In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine have agreed to commence immediate ceasefire negotiations. This announcement follows a two-hour phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump conveyed that the Vatican has expressed interest in hosting these talks.

Putin confirmed Russia's readiness to collaborate with Ukraine on a memorandum outlining potential settlement principles and timelines. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has not publicly commented on these developments, though sources indicate he briefly spoke with Trump prior to the call with Putin.

Despite these diplomatic overtures, the Kremlin has tempered expectations, stating that the process of developing a unified peace and ceasefire memorandum will be complex, with no fixed deadline established.

European leaders have expressed skepticism regarding the potential outcome of these talks. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that European nations would intensify sanctions on Russia to increase pressure over the ongoing conflict.

The announcement comes after failed peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Turkey, marking the first direct negotiations since 2022. U.S. Vice President JD Vance acknowledged a stalemate and reiterated that the U.S. could withdraw from the peace process if Russia is not genuinely committed.

As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, hopeful for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.