According to reports, Trump said that Putin is interested in reaching a negotiated settlement to end the war. The phone call between Trump and Putin was held after US special envoys visited Moscow and Kyiv to present a proposal for ending the hostilities. The call was described as 'frank', indicating a direct exchange of views. No further details of the proposal or the leaders' conversation have been released. The development marks a renewed effort by the US to restart diplomatic talks aimed at resolving the conflict, which has now entered its third year.
Trump says Putin wants to end Ukraine war, as US envoys shuttle between capitals
Leaders hold 'frank' phone call after US special envoys present proposal to end conflict
Former US President Donald Trump has stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to make a deal to end the war in Ukraine, following a phone call between the two leaders described as 'frank' by US officials. The call came after US special envoys travelled to both Russia and Ukraine to discuss a proposal to end the conflict.
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Analysis
Why This Matters
- A direct Trump-Putin phone call signals possible renewed diplomatic engagement on Ukraine, though the US is not currently in power
- The proposal being discussed could shape the next phase of the war, affecting millions of Ukrainians and global security
- The 'frank' nature of the call suggests tough negotiations ahead, with no immediate breakthrough expected
Background
Trump and Putin have had a complex relationship since Trump's presidency. The Ukraine war, now in its third year, has seen no major diplomatic breakthroughs. Putin has previously expressed willingness to negotiate but on terms that Ukraine and its allies have rejected. The US is currently under the Biden administration, but Trump's involvement as a former president and potential candidate adds a layer of uncertainty to the peace process.
Key Perspectives
The Trump camp: Trump claims Putin wants a deal, portraying himself as a potential peacemaker if he returns to office. The Biden administration: The current US government has not commented on the Trump-Putin call, but has its own diplomatic efforts ongoing. Ukraine: Kyiv has insisted on a full withdrawal of Russian forces and restoration of its territory as a precondition for talks.
What to Watch
- Whether the US special envoys' proposal gains traction in Moscow or Kyiv
- Any official statements from the Kremlin or Ukrainian government about the call
- Potential impact on US domestic politics as Trump campaigns on ending the war