WASHINGTON – Following a two-hour call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine would begin “immediately.” The conversation came days after Putin declined to attend scheduled talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on May 15 in Turkey.
“I believe it went very well,” Trump posted on social media on May 19. “Negotiations between Russia and Ukraine will begin immediately.” He added that Pope Leo XIV had offered to host the discussions at the Vatican.
“Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War,” Trump said. “Let the process begin!”
Putin Thanks Trump for Mediation Efforts
Putin expressed gratitude for Trump’s role in reviving dialogue, stating that Russia was open to drafting a memorandum on a potential peace deal.
“We have agreed with the president of the United States that Russia will propose and is ready to work with Ukraine on terms for a settlement,” Putin told reporters near Sochi, outlining possible principles and timelines for an agreement.
Stalled Talks and Growing Frustration
The May 15-16 negotiations in Turkey marked the first direct talks since the early stages of the war but ended without major breakthroughs. While both sides agreed to a prisoner swap, Putin sent a lower-level delegation, avoiding a face-to-face meeting with Zelenskyy.
Trump, who has pushed for a ceasefire, previously stated that progress would only come after he and Putin met directly. However, his administration has grown increasingly impatient, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating on May 19 that Trump was “weary and frustrated with both sides.”
Mixed Signals on U.S. Support
While Trump and Vice President JD Vance have met with Zelenskyy in recent weeks, they have also clashed over Ukraine’s demands for military aid. Meanwhile, former Vice President Mike Pence urged a tougher stance, telling NBC’s “Meet the Press” that Putin only responds to strength.
“President Zelenskyy agreed to a ceasefire, yet Putin skipped the talks,” Pence said. “It’s time for harsh sanctions and increased military support for Ukraine.”
As tensions persist, the prospect of Vatican-mediated talks remains uncertain, with U.S. officials warning they may withdraw if no progress is made.
