Trump Announces Ceasefire Talks Between Russia and Ukraine, Kremlin Downplays Timeline
Following a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to begin immediate negotiations for a ceasefire. However, the Kremlin signaled that the process would be gradual, and Trump indicated he wasn’t ready to join Europe in imposing new sanctions on Moscow.
In a social media post, Trump said he informed Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders—including those from France, Germany, Italy, Finland, and the EU—of the plan during a group call after his conversation with Putin.
“Russia and Ukraine will immediately begin talks for a ceasefire and, more importantly, an end to the war,” Trump stated. Later at the White House, he added that “some progress is being made.”
Putin thanked Trump for supporting renewed direct talks with Ukraine, referencing earlier meetings held in Turkey, but was noncommittal about next steps, saying the process was “on the right track.”
Putin also said Russia was prepared to draft a memorandum for a possible peace deal with Ukraine, while acknowledging the complexity of negotiations. Despite these developments, Monday’s diplomatic efforts didn’t yield any breakthroughs.
Europe Moves on Sanctions—Trump Holds Back
Following Trump’s briefing, European leaders decided to ramp up sanctions on Russia. However, Trump declined to follow suit, explaining to reporters that pushing sanctions now might derail the chance for peace. “There’s a chance to get something done,” he said. “But there could be a time where that happens.”
Trump added that egos were at play and warned that he might abandon the process if it stalls. “This is not my war,” he said.
No Timeline for Peace Deal
While Ukraine and European leaders have demanded an immediate ceasefire, Trump is urging Putin to agree to a 30-day truce—something the Russian leader continues to resist, insisting that certain conditions be met first.
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed that no deadlines were discussed in the Trump-Putin call. The two leaders also reportedly talked about a potential prisoner swap involving nine Russians and nine Americans. Trump was said to describe prospects for U.S.-Russia relations as “impressive.”
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the parties would need time to work out a joint ceasefire memorandum, cautioning that “the devil is in the details.”
Critics and Skeptics React
Former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt called the call a “win for Putin,” suggesting the Russian leader used it to delay while continuing military operations.
Zelensky said Ukraine is open to direct negotiations in any setting that produces results, suggesting potential venues such as Turkey, the Vatican, or Switzerland. Trump added that Pope Leo had offered to host talks at the Vatican, though the Holy See has not commented.
The Kremlin acknowledged the possibility of direct talks between Putin and Zelensky and welcomed the Vatican’s involvement, though no location has been finalized.
Surprise and Frustration Among Allies
A source familiar with Trump’s group call said European and Ukrainian leaders were “shocked” that he wouldn’t pressure Putin with additional sanctions. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the call as “good” and stressed the importance of continued U.S. engagement.
Critics have accused Russia of dragging out talks just enough to avoid economic pressure from Trump. If Trump were to impose fresh sanctions, it would mark a major shift—especially as he has often been seen as sympathetic toward Moscow and reversed many pro-Ukraine policies of the Biden administration.
Last week, under Trump’s urging, Russian and Ukrainian delegations met in Istanbul for the first time since 2022, though those talks failed to yield a truce. Putin rejected Zelensky’s proposal for a face-to-face meeting.
Putin remains firm in his demands, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from four regions claimed by Russia. He emphasized that the planned peace memorandum would outline principles for settlement and the possible timing of a final peace agreement.
“Our goal is to address the root causes of this crisis,” Putin said. “Now we just need to identify the most effective way to move toward peace.”
