Thu Mar 20 03:58:43 UTC 2025: ## Trump and Zelensky Hold “Positive” Call Amidst Ongoing Ukraine Conflict

**Washington D.C./Kyiv –** Former US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a productive hour-long phone conversation, focusing on ending the ongoing war with Russia. The call, described as “very good” and “positive” by both leaders, followed a recent Trump-Putin dialogue and comes weeks after a strained meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy at the White House.

Zelenskyy emphasized the need for American leadership in achieving lasting peace, highlighting the cessation of attacks on civilian infrastructure as a crucial first step. He thanked the US for military aid, particularly Javelin missiles, while requesting increased air defense support.

A noteworthy proposal emerged from Trump, suggesting US ownership of Ukrainian energy infrastructure, including the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, to prevent further attacks. While the State Department offered cautious optimism, suggesting economic ties with a self-reliant Ukraine, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio strongly endorsed the plan as the best protective measure. The discussion also touched upon the US-Ukraine minerals deal, although the White House downplayed its significance, prioritizing peace negotiations.

Trump also raised concerns about missing Ukrainian children, pledging to work with both sides for their return. He briefed Zelenskyy on his conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which included a 30-day halt to attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure (although attacks continued overnight, according to Zelenskyy). Both Trump and Zelenskyy agreed to maintain high-level communication.

Zelenskyy confirmed plans for a second round of peace talks, potentially in Saudi Arabia, to discuss ceasefire implementation. Trump’s social media post echoed the positive tone of the call, emphasizing the alignment of Russian and Ukrainian requests following his discussions with Putin.

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