President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will speak this week. The United States is trying to stop the war in Ukraine. Trumpโs special envoy, Steve Witkoff, confirmed the upcoming talk on Sunday. This will be the second time the two leaders have spoken publicly since Trump began his second term in January. They last spoke in February and agreed to begin discussions on ending the war.
Witkoff Believes the Trump-Putin Meeting Will Be Productive
Witkoff expects the call to go well. He said on CNNโs โState of the Unionโ that the leaders will have a โgood and positive discussion.โ He recently visited Russia and met with Putin to discuss ways to stop the war. Witkoff believes a deal is possible soon and is hopeful that โreal progressโ will be made in the coming weeks. He also mentioned that Trump and Putin built a strong relationship during Trumpโs first term. He expects their conversation this week to be โvery positive and constructive.โ
Trump First Spoke to Putin After Prisoner Swap
Trumpโs first call with Putin in his second term happened after the U.S. secured the release of Marc Fogel. Fogel, an American history teacher, was imprisoned in Russia. The U.S. said he was wrongfully detained. After Fogel returned home, Trump had a long and productive call with Putin. Trump described their discussion as โlengthy and highly productive.โ This past exchange has raised hopes that Trump and Putin can now work toward peace in Ukraine.
Ceasefire Agreement Still Needs Final Details
The U.S. has proposed a 30-day ceasefire, and Ukraine has agreed. Putin has said he agrees in principle, but details still need to be settled. Witkoff did not confirm if Trump and Putin will finalize the ceasefire during this call. However, he said it is a good sign that they are continuing to talk. He also emphasized that Trump and Putin are the ultimate decision-makers for their countries. According to Witkoff, their willingness to engage in discussions signals โpositive momentum.โ
Macron Says Russia Is Not Serious About Peace
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed doubt that Russia truly wants peace. He said that Putin is increasing attacks before negotiating. Witkoff disagrees. He believes that some leaders make judgments without firsthand knowledge. He was not aware of Macronโs remarks but said, โItโs unfortunate when people make those assessments.โ Witkoff said he personally observed Putinโs body language and tone during their meeting. He believes Putin is making a real effort to discuss the details of the war. Witkoff is optimistic that progress can be made soon.
