Trump and Putin’s Call Amid Intense Drone Strikes in Ukraine

KYIV, Ukraine – As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, a pivotal phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to take place today. This conversation comes on the heels of the most significant Russian drone strikes in the conflict, which saw Russia launching over 400 drones in less than 48 hours, targeting central regions including Kyiv.

During the recent strikes, a 28-year-old woman was killed, and several others were injured, including a four-year-old child. This escalation of violence raises critical questions regarding the potential for peace negotiations, which Trump has attempted to influence.

European officials are reportedly nervous regarding Trump’s shifting perspectives on the conflict, as both Kyiv and Moscow strive to portray the other as the primary obstacle to peace. Notably, European representatives plan to communicate with Trump ahead of his call with Putin, hoping to shape his thoughts on the war.

Last month, after a conversation with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump made critical remarks about Putin, indicating his growing frustration with the Russian leader’s actions. Observers note that during the call, Trump will essentially give Putin the opportunity to appeal directly for support while discussing the ongoing conflict.

The Kremlin has previously rejected proposals for a 30-day ceasefire, raising concerns that Trump might open avenues for a summary agreement favoring Putin. Meanwhile, analysts believe Trump could face pressure to utilize his leverage over U.S. military and economic aid to Ukraine as part of any negotiations during the call.

Despite these tensions, Trump has expressed skepticism about achieving substantial progress in peace discussions. His impending discussion with Putin is seen as a high-stakes interaction that could significantly impact the course of the war.

As anticipation builds for the phone call, both nations remain entrenched in a stalemate, with neither side willing to budge on key terms. The outcome of today’s call might either exacerbate the conflict or introduce a new chapter in the ongoing negotiations.