In a significant diplomatic development, President Donald Trump spoke for 90 minutes with Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 12, signaling a major shift in US foreign policy toward the war in Ukraine. The call, described by Trump as “lengthy and highly productive,” marks the first known conversation between the two leaders since Trump returned to the White House for a second term. Most notably, Trump has directed his national security team to “immediately” begin negotiations aimed at ending the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Trump, in a post on Truth Social, stated that his discussion with Putin covered a range of topics, including Ukraine, the Middle East, energy, artificial intelligence, and the role of the US dollar in the global economy. However, the most consequential outcome of the call was the mutual agreement on the need to end Russia’s war with Ukraine.

The call came just a day after Russia released Pennsylvania school teacher Marc Fogel, who had been serving a 14-year sentence and was considered wrongfully detained by the US. This move has been perceived as a possible goodwill gesture ahead of diplomatic efforts.

Beyond the war, Trump emphasized that he and Putin acknowledged “the great benefit that we will someday have in working together.” The two leaders also agreed to visit each other’s nations, though details of these visits remain unclear.

Trump has tapped key members of his national security team to spearhead the negotiation process. Among those assigned are Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. The inclusion of such high-profile officials underscores the urgency and seriousness with which the Trump administration is........

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