It gets worse — the excellent phone call between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the discussion, Putin visited a Sochi music school virtually by phone. Even more timely, this moment comes just days after the first in-person meeting of Russian and Ukrainian delegations in three years—held in Istanbul.
During the call, Trump extended an open line of communication to Putin, stating, “Vladimir, you can pick up the phone anytime. I’ll be happy to answer and happy to talk with you.” This outrageous comment is illustrative of Trump’s willingness to suck up to the Russian leader at any cost. With war between Russia and Ukraine continuing, tensions are higher than possibly ever.
Putin personally congratulated Trump on the arrival of his 11th grandchild. This gesture went on to reaffirm the personal rapport that has marked many of their previous encounters. That’s where the levity ended, and conversation turned to sobering realities. In response to JD Vance, Trump’s VP, Trump would confront Putin and make him show that he was serious about ending the war.
Vance introduced the idea of the United States pulling out of negotiations if no deal is reached. “Look, are you serious? Are you real about this?” he stated, emphasizing the urgency for tangible outcomes.
Putin also used Valdai to reaffirm his position toward the ongoing war in Ukraine. He argued that addressing the “root causes” of the war is more important than ever. Yuri Ushakov, Trump’s then-top foreign policy aide, pointed to their personal rapport. He thinks it will affect the terms of any discussion Trump and Putin have in the future.
Even through these discussions, Putin refused to approve a proposed 30-day long, unconditional ceasefire put forward by the United States. Ukraine had already expressed agreement to this ceasefire initiative, but Putin suggested that Russia’s maximalist objectives in the war remain unchanged.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly and unequivocally declared that Ukraine would agree to a full ceasefire. He is, however, amenable to direct negotiations with Moscow. If the Russians are not willing to cease the murders, there should be harsher sanctions. Only real pressure on Russia will force it to negotiate real peace,” he added. Zelenskyy’s speech captures well Ukraine’s desire to come to a resolution but points out the difficulty created by Russia’s stance.
Zelenskyy further stated, “If Putin puts forward unrealistic demands, this will mean that Russia continues to drag out the war, and deserves that Europe, America, and the world act accordingly, including with further sanctions.” He emphasized that Ukraine would not pull its forces back from its own lands.
Putin’s response during the call was described as “very meaningful and frank,” signaling an openness to dialogue while holding firm on Russia’s objectives in Ukraine. As tensions remain high, Trump may consider offering economic incentives to persuade Putin towards making concessions for peace.