Summary
The White House
March 18, 2025
The following is attributable to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt
Today, President Trump and President Putin engaged in discussions about the imperative for peace and a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Both leaders concurred that this war must conclude with a durable peace. They highlighted the importance of enhancing bilateral relations between the United States and Russia. The significant resources, both human and financial, expended by Ukraine and Russia in this war could be better utilized for the benefit of their citizens.
This conflict should never have commenced and should have been resolved much earlier through sincere and earnest peace initiatives. The leaders agreed that the path to peace would start with a ceasefire focused on energy and infrastructure, alongside technical talks regarding the establishment of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, culminating in a full ceasefire and lasting peace. These discussions are set to commence immediately in the Middle East.
The leaders broadly addressed the Middle East as a region ripe for cooperation to avert future conflicts. They also underscored the necessity of curbing the proliferation of strategic weapons and pledged to collaborate with others to ensure the widest possible adherence. Both leaders shared the conviction that Iran must never be allowed to threaten Israel’s existence.
The two leaders recognized the substantial benefits of fostering an improved bilateral relationship between the United States and Russia. This would entail significant economic agreements and geopolitical stability once peace is attained.
