Trump's week in review: From gutting the federal workforce to meeting with foreign leaders

3. Talked with Putin to discuss ending the Ukraine-Russia war

In a post on Truth Social Wednesday, Trump elaborated on the conversation he had with Putin, which included thanking the foreign leader for securing Fogel’s release. Trump also suggested that following his discussion with Putin, an end to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine that has caused unrest in Eastern Europe for nearly three years might be on the horizon.

“As we both agreed, we want to stop the millions of deaths taking place in the War with Russia/Ukraine,” Trump wrote. “President Putin even used my very strong Campaign motto of, ‘COMMON SENSE.’ We both believe very strongly in it. We agreed to work together, very closely, including visiting each other’s Nations. We have also agreed to have our respective teams start negotiations immediately.” 

Trump signaled his intention to “begin by calling President [Volodymyr] Zelenskyy, of Ukraine, to inform him of the conversation, something which I will be doing right now.” He also identified the team he's tasked with working on negotiations to end the war: Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz and Ambassador and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. 

After declaring that the Russia-Ukraine war “must end” and sharing his belief that “no more lives should be lost,” Trump expressed confidence that his effort “will lead to a successful conclusion, hopefully soon!”