• Putin reaffirmed Russia's goals in Ukraine during a phone call with Trump.
• Trump expressed disappointment over the lack of progress towards a ceasefire.
• The conversation also touched on the situation in Iran and paused US weapons shipments to Ukraine.
• Russia continues its military operations despite diplomatic engagements.
• Ukrainian officials indicate ongoing attacks following the call.

In a recent phone call, Russian President Vladimir Putin told US President Donald Trump that Russia will not back down from its goals in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that Moscow seeks to eliminate what it terms the "root causes" of the war. During the hour-long conversation, which marked their sixth discussion since Trump returned to the White House, Putin reiterated that while Russia is ready to continue negotiations, it remains firm in its objectives, according to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, as reported by Reuters, South China Morning Post, and Dawn.

Trump, after the call, expressed dissatisfaction, noting that he did not believe Putin was inclined to halt the ongoing military actions in Ukraine. He stated, "I'm very disappointed...I don't think he's looking to stop," highlighting his frustration with the current diplomatic stasis in efforts to negotiate peace, as detailed in reports by Los Angeles Times and Al Jazeera.

In addition to Ukraine, discussions also covered the situation in Iran, where Putin stressed that disputes should be resolved through political means. Despite the dialogue, no mention was made of the recent US decision to pause certain military aid to Ukraine, an action that has raised concerns about Ukraine's defense capabilities amid intensifying conflict, according to sources including TRT World and Channel News Asia.

Following the call, a Russian drone attack led to significant fires in Kyiv, underscoring the continuous military escalation in the region. This situation has drawn criticism from Ukrainian officials who emphasize the need for sustained military support from the US against ongoing attacks, reports Newsweek and The Jakarta Post.

Overall, Trump's disappointment reflects a growing tension within US politics about how to handle diplomatic relations with Russia, especially concerning military aid to Ukraine during this extended conflict. As he prepares to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the implications of the halted weapons shipments are becoming increasingly critical, as noted by AA and AA.