Trump Confirms “Lengthy and Productive” Phone Call With Putin

US President Donald Trump held a phone conversation with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Wednesday, February 12. According to CNN, citing an unnamed US official, the discussion covered a wide range of topics, including Ukraine, the Middle East, energy, artificial intelligence, and the global financial system.

Trump confirmed the call in a statement on Truth Social, describing it as “lengthy and very productive.” He stated that both he and Putin expressed a desire to end the ongoing war in Ukraine, emphasizing the need to prevent further loss of life.

“We recalled the shared history of our nations, including cooperation during World War II, and agreed on the importance of halting the conflict between Russia and Ukraine,” Trump wrote.

He further noted that they agreed to work closely together, including the possibility of reciprocal visits, and that both sides would immediately begin negotiations. Trump announced his intention to call Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to inform him of the discussion.

To facilitate the negotiations, Trump appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. He expressed confidence in the success of these talks, stating that the war “would not have happened” if he had remained in office and that “no more lives should be lost.”

Russian Presidential Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reportedly stated that Putin emphasized the need to address the root causes of the war in Ukraine. Russian media also reported that Putin invited Trump to visit Moscow.

Earlier, on January 31, President Trump stated that his administration had engaged in “very serious” discussions regarding the war in Ukraine and suggested potential coordination with Vladimir Putin. Speaking to reporters, he emphasized his intent to end the war and hinted at “significant” actions, though he did not confirm whether he had personally spoken with the Russian leader.