Vladimir Putin wants peace for Russia, Ukraine, President Trump says
Following his phone calls with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine, President Donald Trump expressed optimism that peace talks between the two warring nations are on the horizon. Trump, after speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin, seemed confident that Putin is genuine in his efforts to seek a peace deal.
During a press conference outside the White House, a reporter asked Trump if he believes Putin wants peace, to which Trump responded affirmatively. He also stated that he trusts Putin, indicating that he believes the Russian leader is sincere in his desire to end the conflict.
Later in the day, after attending an event honoring fallen law enforcement officers, Trump reiterated his belief that Putin is tired of the war in Ukraine and expressed hope for progress in the peace talks. However, he appeared less certain about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s commitment to the process, stating that he would have a clearer answer in the coming weeks.
Trump also mentioned the possibility of involving Pope Leo XIV in facilitating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, suggesting that holding negotiations at the Vatican could help alleviate tensions between the two nations.
Following his call with Putin, Trump took to social media to announce that Russia and Ukraine would begin negotiations towards a ceasefire and ultimately an end to the war. Both leaders described the call positively, with Putin calling it frank and useful. However, the specifics of the negotiations and potential compromises remain unclear.
In the lead up to the talks, Trump also spoke with other world leaders, including U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, to discuss the urgency of reaching a ceasefire agreement. Despite previous failed negotiations in Turkey, Trump remains hopeful that progress can be made with Putin at the helm.
Currently, Russia occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine’s landmass, with the conflict at a virtual stalemate. Reports indicate that Russia has suffered significant casualties in the war, prompting renewed efforts for a peaceful resolution.
As the negotiations progress, the international community watches closely to see if a ceasefire agreement can be reached and bring an end to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
