The U.S. President Donald Trump made a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing war with Ukraine. The U.S. president later said that Russia and Ukraine will work toward an immediate ceasefire, despite the Kremlin adding that it could take some time, prompting the European nations to increase pressure with more sanctions.
On Monday, Trump contacted Putin, before calling Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, and other European Union leaders. The call seems to be a success as Putin later stated his agreement to work with Ukraine on a memorandum about a future peace accord.
However, the European leaders decided to increase the pressure by preparing to impose new sanctions after Putin refused for an immediate ceasefire. As for Trump, he may not impose such an order as he stated that such action can make matters worse.
According to Putin’s advisor, Yuri Ushakov, there was no mention of a confirmed timeline for a ceasefire in the call but Trump and Putin did discuss swapping POWs, nine Russians prisoners for nine Americans
Although it seems like progress, former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt points out that Putin seems to be using Trump to dodge calls for immediate ceasefire and continue his operation.
As for Zelenskiy, he stated his indication for a high-level meeting among Ukraine, Russia, the United States, European Union countries and Britain.
While he pointed out that Turkey, the Vatican or Switzerland can host the meeting, Trump stated that newly appointed Pope, Leo XIV, can host the negotiation at the Vatican.
