Trump and Putin's secret calls: A push for peace in Ukraine

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented that he "neither confirms nor denies" American media reports regarding a phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. According to "The New York Post," the leaders reportedly discussed ways to end the war in Ukraine.

Donald Trump acknowledged speaking by phone with Vladimir Putin about resolving the war in Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov neither confirmed nor denied these reports, noting the existence of various communication channels. Trump emphasised that he has a strong relationship with Putin and believes the Russian leader also wants to conclude the conflict.

In an interview with "The New York Post," when asked about the number of talks he had with Putin, Trump replied that it's "better that he doesn't say." He also mentioned that the Russian leader "wants people to stop dying." During the interview aboard Air Force One, Trump refrained from disclosing the number of talks with Putin, reiterating that it's "better that he doesn't say." He expressed hope for a swift end to the war, highlighting the daily loss of lives.

When asked for a comment on these reports, Peskov stated that "many different messages are circulating." "This communication happens through numerous channels. (...) I might not personally know everything or be aware of all details. Therefore, in this situation, I cannot confirm it or deny it," said the Kremlin spokesman.

Donald Trump announced that if an agreement is not reached, he will impose significant taxes and sanctions on Russia.

Trump has consistently emphasised his aim to end the war and expressed his willingness to meet with Putin to discuss the issue. At the beginning of the month, Reuters reported that Russia is considering organising a summit in Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates. Leonid Slutsky, head of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the State Duma, stated that preparations for such a meeting are at an "advanced stage," with it potentially occurring in February or March.

In a discussion with "The New York Post," Trump disclosed that he has been negotiating with Putin to resolve the conflict. Mike Waltz, U.S. National Security Advisor, joined the discussions, proposing the initiation of meetings. The Kremlin and the White House have not yet initiated talks regarding a potential meeting between the leaders.

Trump told "The New York Post" that he "has always had good relations with Putin" and possesses a specific plan to end the war, though he did not provide details. "I hope it happens quickly," Trump stated. "People are dying every day. This war in Ukraine is dreadful. I want to end this damn thing."

According to Reuters, Leonid Slutsky suggested that a meeting between Trump and Putin could take place in February or March, with preparations for the summit at an "advanced stage." Both leaders have expressed a desire to meet, and Trump aims to discuss concluding the war, fulfilling his campaign promise.

On Friday, Donald Trump announced that he would likely meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy next week.