Trump and Putin discuss potential peace talks and U.S.-Russia relations

President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 90-minute phone conversation on Tuesday morning, discussing possible diplomatic steps toward de-escalating the conflict in Ukraine and improving relations between their countries.

According to an official statement from the White House, both leaders expressed support for immediate peace negotiations to be held in a neutral Middle Eastern location. They also discussed a framework for temporary cease-fires in key strategic areas, with the goal of establishing a longer-term agreement to bring stability to the region.

"Today, President Trump and President Putin spoke about the need for peace and an end to hostilities in Ukraine," the statement read.

"Both leaders agreed that it is in the best interests of all parties involved to seek a resolution that prioritizes stability and economic recovery," it continued.

As part of the discussion, Trump and Putin reportedly agreed to explore an initial cease-fire focused on energy infrastructure and maritime activity in the Black Sea, with further talks needed to determine the feasibility of a broader agreement.

The official White House readout emphasized that the conflict should have been resolved earlier and that a diplomatic resolution remains the best path forward.

The conversation, which began at 10 a.m. Eastern Time, took place with Trump speaking from the Oval Office and Putin from a location in Russia.

Following the call, Russian special envoy Kirill Dmitriev suggested that the discussion marked a potential breakthrough in diplomatic relations.

"Under the leadership of President Putin and President Trump, efforts toward greater international stability have made significant progress today," Dmitriev wrote on social media.

Beyond Ukraine, the two leaders also discussed security concerns in the Middle East, including regional stability and the prevention of strategic weapons proliferation. The White House statement noted that both sides agreed on the importance of diplomatic efforts to maintain broader geopolitical stability and prevent escalation in conflict zones.

Trump and Putin also explored the potential for strengthened economic cooperation between the United States and Russia, contingent on future diplomatic progress.

"Both leaders acknowledged that a positive working relationship between the United States and Russia could create significant economic and security benefits for both nations," the White House statement concluded.