Trump Calls Talks with Putin ‘Productive,’ Seeks to Protect Ukrainian Troops/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Donald Trump expressed optimism about ending the Russia-Ukraine war, calling recent discussions with Vladimir Putin “productive.” Trump urged Putin to spare Ukrainian troops, referencing their reported encirclement in the Kursk region. However, the White House clarified that Trump did not speak directly with Putin—instead, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff met with the Russian leader in Moscow. Talks of a ceasefire are ongoing, with Trump warning the conflict could escalate into World War III if not resolved soon.
Trump-Putin Peace Talks Quick Looks:
- Optimistic Outlook: Trump says there is a “very good chance” the Russia-Ukraine war could soon end.
- Ukrainian Troops at Risk: He urged Putin to spare Ukrainian soldiers reportedly trapped in Kursk.
- Backchannel Diplomacy: The White House confirmed Trump did not personally speak with Putin—envoy Steve Witkoff handled the talks.
- Putin’s Response: The Kremlin signaled further negotiations, and a Trump-Putin call is being scheduled.
- Ceasefire Efforts: Trump seeks a swift truce to prevent further escalation and potential global conflict.
Trump Calls Talks with Putin ‘Productive,’ Seeks to Protect Ukrainian Troops
Deep Look:
Trump Seeks Peace Deal After ‘Productive’ Talks with Putin
President Donald Trump announced Friday that diplomatic efforts with Russia had made significant progress, raising hopes for a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv.
Speaking on Truth Social, Trump said, “There is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally come to an end.”
Trump also revealed he had asked Putin to spare the lives of Ukrainian soldiers, reportedly encircled in the Kursk region—the only area Ukrainian forces have held on Russian soil.
However, a White House clarification later revealed that Trump himself did not speak with Putin. Instead, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff met with the Russian president in Moscow.
Backchannel Diplomacy: Putin’s Signals to Trump
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that during the meeting, Putin sent diplomatic “signals” to Trump through Witkoff. The Kremlin also indicated that a direct call between Trump and Putin is being arranged.
A source briefed on the talks revealed that Witkoff’s meeting with Putin lasted several hours, though specifics of their discussion remain undisclosed.
Trump’s Ceasefire Push and War Concerns
Trump has repeatedly warned that the Russia-Ukraine war could spiral into World War III, advocating for a swift ceasefire to halt further bloodshed.
His administration has recently adjusted its policy toward Ukraine, pausing intelligence-sharing with Kyiv before later restoring it. The move was seen as part of a broader strategy to pressure both sides into negotiations.
While Trump remains confident about ending the war, it remains unclear whether Ukraine and Russia are prepared to agree on a ceasefire.
What’s Next?
- Potential Trump-Putin phone call: The U.S. and Russia will coordinate a direct conversation between the two leaders.
- Ukraine’s response: Kyiv has yet to formally comment on Trump’s ceasefire push.
- Putin’s demands: Russia may seek guarantees from the U.S. before considering peace terms.
As diplomatic efforts continue, Trump’s strategy will face global scrutiny, with analysts questioning whether his approach will bring a lasting resolution to the war.
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