Daijiworld Media Network- Washington
Washington, May 20: In a major international development, US President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine are set to begin immediate negotiations towards a ceasefire, with the Vatican offering to host the much-anticipated peace talks.
The announcement came on the heels of a two-hour-long telephonic conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump later briefed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and top European leaders, stating the talks were "very successful" and marked a potential breakthrough in the ongoing three-year-long conflict.
“Just completed my two-hour call with President Vladimir Putin of Russia. I believe it went very well. Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the war,” Trump stated on his social media platform, Truth Social.
Sources indicate that Trump has taken a proactive role in mediation efforts, following a failed attempt at direct talks between Putin and Zelensky in Turkey last week. Although Trump was on a West Asia tour at the time, he had hinted at joining the talks, which were derailed after the Russian leader did not turn up.
Highlighting the spirit of the call, Trump added, “The tone and spirit of the conversation were excellent. If it wasn’t, I would say so now, rather than later. The terms of the ceasefire will be worked out between Russia and Ukraine, since only they understand the nuances of the conflict.”
Trump further revealed Russia's willingness to pursue major trade deals with the United States post-conflict. “There is a tremendous opportunity for Russia to create jobs and wealth. Likewise, Ukraine stands to gain significantly through trade during the process of rebuilding its country,” he noted.
The former US president confirmed that he had informed several world leaders, including President Zelenskyy, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
Adding a diplomatic dimension to the initiative, Trump concluded by saying, “The Vatican, as represented by the Pope, has expressed keen interest in hosting the negotiations. Let the process begin!”
Meanwhile, back home in India, the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear pleas challenging the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act. The matter has drawn national attention and is likely to see significant legal and political developments as proceedings commence today.