Reports: In Call, Trump Urged Putin Not to Escalate in Ukraine Read more: Reuters: Trump in Phone Call Urged Putin Not to Escalate in Ukraine
SUMMARY
President-elect Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, reportedly advising against escalating the Ukraine war and reminding Putin of the U.S.’s significant military presence in Europe. Trump expressed interest in future discussions to resolve the conflict, echoing his campaign promise to find a swift solution, though specifics remain undisclosed. According to a former U.S. official cited by the Washington Post, Trump likely wishes to avoid starting his term with an intensified conflict. Trump’s team affirmed his commitment to “global peace and stability,” suggesting that international leaders view his return as a stabilizing force. Trump also communicated with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, though Ukraine’s foreign ministry noted they were not consulted in advance about Trump’s call with Putin. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated that President Biden intends to encourage Congress and the incoming administration to maintain support for Ukraine.