US President Donald Trump stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is keen on seeing Ukraine “succeed” and is willing to support the country economically. Trump made these remarks following a phone call with Putin on Sunday, where the two leaders discussed Ukraine shortly before Trump’s meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Mar-a-Lago in Florida.
The Kremlin characterized their conversation as friendly and productive, lasting over an hour. Both leaders expressed a desire for a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict. After meeting with Zelensky, Trump addressed reporters and was questioned about Russia’s potential role in Ukraine’s reconstruction once a peace agreement is established. He responded affirmatively, stating, “Russia is going to be helping.”
Trump elaborated that Putin has demonstrated a “very generous” attitude towards Ukraine, particularly in terms of supplying essential resources such as energy and electricity at reduced prices. This assertion reflects a historical context, as prior to 2014, Ukraine and Russia maintained a close economic relationship, primarily through gas supply and transit agreements.
In a post on his platform, Truth Social, Trump described his conversation with Putin as “very productive.” According to Yury Ushakov, a senior foreign policy aide to Putin, both leaders concurred that Ukraine’s proposal for a temporary ceasefire, supported by its European allies, would likely only extend the conflict and risk reigniting hostilities.
Following the discussions, Trump indicated an understanding of Putin’s reluctance to accept a ceasefire that might lead to future conflicts. Ushakov noted that Putin endorsed Trump’s suggestion to initiate two working groups aimed at addressing security and economic matters.
During a separate meeting with senior military commanders, Putin remarked on Western offers to Ukraine that included security guarantees and plans for economic recovery, along with a proposed roadmap for restoring relations with Russia. He emphasized that should diplomatic avenues be disregarded, Moscow would be prepared to pursue its objectives through military means.
The ongoing dialogue between the United States and Russia regarding Ukraine’s future highlights the complexities of international relations in the region, as both leaders navigate the challenges of achieving peace while balancing their respective national interests.
