President Donald Trump described his phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a “very good” hour-long discussion, following his conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin the previous day.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that the call focused on aligning the requests and needs of Ukraine and Russia, with efforts towards a ceasefire progressing. Both leaders have agreed to halt attacks on energy infrastructure, though mutual accusations of continued strikes have arisen. While Trump is advocating for a broader truce, Putin rejected the US and Ukraine-backed 30-day ceasefire during their call. Meanwhile, a prisoner exchange took place between Kyiv and Moscow, with both sides releasing 175 prisoners, including 22 wounded Russian soldiers.
Trump’s call with Zelensky covered the results of his conversation with Putin, aiming to synchronize the needs of both countries. Trump expressed confidence that the situation was “on track.” Later, Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed that Trump had agreed to assist Ukraine in acquiring additional air defense systems, particularly in Europe. Both leaders agreed to share information closely and set up technical discussions in Saudi Arabia to explore extending the ceasefire to the Black Sea, potentially marking the first step to ending the war. Trump also proposed that the US take ownership of Ukraine’s power plants to protect its energy infrastructure.
Zelensky described the conversation as “positive,” “frank,” and “very substantive,” agreeing with Trump that continued cooperation between Ukraine and the US is necessary for achieving peace. This call contrasts with Zelensky’s tense visit to the White House in February, which led to a temporary suspension of US military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. However, relations improved, and a ceasefire agreement was reached in March.
Following Trump’s call with Putin, both Russia and Ukraine resumed attacks, with Zelensky accusing Putin of rejecting the ceasefire after Russian strikes on hospitals and other facilities.
