In a recent conversation that lasted around 90 minutes, U.S. President Donald Trump offered assistance in resolving the Ukraine conflict to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The exchange took place on Saturday, the U.S. Independence Day, with Trump mentioning his upcoming participation in the NATO summit in Turkey. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also had a discussion with Trump regarding the conflict.
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov highlighted Trump’s willingness to work towards a swift resolution and find solutions to address the crisis during his call with Putin. Ushakov characterized the dialogue as business-like and constructive, emphasizing Russia’s pursuit of a political-diplomatic resolution while considering its core principles.
Addressing Ukraine’s actions, Ushakov accused Kyiv and its European allies of prolonging and escalating the conflict, as well as engaging in terrorism against civilians. The conversation touched upon Ukraine’s long-range strikes on Russian targets, particularly affecting the oil industry and causing fuel shortages in various Russian regions.
Putin informed Trump about the progress of Russian armed forces on the battlefield, claiming advancements and the liberation of key locations. Discrepancies arose when Russian officials reported the capture of Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine, a claim contested by Zelenskyy and Ukraine’s General Staff.
Russia has insisted on assuming full control over Ukraine’s Donbas region as part of any potential solution, a stance vehemently rejected by Ukraine. Despite Zelenskyy’s request for a one-on-one meeting with Putin, the Kremlin leader declined.
Trump mentioned that U.S. envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, would continue their efforts to facilitate a resolution and were prepared for further engagements in Moscow. Ushakov shared Putin’s hope that U.S. diplomatic initiatives in the Iran conflict would pave the way for mutually acceptable long-term resolutions.
Zelenskyy expressed optimism following his discussion with Trump, acknowledging the potential for American involvement to be instrumental in ending the conflict. Both leaders agreed to extend their talks at the upcoming NATO meeting, focusing on the extensive front line of the war.
