U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced that he had a "lengthy and highly productive" phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where both leaders agreed to begin negotiations to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump shared these developments on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating they would work together closely and expressed hopes for peace. "I just want to see people stop getting killed," Trump remarked, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

During the call, which lasted approximately 90 minutes, Trump noted their mutual intent to discuss various issues including Ukraine, the Middle East, and economic cooperation. The Kremlin affirmed Trump's assertion about the call, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicating a willingness to cooperate for a long-term peace settlement.

Hours post-conversation with Putin, Trump also reached out to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, describing the dialogue as "meaningful". Zelenskyy expressed gratitude and emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to working closely with the U.S. for achieving a "lasting and reliable peace." Zelenskyy noted the necessity for strong security guarantees, considering Ukraine's territorial integrity amid ongoing hostilities.

Additionally, Trump's administration revealed a notable policy shift regarding NATO and the war itself. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that the notion of Ukraine returning to its pre-2014 borders is "unrealistic" and that NATO membership is not a feasible part of any negotiated settlement. Hegseth further articulated a vision where European and non-European troops would back any security guarantees, firmly ruling out the deployment of U.S. forces in Ukraine.

Both Trump and Hegseth's comments signal a significant pivot in Washington's approach to supporting Ukraine, particularly highlighting the expectation that European nations must take greater responsibility for the regional security landscape. The dynamics have prompted European leaders to insist they should be included in future negotiations concerning Ukraine's fate.

In this context, Trump hinted at meeting Putin in Saudi Arabia, a move that could symbolize a thaw in U.S.-Russia relations and mark an important diplomatic shift, as he looks to accelerate peace discussions. "We ultimately expect to meet," Trump stated, a sentiment that resonates with his ongoing ambitions to ease the conflict which has claimed numerous lives since its inception.

Zelenskyy's proactive engagement in these discussions shows Ukraine's recognition of the evolving landscape of international support, while also stressing that any bilateral negotiations must include adequate protections for Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The stark reality however remains that achieving peace will require concessions from all parties involved, with both sides now looking to find common ground that could ultimately halt the aggression and lead toward reconciliation.

For continued updates on this emerging story, refer to the original articles from Channel News Asia, Forbes, and LA Times.