This story was originally published by the WND News Center.
President Donald Trump on Monday said on social media that his hours-call telephone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin went "very well" and the result is that negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are to start "immediately."
The goal will be a ceasefire, and "more importantly, an END to the War."
"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 explained.
"The conditions for that will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be, because they know details of a negotiation that nobody else would be aware of. The tone and spirit of the conversation were excellent. If it wasn't, I would say so now, rather than later.
"Russia wants to do largescale TRADE with the United States when this catastrophic 'bloodbath' is over, and I agree. There is a tremendous opportunity for Russia to create massive amounts of jobs and wealth. Its potential is UNLIMITED. Likewise, Ukraine can be a great beneficiary on Trade, in the process of rebuilding its Country.
"Negotiations between Russia and Ukraine will begin immediately. I have so informed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, of Ukraine, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, President Emmanuel Macron, of France, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, of Italy, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, of Germany, and President Alexander Stubb, of Finland, during a call with me, immediately after the call with President Putin. The Vatican, as represented by the Pope, has stated that it would be very interested in hosting the negotiations. Let the process begin!"
After the call, Putin said Moscow is ready to work toward ending the fighting.
Trump has been urging peace between the two combatants since before he took office.
The conflict began in early 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine.
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Trump's goal for the call with Putin was "to see a ceasefire."