On May 19, 2025, President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine would “immediately” commence negotiations aimed at ending their ongoing war. This declaration followed a two-hour phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which Trump described as “excellent.”
Subsequently, Trump held a joint call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and leaders from the European Union, France, Italy, Germany, and Finland to inform them of the upcoming negotiations. He proposed the Vatican, under newly appointed Pope Leo, as a potential host for the talks, citing the Vatican’s interest in mediation.
The White House said Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin for about two hours, after speaking with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier in the day.
Trump has been pushing for a 30-day ceasefire in the war, and the White House said before Monday’s calls that he was frustrated with both sides.
The president called for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine before entering office, and more than two months of direct diplomacy has failed to get Putin to agree to even basic terms.
The Russian leader emphasized that a ceasefire would depend on addressing the “root causes” of the conflict and reiterated Moscow’s longstanding demands, including Ukraine’s withdrawal from the Donbas region, a commitment to not join NATO, lifting sanctions on Russia, and constitutional changes regarding neutrality and the Russian language.
Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed readiness for a ceasefire but insisted on certain conditions being met first. He emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to real diplomatic efforts and called for sustained pressure on Russia.
The announcement has prompted a wave of diplomatic activity, with European leaders coordinating discussions around these developments. The Vatican has offered to host future negotiations, but no dates have been confirmed.
While the initiation of talks marks a potential step toward resolving the conflict, significant challenges remain, given the complex demands and conditions set forth, particularly by the Kremlin.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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Gee, I though Zelensky said he could not act without his government’s approval??? As of MAY 2024, Zelensky is no longer the elected President of Ukraine. He’s a stand in
Have an election NOW and then let the legal President of Ukraine lead their peace talks.