Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump are set to speak today between 1300 and 1500 GMT (18:30 to 20:30 IST), the Kremlin confirmed, as discussions over a ceasefire in Ukraine intensify.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there is a “certain understanding” between Moscow and Washington, but also “a large number of questions to discuss.” He added that the two leaders would talk for as long as necessary, reports Reuters news agency.
Trump hints at progress in talks
Speaking aboard Air Force One over the weekend, Trump said significant progress had been made towards a settlement. “We’re doing pretty well, I think, with Russia. We’ll see if we have something to announce, maybe by Tuesday. I’ll be speaking to President Putin on Tuesday,” he told CNN reporters.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed urgency in ending the war. “Many elements of a Final Agreement have been agreed to, but much remains. Thousands of young soldiers, and others, are being killed. Each week brings 2,500 soldier deaths, from both sides, and it must end NOW,” he wrote.
Also read: ‘We have a very good chance’: Trump to speak with Putin on US ceasefire proposal for Ukraine
Ceasefire talks
The discussions come as Ukraine has accepted a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire, which can be extended by mutual agreement. However, Russia has not immediately agreed. Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, visited Moscow last week to present the plan, which also includes a US commitment to resuming security assistance to Ukraine.
Putin has acknowledged the proposal “in theory” but has demanded additional concessions from Kyiv. He insists any ceasefire must address Russia’s concerns about the root causes of the war.
‘Situation is starting to move’
The talks also follow fresh warnings from the US and its G7 allies that sanctions on Russia could be expanded. Western nations have signalled that frozen Russian assets may be used to support Ukraine.
Despite tensions, Putin has suggested that relations with the US are improving. “Overall, the situation is starting to move,” he said last week, adding that ties were “practically reduced to zero” under the previous US administration but are now showing signs of change.
“Let’s see what comes out of this,” Putin said, as Russia and Ukraine have been engaged in conflict since February 2022.
