German Defense Minister Says Trump Overestimated Influence on Putin Amid Ukraine Talks

Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump for overestimating his influence on Russian President Vladimir Putin during efforts to negotiate peace in Ukraine. After a lengthy phone call between Trump and Putin failed to produce progress toward an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, Pistorius stated that Trump had misjudged his negotiating position. The stalled talks have prompted the European Union to prepare a new package of sanctions against Russia, although it remains uncertain whether the United States will join these measures. Trump had expressed optimism about ceasefire negotiations following his discussions with both Putin and Ukrainian President Zelensky, but the lack of tangible results highlighted the limitations of U.S. influence in the conflict. The situation underscores ongoing challenges in diplomatic efforts to resolve the war in Ukraine, with Europe moving forward independently on punitive actions against Russia.