US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 15) said that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin have "largely" agreed on land swaps and some type of security guarantee from the US as part of a ceasefire deal in Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News, the US president, referring to his meeting with Putin as “warm,” said that they have agreed that the Ukraine war will end with territorial concessions.<h2>Land swap</h2>Trump told Fox News’ Sean Hannity that territorial concessions would give Russia land it did not have previously and also spoke about potential US security assurances for Ukraine. He confirmed that land swaps were part of the point of agreement. "Well, I think those are points that we negotiated, and those are points that we largely have agreed on," he said, adding, "Actually, I think we agree on a lot. I can tell you, the meeting was a warm meeting."Calling Putin a “strong guy” and “tough as hell,” Trump called the meeting was positive and said, “I think we’re pretty close to the end.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brushes-off-question-about-civilian-killings-in-ukraine-trump-criticised-for-red-carpet-welcome-to-war-criminal-watch-1755302259384">Putin dodges question on civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!</a>The US president, however, insisted that Ukraine has to agree to any deal. "Maybe they'll say no," he said, urging Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to “Make a deal”.Previously, on Friday (Aug 8), Trump, during a peace summit for Armenia and Azerbaijan at the White House, had told reporters that the land in question had "been fought over for three and a half years" and that any swap would be "to the betterment of both." Zelensky, meanwhile, has ruled out ceding territory seized by force. Trump, who during the February meeting with Zelensky at the White House had publicly scolded the Ukrainian leader, declared he was "a little bothered" by Zelensky's position and demanded land swaps. "There'll be some swapping, there'll be some changes in land," he said.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, in an interview, revealed that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin had “largely” agreed on land swaps and possible US security guarantees as part of a future ceasefire deal in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 15) said that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin have "largely" agreed on land swaps and some type of security guarantee from the US as part of a ceasefire deal in Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News, the US president, referring to his meeting with Putin as “warm,” said that they have agreed that the Ukraine war will end with territorial concessions. Land swap Trump told Fox News’ Sean Hannity that territorial concessions would give Russia land it did not have previously and also spoke about potential US security assurances for Ukraine. He confirmed that land swaps were part of the point of agreement. "Well, I think those are points that we negotiated, and those are points that we largely have agreed on," he said, adding, "Actually, I think we agree on a lot. I can tell you, the meeting was a warm meeting." Calling Putin a “strong guy” and “tough as hell,” Trump called the meeting was positive and said, “I think we’re pretty close to the end.” Also read | Putin dodges question on civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch! The US president, however, insisted that Ukraine has to agree to any deal. "Maybe they'll say no," he said, urging Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to “Make a deal”. Previously, on Friday (Aug 8), Trump, during a peace summit for Armenia and Azerbaijan at the White House, had told reporters that the land in question had "been fought over for three and a half years" and that any swap would be "to the betterment of both." Zelensky, meanwhile, has ruled out ceding territory seized by force. Trump, who during the February meeting with Zelensky at the White House had publicly scolded the Ukrainian leader, declared he was "a little bothered" by Zelensky's position and demanded land swaps. "There'll be some swapping, there'll be some changes in land," he said.

US President Donald Trump, in an interview, revealed that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin had “largely” agreed on land swaps and possible US security guarantees as part of a future ceasefire deal in Ukraine.

Trump says he and Putin 'largely' agreed on Ukraine land swaps, claims war 'pretty close to the end' but Ukraine needs to 'make a deal'

US President Donald Trump's and Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-anticipated meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, ended on Friday (Aug 15) with no apparent breakthrough on Ukraine. The two leaders seemed to be rekindling their friendship, but after three hour-long talks, as they faced the press, they didn't take any questions, instead choosing to only issue statements in the 12-minute-long press conference. Here's all they said in the press conference that concluded the vital Alaska summit.Key takeaways from the Trump-Putin Alaska press briefing.<h2>“Constructive”, “productive” talks, but no peace deal</h2>Even though Trump and Putin ended their Alaska summit on Friday without a ceasefire deal for Ukraine, both leaders described their talks as "constructive" and "productive." Appearing before reporters for what the White House billed as a joint press conference, they took no questions, ignoring repeated shouts from journalists.&nbsp;Putin said that the "negotiations have been held in a constructive atmosphere of mutual respect". The statement was echoed by Trump, who said, "I believe we had a very productive meeting."<h2>What did Putin say about Ukraine?</h2>Russian President Putin avoided direct discussion or questions on Ukraine's battlefield situation. He said that he hoped that the Alaska meeting would be "the starting point," for the "solution of the Ukrainian issue, but also will help us bring back business-like and pragmatic relations between Russia and the US."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brushes-off-question-about-civilian-killings-in-ukraine-trump-criticised-for-red-carpet-welcome-to-war-criminal-watch-1755302259384">Putin dodges question on civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!</a>Putin said Moscow expected "that Kyiv and the European capitals will perceive all this in a constructive manner and will not create any obstacles". He also warned against "attempts to disrupt the emerging progress through provocation or behind-the-scenes intrigues."<h2>What did Trump say about Ukraine?</h2>Trump claimed that he and Putin have "made some headway" on the Ukraine issue but insisted that "there's no deal until there's a deal".He said that Putin wants peace. "We're going to stop, really, 5, 6, 7 thousand, 1000s of people a week from being killed, and President Putin wants to see that as much as I do."The US President, however, left the peace deal negotiations up to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying that he will brief him and NATO about "today's meeting"."It's ultimately up to them. They're going to have to agree with what Marco and Steve and some of the great people from the Trump administration"."So just to put it very quickly, I'm going to start making a few phone calls and tell them what happened. But we had an extremely productive meeting, and many points were agreed to."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brushes-off-question-about-civilian-killings-in-ukraine-trump-criticised-for-red-carpet-welcome-to-war-criminal-watch-1755302259384">Putin brushes off question about civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!</a><h2>Putin attempts to flatter Trump, touts US-Russia shared history</h2>In his statement, Putin sought to emphasise the shared history between the US and Russia, including Alaska's Russian heritage and cooperation during World War II. He said the two nations should "turn the page" and return to cooperation, adding that he hoped agreements reached in Alaska would help pave the way to peace in Ukraine."It is symbolic that, not far away from here, the border between Russia and the US, there was a so-called International Date Line. I think you can step over, literally, from yesterday into tomorrow, and I hope that's- will succeed in that, in the political sphere."<h2>Did Trump-Putin make any deals?</h2>While no deal was reached on a ceasefire in Ukraine, Trump said "many, many points" were agreed on, with only a few major sticking points remaining."There were many, many points that we agreed on, most of them, I would say, a couple of big ones that we haven't quite gotten there, but we've made some headway," said Trump, adding, "There's no deal until there's a deal.""I will call up NATO in a little while, I will call up the various people that I think are appropriate, and I'll of course, call up President Zelenskyy and tell him about today's meeting."<h2>Putin, Trump to meet again?</h2>The summit marked the first US–Russia leaders' meeting in four years. It happened as the Ukraine war entered its third year and as relations between the US and Russia reached their lowest point since the Cold War.After the talks, both men signalled willingness to meet again, with Putin inviting Trump to Moscow. "Next time in Moscow," Putin told Trump in English after the US president thanked him and said he would "probably see you again very soon.""Oh, that's an interesting one," Trump responded. "I'll get a little heat on that one, but I could see it possibly happening." &nbsp;

