Leaders Speak as U.S. Signals Possible Shift in Ukraine Policy
WASHINGTON / MOSCOW, May 19 — U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone call Monday with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as American officials acknowledged growing frustration with stalled peace efforts.
The call comes amid what White House officials are calling an “impasse” in negotiations to end the war, which began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The conflict remains Europe’s deadliest since World War II.
A White House official confirmed that the call was in progress, with Trump participating from Washington and Putin speaking from Sochi, Russia.
Vice President Vance: U.S. May Reconsider Involvement
Ahead of the call, Vice President JD Vance stated that if Russia fails to demonstrate a genuine interest in diplomacy, the United States may need to reconsider its role.
“We realize there’s a bit of an impasse here,” Vance told reporters. “The President’s going to say to President Putin: ‘Are you serious about this?’”
Vance added that Trump is committed to trying to end the war but emphasized that sustained U.S. involvement hinges on Russia’s willingness to engage. “If Russia is not willing to do that, then we’re eventually going to say, ‘This is not our war,’” he said.
Recent Moves Toward Peace Talks
Under U.S. pressure, delegations from Ukraine and Russia met last week in Istanbul—the first such direct talks since 2022. The renewed dialogue followed a proposal by President Putin for direct negotiations, alongside calls from European leaders and Ukraine for an immediate ceasefire.
President Trump has indicated that he will also speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and leaders from NATO member states in the coming days.
Russia’s Conditions and Ongoing Hostilities
Russia continues to hold approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory and maintains its position that certain preconditions must be met before any ceasefire can take effect. Among them: Ukraine must abandon its NATO membership aspirations and withdraw troops from regions claimed by Russia.
Over the weekend, Russia launched its largest drone strike against Ukraine since the war began. Ukrainian intelligence also warned of a potential Russian intercontinental missile launch, although no confirmation has been issued by Moscow.
European Leaders Urge Ceasefire
On Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron urged Putin to accept a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, a proposal reportedly supported by the United States, Ukraine, and several European governments.
“Tomorrow, President Putin must show he wants peace,” Macron wrote on X.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also discussed the war in a joint call with leaders of the U.S., Italy, France, and Germany, according to a spokesperson from Downing Street.
Outlook: Ceasefire or Continued Conflict?
While President Trump has presented himself as a potential peacemaker in the conflict, both Washington and Moscow acknowledge that major hurdles remain. Putin has shown hesitation toward a ceasefire without clarity on Russia’s long-term security demands.
The outcome of Monday’s talks may determine whether diplomatic momentum can be restored or whether the U.S. rethinks its support in an increasingly complex and costly war.
