Trump reportedly tells Putin he is prepared to help end war in Ukraine

What Happened

According to Yuri Ushakov, an adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, former US President Donald Trump told Putin during an hour-long phone call on Sunday that he was prepared to help end the war in Ukraine. The call, described as 'friendly and frank' by Ushakov and reported by TASS news agency, also included Trump informing Putin that the US was nearing a peace deal with Iran. No further details on the substance of the discussion regarding Ukraine were provided.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The reported call signals a potential diplomatic channel involving Trump, which could affect future US policy on the war if he returns to office. The Kremlin's framing of the exchange may aim to project engagement and expose divisions among Ukraine's backers. The call's timing and content will be closely parsed by Kyiv and NATO allies for any hint of pressure on Ukraine to concede.

Watch For

Official reactions from Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's administration and the Biden White House. Clarifications or denials from Trump's team regarding the call's purpose and any commitments made. Indirect signals from Moscow on whether it views this as a meaningful backchannel, and any shifts in Russian negotiating positions ahead of potential renewed peace talks.