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin wrapped up their much-hyped Alaska summit with no ceasefire deal for Ukraine. After three hours of closed-door talks, the leaders avoided questions, delivering carefully worded statements at the press conference. Here are the highlights.

US President Donald Trump's and Russian President Vladimir Putin's much-anticipated meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, ended on Friday (Aug 15) with no apparent breakthrough on Ukraine. The two leaders seemed to be rekindling their friendship, but after three hour-long talks, as they faced the press, they didn't take any questions, instead choosing to only issue statements in the 12-minute-long press conference. Here's all they said in the press conference that concluded the vital Alaska summit. Key takeaways from the Trump-Putin Alaska press briefing. “Constructive”, “productive” talks, but no peace deal Even though Trump and Putin ended their Alaska summit on Friday without a ceasefire deal for Ukraine, both leaders described their talks as "constructive" and "productive." Appearing before reporters for what the White House billed as a joint press conference, they took no questions, ignoring repeated shouts from journalists. Putin said that the "negotiations have been held in a constructive atmosphere of mutual respect". The statement was echoed by Trump, who said, "I believe we had a very productive meeting." What did Putin say about Ukraine? Russian President Putin avoided direct discussion or questions on Ukraine's battlefield situation. He said that he hoped that the Alaska meeting would be "the starting point," for the "solution of the Ukrainian issue, but also will help us bring back business-like and pragmatic relations between Russia and the US." Also read | Putin dodges question on civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch! Putin said Moscow expected "that Kyiv and the European capitals will perceive all this in a constructive manner and will not create any obstacles". He also warned against "attempts to disrupt the emerging progress through provocation or behind-the-scenes intrigues." What did Trump say about Ukraine? Trump claimed that he and Putin have "made some headway" on the Ukraine issue but insisted that "there's no deal until there's a deal". He said that Putin wants peace. "We're going to stop, really, 5, 6, 7 thousand, 1000s of people a week from being killed, and President Putin wants to see that as much as I do." The US President, however, left the peace deal negotiations up to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying that he will brief him and NATO about "today's meeting". "It's ultimately up to them. They're going to have to agree with what Marco and Steve and some of the great people from the Trump administration". "So just to put it very quickly, I'm going to start making a few phone calls and tell them what happened. But we had an extremely productive meeting, and many points were agreed to." Also read | Putin brushes off question about civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch! Putin attempts to flatter Trump, touts US-Russia shared history In his statement, Putin sought to emphasise the shared history between the US and Russia, including Alaska's Russian heritage and cooperation during World War II. He said the two nations should "turn the page" and return to cooperation, adding that he hoped agreements reached in Alaska would help pave the way to peace in Ukraine. "It is symbolic that, not far away from here, the border between Russia and the US, there was a so-called International Date Line. I think you can step over, literally, from yesterday into tomorrow, and I hope that's- will succeed in that, in the political sphere." Did Trump-Putin make any deals? While no deal was reached on a ceasefire in Ukraine, Trump said "many, many points" were agreed on, with only a few major sticking points remaining. "There were many, many points that we agreed on, most of them, I would say, a couple of big ones that we haven't quite gotten there, but we've made some headway," said Trump, adding, "There's no deal until there's a deal." "I will call up NATO in a little while, I will call up the various people that I think are appropriate, and I'll of course, call up President Zelenskyy and tell him about today's meeting." Putin, Trump to meet again? The summit marked the first US–Russia leaders' meeting in four years. It happened as the Ukraine war entered its third year and as relations between the US and Russia reached their lowest point since the Cold War. After the talks, both men signalled willingness to meet again, with Putin inviting Trump to Moscow. "Next time in Moscow," Putin told Trump in English after the US president thanked him and said he would "probably see you again very soon." "Oh, that's an interesting one," Trump responded. "I'll get a little heat on that one, but I could see it possibly happening."

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin wrapped up their much-hyped Alaska summit with no ceasefire deal for Ukraine. After three hours of closed-door talks, the leaders avoided questions, delivering carefully worded statements at the press conference. Here are the highlights.

