Trump, Putin Agree to Talks on Ending Ukraine War

• Trump and Putin agree to begin negotiations on ending the Ukraine war.
• Trump remains unclear on Ukraine’s role in the peace talks.
• Zelenskyy acknowledges U.S. involvement but insists on Ukraine’s strength in negotiations.

U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated a major shift in U.S. policy on Ukraine, announcing that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to begin negotiations aimed at ending the war.

Trump said he spoke with Putin for over an hour on Wednesday, expressing optimism about achieving peace. “I think we’re on the way to getting peace,” he told reporters, adding that he later held discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, though he remained vague on Ukraine’s role in potential U.S.-led negotiations with Russia.

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“I think President Putin wants peace, President Zelenskyy wants peace, and I want peace,” Trump stated from the Oval Office.

Recounting his call with Putin, Trump suggested the Russian leader was open to ending the conflict. “People didn’t really know what President Putin’s thoughts were. But I think I can say with great confidence, he wants to see it ended also. That’s good – and we’re going to work toward getting it ended as fast as possible.”

He revealed that both sides had agreed to “work together very closely, including visiting each other’s nations,” and that their teams would begin negotiations immediately. Trump also hinted at an in-person meeting with Putin in the near future, possibly in Saudi Arabia.

When asked if Ukraine would be an equal participant in the negotiations, Trump responded, “Interesting question. I think they have to make peace.”

His remarks suggest a possible shift toward direct U.S.-Russia talks, potentially sidelining Kyiv—a departure from the previous Biden administration’s insistence that Ukraine be fully involved in any peace process.

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In his nightly address, Zelenskyy acknowledged Trump’s discussion with Putin and expressed appreciation for the U.S. president’s “genuine interest in our shared opportunities and how we can bring about a real peace together.” He later posted on social media, stating, “We believe that America’s strength, together with Ukraine and all of our partners, is enough to push Russia to peace.”

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