In a concentrated diplomatic push, President Trump conducted a second phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin within a 24-hour period. This engagement followed closely on the heels of President Trump’s recent meeting in Miami with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where the primary objective was to explore pathways toward ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Confirming the call, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on X that President Trump had a “positive call with President Putin concerning Ukraine.” The discussions extended beyond the immediate conflict to encompass recent security developments. Reports suggest that President Trump reacted with strong concern to alleged security issues, specifically an alleged attack on the Russian president’s residence, which Ukraine has denied.
During the conversation, President Trump reportedly made a significant remark about military assistance: “Thank God we didn’t give Zelensky Tomahawk missiles.” This utterance suggests the delicate balance of power and the strategic considerations involved in the ongoing peace process. The Kremlin had anticipated a prompt follow-up call between the leaders, a prediction that proved accurate.
Before his meeting with President Zelenskyy, Trump had previously described a conversation with President Putin as “good and very productive.” He voiced his belief that significant progress was being made towards peace, indicating that both sides were seriously considering a resolution.
President Trump conveyed that an accord to cease Russia’s invasion of Ukraine seemed within reach. Nevertheless, he candidly admitted that substantial breakthroughs regarding territorial control had not yet materialized. Following his discussions with President Zelenskyy, Trump characterized the peace negotiations as progressing into their “final stages,” while also noting the absence of a predetermined deadline for a settlement.