Trump–Putin Alaska summit ends without peace deal — here's what they said at the 'no-questions' press conference

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Aug 15) displayed a wide range of expressions as, during a media interaction alongside US President Donald Trump in Alaska, he was questioned on civilian killings in Ukraine. Faced with pointed questions, the Russian leader was seen reacting animatedly, even as he pretended not to be able to hear or understand the questions. Videos of the moment are now going viral.<h2>What happened?</h2>Sitting under a banner emblazoned with the words -- written only in English -- "Pursuing Peace", the Russian president faced a barrage of questions, including on the reports of civilian killings in Ukraine. Grinning widely, Putin appeared to be joking with reporters as he and Trump met in Anchorage, Alaska. Videos of the interaction are going viral on social media. Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Russian President Vladimir Putin showed a wide range of facial expressions as he reacted to questions from journalists during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://t.co/N1KWxisHfl">pic.twitter.com/N1KWxisHfl</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1956476202304020654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-brushes-off-question-about-civilian-killings-in-ukraine-trump-criticised-for-red-carpet-welcome-to-war-criminal-watch-1755302259384">Putin dodges question on civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!</a>Putin faced immediate questioning about the war when a reporter loudly and repeatedly yelled, "When will you stop killing civilians?" However, the Russian president did not react and brushed off the question.&nbsp;<h2>Trump rolls out the red carpet for Putin's welcome</h2>On X, netizens were quick to slam Trump for rolling out the red carpet for Putin. One user, posting a video of the pair's interaction at the Elmendorf Air Base, said, “This will be remembered as one of the most disgraceful moments in US presidential history.” Slamming the "literal red carpet the Trump administration rolled out for" a "war criminal".&nbsp;This was the first time Putin, who faces an international arrest warrant, set foot on Western soil since ordering the invasion of Ukraine. The warrant has been issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the Russian president's role in the alleged forced deportation of Ukrainian children. Reports claim that amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Moscow has "stolen" thousands of Ukrainian children and has subjected them to "Russification".According to Kyiv, more than 16,000 Ukrainian children have been deported to Russia since the start of Moscow's offensive in February 2022. The war-torn nation has alleged that many of these children have reportedly been placed in institutions and foster homes.Russia has vehemently denied these allegations. Additionally, given that Russia is not a member of the ICC, the country has dismissed the validity of the arrest warrant and called it "void". &nbsp;

Putin, seated beside Trump at the Alaska summit under a "Pursuing Peace" banner, dodged questions on civilian killings in Ukraine with animated expressions and grins. Clips of the exchange are now viral on social media. Watch it here.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Aug 15) displayed a wide range of expressions as, during a media interaction alongside US President Donald Trump in Alaska, he was questioned on civilian killings in Ukraine. Faced with pointed questions, the Russian leader was seen reacting animatedly, even as he pretended not to be able to hear or understand the questions. Videos of the moment are now going viral. What happened? Sitting under a banner emblazoned with the words -- written only in English -- "Pursuing Peace", the Russian president faced a barrage of questions, including on the reports of civilian killings in Ukraine. Grinning widely, Putin appeared to be joking with reporters as he and Trump met in Anchorage, Alaska. Videos of the interaction are going viral on social media. Watch it here:

Putin, seated beside Trump at the Alaska summit under a "Pursuing Peace" banner, dodged questions on civilian killings in Ukraine with animated expressions and grins. Clips of the exchange are now viral on social media. Watch it here.

'Pursuing Peace'? Putin grins, laughs off Ukraine civilian deaths question — watch viral video

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 15) welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin to Anchorage, Alaska, with a red carpet reception at the start of their much-anticipated summit. As the leaders briefly posed for photographers before heading inside, fielding pointed questions from reporters along the way, the Russian president was seen deliberately avoiding questions on the civilian killings in Ukraine.<h2>Putin ignores pointed question</h2>Video from the much-anticipated meeting shows one journalist asking Putin when Russia would stop killing civilians in Ukraine, a question that appeared to have caught the Russian president off guard, who then pretended not to hear the question.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-pursuing-peace-putin-grins-laughs-off-ukraine-civilian-deaths-question-watch-the-viral-video-donald-trump-alaska-summit-1755303474816">'Pursuing Peace'? Putin laughs off Ukraine civilian deaths question — Watch</a>In a moment which has been noted by netizens, US President Trump, who, in recent days, has penalised India and other Russian trade partners for purchasing oil from Moscow, was meanwhile seen smirking. Glancing at Putin, Trump then exchanged a few words in a private, murmured conversation before he proceeded to place a hand on his counterpart’s back, steering him toward the presidential limousine, "The Beast."On X, netizens were quick to slam Trump for his reaction and for the red carpet put in place for Putin. One user, posting a video of the interaction, said, "This will be remembered as one of the most disgraceful moments in US presidential history". Slamming the "literal red carpet the Trump administration rolled out for" a "war criminal".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This will will be remembered as one of the most disgraceful moments in U.S. presidential history. In Anchorage, Alaska, Putin brushes off a question about killing civilians. Trump smirks, then drapes his arm around him while they both stand on the literal red carpet the Trump… <a href="https://t.co/ucRwc9bxkK">pic.twitter.com/ucRwc9bxkK</a>&mdash; Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) <a href="https://twitter.com/EdKrassen/status/1956453442404360298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Inside the venue, under the summit's banner "Pursuing Peace," the pair again posed for the press and faced reporters alongside their delegations. There, Putin was once more pressed about civilian casualties in Ukraine, prompting Trump to abruptly end the photo op with a "thank you" to reporters.

The Alaska summit comes as the war in Ukraine nears its third year, with US–Russia tensions at their highest since the Cold War.

