WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump had a productive hour-long phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, following his conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelensky expressed optimism under Trump’s leadership, believing that lasting peace could be achieved this year. The White House disclosed that they discussed possible US involvement in Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, particularly the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia facility.
The tone of the call seemed to differ from Zelensky’s tense visit to the White House last month, where discussions with US Vice President JD Vance were strained. This call marked the first communication between Trump and Zelensky since their Oval Office meeting, with their teams meeting in Saudi Arabia thereafter to negotiate a proposed 30-day ceasefire. While Ukraine and the US supported the ceasefire, Putin rejected the proposal during his phone call with Trump the day prior.
During their conversation, Zelensky expressed willingness to agree to a partial ceasefire involving a halt on strikes on essential infrastructure, warning of retaliation if terms were violated. Trump, writing on social media, mentioned efforts to align Ukraine and Russia’s requests and needs, with details of the conversation shared by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Trump agreed to assist Ukraine in sourcing additional air defense systems in Europe, emphasizing close information sharing between defense staffs as the situation evolved on the battlefield.
Rubio’s statement highlighted discussions surrounding Ukraine’s electrical supply and nuclear power plants, suggesting potential American ownership as the best protection for infrastructure. Zelensky confirmed these discussions, describing his conversation with Trump as positive, frank, and substantive, expressing confidence in achieving lasting peace with American leadership. Zelensky also addressed the ongoing conflict with Russia in the Kursk region, noting Putin’s reluctance to agree to a full ceasefire.
Technical teams from Ukraine and the US are expected to meet in Saudi Arabia soon, following the recent developments in US-Ukraine relations. Despite previous tensions, efforts have been made to improve diplomatic relations, with both sides agreeing on a ceasefire in March. Further discussions with Russia and Ukraine are planned, with challenges remaining as conditions for a full ceasefire are debated.