The fragile peace negotiations in Ukraine have taken an unexpected turn, with US President Donald Trump pitching himself as a mediator ahead of a crucial NATO summit in Turkey. In a 90-minute telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday, Trump reportedly offered to help find a resolution to the long-standing conflict, which has seen intense fighting and increased Ukrainian drone strikes deep within Russian territory.
According to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, Trump reiterated his willingness to work towards a swift end to the fighting and to find solutions to overcome the crisis. Russia, he added, is seeking a "political-diplomatic resolution of the conflict, with due account of Russia's fundamental approach." This development comes as Ukraine faces mounting pressure from its European allies to negotiate a peaceful settlement, with some critics accusing Kyiv of prolonging the conflict through aggressive strikes on Russian targets.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also spoke with Trump separately, describing their discussion as "very good." Writing on his Telegram account, Zelenskyy stated that there was a "real prospect to end this war and American resolve will have a crucial meaning." Both leaders reportedly agreed to continue their discussions at the upcoming NATO meeting, highlighting the critical role the summit may play in future peace efforts.
Despite these diplomatic overtures, challenges persist. Ushakov accused Kyiv and its European allies of "counting on extending and even escalating the conflict," referencing Ukraine's long-range strikes on Russian targets, particularly those linked to the oil industry, which have led to fuel shortages in some Russian regions. These strikes include reported attacks on an oil terminal in St Petersburg and a port near Finland, with Ukraine also claiming a strike on the Kronstadt naval base.
On the ground, claims and counter-claims continue regarding territorial control. Russia announced on Friday that its forces had captured the strategic Ukrainian city of Kostyantynivka in the eastern Donetsk region, a key stronghold for Kyiv's troops. However, Ukraine has vehemently denied this, with an army spokesperson telling AFP that the city remains under its control and President Zelenskyy dismissing Moscow's announcement as "a lie." The situation in the region remains difficult, with Ukrainian officials admitting small groups of Russian troops have infiltrated the town but insisting that fighting is ongoing.