Trump and Putin’s Alaska summit kicked off with controversy, as the Russian president sidestepped a question on civilian killings in Ukraine. Trump’s smirk and red carpet welcome drew heavy criticism online, with some calling it one of the most disgraceful moments in US presidential history.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 15) welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin to Anchorage, Alaska, with a red carpet reception at the start of their much-anticipated summit. As the leaders briefly posed for photographers before heading inside, fielding pointed questions from reporters along the way, the Russian president was seen deliberately avoiding questions on the civilian killings in Ukraine. Putin ignores pointed question Video from the much-anticipated meeting shows one journalist asking Putin when Russia would stop killing civilians in Ukraine, a question that appeared to have caught the Russian president off guard, who then pretended not to hear the question. Also read | 'Pursuing Peace'? Putin laughs off Ukraine civilian deaths question — Watch In a moment which has been noted by netizens, US President Trump, who, in recent days, has penalised India and other Russian trade partners for purchasing oil from Moscow, was meanwhile seen smirking. Glancing at Putin, Trump then exchanged a few words in a private, murmured conversation before he proceeded to place a hand on his counterpart’s back, steering him toward the presidential limousine, "The Beast." On X, netizens were quick to slam Trump for his reaction and for the red carpet put in place for Putin. One user, posting a video of the interaction, said, "This will be remembered as one of the most disgraceful moments in US presidential history". Slamming the "literal red carpet the Trump administration rolled out for" a "war criminal".

Trump and Putin’s Alaska summit kicked off with controversy, as the Russian president sidestepped a question on civilian killings in Ukraine. Trump’s smirk and red carpet welcome drew heavy criticism online, with some calling it one of the most disgraceful moments in US presidential history.

Putin brushes off question about civilian killings in Ukraine; Trump smirks. Watch!

US President Donald Trump has said he will be “unhappy” if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to a ceasefire soon after their summit in Alaska. “I want to see a ceasefire, rapidly. I don’t know if it’s going to be today, but I’m not going to be happy if it’s not today. Everyone said it can’t be today, but I’m just saying I want the killing to stop,” he told reporters aboard Air Force One. Trump said there was “nothing set in stone” ahead of the talks but stressed that a ceasefire was among the “certain things” he hoped to secure.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-moscow-still-killing-on-day-of-trump-putin-meeting-zelensky-says-russia-doesn-t-want-to-end-war-kyiv-is-counting-on-america-1755275152891">‘Moscow still killing on day of Trump-Putin meeting’: Zelensky says Russia 'doesn't want to end war'; Kyiv is ‘counting on America’</a><h2>‘Europe’s not telling me what to do’</h2>The president said he was not acting as a European representative but would take allied views into account. “This is not to do with Europe. Europe’s not telling me what to do,” he said. “But they’re going to be involved in the process, obviously, along with (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky,” he added. He described Putin as a “smart guy” with whom he shares “a good respect level”. “Been doing it for a long time, but so have I,” he said.<h2>‘I’m in this to stop the killing’</h2>Trump said his priority was halting the conflict, pointing to recent heavy losses. “They lost last week 7011 people, almost all soldiers; 36 people in a town which got hit by a missile. Over 7,000 soldiers. It’s crazy,” he said. While he noted that the US is profiting from weapons sales to NATO allies, Trump insisted that was not his main concern. “What I do care about is they lost last week 7011 people… it’s crazy,” he said.<h2>Push for trilateral summit</h2>Trump has repeatedly said his ultimate goal is to arrange a three-way meeting between himself, Putin and Zelensky “almost immediately”. He told Fox News he would be able to judge within minutes whether the Alaska talks would succeed and was ready to walk away “real fast” if they did not go well. The president added he was not there to negotiate on Ukraine’s behalf but to “get Putin to the table”.<h2>Warning of severe consequences for Russia</h2>Trump repeated his earlier warning that Russia could face “severe consequences” if it shows no willingness to end the war. “Economically severe. It will be very severe. I’m not doing this for my health, okay, I don’t need it. I’d like to focus on our country, but I’m doing this to save a lot of lives,” he said.

President Trump said he wants a rapid ceasefire after meeting Putin, warning he’ll be “unhappy” if it doesn’t happen. He added Europe won’t dictate terms but will be involved.

US President Donald Trump has said he will be “unhappy” if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to a ceasefire soon after their summit in Alaska. “I want to see a ceasefire, rapidly. I don’t know if it’s going to be today, but I’m not going to be happy if it’s not today. Everyone said it can’t be today, but I’m just saying I want the killing to stop,” he told reporters aboard Air Force One. Trump said there was “nothing set in stone” ahead of the talks but stressed that a ceasefire was among the “certain things” he hoped to secure. Also read: ‘Moscow still killing on day of Trump-Putin meeting’: Zelensky says Russia 'doesn't want to end war'; Kyiv is ‘counting on America’ ‘Europe’s not telling me what to do’ The president said he was not acting as a European representative but would take allied views into account. “This is not to do with Europe. Europe’s not telling me what to do,” he said. “But they’re going to be involved in the process, obviously, along with (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky,” he added. He described Putin as a “smart guy” with whom he shares “a good respect level”. “Been doing it for a long time, but so have I,” he said. ‘I’m in this to stop the killing’ Trump said his priority was halting the conflict, pointing to recent heavy losses. “They lost last week 7011 people, almost all soldiers; 36 people in a town which got hit by a missile. Over 7,000 soldiers. It’s crazy,” he said. While he noted that the US is profiting from weapons sales to NATO allies, Trump insisted that was not his main concern. “What I do care about is they lost last week 7011 people… it’s crazy,” he said. Push for trilateral summit Trump has repeatedly said his ultimate goal is to arrange a three-way meeting between himself, Putin and Zelensky “almost immediately”. He told Fox News he would be able to judge within minutes whether the Alaska talks would succeed and was ready to walk away “real fast” if they did not go well. The president added he was not there to negotiate on Ukraine’s behalf but to “get Putin to the table”. Warning of severe consequences for Russia Trump repeated his earlier warning that Russia could face “severe consequences” if it shows no willingness to end the war. “Economically severe. It will be very severe. I’m not doing this for my health, okay, I don’t need it. I’d like to focus on our country, but I’m doing this to save a lot of lives,” he said.

