November 10, 2024
In a significant diplomatic move, President-elect Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, November 7, discussing the ongoing war in Ukraine and broader peace prospects in Europe. The call, first reported by The Washington Post, came just days after Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a conversation that included tech billionaire Elon Musk.
According to sources cited by The Washington Post, Trump advised Putin to avoid further escalation in Ukraine, reminding him of America’s “sizeable military presence in Europe.” Trump’s campaign promises have included a swift resolution to the conflict, with the president-elect claiming he could end the war “within a day,” though he has yet to provide specific details on his plan.
The discussion reportedly covered broader peace efforts, with both leaders expressing interest in future conversations focused on resolving the Ukraine conflict. Kremlin officials have since confirmed that Putin is open to further dialogue with Trump, but made it clear that Moscow’s terms remain firm. The Kremlin reiterated longstanding demands, including Ukraine’s renouncement of NATO membership, demilitarization, withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four eastern regions, and protections for Russian-speaking citizens.
As Sky News reported, Ukraine’s government was not given advance notice of Trump’s call with Putin. A spokesperson from Ukraine’s foreign ministry clarified that reports suggesting Kyiv had prior knowledge and expressed objections were “false,” adding that it was “impossible” for Ukraine to endorse or oppose the call without official notice.
Putin’s demands, which include significant territorial concessions and NATO exclusion, remain a point of contention for Ukraine, which considers them a violation of national sovereignty. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly stated that such conditions are unacceptable and tantamount to capitulation, warning that meeting these demands would set a troubling precedent.
Trump’s recent conversations with both Zelensky and Putin indicate a potential shift in U.S. diplomacy as he prepares to assume office. However, how his administration might approach the complexities of the Ukraine conflict remains uncertain.
Sources:
- The Washington Post. (2024). “Trump advises Putin against escalation in Ukraine during phone call.”
- Reuters. (2024). “Trump-Putin call touches on peace in Europe amid ongoing Ukraine conflict.”
- Sky News. (2024). “Ukraine says it was not informed of Trump-Putin call regarding war negotiations.”
