Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin held a critical phone conversation on Tuesday, discussing a potential Ukraine ceasefire plan that could see Kyiv cede significant territory to Russia.
The conversation, lasting over an hour and a half, took place amid growing concerns in Kyiv and European capitals that Trump, who has frequently expressed admiration for the Russian president, may offer too many concessions to Moscow.
The call comes as Trump has suggested that the US and Russia could discuss “dividing up certain assets” in occupied Ukraine, fueling fears of a deal that could jeopardise Ukrainian sovereignty.
Although the White House confirmed the call’s conclusion, it remained unclear whether any concrete agreements were reached.
Kyiv had previously agreed to halt fighting for 30 days and enter talks with Russia, but Putin has imposed conditions, including barring Ukraine from NATO membership.
Trump, on his Truth Social network, stated that while many elements of a final agreement had been discussed, much remains unresolved.
Putin, speaking ahead of the call, mocked Western sanctions and the G7, warning that Russia’s adversaries would continue to undermine the country despite any potential easing of sanctions.
Kyiv, however, remains firm that Russia must “unconditionally” agree to the ceasefire, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga urging Moscow to demonstrate its commitment to peace.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed doubts that Putin is genuinely seeking peace, suggesting that Russia is instead positioning itself for further military gains.
Meanwhile, Trump has been pushing for a swift end to the conflict, blaming Biden’s policies for prolonging the war.
As the discussions continue, Moscow’s stance remains hardline, with Putin rejecting Western peacekeeping troops and opposing US military aid to Ukraine during any potential ceasefire.
