Donald Trump had a productive phone conversation with Vladimir Putin, focused on resolving the Ukraine conflict and potential future meetings, possibly in Saudi Arabia. He engaged with Ukrainian President Zelensky after the call, emphasizing negotiation efforts. Amidst skepticism about Ukraine’s NATO membership, the dialogue suggests a renewed emphasis on diplomacy between the U.S. and Russia.
Former President Donald Trump announced that he had a “lengthy and highly productive phone call” with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which revolved around the mutual goal of ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump stated he tasked Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials with leading negotiations for a peaceful resolution. He expressed optimism about potential collaboration between the U.S. and Russia on various issues, highlighting their nations’ strengths.
The Kremlin confirmed the call, revealing it lasted approximately ninety minutes, during which Putin extended an invitation for Trump to visit Moscow. Trump mentioned that both leaders reciprocated the idea of visiting one another’s countries, with a preliminary meeting likely occurring in Saudi Arabia. The specifics of this meeting remain uncertain.
Furthermore, Trump communicated with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding the discussion with Putin, asserting that negotiations must commence without delay. Trump characterized his conversation with Zelensky as successful, stating they discussed the war, peace prospects, and a forthcoming meeting in Munich involving Vice President JD Vance.
In a notable statement, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth articulated skepticism about Ukraine’s NATO aspirations and warned that restoring borders to pre-2014 conditions is impractical. Trump concurred, deeming NATO membership for Ukraine as unrealistic while asserting that he could have quickly resolved the conflict during his presidency. He has previously claimed Putin would not have invaded Ukraine had he remained in office.
Additionally, Trump expressed gratitude to Putin for the release of Marc Fogel, an American teacher wrongfully detained in Russia, immediately following their call. He thanked Putin publicly on Truth Social the evening after Fogel’s return to the United States. Such diplomatic exchanges mark a significant moment of engagement in U.S.-Russia relations.
In summary, Donald Trump’s recent dialogue with Vladimir Putin emphasizes the pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict. Both leaders have expressed interest in future meetings, and Trump’s engagement with Zelensky illustrates a commitment to collaboration. While concerns about NATO membership remain, the focus on negotiations signifies a shift in diplomatic strategy following years of heightened tensions.
Original Source: www.forbes.com
