Putin Affirms No Retreat on Ukraine Goals After Trump Call Amid US Arms Freeze

U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a nearly hour-long phone call discussing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East, including Iran. Putin emphasized that Russia would not retreat from its objectives in Ukraine and insisted that any peace deal must address the "root causes" of the conflict, including Ukraine abandoning its NATO ambitions and recognizing Russia's territorial gains. Despite Trump's push for a ceasefire and quick resolution, Moscow remains firm on its goals and views negotiations as a bilateral issue with Kyiv, excluding Washington's direct role. The call came shortly after the Pentagon paused shipments of military aid to Ukraine, citing concerns over U.S. stockpiles, although this pause was not discussed during the call. While Russia advocates for political and diplomatic solutions in the Middle East, including Iran, the situation remains tense with recent U.S. strikes on Iranian sites. European leaders have increased support for Ukraine, challenging Russia's territorial claims and promoting Ukraine's potential EU membership despite Moscow's objections.