Trump and Putin discuss wrapping up Ukraine war without Zelensky’s input
Former President Donald Trump held a 90-minute phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which Trump urged Putin to end the war in Ukraine and suggested a ceasefire, while expressing views that aligned with Russian narratives on battlefield conditions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was not consulted, questioned the intent behind the proposed ceasefire, emphasizing Ukraine’s push for a lasting and secure peace. The Kremlin claimed both leaders shared similar views on Ukraine’s role in prolonging the conflict, and Trump later signaled a potential reduction of U.S. troops in Germany, a move favorable to Russia.
- ▪Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin discussed ending the war in Ukraine during a 90-minute phone call, with Trump urging Putin to cease hostilities.
- ▪Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not consulted and sought clarification on whether Russia’s ceasefire proposal was linked to Moscow’s Victory Day parade or a genuine peace effort.
- ▪The Kremlin claimed Putin informed Trump of Russia’s readiness for a temporary ceasefire during May 9 celebrations, while also asserting continued Russian battlefield dominance—a claim contradicted by current military assessments.
- ▪Trump stated he believes Ukraine is militarily defeated, echoing Russian propaganda, and dismissed media reports as 'fake news.'
- ▪Following the call, Trump announced on Truth Social that the U.S. is considering reducing troop levels in Germany, a move previously initiated during his first term and welcomed by Moscow.
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TRUMP TO PUTIN: ‘I WANT TO END YOUR WAR’: In a phone conversation that lasted more than 90 minutes, Russian President Vladimir Putin told President Donald Trump that he’d like to help the U.S. get Iran’s enriched uranium out of the country, but Trump said he replied, “I’d much rather have you be involved with ending the war with Ukraine.” Despite Russia’s overt support for Iran, and intelligence that suggests Moscow has provided Iran both with drone and targeting information to kill Americans, an aide to Putin said “the conversation ended on a warm note, wishing each other all the best.” Recommended Stories Trump and Putin discuss wrapping up Ukraine war without Zelensky’s input Trump digs in on blockade, claims he has Iran on the ropes After White House strategy session, Trump said to be…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Washington Examiner.