US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a crucial phone conversation, discussing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a proposed ceasefire in the Black Sea, and regional stability in the Middle East. Both leaders agreed on the need for lasting peace and emphasized the potential benefits of improved US-Russia relations.
Agreement on Ceasefire and Black Sea Stability
A statement from the White House Press Secretary confirmed the discussion:
“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 need for improved bilateral relations between the United States and Russia. The blood and treasure that both Ukraine and Russia have been spending in this war would be better spent on the needs of their people.”
The Black Sea ceasefire is particularly significant due to its role in Russian wheat exports. The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service reports that Russia’s wheat exports via sea range from 2.0 to 4.5 million tons per month, with primary markets including Turkey, Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Algeria.
“The leaders agreed that the movement to peace would begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on the implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, full ceasefire, and permanent peace. These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East,” the statement added.
Middle East Stability and Iran’s Threat to Israel
Trump and Putin also discussed broader regional stability in the Middle East, agreeing to prevent future conflicts and limit the proliferation of strategic weapons. They emphasized that Iran must never be in a position to threaten Israel’s existence.
“The leaders spoke broadly about the Middle East as a region of potential cooperation to prevent future conflicts. They further discussed the need to stop the proliferation of strategic weapons and will engage with others to ensure the broadest possible application. The two leaders shared the view that Iran should never be in a position to destroy Israel.”
Push for a 30-Day Ceasefire in Ukraine
According to ABC News, Trump initiated the call to secure a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. The Trump administration is advocating for an immediate halt to hostilities, following Ukraine’s willingness to pause fighting—on the condition that Russia reciprocates.
This call marks a significant diplomatic move, with Trump actively working to negotiate an end to the war and reshape US-Russia relations.