U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a one-hour phone conversation on Wednesday, which both sides described as positive and constructive. The discussion comes as diplomatic efforts continue to secure a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, despite Russian President Vladimir Putin’s rejection of a broader peace proposal.

Following the call, Zelensky expressed optimism, stating that “lasting peace can be achieved this year” under Trump’s leadership. This marks the first direct conversation between the two leaders since their tense White House meeting last month. Their diplomatic teams previously met in Saudi Arabia, where they negotiated a 30-day ceasefire proposal backed by both Ukraine and the U.S.—a plan ultimately rejected by Putin.

During the call, Zelensky proposed a limited ceasefire, focusing on halting strikes on energy infrastructure, railways, and ports. However, he cautioned that Ukraine would retaliate if Russia failed to uphold the agreement.

“I understand that until we agree [with Russia]… everything will fly,” Zelensky remarked, referring to ongoing drone and missile attacks.

Trump later addressed the conversation on Truth Social, stating that the goal was to “align Ukraine and Russia in terms of their requests and needs” and that ceasefire efforts were progressing.

Another significant point of discussion was the potential U.S. role in Ukraine’s nuclear power sector. The White House confirmed that American ownership of Ukraine’s nuclear plants was raised during the call, though Zelensky later clarified that discussions centered only on the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility.

While a comprehensive peace deal remains elusive, the ongoing dialogue between Washington and Kyiv signals continued U.S. support for Ukraine’s security and energy infrastructure as negotiations with Russia unfold.