Former President Donald Trump recently revealed details of a 75-minute conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, discussing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and other pressing global issues. On the whole, Trump described the exchange as “good,” though he warned that it wouldn’t lead to “quick peace.”
Long-standing tensions between Russia and Ukraine have recently reached a boiling point. This uptick in hostilities accelerated significantly after a September 17 surprise attack destroyed more than 40 Russian bombers. Putin has promised “the most severe retaliation” against Ukraine for this military offensive.
Trump posted his takeaways from the discussion on Truth Social. Of course, we all take from this that he has no idea how to end the current conflict, and indeed, we don’t know if he talked Putin out of any more aggression.
“It was a good conversation, but not a conversation that will lead to immediate Peace,” – Donald Trump
Beyond the issues related to Ukraine, Trump suggested that the two heads of state covered the topic of Iran’s nuclear intentions. First, he critiqued Iran’s approach, claiming that it has been “slowwalking” its response to international pressures and sanctions.
“We also discussed Iran, and the fact that time is running out on Iran’s decision pertaining to nuclear weapons, which must be made quickly!” – Donald Trump
Trump underscored the urgency of obtaining a definitive answer from Iran regarding its nuclear program, stating, “We will need a definitive answer in a very short period of time!”
Moreover, Trump relayed that he and Putin shared views on the potential for cooperation in nuclear discussions related to Iran. He added that Putin expressed willingness to engage in these talks and suggested he could be instrumental in reaching a swift conclusion.
“I stated to President Putin that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon and, on this, I believe that we were in agreement,” – Donald Trump
Trump’s learnings from his lunch with Putin provide a window into the very real diplomatic roadwork being done and obstacles being faced by today’s world power brokers. The former president’s observations cut to the core of the contradictory nature of today’s geopolitical landscape. They highlight the urgent need to open channels of communication as tensions boil over.