Trump, Putin Discuss Ceasefire Talks as Russia-Ukraine War Enters Fourth Year

Date: May 19, 2025 | By: NewsMakers Web Desk

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine will “immediately start negotiations” to end their three-year-long war, following a two-hour call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“Negotiations will begin immediately,” Trump posted on Truth Social, highlighting that the Vatican had also shown interest in hosting the talks.

Speaking from Sochi, Putin confirmed that Moscow is ready to work on a peace memorandum with Ukraine. “We are generally on the right track,” he said, adding that any future ceasefire depends on reaching agreements on core issues.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not officially commented, but a source confirmed he spoke briefly with Trump before the call with Putin.

Despite recent talks in Türkiye yielding no breakthrough, this development marks the most serious diplomatic engagement since 2022. Kyiv has expressed readiness for a ceasefire, while Moscow insists on preconditions.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance warned that Washington could withdraw if peace efforts stall, stating, “This is not our war.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump is committed to ending the war but is “frustrated with both sides.” She confirmed that further sanctions against Russia are still under consideration.

Putin remains firm on Russia’s conditions, even as his forces control significant Ukrainian territory.