Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine would begin immediate ceasefire negotiations following a lengthy phone call with Vladimir Putin.
The two-hour conversation, described by Trump as “excellent in tone and spirit,” aimed to jumpstart peace efforts in the three-year-long conflict.
Putin confirmed readiness to discuss a future peace agreement but did not commit to Trump’s call for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire.
Trump said the talks, to begin Monday, would seek not just a truce but “an END to the War,” echoing a key campaign promise.
He added that the Vatican—now led by Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff—could serve as a host for the talks.
Putin, speaking to Russian media, called the conversation “very informative” and praised the recent Istanbul meetings as progress toward peace.
He said Russia was prepared to draft a memorandum with Ukraine, though further compromises would be required from both sides.
Trump reportedly spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky before the Putin call and updated other European leaders afterward.
The White House acknowledged Trump’s frustration, with Vice President JD Vance warning that continued Russian resistance could test U.S. support.
Vance stated, “If Russia is not willing to do that, then we’re eventually just going to have to say, this is not our war.”
Despite clashes with Zelensky earlier this year, Trump has avoided directly criticising Putin but remains wary of being misled.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed sanctions remained on the table and said Trump still hoped for a face-to-face meeting with Putin.
Last week’s talks in Istanbul—the first in three years—failed to yield a ceasefire, prompting Trump to act.
Ukraine continues to face heavy Russian bombardment, with 112 drones launched overnight and fighting reported in Sumy and Donetsk.