U.S. President Donald Trump recently spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who strongly indicated he would respond to Ukraine’s recent drone attack on Russian airfields. This conversation took place on a Wednesday and comes as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues without a resolution. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected Russia’s ceasefire proposal, which he described as an ultimatum.
In a social media post, Trump characterized his lengthy discussion with Putin as "a good conversation," but noted it would not lead to immediate peace. This marks Trump’s first public comment on Ukraine’s recent drone operation, which reportedly targeted Russian military assets. The White House stated that the U.S. was not informed in advance about Ukraine’s operation.
During the call, Trump did not express how he felt about Putin’s promise to retaliate against Ukraine. His tone seemed less frustrated than in previous weeks, when he publicly criticized Putin for prolonging the war. Trump has often stated his desire to end the conflict swiftly, even claiming he could do so before taking office. However, he lost patience with the Russian leader recently, calling him "absolutely CRAZY."
Despite his criticisms, Trump has not supported a bipartisan effort to impose new sanctions on Putin. The call was Trump’s first with Putin since May 19, and they also discussed Iran’s nuclear program.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy has dismissed Russia’s ceasefire plan, calling it an ultimatum and reiterated his desire for direct talks with Putin to resolve the ongoing conflict, which has lasted nearly three and a half years. Putin, however, expressed anger over what he termed Ukraine’s recent "terrorist acts" and showed no interest in meeting Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy is pushing for a ceasefire before any leaders’ summit, with the U.S. acting as a mediator. He believes that a ceasefire is essential to ensure meaningful dialogue and prevent a breakdown in discussions.
On the battlefield, Ukraine’s Security Service provided details about a drone strike that reportedly damaged or destroyed 41 Russian aircraft. This operation, which included advanced technology, targeted strategic bombers among other military assets. In response, Russia’s Defense Ministry announced that its troops have gained control of more territory in Ukraine’s northern Sumy region.
As the conflict continues, both sides are maintaining military pressure along the extensive front lines. The U.S. appears to be distancing itself from the conflict, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth skipping a recent meeting of international defense leaders coordinating military support for Ukraine. This absence is notable, marking the first time in three years that the U.S. defense chief did not attend alongside other leaders.
The situation remains tense, with ongoing military actions and stalled peace talks. The international community watches closely as both Ukraine and Russia set their conditions for a potential ceasefire, but significant obstacles remain.