Trump to Call Putin, Zelenskyy, NATO Members Monday to Discuss Ceasefire
President Donald Trump announced Saturday that he will engage in a series of high-stakes phone calls on Monday aimed at ending the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to CNBC. The President plans to speak first with Russian President Vladimir Putin at 10:00 a.m., followed by conversations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and various NATO members in an effort to negotiate a ceasefire.
In a Saturday post on Truth Social, Trump described the ongoing conflict as a “bloodbath” that is claiming the lives of approximately 5,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers weekly. “Hopefully it will be a productive day, a ceasefire will take place, and this very violent war, a war that should have never happened, will end,” Trump wrote.
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Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
Trump told reporters on Friday that he was setting up talks with Putin following the Russian president’s absence from peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Turkey. The announcement comes after months of escalating tensions and follows recent Russian strikes on Ukraine in late April that Trump described as “not necessary, and very bad timing,” according to NBC Chicago.
These latest diplomatic efforts represent a significant shift in the administration’s approach to the conflict. Trump has recently adopted a more balanced stance toward both sides after previously directing criticism primarily at Zelenskyy, whom he accused of making “inflammatory statements” that complicated peace efforts.
Previous Ceasefire Attempts
Monday’s calls will not be Trump’s first attempt to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine. In March, the President announced an agreement with Putin for an “immediate ceasefire on all energy and infrastructure” in Ukraine, as reported by NBC News. That agreement was intended as a first step toward a more comprehensive peace deal.
However, Zelenskyy has expressed caution about ceasefire proposals, warning that Russia has not adhered to previous agreements. Zelenskyy did indicate a willingness to accept a 30-day ceasefire of all hostilities in a statement last week, but only if Russia also committed to the arrangement.
Stakes of Monday’s Discussions
The outcome of Monday’s discussions could have far-reaching implications for the region and international relations. Trump has emphasized the importance of stopping the bloodshed while also mentioning trade as a secondary topic for his call with Putin.
With casualties reportedly exceeding 5,000 soldiers weekly, there is increasing pressure to find a diplomatic solution. Experts note that any successful agreement would likely need to address contentious issues including territorial disputes, particularly regarding Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.
Global Reactions
International observers are closely monitoring these diplomatic developments. NATO members, who will participate in discussions with Trump and Zelenskyy following the initial bilateral conversations, have maintained support for Ukraine throughout the conflict.
The U.S. and UK have also been working to ensure an “enduring India-Pakistan ceasefire,” according to reports, indicating broader efforts to address global conflicts. Market analysts will be watching for any impact on global energy markets, which have seen significant volatility due to the conflict.
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