President Donald J. Trump announced that he held a “very productive” telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing on peace efforts to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and strengthen future U.S.–Russia trade relations.
In a statement released at Truth Social, President Trump said President Putin congratulated him and the United States on the “Great Accomplishment of Peace in the Middle East,” calling it a historic achievement “dreamed of for centuries.” Trump added that he believes the success in the Middle East will support negotiations to bring an end to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
According to the President, President Putin also expressed appreciation to First Lady Melania Trump for her continued humanitarian work with children.
Both leaders discussed expanding trade opportunities between the United States and Russia once the war concludes. They agreed that high-level advisors from both sides will meet next week, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading the American delegation. The meeting location will be determined in the coming days.
President Trump confirmed that he and President Putin will later meet in Budapest, Hungary, to explore pathways to “bring this inglorious war to an end.”
He also announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will visit the Oval Office tomorrow, where the two leaders will discuss his conversation with Putin and ongoing diplomatic initiatives.
“I believe great progress was made with today’s telephone conversation,” President Trump said, expressing optimism that the talks could mark a turning point toward peace. –Agencies
