Ukraine Reports Record Russian Casualties Amid Upcoming Trump-Putin Talks

Following his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump plans to arrange a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a potential meeting aimed at negotiating an end to the war in Ukraine. Trump's national security team has reportedly been preparing for the call for several weeks, although a specific date has not been finalized. Despite Trump's campaign promise to swiftly end the conflict, doubts remain about the feasibility of this goal, particularly given the ongoing war dynamics. Sources indicate that Trump aims to develop a peace plan that may involve direct negotiations with Putin, contrasting with the previous administration's approach of avoiding direct engagement. Ukrainian officials caution that any attempt to force negotiations could be detrimental unless Ukraine gains a strategic advantage on the battlefield. As the situation evolves, the implications of Trump's approach on U.S.-Ukraine relations and ongoing military aid remain uncertain.