Putin Calls Phone Talks with Trump 'Very Productive' Amid Hopes for Peace in Ukraine

Moscow – Russian President Vladimir Putin described his recent phone conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump as “substantive” and “very productive,” signaling renewed momentum in efforts to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

The two-hour call, which centered on restarting stalled peace negotiations, marks a significant diplomatic development in the three-year-long conflict.

“This conversation took place and lasted more than two hours. It was both detailed and frank. Overall, I consider it a very productive exchange,” Putin said at a press briefing after the call.

The discussion comes as the U.S. pushes to revive direct dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv. Although there were expectations of a high-level meeting between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Turkey last week, neither leader attended. Trump, who was visiting the Middle East at the time, had also hinted at participating but ultimately did not.

Putin thanked Trump for the United States’ role in attempting to relaunch direct talks between Russia and Ukraine.

“President Trump shared his views on ending hostilities and the potential for a ceasefire. In response, I reiterated Russia’s support for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict. What’s needed now is to find the most effective path to peace,” Putin said.

He added that both sides agreed Russia would take the initiative in drafting a memorandum with Ukraine, outlining principles for a potential peace deal, timelines, and possibly a temporary ceasefire if mutual agreements are reached.

Putin also highlighted renewed contact among participants of the earlier Istanbul peace talks, describing it as a positive step forward. “This shows we are generally heading in the right direction,” he said.

He emphasized that addressing the root causes of the conflict remains Russia’s main priority, and called for both sides to demonstrate a serious commitment to compromise and peace.

“The main task now is for both Russia and Ukraine to show real willingness to reach a mutually acceptable compromise,” Putin said, calling the discussion “highly constructive.”

Trump confirmed the call in a detailed post on his social media platform, Truth Social, saying peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine would begin immediately, with the Vatican offering to host the dialogue.

“Just had a two-hour call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia. It went very well. Russia and Ukraine will begin immediate talks on a Ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War,” Trump posted.

He added that he had communicated the outcome of the call to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European leaders.

With inputs from IANS