Russia Ukraine Ceasefire Talks Trump Proposes Vatican As Venue, Europe Welcomes | N18G
On May 19, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for holding Russia-Ukraine ceasefire talks at the Vatican, emphasizing its symbolic significance. During a White House event, he recounted a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where he asked, “When are we going to end this, Vladimir?” Trump acknowledged the significant financial commitments by the U.S. to Ukraine due to the Biden administration’s support and expressed confidence that both Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky are inclined towards a resolution. While Trump announced that ceasefire talks would begin immediately, no major concessions were made during his call with Putin. European leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, welcomed the possibility of Vatican-mediated talks. However, the Vatican did not confirm any official offer. Italy expressed readiness to facilitate negotiations aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace, with Pope Leo XIV suggesting the Vatican could mediate global conflicts.