Trump Plans Meeting with Putin, Sparks Debate Over Ukraine Inclusion

Following a recent phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, Russian officials and state media expressed jubilation, viewing the conversation as a diplomatic victory that could lead to a peace deal in the ongoing Ukraine war. Trump’s shift in U.S. policy appears to sideline Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European governments, prompting Zelenskyy to assert he would not accept any negotiations excluding Ukraine from the talks, labeling such a scenario as 'very dangerous.' European leaders have voiced concerns that the U.S. shift could embolden Russia and undermine Western unity, fearing a potential 'dirty deal' that bypasses Ukraine. The Kremlin has responded positively, with officials praising Trump's engagement as a significant breakthrough in U.S.-Russia relations. In contrast, Ukrainian military forces remain skeptical about the effectiveness of diplomatic resolutions, suggesting that the conflict will likely continue on the battlefield. Overall, Trump's approach marks a pivotal moment that could reshape the geopolitical dynamics surrounding the Ukraine crisis.