U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a critical phone call on Tuesday, with the White House describing the discussions on a potential ceasefire in Ukraine as “going well.”
The call, which began at 10:00 a.m. (1400 GMT), comes amid concerns from Kyiv and European leaders that Trump may concede too much to Moscow, particularly regarding territorial disputes. Over the weekend, Trump hinted at negotiations over “dividing up certain assets,” signaling potential compromises on occupied Ukrainian regions.
While a ceasefire remains uncertain, Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day halt in hostilities to facilitate talks. However, Putin has set a series of conditions, with Moscow continuing its aggressive military campaign in eastern and southern Ukraine.
Trump, writing on Truth Social late Monday, acknowledged progress but cautioned that “much remains” to be finalized. “The talks are reaching a very critical stage,” he stated.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed skepticism, warning that Putin seeks military advantages before any ceasefire. Kyiv has maintained that Russia must agree to an “unconditional” truce.
Ahead of the call, Putin delivered a staunchly anti-Western speech, dismissing sanctions and mocking the G7. He reiterated his opposition to NATO peacekeeping forces in Ukraine and denounced U.S. military support for Kyiv, signaling potential demands in negotiations.
The push for a ceasefire gained momentum after Trump’s surprise February phone call with Putin, which disrupted Western efforts to isolate Russia. Trump’s handling of Ukraine has drawn criticism, particularly after a heated exchange with Zelensky at the White House on February 28, which led to a temporary freeze on U.S. military aid to Kyiv.
Determined to fulfill his campaign pledge to end the war, Trump has blamed predecessor Joe Biden’s policies for prolonging the conflict. “It must end NOW,” he declared on Truth Social.
Meanwhile, Russia continues its military advances, forcing evacuations in Ukraine’s Kursk region and celebrating recent battlefield gains. As negotiations unfold, the world watches closely, awaiting potential shifts in the geopolitical landscape.
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