U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 90-minute phone call, discussing the Ukraine war and the future of U.S.-Russia relations. According to the White House, both leaders emphasized the need for a ceasefire and lasting peace in Ukraine, agreeing that the conflict should have been resolved long ago through “sincere and good faith peace efforts.”
Readout of President Donald J. Trump’s Call with President Vladimir Putin:
Today, President Trump and President Putin spoke about the need for peace and a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. Both leaders agreed this conflict needs to end with a lasting peace. They also stressed the…
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) March 18, 2025
The call resulted in a commitment to initiate an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, along with technical negotiations for a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea. These negotiations are set to take place in the Middle East, marking a shift in diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the war.
Trump and Putin also discussed broader geopolitical concerns, including security in the Middle East and efforts to prevent the proliferation of strategic weapons. The two leaders agreed that Iran should never be in a position to “destroy Israel” and pledged to work with other nations to enforce strategic stability in the region.
Beyond the war in Ukraine, Trump and Putin expressed optimism about the future of U.S.-Russia relations, highlighting the potential for economic collaboration and geopolitical stability. Trump underscored the benefits of strengthening ties between the two nations, arguing that peace would pave the way for significant economic opportunities and a more secure global order.
The call follows a diplomatic breakthrough last week in Saudi Arabia, where Ukrainian officials accepted U.S. proposals after negotiations led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
