Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have taken the first steps toward ending the war between Russia and Ukraine as they agreed to an ‘energy and infrastructure ceasefire.’
The partial ceasefire agreement will be in effect for 30 days. Talks for a permanent peace will ‘begin immediately’ in the Middle East although Putin told Trump that he has several conditions he wants met in order for the fighting to end.
‘The leaders agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, full ceasefire and permanent peace. These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East,’ the White House said in its readout of the call.
The White House statement also contained a key detail hinting at a realignment of the Middle East: a statement of support for Israel over Iran.
‘The two leaders shared the view that Iran should never be in a position to destroy Israel,’ the readout said.
Some Hints at New World Order
It hinted at the potential for a future shift in the world order in which Moscow becomes less forthright in its support of Tehran, which has been a longtime ally.
‘The leaders spoke broadly about the Middle East as a region of potential cooperation to prevent future conflicts,’ the White House said. The U.S. has hosted separate talks with Ukraine and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia.
Trump has repeatedly threatened Iran for its support of the Houthis and demanded it end its nuclear program. If he can foster a closer relationship between Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he could see an end to the Russia-Iran alliance, which would benefit the United States.
The White House also hinted at a shakeup of American foreign relations that would include a closer relationship between Washington and Moscow.
Both leaders ‘stressed the need for improved bilateral relations between the United States and Russia.’
An improved U.S.-Russian relationship ‘has huge upside,’ the administration noted. ‘This includes enormous economic deals and geopolitical stability when peace has been achieved.’
What Trump Thinks About Russia-Ukraine War
Trump expressed optimism there would a ‘complete ceasefire’ soon.
