In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a lengthy phone conversation on Wednesday, signaling potential steps toward easing tensions between the two nations.
The discussion, described by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as an \"extensive and substantive dialogue\" lasting nearly 90 minutes, focused on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the pursuit of a peaceful resolution. Putin extended an invitation to President Trump to visit Moscow, indicating a willingness to receive U.S. officials in the Russian capital.
President Trump echoed the importance of the call in a post on Truth Social, highlighting the mutual desire to halt the devastating war in Ukraine. \"I just had a lengthy and highly productive phone call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia,\" Trump stated. He emphasized the agreement to work closely together, including the possibility of meeting in Saudi Arabia and visiting each other's nations.
Both leaders discussed broader issues beyond Ukraine, including the Middle East, Iran's nuclear program, economic relations between Russia and the U.S., energy, artificial intelligence, and the influence of the U.S. dollar.
Trump announced the formation of a U.S. negotiation team comprising Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of the CIA John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, and Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff. He expressed strong confidence in the success of these negotiations.
In related discussions, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed his talks with Trump, focusing on opportunities for peace and Ukraine's technological advancements. However, Trump also indicated that Ukraine joining NATO remains unlikely, aligning with statements from U.S. defense officials.
The United Nations welcomed the dialogue between Putin and Trump as a positive step toward resolving the Ukraine-Russia conflict. UN spokesman Farhan Haq praised the efforts to engage both parties in negotiations, potentially involving the UN in a facilitating role if requested.
As international observers watch closely, the meetings between these two powerful leaders could mark a pivotal moment in global diplomacy and the quest for peace in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
