Donald Trump recently dialed up both Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, not to discuss the latest in reality TV, but rather to hash out a potential end to the grueling war in Ukraine. After a lengthy phone conversation with the Russian president, Trump expressed optimism about future peace talks, taking to Truth Social to proclaim the chat was both “lengthy and highly productive.” It’s a pleasant surprise to see a leader who actually aims to solve international disputes rather than fan the flames.
The former president’s main takeaway from his time on the phone with Putin was a mutual desire to stop what he described as “millions of deaths” in the ongoing conflict. Trump, ever the diplomat, even claimed they agreed on the necessity of “common sense” in resolving issues—a trademark move for someone whose previous campaign highlighted the very phrase. Perhaps it’s time for some leaders to trade in their jargon for good old-fashioned common sense.
As the diplomatic wheels are set in motion, the former president has decided to form a negotiation team led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, among others. This might just be a recipe for success, considering that the current administration can’t seem to form a coherent plan that doesn’t involve sending billions overseas with little to no accountability. A strategic team with proven leadership could prove crucial in navigating this tangled web of international relations.
Trump’s positive tone even extended to thanking Putin for releasing Marc Fogel, an American teacher who had found himself on the wrong side of Russian law. The simple gesture showcases that, at least for now, diplomacy might be more effective than threats or sanctions. But for those dedicated to maintaining the costly and convoluted status quo of current U.S. foreign policy, this cooperative spirit could be seen as a threat—perhaps refreshing a bipartisan call for peace isn’t exactly what the war machine would want.
Trump Details 'Lengthy and Highly Productive' Talk with Putin, Hints at 'Successful Conclusion' of Ukraine War: Trump also held a talk with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. https://t.co/eHqK9hI4Kn pic.twitter.com/b8X8Lt3m2g
— The Western Journal (@WestJournalism) February 12, 2025
Zelenskyy’s response to Trump’s outreach also hinted at a desire for peace—no doubt a feeling shared by many tired of this ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian president emphasized the need for teamwork in crafting a future free from Russian aggression. Expecting unity isn’t too far-fetched when the alternative is leading Europe into a new era of conflict. Everyone might just be on board with the idea of stopping endless cycles of “death and destruction,” though some prefer to keep the cash flowing for partisan interests rather than pursuing actual resolutions.
The overarching takeaway from this development is that Trump’s diplomacy may in fact be the refreshing change needed in a war-weary world. With hopes riding high and both parties expressing a willingness to communicate, the prospect of genuine negotiations could finally bring an end to a conflict that’s taken far too many lives. If anything, it may show that, despite all the rhetoric, the paths of peace and prosperity are still available through straightforward dialogue and a little common sense. Let’s see how that unfolds in this ever-unpredictable political landscape.