Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump spoke for nearly three hours on Tuesday, discussing efforts to reduce hostilities in Ukraine. While Putin agreed to pause attacks on Ukraine’s energy and infrastructure facilities—provided Kyiv reciprocates—he did not commit to a broader ceasefire.
The conversation marked one of the most direct diplomatic exchanges regarding the war in months. The White House stated that both leaders agreed to begin technical negotiations on energy and maritime ceasefires, potentially leading to a wider truce. However, the success of any agreement remains uncertain, as Ukraine’s approval is required for the proposed energy ceasefire to take effect.
Shortly after the call, Russian forces launched an airstrike on energy infrastructure in Slovyansk, a city in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, leaving parts of the area without power. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded by expressing skepticism over Putin’s willingness to adhere to ceasefire agreements, citing previous violations by Moscow.
Trump has indicated plans to visit Saudi Arabia for further talks with Putin, but details of the trip remain unclear. His efforts to improve U.S.-Russia relations have drawn both praise and criticism, particularly as military aid to Ukraine has become a point of contention in Washington. While Trump recently restored aid to Kyiv after a brief suspension, his administration continues to push for conditions on future assistance.
The Kremlin has insisted that any resolution to the conflict must include an end to Western military aid to Ukraine. Meanwhile, polling suggests that U.S. public opinion on support for Ukraine is shifting, with more Americans believing the country is not receiving sufficient assistance.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, international sanctions and diplomatic pressure have largely isolated Moscow. However, Trump’s recent outreach suggests a potential shift in the U.S. approach, raising questions about future relations between Washington, Kyiv, and Moscow.
