Trump Describes ‘Great’ Conversation with Putin Amid Ukraine Tensions
President Trump praised his phone call with Putin, discussing peace efforts regarding Ukraine. While Ukraine accepted a 30-day ceasefire, Russia announced limited halts in attacks, leading to ongoing military actions. Trump claimed the war could have been avoided under his presidency, while Ukraine disputed his statements about troop encirclement. A prisoner exchange is planned, but challenges to achieving lasting peace remain.
President Donald Trump characterized his recent two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “great” discussion during an interview on “The Ingraham Angle.” Topics included efforts toward peace in the ongoing war against Ukraine, in which Ukrainian officials recently agreed to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire after talks with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia.
In contrast, Putin did not commit to an unconditional ceasefire, instead declaring that attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure would cease for 30 days. However, the situation escalated shortly after the announcement, with reports of strikes leading to power outages in Slovyansk, and air raid sirens ringing across cities including Kyiv, Sumy, and Kharkiv.
Trump emphasized his belief that the conflict would not have erupted if he had been in office, stating it was “not a war that was supposed to happen.” He further noted the tense standoff, remarking on Russia’s military advantage as they’ve encircled approximately 2,500 Ukrainian soldiers. He warned about the potential risks of escalation, suggesting it could lead to World War III.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy refuted Trump’s claims regarding the ‘encirclement’ of Ukrainian troops, asserting on social media that no such situation existed. The Ukrainian General Staff labeled Trump’s assertions as “false” and a manipulation by Russia aimed at undermining Ukraine’s position.
The Kremlin’s readout from the Trump-Putin conversation indicated preparations for a prisoner exchange on Wednesday, with 175 individuals to be traded from both sides. It also stipulated that for a broader ceasefire to occur, Ukraine must cease mobilization and rearmament efforts, alongside halting foreign military support.
In summary, President Trump and Putin’s phone conversation highlighted their discussions on the Ukraine conflict, including recent developments such as the proposed ceasefire and military maneuvers. Despite differing accounts regarding troop movements, the conversation emphasized the ongoing tensions and the complexities involved in pursuing peace in the region. The day following their call, military activities in Ukraine continued, illustrating the fragile state of the situation.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
