Trump Announces Russia and Ukraine to Begin Ceasefire Negotiations Following Call with Putin

President Donald Trump has announced that Russia and Ukraine will immediately begin negotiations toward a ceasefire and a potential peace agreement following a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In a statement shared on Truth Social, President Trump described the conversation as “very productive” and emphasized the urgency of ending the ongoing conflict. “Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the war,” Trump wrote.

Russian President Vladimir Putin echoed Trump’s optimism, stating that Moscow is prepared to work with Ukraine on a memorandum outlining the principles of a future peace accord. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has yet to comment on the announcement, though sources indicate he spoke briefly with Trump before the U.S. leader’s call with Putin.

Trump also revealed that the Vatican has expressed interest in hosting the negotiations, with Pope Leo XIV offering his residence as a venue for the talks. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed the suggestion, stating that Italy is ready to facilitate discussions and work toward peace

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— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 19, 2025