The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Reuters reported that U.S. President Donald Trump said he discussed a possible ceasefire in the ongoing war in Ukraine during a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday.
Trump said the conversation included a proposal for a
temporary ceasefire in the conflict, now in its fourth year. The remarks came
after the Kremlin confirmed that both leaders discussed a potential truce to
coincide with next month’s anniversary of the end of World War II.
“We had a good talk, I’ve known him a long time,” Trump told
reporters, adding that he suggested “a little bit of a ceasefire” during the
call. He expressed optimism that Putin might agree to such a move.
The Kremlin said Putin proposed a temporary ceasefire around
May 9, marking the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany. Kremlin aide
Yuri Ushakov said Trump responded positively during what he described as a
“friendly and businesslike” conversation lasting more than 90 minutes.
Trump also said Putin offered assistance regarding Iran’s
enriched uranium, an issue linked to broader tensions surrounding Tehran’s
nuclear program. However, Trump said he preferred Russia focus on ending the
Ukraine war first.
“I said, before you help me, I want to end your war,” Trump
said.
The two leaders last publicly acknowledged a call on March
9, though Trump indicated they have remained in regular contact.
The conflict in Ukraine began in 2022 following Russia’s
full-scale invasion and has since caused widespread destruction, thousands of
deaths, and a prolonged humanitarian crisis. Previous attempts at temporary
ceasefires, including a brief truce announced by Moscow last year, have failed
to produce lasting results, with Kyiv often rejecting unilateral proposals not
agreed upon by both sides.
