In a surprising move, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended an invitation to former U.S. President Donald Trump to visit Moscow. According to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, "The Russian leader invited the American president to come to Moscow and expressed willingness to host U.S. officials in areas of mutual interest, particularly regarding the situation in Ukraine."
The two leaders engaged in a phone conversation this Wednesday that lasted approximately ninety minutes, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They agreed on the possibility of a future meeting. Peskov noted, "Putin and Trump also agreed to maintain personal contact, including arranging a face-to-face meeting."
Trump took to his platform, Truth Social, to announce that he and Putin had reached an agreement to commence "immediate negotiations" aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. He mentioned that both leaders were committed to "halt the millions of deaths occurring due to the war between Russia and Ukraine," and that their diplomatic teams would start negotiations without delay.
Trump declared his intention to contact Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to inform him about the discussions he had with Putin during what he described as a "lengthy and highly productive phone call." The former president appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, and Ambassador and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to lead the negotiation efforts. Trump expressed confidence in this team's ability to achieve a "successful outcome."
He reiterated his belief that the conflict, which he claimed would not have occurred under his presidency, has already claimed millions of lives, and emphasized the urgent need to prevent further casualties.
The last time Putin conversed with a sitting U.S. president was in February 2022 with Joe Biden, just before the Russian invasion of Ukraine was ordered. During this recent call, the two leaders also discussed their nations' respective strengths and the "great benefits" Trump believes could arise from future collaboration.
The discussion extended to topics such as the Middle East, bilateral relations, and a prisoner exchange deal between Washington and Moscow. Following the recent release of American citizen Marc Fogel, Washington is expected to release a Russian citizen in the coming days, whose identity will be disclosed once they are back in Russia.
Key Questions about the Putin-Trump Moscow Invitation
What was the main focus of the call between Putin and Trump?
The primary focus of the conversation was the ongoing war in Ukraine and potential negotiations to end the conflict.
Who did Trump appoint to lead the negotiations with Russia?
Trump appointed Marco Rubio, John Ratcliffe, Michael Waltz, and Steve Witkoff to spearhead the negotiations.
When was the last time Putin spoke to a sitting U.S. president?
Putin last spoke to a sitting U.S. president in February 2022, when he communicated with Joe Biden.