On May 19, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump held a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing the conversation as “excellent” and referring to Putin as a “nice gentleman.” The call focused on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Trump proposing ceasefire talks potentially hosted at the Vatican. However, Putin rejected an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, asserting that Russia’s goals—demilitarizing Ukraine and limiting Western influence—remain unchanged .The Guardian+1Financial Times+1AP News+5The Guardian+5The Guardian+5
Following the call, Trump announced that ceasefire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine would commence immediately. He expressed cautious optimism, noting that some progress had been made in discussions aimed at ending the conflict . Despite this, Trump emphasized that no significant developments would occur without a personal meeting with Putin, underlining the central role he believes he plays in the negotiation process .Wikipedia+2news+2@EconomicTimes+2@EconomicTimes
The call and its aftermath have raised concerns among Ukraine and its European allies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned of the dangers of U.S. disengagement, stating that it benefits Putin. Analysts and former diplomats critiqued Trump for stepping back while Russia continues offensives in eastern Ukraine . European leaders have expressed alarm, emphasizing that any deal behind their backs will not work and that Ukraine and Europe must be part of the negotiations .Financial TimesThe Hill+1Wikipedia+1
Domestically, the Trump administration faced scrutiny after a report revealed that at least 50 Venezuelan men deported to El Salvador had entered the U.S. legally, contradicting government claims. The Supreme Court allowed Trump to revoke Temporary Protected Status for 350,000 Venezuelans, reversing protections established under the previous administration. Trump also signed the Take It Down Act, criminalizing non-consensual publication of intimate or AI-manipulated images .The Guardian+1AP News+1
Amid escalating tensions in Gaza, key U.S. allies voiced concern over Israel’s increased military actions, while Trump’s administration maintained firm support for Israel. Additional headlines included CBS News CEO Wendy McMahon’s resignation amid litigation with Trump, and the Senate’s controversial confirmation of Charles Kushner as ambassador to France .The Guardian+1AP News+1
The developments from the Trump-Putin call have been met with mixed reactions. Russian officials and state-backed media sounded triumphant, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that the “position of the current (U.S.) administration is much more appealing.” However, European leaders and NATO allies have expressed concern over the U.S.’s new course, emphasizing the need for unity and increased support for Ukraine .news+10Arab News+10Military.com+10Military.com+3The Hill+3CT Insider+3
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with the hope that diplomatic efforts will lead to a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine.