President Trump said he wants a rapid ceasefire after meeting Putin, warning he’ll be “unhappy” if it doesn’t happen. He added Europe won’t dictate terms but will be involved.

'I want to see a ceasefire, rapidly': Trump says he will be ‘unhappy’ if no deal is reached today ahead of Putin talks

US President Donald Trump will personally welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin when his plane lands in Alaska on Friday, the Kremlin confirmed. “At exactly 11:00 local time (1900 GMT), the president is scheduled to land. President Trump will meet him at the plane,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state media. The two leaders are set to begin formal talks at 3:30 p.m. ET (11:30 a.m. local time).<h2>Ukraine’s future on the agenda</h2>Asked if territorial swaps are being considered, Trump said, “They will be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision. But I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine.” He added that if he were not president, “Putin would take all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-will-be-very-severe-trump-issues-stark-warning-for-putin-ahead-of-meet-what-will-he-do-if-russia-doesn-t-engage-in-serious-talks-1755266004756">'It will be very severe': Trump issues stark warning for Putin ahead of meet - What will he do if Russia doesn't engage in serious talks</a>When questioned on whether the US might offer security guarantees for Ukraine, Trump said “maybe” and spoke of a “possibility” involving “Europe and other countries,” but not through NATO. On potential economic discussions, he said they would happen “if we make progress.”<h2>Warning of “very severe consequences” for Russia</h2>Trump has warned of “very severe consequences” if Putin refuses to engage seriously on ending the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not part of the Alaska meeting but could join later if a trilateral summit is organised, possibly involving European leaders.<h2>Zelensky calls meeting “high stakes”</h2>Zelensky described the talks as “high stakes” and said Ukraine is “counting on America” to push for a fair resolution. “The key thing is that this meeting should open up a real path toward a just peace and a substantive discussion between leaders in a trilateral format, Ukraine, the United States, and the Russian side,” Zelensky said.“It is time to end the war, and the necessary steps must be taken by Russia. We are counting on America. We are ready, as always, to work as productively as possible,” he added. Zelensky also said he was awaiting an intelligence briefing on Russia’s intentions ahead of the Alaska talks.

President Trump will greet Putin in Alaska ahead of key talks on Ukraine. Trump ruled out NATO guarantees, hinted at economic discussions, and stressed Ukraine must decide on any territorial changes.

US President Donald Trump will personally welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin when his plane lands in Alaska on Friday, the Kremlin confirmed. “At exactly 11:00 local time (1900 GMT), the president is scheduled to land. President Trump will meet him at the plane,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state media. The two leaders are set to begin formal talks at 3:30 p.m. ET (11:30 a.m. local time). Ukraine’s future on the agenda Asked if territorial swaps are being considered, Trump said, “They will be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision. But I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine.” He added that if he were not president, “Putin would take all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it.” Also read: 'It will be very severe': Trump issues stark warning for Putin ahead of meet - What will he do if Russia doesn't engage in serious talks When questioned on whether the US might offer security guarantees for Ukraine, Trump said “maybe” and spoke of a “possibility” involving “Europe and other countries,” but not through NATO. On potential economic discussions, he said they would happen “if we make progress.” Warning of “very severe consequences” for Russia Trump has warned of “very severe consequences” if Putin refuses to engage seriously on ending the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not part of the Alaska meeting but could join later if a trilateral summit is organised, possibly involving European leaders. Zelensky calls meeting “high stakes” Zelensky described the talks as “high stakes” and said Ukraine is “counting on America” to push for a fair resolution. “The key thing is that this meeting should open up a real path toward a just peace and a substantive discussion between leaders in a trilateral format, Ukraine, the United States, and the Russian side,” Zelensky said. “It is time to end the war, and the necessary steps must be taken by Russia. We are counting on America. We are ready, as always, to work as productively as possible,” he added. Zelensky also said he was awaiting an intelligence briefing on Russia’s intentions ahead of the Alaska talks.

President Trump will greet Putin in Alaska ahead of key talks on Ukraine. Trump ruled out NATO guarantees, hinted at economic discussions, and stressed Ukraine must decide on any territorial changes.

Trump-Putin meet: US president to 'formally welcome' Russian president at his plane in Alaska for 'high stakes' Ukraine talks

US President Donald Trump is on his way to Anchorage, Alaska, for a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in what Washington hopes could be a turning point in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said the Alaska summit’s main goal was “to get them at table,” stressing that no decision on Ukraine’s territory would be made without Kyiv’s consent.“They’ll be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision, but I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine,” Trump said. “I’m here to get them at a table. And I think you have two sides. Look, Vladimir Putin wanted to take all of Ukraine. If I wasn’t president, he would, right now, be taking all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it,” he added.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-take-an-irreversible-step-yulia-navalnaya-calls-on-putin-and-trump-to-free-political-prisoners-ahead-of-historic-alaska-talks-1755255836636">‘Take an irreversible step’: Yulia Navalnaya calls on Putin and Trump to free political prisoners ahead of 'historic' Alaska talks</a><h2>No firm promises on Ukraine’s security</h2>Trump stopped short of pledging US-led security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any deal, saying he was open to the idea but believed Europe should take the lead. “Maybe,” he said when asked whether Washington would put such guarantees on the table. He also ruled out Ukraine joining NATO as part of the agreement. “Not in the form of NATO. There are certain things that aren’t going to happen,” Trump said.<h2>Putin’s offensive and the road to talks</h2>Commenting on Russia’s continued military push, Trump suggested Putin might be trying to use the offensive as leverage. “I think they’re trying to negotiate. He’s trying to set a stage. In his mind, that helps him make a better deal,” Trump said. “It actually hurts him, but in his mind that helps him make a better deal if they can continue the killing. Maybe it’s a part of the world, maybe it’s just his fabric, his genes, his genetics … but I’ll be talking to him about it.”

