Putin and Trump Discuss 'Impressive' Prospects for US-Russia Relations, Says Kremlin

 

Putin and Trump Discuss 'Impressive' Prospects for US-Russia Relations, Says Kremlin

Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump had a phone call on Monday during which they discussed the potential for improved bilateral relations. The Kremlin described the conversation as touching on "impressive" prospects for future cooperation between the two countries.

Putin indicated that Russia would work with Ukraine on a memorandum concerning a future peace accord, while Trump expressed that Russia and Ukraine would begin negotiations immediately toward a ceasefire. However, Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov emphasized that the leaders had not set a specific timeline for a ceasefire, but Trump had highlighted his desire for swift agreements.

Ushakov conveyed that Trump spoke emotionally about the future of US-Russia relations, stating that “the prospects for bilateral relations after the Ukrainian conflict is resolved look impressive, and that as the president of the United States, he sees Russia as one of America's most important partners in trade and economic matters.”

The leaders are reportedly working out details of a prisoner exchange involving nine individuals on each side, though no date or venue has been finalized. Both Trump and Putin are in favor of a face-to-face meeting, with their teams tasked with preparing for such a gathering.

Regarding sanctions, Ushakov noted that Trump mentioned a Senate bill related to new sanctions but clarified that the former president is not supportive of sanctions, favoring instead reaching agreements.

Ushakov described the tone of their conversation as warm, revealing that Putin congratulated Trump on the recent birth of his grandson, and Trump assured him, “Vladimir, you can pick up the phone at any time, I will be happy to answer, I will be happy to talk to you.”