Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump engaged in a highly anticipated phone conversation on Tuesday, focusing on a possible resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. The discussion lasted two and a half hours, with both the White House and the Kremlin characterizing it as constructive. Below are the main points from their dialogue.
Ceasefire Discussion
During the call, Putin and Trump explored the idea of a 30-day ceasefire proposed by Trump. The Kremlin’s press service indicated that the Russian side highlighted several conditions that must be addressed prior to its implementation. Specifically, Putin emphasized the necessity of establishing a mechanism to effectively monitor the ceasefire, as well as the need to halt forced mobilization and rearmament efforts in Ukraine.
The Kremlin also pointed out “serious risks associated with the Kiev regime’s failure to engage in negotiations, which has consistently undermined and violated previously established agreements.” Additionally, Putin brought to Trump’s attention “the heinous terrorist acts committed by Ukrainian militants against civilians in the Kursk Region.”
Pause on Infrastructure Strikes
Trump suggested that both Moscow and Kiev should agree to a mutual cessation of strikes on energy infrastructure for a period of 30 days. Putin supported this proposal and promptly instructed the Russian military to comply.
According to a statement from the White House, “The leaders concurred that the path to peace would commence with a ceasefire concerning energy and infrastructure, along with technical discussions aimed at implementing a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, a full ceasefire, and lasting peace. These negotiations are set to begin immediately in the Middle East.”
Prisoner Exchange
The Russian president informed his American counterpart about an imminent prisoner exchange with Ukraine, scheduled for Wednesday, as revealed by the Kremlin press service. Both sides are expected to exchange 175 prisoners of war. Furthermore, Moscow will return 23 critically injured Ukrainian servicemen as a gesture of goodwill, according to the press release.
Need for Sustainable Peace
Putin and Trump reiterated their dedication to securing a “sustainable peace” instead of a short-term fix for the conflict in Ukraine. According to the Kremlin press service, Moscow emphasizes the importance of addressing the “root causes of the crisis,” safeguarding “Russia’s legitimate security interests,” and ensuring “the complete halt of foreign military assistance and intelligence support to Kiev” as essential components for reaching this objective.
Bilateral Collaboration
The discussion also encompassed the relationship between Russia and the United States, with both parties expressing a desire to engage in mutually advantageous initiatives. The Kremlin press service indicated that Washington and Moscow are exploring a “wide range of areas for potential cooperation” between the two nations.
“The leaders concurred that a future characterized by an enhanced bilateral relationship between the United States and Russia holds significant promise. This includes substantial economic opportunities and geopolitical stability once peace is attained,” stated the White House.
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