Aide to the President of Russia Yury Ushakov
August 19, 2025 — Moscow/Washington
Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation Tuesday evening, reaffirming their commitment to advancing peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, according to a statement by Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov.
The call, initiated by President Trump, came shortly after the U.S. leader concluded talks at the White House with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European heads of state. Ushakov described the conversation as “frank and constructive,” noting that both leaders agreed to maintain close contact on the Ukraine issue and other pressing international and bilateral matters.
Putin reportedly expressed gratitude for the hospitality and organization of the recent U.S.-Russia summit in Alaska, and welcomed the progress made toward resolving the Ukraine crisis. The two presidents discussed the possibility of involving higher-ranking officials from both Russia and Ukraine in future rounds of direct negotiations.
Ushakov emphasized President Trump’s “personal efforts and commitment” to securing a lasting settlement in Ukraine, adding that both sides remain open to continued dialogue.
The call marks a continuation of diplomatic engagement following the Alaska summit, which observers say could signal renewed momentum in efforts to end the conflict.
