In a significant development in the ongoing war, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine will “immediately” start negotiations for a ceasefire and a potential end to the conflict.

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Trump-Putin Call Signals Possible Breakthrough

After a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump stated the conversation went “very well.” Both leaders discussed a potential memorandum on a peace agreement, though no fixed timeline for a ceasefire was announced. Putin, speaking from Sochi, called the call “frank, informative, and constructive.”

Zelensky Calls for Full and Unconditional Ceasefire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, after speaking with Trump, reiterated Ukraine’s demand for an “unconditional ceasefire.” He emphasized the importance of American and European involvement in peace negotiations and warned that distancing the U.S. from the process would only benefit Putin.

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International Leaders Join the Conversation

Trump’s second call with Zelensky included top European leaders like Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni. Von der Leyen thanked Trump for his peace efforts and reiterated that continued U.S. engagement is essential.

Vatican May Host Peace Talks

The Vatican has been proposed as a venue for upcoming peace negotiations, following an offer from the newly appointed Pope. While Putin turned down a previous face-to-face meeting with Zelensky in Turkey, the Holy See’s neutral ground is seen as a hopeful option.

Ongoing Violence Undermines Trust

Despite talks of peace, violence continues on the ground. Ukraine reported the death of at least 10 civilians, including nine in a minibus attack. Russia has claimed to intercept Ukrainian drones, and both sides blame each other for ceasefire violations during recent temporary truces.