Trump says 'very good' talks with Putin and Zelenskyy could advance Ukraine peace efforts

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump said he held “very good” conversations with both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing optimism that progress could be made toward ending the war in Ukraine.

Speaking alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump told reporters that discussions with both leaders had been constructive and suggested that a diplomatic opening may exist.

“We had a very good conversation yesterday with President Zelenskyy and President Putin, and I see, maybe, we can do something there. I really do. I think they're both open to it,” Trump said.

Focus shifts from Iran to Ukraine

Trump indicated that his administration’s attention will increasingly turn to Ukraine following the completion of the US-Iran agreement aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

“Now that this is finished, we're going to be focusing on that, see if we can get that one done,” Trump said, referring to efforts to secure a settlement in the Ukraine conflict.

The president has repeatedly argued that a negotiated end to the war is achievable, though diplomatic efforts have yet to produce a major breakthrough.

During the 2024 campaign, Trump frequently pledged that he could bring the conflict to a rapid conclusion if elected.

Iran agreement text to be released

Trump also said that the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran would be made public after the formal signing process is completed.

Asked about the timeline for releasing the document, Trump said he wanted the agreement to be available for public review because of its significance.

“This is a very powerful document, and I want it to be released,” he said. “So probably pretty soon. I would say sometime after Friday.”

The agreement is expected to be formally signed in Geneva, Switzerland, according to Pakistani officials involved in the process.

JD Vance expected at Geneva ceremony

While a signing ceremony is scheduled for Friday, Trump suggested he may not attend the event personally.

Speaking at the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, the president said Vice President JD Vance would likely represent the administration in Geneva.

“He was originally going to do it. I’ll probably be gone by then,” Trump said.

Earlier, a senior US official said both Trump and Vance had already signed the agreement virtually, paving the way for the formal ceremony later this week.