News Today: Trump says Russia-Ukraine will “immediately” begin peace negotiations

In a surprising announcement, US President Donald Trump declared that Russia-Ukraine will “immediately” begin negotiations toward a ceasefire and potential end to the ongoing war. The revelation followed a two-hour call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which Trump described as “very well.”

Trump, who also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, shared the development on his Truth Social platform. “Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a Ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War,” he posted. He added that the exact terms of peace would be negotiated between the two parties directly.

Despite Trump’s optimism, there remains no fixed timeline or formal agreement in place. Putin stated Russia was ready to collaborate on a “memorandum on a possible future peace agreement.” Zelensky, cautious yet hopeful, described it as a “defining moment” and stressed the importance of American and European involvement in any negotiation process.

Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s call for a “full and unconditional ceasefire” and warned that without serious Russian commitment, stronger international sanctions would be necessary. He also noted that no details had yet been shared with Ukraine regarding Putin’s proposed memorandum.

While Trump denied that the United States is stepping back from its role as a peace broker, he acknowledged he had a “red line in his head” for when he might stop pushing both sides.

In recent weeks, Trump expressed increasing frustration at the lack of tangible progress in negotiations, but insists Putin “has had enough of the war and wants it to end.” Putin described the call with Trump as “frank, informative and constructive.”

Putin indicated Russia is prepared to work with Ukraine on a ceasefire and principles of settlement, but no date has been set for formal talks. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov confirmed a timeline was not discussed.

After the call with Putin, Zelensky participated in a second call with Trump, joined by key European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and heads of France, Italy, Germany, and Finland. Von der Leyen praised Trump’s diplomatic initiative, saying, “It’s important that the US stays engaged.”

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed Pope Leo’s offer to host peace talks at the Vatican—a gesture the US and EU reportedly view positively. However, Ukraine previously rejected temporary ceasefires declared by Russia, citing violations and lack of trust in Putin.

The announcement comes amid intensified Russian strikes in Ukraine, including one that killed nine people on a civilian bus. A recent prisoner swap marked the first direct Russia-Ukraine talks in over three years, but no further agreements were reached.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, and despite international pressure, a lasting peace remains elusive. Trump’s announcement offers new hope, but also raises questions about timing, sincerity, and follow-through.