Trump offers mediation in Ukraine war after talks with Putin and Zelenskyy
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- U.S. President Donald Trump has offered to mediate an end to the war in Ukraine following separate calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
- Trump informed Putin of his commitment to a swift end to the fighting, while Zelenskyy appealed to American resolve to achieve peace.
- The leaders agreed to continue discussions during the upcoming NATO summit, as Ukraine seeks German support for air defense amid ongoing Russian advances.
U.S. President Donald Trump has offered his assistance in mediating an end to the conflict in Ukraine, following separate telephone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The White House confirmed Trump's commitment to facilitating a rapid cessation of hostilities after a nearly 90-minute call with Putin.
Kremlin advisor Yuri Ushakov stated that Trump conveyed his readiness to work towards a swift end to the fighting during his call with Putin. This offer was reportedly made in the context of Trump's upcoming participation in a NATO summit in Turkey. Earlier, Zelenskyy had reported a "very good conversation" with Trump on July 4, appealing to American determination to end the war.
He will advocate for a swift end to the fighting.
"There is a real prospect of ending this war, and American resolve will be decisive," Zelenskyy stated. The two presidents reportedly agreed to continue their dialogue during the NATO summit. In a symbolic gesture, Kyiv's 62-meter-high Motherland Monument was illuminated in the colors of the U.S. flag overnight.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy also spoke with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. According to a German government spokesperson, their discussion focused on the repercussions of recent Russian attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian regions. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Germany's support, particularly in the area of air defense. Ushakov indicated that Russia seeks a political-diplomatic solution that considers its fundamental positions, while accusing Kyiv and its allies of escalating the conflict. He described Putin's account of battlefield developments, including reported Russian advances and the capture of Kostyantynivka, which Ukrainian officials have disputed.
There is a real prospect of ending this war, and American resolve will be decisive.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.