Russian President Vladimir Putin has made it clear that Russia will not end its war in Ukraine until it achieves its goals, despite a recent direct call with former President Donald Trump. In a statement released by Russian diplomat Yuri Ushakov following the call, Putin acknowledged the need for a political and negotiated solution but insisted that Russia will not back down from its objectives. The call comes two days after the U.S. halted some previously pledged military arms for Ukraine, which were already in Poland, over concerns about U.S. stockp3les. This decision has raised concerns among security experts, who warn that it could embolden Putin’s war ambitions.
While speaking with Fox News Digital this week, experts warned that the move could encourage and escalate Putin’s war ambitions. The readout of the call released by the Kremlin did not detail whether this move by the Trump administration was discussed. The pair also reportedly discussed the conflict in the Middle East, particularly as it relates to Iran and recent U.S. and Israeli strikes against Tehran’s nuclear program. The Russian side emphasized the importance of resolving all disputes, disagreements, and conflict situations exclusively by political and diplomatic means.
This is not the first time Putin has made such a statement. In previous calls, he has reiterated his stance on the invasion, claiming Ukraine posed a threat as it looked to become a NATO member. He has also made it clear he wants to overthrow President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and topple the government in Kyiv. The White House did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s questions regarding how Trump reacted to Putin’s clear acknowledgment that he intends to continue his war effort. However, experts believe that the call may have been an attempt by Putin to play Trump, who has a history of public criticism of Ukraine and the war in the region.
The U.S. decision to pause military aid has been seen as a strategic move to manage stockpiles, but critics argue it could undermine Ukraine’s ability to defend itself. With the war in Ukraine showing no signs of slowing, the international community continues to grapple with how to respond to Russia’s actions. Meanwhile, the conflict in the Middle East remains a key point of discussion in international diplomacy, with the U.S. and Israel taking a firm stance against Iran’s nuclear program.