As hopes rise for a ceasefire, Trump places a crucial call to Russia’s Putin amid mounting global pressure
| Monday, May 19, 2025 | Washington, D.C.
Lead – The Big Picture
On Monday, May 19, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a move that could shape the next phase of the war in Ukraine. The high-stakes conversation comes after years of bloodshed and failed talks — and many now wonder: Could this be the moment peace finally begins?
Background: A War That Won’t End
Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, launching a brutal war that has killed thousands, flattened entire cities, and displaced over 10 million people. Trump, now in his first year back in office, has repeatedly promised to end the conflict quickly, saying he could stop the war within a single day.
Last week, Russian and Ukrainian delegations met for direct talks in Istanbul, Turkey — their first in nearly three years. But the meeting ended in frustration. Ukraine accused Russia of sending powerless officials, calling the delegation a “joke.” The only real result was an agreement to exchange 1,000 prisoners each.
Trump Takes the Lead
Trump responded by announcing he would personally call Putin on Monday. He also plans to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO leaders in hopes of arranging a 30-day unconditional ceasefire.
"Enough of this bloodbath," Trump said on Sunday, referring to the devastating human toll of the war. He has faced criticism for not condemning Putin, but insists real progress will only come from a face-to-face dialogue.
Europe and Allies Join the Push
European leaders are also getting involved. On Sunday, May 18, the heads of state from Britain, France, Germany, and Italy held a joint phone call with Trump, emphasizing the need for a serious Russian commitment to peace talks. They also warned that failure to engage could lead to fresh sanctions on Russia.
Meanwhile, Zelensky met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance at the Vatican during Pope Leo’s inaugural mass. The two discussed the Istanbul talks, where Ukraine criticized Russia’s weak delegation, and explored possible sanctions, military cooperation, and future prisoner exchanges.
While Talks Continue, War Rages On
Even as leaders talk of peace, the violence has not stopped. Ukraine reported a record number of Russian drone attacks overnight. In Kyiv, a woman was killed. In Kherson, strikes hit a train station and homes, killing another civilian.
Russian President Putin told state media that Moscow’s goal is to address the “root causes” of the conflict and protect Russia’s security. He did not offer specifics, but Russian officials have long cited Ukraine’s ties to the West, NATO expansion, and the need to “de-Nazify” Ukraine — claims widely rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies.
What’s Next? A Crucial Moment in History
According to an anonymous official in Zelensky’s office, Monday’s Trump-Putin call could be a pivotal moment. While skepticism remains, millions in Ukraine and around the world are hoping this call opens the door to peace.