Credited from: LATIMES
Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a "constructive and frank" hour-long phone call about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine on Tuesday. The conversation followed recent visits by U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to both Moscow and Kyiv, intended to facilitate a peace deal and assess military progress, according to Indiatimes, Los Angeles Times, Al Jazeera, and South China Morning Post.
During the call, Putin informed Trump about the military situation in Ukraine and reiterated Russia's plans to make further military advancements. Putin emphasized that Russia has no aggressive intentions towards European nations, addressing soaring concerns amidst ongoing military operations, as stated by Kremlin foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov, according to Indiatimes and Los Angeles Times.
U.S. envoy Kushner remarked on the potential for peace, stating that both sides had proposed "very good, worthwhile ideas" for resolving the conflict. However, despite diplomatic overtures, both countries have resumed strikes post-negotiation, with civilian casualties reported in recent days, indicating a stark divide in military pursuits and diplomatic efforts, as mentioned in Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.
President Zelensky expressed hope for a meeting with Trump around September 20, coinciding with the UN General Assembly, aiming to push for increased military assistance, particularly in air defense systems amidst rising Russian missile threats. He indicated that negotiations involving the U.S. and Russia could take place in the fall, depending on mutual agreement, according to Los Angeles Times and South China Morning Post.
Nonetheless, the situation remains tense, with experts predicting a prolonged conflict as battlefield conditions deteriorate and hostilities escalate. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov asserted Russia's belief in achieving combat objectives, despite international skepticism concerning Moscow's military effectiveness, according to Indiatimes and Al Jazeera.