Trump, Putin Hold Call Amid Ukraine War Stalemate

President Donald Trump held a nearly hour-long call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where Trump urged a quick end to the Ukraine war but acknowledged 'no progress' on a peace deal. Putin reaffirmed Russia's commitment to its military objectives in Ukraine, though he remained open to further diplomacy. The call did not address the recent U.S. pause in weapons shipments to Ukraine, a decision Trump attributed to depleted American stockpiles and blamed on President Biden. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed a desire to speak with Trump about the weapons freeze amid escalating Russian attacks. Both American and Russian officials described the conversation as frank and businesslike, noting little change in the conflict. The outcome highlights persistent diplomatic deadlock and increasing risks as U.S. aid to Ukraine remains in question.