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, Emmanuel Macron, Giorgia Meloni, Friedrich Merz, and Alexander Stubb, about the discussions. He also mentioned that the Vatican expressed interest in hosting future negotiations.
While Trump urged the commencement of the negotiation process, he highlighted that previous attempts at mediation between Ukraine and Russia, led by the U.S., began in March. The Vatican, represented by Pope Leo XIV, echoed a similar sentiment, expressing willingness to facilitate dialogue and negotiations to restore peace and dignity to the affected populations.
As the diplomatic efforts continue, the international community awaits further developments in the quest for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.
Caitlin McFall is a Reporter at Fox News Digital covering Politics, U.S., and World news.
