Mon May 19 17:45:32 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Trump and Putin Discuss Ukraine Ceasefire in Lengthy Phone Call**

Washington D.C. – In a phone call lasting over two hours on Monday, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in extensive discussions regarding a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. The two leaders explored the complexities of the conflict, addressing the concerns of both Moscow and Kyiv.

President Trump characterized the talks as “useful,” stating that Russia is prepared to work towards ending the conflict. President Putin echoed this sentiment, referencing the recent negotiations in Istanbul as a step in the right direction. He urged Ukraine to consider compromises to achieve peace.

Putin proposed working with Ukraine on a memorandum outlining principles for a future peace accord, including timelines for a potential agreement. He also thanked President Trump for supporting the resumption of direct talks. “We have agreed with the President of the United States that Russia will propose and is ready to work with the Ukrainian side on a memorandum on a possible future peace accord, defining a number of positions, such as, for example, the principles of settlement, the timing of a possible peace agreement,” Mr Putin said.

Putin outlined Russia’s conditions for a ceasefire, which include Ukraine renouncing NATO membership, recognizing Crimea as Russian territory, and ceding control of the territories currently occupied by Russian forces, including the four regions Russia claims. Ukraine has previously rejected these conditions.

President Putin emphasized the need to address the “root causes” of the crisis and urged Kyiv to compromise. This call occurred nearly a week after President Trump indicated that a resolution to the conflict would require direct discussions between himself and President Putin.

**Summary of text:**

Presidents Trump and Putin had an extensive phone call to discuss the Ukraine conflict, with Trump describing them as “useful”. Putin said direct talks could lead to peace, also proposed a memorandum and stated the conditions for a ceasefire, which include Ukraine not joining NATO, recognition of Crimea as Russian, and ceding controlled territories. Ukraine has previously rejected these demands. Trump believes he needs to be directly involved to help end the war.

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