President Trump heads to Alaska for talks with Putin, aiming to bring both sides to the table on Ukraine. He emphasised that territorial decisions will be left to Kyiv alone.

US President Donald Trump is on his way to Anchorage, Alaska, for a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in what Washington hopes could be a turning point in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said the Alaska summit’s main goal was “to get them at table,” stressing that no decision on Ukraine’s territory would be made without Kyiv’s consent. “They’ll be discussed, but I’ve got to let Ukraine make that decision, and I think they’ll make a proper decision, but I’m not here to negotiate for Ukraine,” Trump said. “I’m here to get them at a table. And I think you have two sides. Look, Vladimir Putin wanted to take all of Ukraine. If I wasn’t president, he would, right now, be taking all of Ukraine, but he’s not going to do it,” he added. Also read: ‘Take an irreversible step’: Yulia Navalnaya calls on Putin and Trump to free political prisoners ahead of 'historic' Alaska talks No firm promises on Ukraine’s security Trump stopped short of pledging US-led security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any deal, saying he was open to the idea but believed Europe should take the lead. “Maybe,” he said when asked whether Washington would put such guarantees on the table. He also ruled out Ukraine joining NATO as part of the agreement. “Not in the form of NATO. There are certain things that aren’t going to happen,” Trump said. Putin’s offensive and the road to talks Commenting on Russia’s continued military push, Trump suggested Putin might be trying to use the offensive as leverage. “I think they’re trying to negotiate. He’s trying to set a stage. In his mind, that helps him make a better deal,” Trump said. “It actually hurts him, but in his mind that helps him make a better deal if they can continue the killing. Maybe it’s a part of the world, maybe it’s just his fabric, his genes, his genetics … but I’ll be talking to him about it.”

President Trump heads to Alaska for talks with Putin, aiming to bring both sides to the table on Ukraine. He emphasised that territorial decisions will be left to Kyiv alone.

'Putin wanted all of Ukraine': Trump says there will be NO decisions on Ukraine's territory without Ukraine ahead of meeting with Putin

