U.S. President Donald Trump gave detail of his Monday call with Vladimir Putin about ending the brutal war in Ukraine – even urging Russia and Ukraine to use the Pope as a mediator.
Trump said his call with Putin went ‘very well’ – but neither leader announced a breakthrough toward a ceasefire that would pause the gruesome conflict.
Instead, Trump said Russia and Ukraine would negotiate directly between themselves since they ‘know the details’ – in talks Trump suggested could be hosted at the Vatican by the new Pope Leo.
Trade between the U.S. and Russia
He also dangled potential ‘large scale’ trade between the U.S. and Russia, an inducement he has floated throughout his efforts to bring the war to a conclusion.
The U.S. slapped a barrage of sanctions on Moscow after its 2022 invasion of its neighbor, Ukraine.
Trump said that Ukraine could also be a ‘beneficiary’ as it seeks to rebuild its war-ravaged country, a possible reference to the recent minerals deal inked between Washington and Kiev.
He said negotiations ‘will begin immediately’ – days after teams of Russian and Ukrainian officials met in Turkey.
Did Trump call Putin?
Trump wrote on his Truth Social site Monday that he completed a ‘two hour call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia.’
‘I believe it went very well. Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a Ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War,’ he went on.
‘The conditions for that will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be, because they know details of a negotiation that nobody else would be aware of. The tone and spirit of the conversation were excellent.’
Trump then added that Russia wants to do ‘largescale trade with the United States’ after the fighting, which he called a ‘bloodbath,’ ends.
‘There is a tremendous opportunity for Russia to create massive amounts of jobs and wealth. Its potential is unlimited,’ he continued.
Ukraine can also be a ‘great beneficiary on trade’ as the country rebuilds.
‘Negotiations between Russia and Ukraine will begin immediately,’ said Trump.
The president said he has informed Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky among other world leaders immediately after his call with Putin wrapped up.
