Trump Plans Calls With Putin, Zelenskyy Amid Ukraine Ceasefire Push

U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to hold separate phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an effort to negotiate a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, which began with Russia's invasion in February 2022. Trump, who seeks to be remembered as a peacemaker, has emphasized the importance of his personal connection with Putin to break the stalemate and end what he calls a "bloodbath" resulting in thousands of deaths weekly. Recent diplomatic talks in Türkiye between Russia and Ukraine yielded the agreement to exchange prisoners and preparation of ceasefire documents, though skepticism remains regarding Russia's sincerity and the potential for tangible progress. European leaders continue to press the Kremlin for an immediate ceasefire, while Russia has launched its largest drone attack on Ukraine since the war's start, showing ongoing hostilities despite diplomatic efforts. Concerns have been raised about Trump's close ties to Putin potentially disadvantaging Ukraine in negotiations, with former U.S. Ambassador Bridget Brink resigning in protest over perceived pressure on Ukraine rather than Russia. Trump's administration has warned Russia of additional sanctions if peace talks do not advance, and he plans to also engage with NATO leaders to coordinate responses.