**US President Trump Holds Phone Call with Russian Leader Putin Amid Tensions Over Ukraine**
The United States and Russia have been engaged in a delicate dance over the past few weeks, with tensions running high over the conflict in Ukraine. In a move aimed at rekindling peace talks, US President Donald Trump has held a phone call with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.
According to reports from Russia’s state-owned publication Ria-Novosti, the conversation took place on May 19, marking their first known discussion in two months. The call comes after a recent meeting between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul ended without a breakthrough.
The US Vice President, JD Vance, had stated earlier that Trump would press Putin on whether he is genuinely interested in ending the war against Ukraine during their phone call. “We realize there’s a bit of an impasse here,” Vance said, adding that Trump would ask Putin if he is “serious” about finding a solution.
The negotiations in Istanbul were seen as a key opportunity for progress towards a peace agreement, but ultimately failed to yield any significant results. Ukraine and European officials have expressed frustration over Russia’s refusal to engage in serious peace efforts.
**Trump’s Approach Sparks Frustration Among Allies**
President Trump has been inconsistent in his rhetoric towards Putin, at times expressing frustration with the stalled peace efforts while mostly avoiding direct criticism of the Russian leader. His approach has caused confusion among European allies, who had wanted him to back a joint US-EU ultimatum for an unconditional ceasefire starting May 12 and tougher sanctions on Moscow.
The US president’s statements have been inconsistent, with Trump saying that no real progress can be made without a direct meeting between himself and Putin. Despite this, he has downplayed Putin’s absence at the Istanbul talks, saying “Why would he go if I’m not going?” while positioning himself as a central broker in the peace effort.
**Ukraine Seeks Support from Allies**
The situation on the ground remains tense, with Ukrainian air defenses shooting down 41 Russian attack drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) overnight. Ukraine has been seeking support from its allies in the face of continued aggression from Russia.
In a statement, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that his country was grateful for the support it had received from countries like Finland, which has pledged to provide 90 million euros worth of heavy ammunition. The US and Australia have also provided significant military aid to Ukraine in recent weeks.
**Regional Developments**
Meanwhile, regional developments continue to shape the global response to the crisis in Ukraine. In Hungary, protesters packed Kossuth Square outside parliament building to denounce a proposed law seen as an attack on civil society and democratic freedoms.
The European leaders have been discussing potential additional sanctions against Russia if it fails to engage constructively in ceasefire negotiations. A phone call between Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is planned for the morning of May 19, ahead of Trump’s conversation with Putin.
**Conclusion**
The situation remains complex and sensitive, with tensions running high on multiple fronts. The phone call between Trump and Putin marks a critical moment in the peace process, and the international community will be watching closely to see if it leads to any tangible progress towards ending the conflict in Ukraine.
The article can be read in full at kyivindependent.com here.
