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President Donald Trump engaged in a nearly 90-minute phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (July 4), where Trump offered to help find a solution to the ongoing Ukraine war. According to a Kremlin spokesperson, the discussion was described as "business-like and quite constructive." This conversation precedes President Trump's participation in the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, where the conflict in Ukraine is expected to be a significant topic of discussion.
During the call, Trump reiterated his willingness to work towards a rapid end to the fighting in Ukraine. The Kremlin emphasized its preference for a political and diplomatic resolution to the conflict, though it accused Kyiv and its European allies of seeking to prolong and escalate the situation. The conversation also coincided with intensified Russian military efforts in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also spoke with President Trump, describing their conversation as "very good." Zelensky expressed optimism about the prospect of ending the war, highlighting the importance of American resolve. The two leaders agreed to continue discussions at the NATO summit.
The call between Trump and Putin comes amid heightened tensions, with recent Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure, including an oil terminal in St. Petersburg. Russia has responded with claims of capturing the strategic Ukrainian city of Kostyantynivka, although Ukrainian forces maintain control, according to a Ukrainian army spokesperson.
As the NATO summit approaches, the conflict in Ukraine remains a focal point, with ongoing military actions and diplomatic efforts shaping the international response. The outcome of the summit may influence the future trajectory of the conflict and the role of the United States and its allies in seeking a resolution.