WASHINGTON – Former US President Donald Trump has characterized his communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin as remarkably “rational,” a sentiment expressed following a significant phone discussion between the two leaders. The call, which lasted two and a half hours on March 18, focused on potential resolutions for the ongoing Ukraine conflict and a mutual desire to normalize the strained US-Russia relations. This extensive dialogue underscores the complexities and persistent efforts in high-level international diplomacy.
Speaking to the news portal OutKick on Sunday, May 23, 2025, Trump elaborated on his perspective. “We [Putin and Trump] have had some very rational discussions, and I just want to see people not killed anymore,” he stated, highlighting a core humanitarian motivation behind his engagements. His remarks suggest a pragmatic approach to de-escalation, prioritizing an end to hostilities and saving lives amidst global tensions.
Trump further asserted a strong personal connection with the Russian leader, claiming to know him “very well.” He expressed satisfaction that his rapport with Putin has remained consistently good since his first presidential term. This enduring relationship, according to Trump, has persisted despite widespread allegations of Russian interference in US presidential elections, a contentious issue that has historically complicated US-Russia relations.
During their critical March 18 phone conversation, a notable proposal emerged: Putin reportedly agreed to Trump’s suggestion for conflicting parties to cease attacks on energy infrastructure for 30 days. This diplomatic breakthrough, aimed at protecting vital resources, was, however, quickly overshadowed. The very next day, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported that Ukraine had attacked an oil storage depot in Russia, merely hours after the significant phone call, underscoring the fragile nature of ceasefires in the volatile conflict zone.
Summary
Former US President Donald Trump described his 2.5-hour phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin as “rational,” aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict and normalizing US-Russia relations. Trump emphasized a humanitarian motivation to stop casualties, reflecting a pragmatic approach to de-escalation. He also maintained that his personal rapport with Putin has remained consistently good since his first presidential term.
During their March 18 call, Putin reportedly agreed to Trump’s proposal for a 30-day cessation of attacks on energy infrastructure by conflicting parties. This diplomatic agreement was, however, quickly undermined the following day. A Russian oil storage depot was reportedly attacked by Ukraine, underscoring the fragile nature of ceasefires in the volatile conflict zone.