In a high-stakes phone call on Tuesday, President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed efforts to end the war in Ukraine, agreeing to an initial ceasefire on energy and infrastructure sites. The conversation, which lasted roughly 90 minutes, marked a potential turning point in the conflict, though major challenges remain in securing a lasting peace.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described the discussion as “productive,” with both leaders agreeing that the war has gone on too long and that “the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire.” This will be followed by talks on a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and eventually negotiations on a full cessation of hostilities.
My phone conversation today with President Putin of Russia was a very good and productive one. We agreed to an immediate Ceasefire on all Energy and Infrastructure, with an understanding that we will be working quickly to have a Complete Ceasefire and, ultimately, an END to this…
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) March 18, 2025
The Kremlin confirmed that Putin has ordered a temporary halt to strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities for the next 30 days in response to Trump’s proposal. However, Putin was hesitant to agree to a broader ceasefire, citing concerns over enforcement and Ukraine’s willingness to abide by the terms. Moscow has also made it clear that an end to Western military aid to Kyiv is a condition for any long-term agreement.
Readout of President Donald J. Trump's Call with President Vladimir Putin:
Today, President Trump and President Putin spoke about the need for peace and a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. Both leaders agreed this conflict needs to end with a lasting peace. They also stressed the…
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) March 18, 2025
Trump’s administration has signaled a shift in U.S. policy toward the war, with the president previously questioning the effectiveness of continued arms shipments to Ukraine. Following a contentious Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump ordered a pause on some military assistance until Kyiv agreed to certain economic agreements with the United States.
JUST IN:
Russian President Putin has agreed to a ceasefire in Ukraine under the conditions that they work for a 'permanent peace'.
Trump made this happen.
Democrats wanted the war to keep going.
We are not the same. pic.twitter.com/pYz1pWPAsM
— AmericanPapaBear (@AmericaPapaBear) March 13, 2025
Trump and Putin also discussed tensions in the Middle East, with both leaders acknowledging the importance of limiting the proliferation of strategic weapons. They agreed that Iran must never be in a position to threaten Israel, though the Kremlin’s readout of the call omitted any mention of this aspect of the conversation.
Despite the progress made, the path to a full ceasefire remains uncertain. While Putin’s willingness to temporarily halt attacks is a positive step, his demand for an end to U.S. military aid to Ukraine could complicate negotiations. Trump has positioned himself as a dealmaker, but whether he can bring both sides to a lasting agreement remains to be seen.
