On March 18, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump are set to hold significant telephone conversations aimed at negotiating peace concerning the turbulent conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The scheduled call is expected to take place between 16:00 and 18:00 Moscow time, as confirmed by the Kremlin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov.
This phone call marks the second official dialogue between the two leaders since Trump was inaugurated on January 20, 2025, following their first conversation on February 12, 2025. During their initial discussion, they delved deeply not only on matters of diplomatic relations but also on the pressing issue of the Ukrainian conflict. Today’s discussions will aim to build on those previous dialogues.
Details surrounding the upcoming call suggest both leaders are under pressure to make strides toward resolving the protracted hostilities, with Trump highlighting the urgency by stating, "Many elements of the final agreement have already been agreed, but much remains to be agreed." During his flight from Florida to Washington, he elaborated on the subjects expected to be discussed, remarking, "I think we will talk about territories… We will talk about power plants, because this is a big issue." This indicates the U.S. is considering the impact of the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant within the broader conversation about territorial negotiations.
Further emphasizing the gravity of this situation, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has expressed concern over delays and the life-and-death ramifications of continued military action. "The implementation of this proposal could begin now. Every day in wartime is a matter of human lives," he stated. His comments reflect the Bangladesh perspective on the importance of swift action, adding pressure to the discussions between Trump and Putin.
The geopolitical ramifications of these negotiations extend beyond the United States and Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Kir Starmer weighed in on the impending talks, calling for definitive actions from Putin to demonstrate Russia's willingness to seek peace. Macron noted, "Russia must prove it really wants peace," underscoring the skepticism surrounding the discussions. Further reinforcing this sentiment, Starmer insisted, "Putin must agree to ceasefire if he is serious about peace," which encapsulates the call for accountability from the Russian leader.
Trump’s administration is optimistic about negotiating terms favorable to stopping the violence, maintaining discussions related to the division of assets stemming from the conflict. This builds on discussions initiated during previous calls where both sides broached the subject of how territories would be shared, with Trump stating, "I think much of this has already been discussed by both sides - Ukraine and Russia. We are already talking about this, about the division of certain assets." This vision of negotiation suggests not just military de-escalation but economic and territorial reconciliations.
Despite these perceived advancements, it remains unclear how much alignment exists among U.S. allies, especially Ukraine, on the proposed terms of negotiation. Reports indicate Ukraine is firm on its 'red lines,' including retaining military strength, rejecting NATO membership, and defending territorial integrity. Media sources reveal fears from Kyiv officials of potentially giving away significant territories. According to the British newspaper The Independent, critics fear the U.S. may concede portions of Ukraine, raising alarms about the sovereignty and future security for the nation.
On the day of the call, both leaders will be operating under the weight of considerable expectations. Peskov has indicated leaders will speak without time restrictions—"as much as they deem necessary," signifying the importance of this call to both Russia and the United States. Notably, the past dialogues have led to direct negotiations, with the two countries' delegations previously meeting to address improving bilateral relations.
Reminders loom from previous calls where mutually beneficial compromise was discussed but not entirely materialized. A commitment to peace has seen many layers within these exchanges, and this call presents another opportunity to pivot toward resolution.
Experts suggest the call may yield mere diplomatic niceties, as speculation rises about whether Russia will be flexible enough to meet the conditions expected by the U.S. and its allies. "There are large questions surrounding the normalization of bilateral relations, especially concerning the Ukrainian settlement," Peskov acknowledged, hinting at the complex layers underlying this dialogue.
At this pivotal moment, the world watches closely to see if any tangible agreements or reassurances emerge from what could be another significant chance for de-escalation and the possibility of long-term peace between Russia and Ukraine. While hopes for diplomatic progress hang high, the reality of entrenched positions and geopolitical strategies remains challenging, shaping the dialogue between these two global powers.