The countdown has begun! US President Donald Trump will convene a high-stakes meeting with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin at Elmendorf-Richardson Air Force Base in Anchorage in a bid to negotiate an end to Russia’s three‑and‑a‑half year war in Ukraine. Trump has publicly staked much on brokering a ceasefire – even hinting he could earn a Nobel Peace Prize – and has floated the idea of “swapping of territories to the betterment of both” sides. He also said he would follow up a successful Russia meeting with a trilateral summit including Ukraine’s president. But Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was not invited to the first round, and has warned that any peace plan must involve Kyiv directly.&nbsp;In Anchorage, the two leaders will reportedly “focus on discussing options for achieving a long-term peaceful resolution to the Ukrainian crisis,” an aide to Putin said, adding it “will be a challenging process”. Western capitals are watching nervously – allies insist Ukraine’s security interests must come first, while Russia seeks relief from punishing sanctions.<h2>Putin’s terms: Hard bargains for peace</h2>On the eve of the summit, the Kremlin has spelt out what a ceasefire deal would entail – and the demands are onerous. Russia’s war objectives have long included international recognition of its annexations and control over large swaths of eastern and southern Ukraine. In this latest push, Putin’s side is reportedly insisting on Ukraine giving up sovereignty over the Donbas region (Donetsk and Luhansk), the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, and even recognising Crimea as Russian. Moscow also demands that Ukraine become a neutral state (explicitly barring NATO membership) and enshrine protections for Russian speakers, including making Russian an official language.&nbsp;Putin has even hinted at broader economic and security guarantees – and possibly a new nuclear arms-control deal with the US – as bargaining chips. Analysts note that Russia’s “stringent conditions” for a full ceasefire are really aimed at securing a long‑term strategic victory. A partial compromise under discussion might be a phased truce – for example pausing air strikes while ground fighting continues. But critics fear such a deal would leave Russia “in control of those escalatory dynamics” on the battlefield with “no genuine deterrence” for Ukraine, a result one expert called a “wonderful outcome from Putin’s perspective”.&nbsp;In public comments, Trump has alternately sounded optimistic and cautious, saying he thinks “Putin will do a deal” on Ukraine but acknowledging the conflict has proven far tougher to end than he expected. A Western diplomat quoted by Reuters suggested the two sides have floated some common terms behind the scenes, but any concrete offer by Russia would likely still amount to Ukraine surrendering territory and major concessions. In exchange, Putin wants Western sanctions lifted and a normalisation of US‑Russia ties – ideally without making that conditional on progress on Ukraine.<h2>Ukraine’s stance: No land concessions</h2>Zelensky and his government have drawn a firm red line: Ukraine will not barter away its territory. In a televised address he reminded citizens that Ukraine’s constitution forbids ceding any land to an aggressor, flatly stating “Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupiers”.&nbsp;Ukraine’s leaders reject the notion that significant territory could be traded in any ceasefire deal. In the same video, Zelensky warned that any peace decisions made without Ukraine’s input would be “decisions against peace” – “stillborn” and “unworkable” – because they would lack legitimacy.&nbsp;His chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has echoed that line: “the front line is not a border,” he was quoted saying to Reuters, reaffirming that Kyiv will refuse all territorial concessions. Ukrainian officials also celebrated a recent phone call with Trump in which, they say, he agreed that Kyiv must participate in any talks on land swaps.&nbsp;Even on the streets of Anchorage, Ukrainians and supporters are protesting the idea of ceding any land. Prior demonstrations in Alaska were overwhelmingly pro-Ukraine, underscoring Kyiv’s domestic resolve. Ordinary Ukrainians share this stance: at Kyiv’s Maidan square one veteran told reporters, “Not a single serviceman will agree to cede territory… We fight for every inch”.&nbsp;In sum, Ukraine’s position is clear – it is prepared to negotiate a ceasefire or new peace talks, but only on terms that guarantee its sovereignty and security. Indeed, even conceding the roughly one‑fifth of territory currently occupied by Russia (the Donbas, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia) would be “painful and politically challenging” for Zelensky.&nbsp;Experts warn that any deal effectively locking in Russian gains would be immediately rejected in Ukraine. As Atlantic Council analyst Tyson Barker put it, “the best the Ukrainians can do is remain firm in their objections and their conditions for a negotiated settlement”.<h2>What lies ahead: Prospects and pitfalls</h2>As Trump and Putin meet, much remains uncertain. If the summit achieves even a temporary ceasefire, it could halt the bloodshed for a time – a welcome respite for civilians – but it might also freeze large parts of Ukraine under Russian control. Analysts caution that Moscow could agree to a limited truce while maintaining the ability to quickly resume offensives. In their words, a deal that leaves Ukraine “in control of those escalatory dynamics” would still be a win for Russia.&nbsp;Furthermore, there is a risk that Washington’s pursuit of a rapid deal could undercut Ukrainian morale or unity. So far, both Zelensky and his Western allies appear to have resisted pressure to strike away Ukraine’s key war aims (like NATO membership or recovering all occupied territory).&nbsp;On the other hand, if the meeting stalls without progress, Ukraine could face continued warfare and a distracted world. Trump has even hinted he could react by imposing new sanctions and tariffs on Russia – or cancelling them if Putin agrees to a deal – after Anchorage.&nbsp;Such unpredictability injects risk: if sanctions remain, Russia’s economy will keep straining under pressure, but if they are lifted in exchange for a weak ceasefire, Ukraine’s leverage will weaken. European capitals, while hopeful, have been skeptical: the history of unimplemented ceasefires in this war is long, and many say real peace requires much more than a handshake in Alaska. In the end, the summit’s outcome could reshape the war’s trajectory. A breakthrough could force a halt to fighting and begin a painful process of negotiating Ukraine’s future borders and security guarantees.&nbsp;&nbsp;A collapse of talks might embolden Putin to press his offensive, or simply prolong the stalemate. For Ukraine, the stakes are existential: its leaders will measure any U.S.-Russia deal against the intransigent principle that Ukraine’s future must be decided by Ukraine’s people. As one Ukrainian official put it, this moment calls for “real and genuine peace” – and nothing less will suffice.

Trump–Putin Alaska summit: Will this be the ceasefire that changes everything without Ukraine at the table?

