Donald Trump asks Putin for 'bit of a ceasefire' in Ukraine – 'Might announce something'

Donald Trump has revealed he suggested a ceasefire to Vlaidmir Putin in the Ukraine war in the latest phone call between the two leaders, while hinting a deal might be close.

The US President was meeting with NASA’s Artemis II astronauts at the Oval Office. He told reporters: “I suggested a little bit of a ceasefire and I think he might do that.” Mr Trump appeared to show optimism that he had got through to Putin, adding: “He might announce something having to do with that.” The US leader claimed his Russian counterpart offered help, but that he then told Putin: “Before you help me I want to end your war.” Mr Trump continued: “We had a good talk, I’ve known him a long time. I think he was ready to make a deal a while ago. I think some people made it difficult for him to make a deal but we talked more about Ukraine.” A Kremlin aide confirmed Mr Trump and Putin spoke during a call that lasted for more than 90 minutes, adding it was “frank and business-like”.

Kremlin official Yuri Ushakov also saiud: “Vladimir Putin considers Donald Trump’s decision to extend the ceasefire with Iran to be the right one, as this should give negotiations a chance and, overall, help to stabilise the situation.”

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