Putin, After Call with Trump, Signals Openness to Peace Talks but Rejects Immediate Ceasefire

Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a rare two-hour phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, calling the exchange “very informative and helpful,” but rejecting a proposed unconditional 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.

According to Russian state media RIA and TASS, Putin said, “We’re generally on the right track,” and reaffirmed Russia’s willingness to pursue a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict. However, the Kremlin emphasized that any ceasefire must be contingent upon “compromises that suit both sides.”

Ceasefire Proposal Falls Short

Despite mounting pressure from Washington and diplomatic sources, Putin declined to support the temporary ceasefire proposed by U.S. officials, which had been a key objective of the Trump call. Speaking to reporters in Sochi, Putin stated:

“Russia supports a halt to hostilities, but it is essential to develop the most effective and lasting paths toward peace.”

These causes, as defined by the Kremlin, include controversial and sweeping demands:

• The “de-Nazification” and demilitarisation of Ukraine
• A ban on Western military aid to Kyiv
• Constitutional changes limiting Ukraine’s sovereignty

Russia Proposes Peace Memorandum with Kyiv

While dismissing the ceasefire for now, Putin indicated Moscow is prepared to work with Ukraine on a memorandum for future peace talks. TASS reported that Russia is open to a “compromise-based” framework but did not provide a timeline or conditions under which formal negotiations could resume.

This call marks a significant diplomatic moment between Putin and Trump amid rising international efforts to mediate a halt to the ongoing war. Yet, the refusal to endorse a ceasefire underscores the continued gulf between Russia’s position and Western expectations.