US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held an hour-long phone call on Wednesday, with Zelensky calling it “positive” and “substantive.” The discussion focused on ceasefire efforts and US support for Ukraine’s air defense. Trump, who spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin a day earlier, said the call aimed to align Ukraine and Russia on their “requests and needs.”
Zelensky expressed optimism that “lasting peace can be achieved this year” under Trump’s leadership. He proposed a partial ceasefire covering energy, rail, and port infrastructure, though he warned Ukraine would retaliate if Moscow violated the terms. Meanwhile, Putin rejected a 30-day ceasefire backed by Ukraine and the US.
Despite ongoing attacks, including drone strikes and hospital bombings, Ukraine and Russia exchanged 175 prisoners each, with Russia releasing 22 severely wounded soldiers. Technical teams from the US and Ukraine are set to meet in Saudi Arabia for further negotiations.
