Trump and Putin discuss temporary Ukraine ceasefire in 90-minute call

WEB DESK: US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a lengthy telephone conversation lasting more than 90 minutes, focusing on the war in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East.

According to Kremlin accounts and statements from both sides, the leaders discussed a possible pause in hostilities ahead of Russia’s Victory Day commemorations on 9 May, according to Business Recorder.

Trump expressed support for the initiative and suggested a broader agreement on Ukraine could be within reach.

Temporary truce proposed for victory day

The Russian leader reportedly informed Trump of his readiness to declare a temporary ceasefire to mark Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany in the Second World War.

Trump actively backed the proposal, with both sides noting the symbolic importance of the date as a shared historical victory.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, the US president described the conversation as “very good” and indicated optimism that a short pause in fighting could be announced.

He added that a wider resolution to the conflict in Ukraine might materialise relatively quickly.

Putin also accused Ukrainian forces of employing “terrorist methods” by targeting civilians, according to the Kremlin readout.

Warnings over Iran and condemnation of assassination attempt

The two presidents turned their attention to the situation in the Middle East, where Putin warned of “extremely dire consequences” should new US or Israeli strikes occur against Iran. He nevertheless expressed support for an extension of the existing ceasefire in the region.

During the call, Putin condemned the recent assassination attempt on Trump, in what Kremlin officials described as a frank and businesslike exchange.

The conversation comes amid ongoing efforts to find diplomatic off-ramps for both the Ukraine conflict and rising tensions involving Iran.

While no concrete agreements were announced, Trump’s team has projected confidence in progress, even as fighting continues on the ground in eastern Ukraine.

Both sides described the discussion as constructive, though details of any potential next steps remain limited.

Analysts will be watching closely to see whether the proposed temporary truce materialises and if it could serve as a stepping stone towards more substantive negotiations.