US President Donald Trump stated that his extended phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday addressed several key topics, though it yielded minimal progress in achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine. During their sixth known call this year, the leaders discussed the implementation of recent agreements between Moscow and Kiev, particularly those reached during Istanbul talks. The Kremlin noted that Trump pressed Putin to halt hostilities in Ukraine as soon as possible, while Putin reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to negotiation. Despite the call’s duration, Trump indicated that no significant strides were made towards resolving the conflict, highlighting the ongoing stalemate in diplomatic efforts.
The Kremlin described the nearly hour-long discussion as “candid and business-minded”. Officials said the conversation touched on various matters, including Iran, but did not result in any concrete steps toward resolving the Ukraine conflict. Trump, who has consistently advocated for a negotiated settlement since taking office, expressed disappointment that the call did not bring the situation any closer to a resolution. He reiterated his stance that the war in Ukraine should be ended within 24 hours of his inauguration, a claim he later admitted was exaggerated.
Since Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, he and Putin have held at least six official phone calls. These discussions have centered on negotiating an end to the conflict, arms control, and restoring bilateral relations, which reached an all-time low under the previous US administration. The Kremlin confirmed that during the latest call, Trump urged Putin to cease hostilities in Ukraine as soon as possible, while Putin emphasized Russia’s dedication to seeking a political solution.
American officials have not provided any specific details on the outcomes or the specific areas of contention. However, the lack of progress reflects the broader stalemate in diplomacy regarding the Ukraine conflict. Trump’s repeated calls for a swift resolution, combined with Russia’s insistence on its strategic goals, underscore the complexity of the situation. Analysts suggest that without significant changes in either side’s approach, reaching a sustainable ceasefire is unlikely in the near future.
The implications of the stalemate extend beyond the immediate conflict. The failure to reach a settlement may impact international relations, economic conditions, and global security dynamics. The ongoing situation in Ukraine remains a focal point for geopolitical tensions, with both countries maintaining a firm stance on their respective positions. The absence of a breakthrough in negotiations raises concerns about the potential escalation of the conflict and its broader ramifications for global stability.