The countdown has begun! US President Donald Trump will convene a high-stakes meeting with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin at Elmendorf-Richardson Air Force Base in Anchorage in a bid to negotiate an end to Russia’s three‑and‑a‑half year war in Ukraine. Trump has publicly staked much on brokering a ceasefire – even hinting he could earn a Nobel Peace Prize – and has floated the idea of “swapping of territories to the betterment of both” sides. He also said he would follow up a successful Russia meeting with a trilateral summit including Ukraine’s president. But Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky was not invited to the first round, and has warned that any peace plan must involve Kyiv directly. In Anchorage, the two leaders will reportedly “focus on discussing options for achieving a long-term peaceful resolution to the Ukrainian crisis,” an aide to Putin said, adding it “will be a challenging process”. Western capitals are watching nervously – allies insist Ukraine’s security interests must come first, while Russia seeks relief from punishing sanctions. Putin’s terms: Hard bargains for peace On the eve of the summit, the Kremlin has spelt out what a ceasefire deal would entail – and the demands are onerous. Russia’s war objectives have long included international recognition of its annexations and control over large swaths of eastern and southern Ukraine. In this latest push, Putin’s side is reportedly insisting on Ukraine giving up sovereignty over the Donbas region (Donetsk and Luhansk), the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, and even recognising Crimea as Russian. Moscow also demands that Ukraine become a neutral state (explicitly barring NATO membership) and enshrine protections for Russian speakers, including making Russian an official language. Putin has even hinted at broader economic and security guarantees – and possibly a new nuclear arms-control deal with the US – as bargaining chips. Analysts note that Russia’s “stringent conditions” for a full ceasefire are really aimed at securing a long‑term strategic victory. A partial compromise under discussion might be a phased truce – for example pausing air strikes while ground fighting continues. But critics fear such a deal would leave Russia “in control of those escalatory dynamics” on the battlefield with “no genuine deterrence” for Ukraine, a result one expert called a “wonderful outcome from Putin’s perspective”. In public comments, Trump has alternately sounded optimistic and cautious, saying he thinks “Putin will do a deal” on Ukraine but acknowledging the conflict has proven far tougher to end than he expected. A Western diplomat quoted by Reuters suggested the two sides have floated some common terms behind the scenes, but any concrete offer by Russia would likely still amount to Ukraine surrendering territory and major concessions. In exchange, Putin wants Western sanctions lifted and a normalisation of US‑Russia ties – ideally without making that conditional on progress on Ukraine. Ukraine’s stance: No land concessions Zelensky and his government have drawn a firm red line: Ukraine will not barter away its territory. In a televised address he reminded citizens that Ukraine’s constitution forbids ceding any land to an aggressor, flatly stating “Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupiers”. Ukraine’s leaders reject the notion that significant territory could be traded in any ceasefire deal. In the same video, Zelensky warned that any peace decisions made without Ukraine’s input would be “decisions against peace” – “stillborn” and “unworkable” – because they would lack legitimacy. His chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has echoed that line: “the front line is not a border,” he was quoted saying to Reuters, reaffirming that Kyiv will refuse all territorial concessions. Ukrainian officials also celebrated a recent phone call with Trump in which, they say, he agreed that Kyiv must participate in any talks on land swaps. Even on the streets of Anchorage, Ukrainians and supporters are protesting the idea of ceding any land. Prior demonstrations in Alaska were overwhelmingly pro-Ukraine, underscoring Kyiv’s domestic resolve. Ordinary Ukrainians share this stance: at Kyiv’s Maidan square one veteran told reporters, “Not a single serviceman will agree to cede territory… We fight for every inch”. In sum, Ukraine’s position is clear – it is prepared to negotiate a ceasefire or new peace talks, but only on terms that guarantee its sovereignty and security. Indeed, even conceding the roughly one‑fifth of territory currently occupied by Russia (the Donbas, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia) would be “painful and politically challenging” for Zelensky. Experts warn that any deal effectively locking in Russian gains would be immediately rejected in Ukraine. As Atlantic Council analyst Tyson Barker put it, “the best the Ukrainians can do is remain firm in their objections and their conditions for a negotiated settlement”. What lies ahead: Prospects and pitfalls As Trump and Putin meet, much remains uncertain. If the summit achieves even a temporary ceasefire, it could halt the bloodshed for a time – a welcome respite for civilians – but it might also freeze large parts of Ukraine under Russian control. Analysts caution that Moscow could agree to a limited truce while maintaining the ability to quickly resume offensives. In their words, a deal that leaves Ukraine “in control of those escalatory dynamics” would still be a win for Russia. Furthermore, there is a risk that Washington’s pursuit of a rapid deal could undercut Ukrainian morale or unity. So far, both Zelensky and his Western allies appear to have resisted pressure to strike away Ukraine’s key war aims (like NATO membership or recovering all occupied territory). On the other hand, if the meeting stalls without progress, Ukraine could face continued warfare and a distracted world. Trump has even hinted he could react by imposing new sanctions and tariffs on Russia – or cancelling them if Putin agrees to a deal – after Anchorage. Such unpredictability injects risk: if sanctions remain, Russia’s economy will keep straining under pressure, but if they are lifted in exchange for a weak ceasefire, Ukraine’s leverage will weaken. European capitals, while hopeful, have been skeptical: the history of unimplemented ceasefires in this war is long, and many say real peace requires much more than a handshake in Alaska. In the end, the summit’s outcome could reshape the war’s trajectory. A breakthrough could force a halt to fighting and begin a painful process of negotiating Ukraine’s future borders and security guarantees. A collapse of talks might embolden Putin to press his offensive, or simply prolong the stalemate. For Ukraine, the stakes are existential: its leaders will measure any U.S.-Russia deal against the intransigent principle that Ukraine’s future must be decided by Ukraine’s people. As one Ukrainian official put it, this moment calls for “real and genuine peace” – and nothing less will suffice.

Ahead of his high-stakes meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska, Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions with top military, economic, and diplomatic officials in Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Aug 15) extended his congratulatory wishes to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the nation’s 79th Independence Day. The Russian leader praised the “privileged strategic partnership” between the two nations and expressed intentions of expanding constructive bilateral cooperation. This comes amid the ongoing global tensions fueled by tariffs imposed on New Delhi by US President Donald Trump over Russian oil.&nbsp;Sharing the greetings sent by Putin, the Russian Embassy in India wrote in a statement on Telegram, “India has achieved widely recognised success in socio-economic, scientific, technical, and other fields. Your country enjoys well-deserved respect on the global stage and actively contributes to addressing key issues on the international agenda.”&nbsp;“We highly value our special, privileged strategic partnership with India. I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we will continue to expand constructive bilateral cooperation across multiple areas. This aligns fully with the interests of our friendly peoples and supports the strengthening of security and stability both regionally and globally,” the statement added. &nbsp;As India marked its 79th Independence Day on August 15, PM Modi hoisted the Tricolour at the Red Fort in New Delhi. He also addressed the nation, covering various topics, including a big message to the US amid the ongoing trade tensions. The prime minister said that he will never compromise with the needs of farmers, livestock rearers and fishermen. In a clear message, he firmly said that he would oppose any policy that poses a threat to their livelihoods.&nbsp;“Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them,” he said. He also stressed the need for self-reliance in each sector amid the 50 per cent tariffs imposed by Trump on India. He stressed the need for India to strengthen itself by producing high-quality, affordable goods, guided by the principle of “Daam kam, dum zyaada” (lower cost, higher value).&nbsp;Without directly mentioning the United States, he advised that India should concentrate on enhancing its own abilities instead of attempting to undermine others. “We should not waste our energy trying to shorten someone else’s line. We must extend our own line with full energy. The world will respect our strength,” he said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Trump and Putin are set to meet on Friday (Aug 15) for negotiations aimed at reaching a ceasefire in Ukraine to end the war that is currently in its fourth year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a congratulatory message to India, wishing on its 79th Independence Day on Friday (Aug 15). He praised the “privileged strategic partnership” between the two nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Aug 15) extended his congratulatory wishes to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the nation’s 79th Independence Day. The Russian leader praised the “privileged strategic partnership” between the two nations and expressed intentions of expanding constructive bilateral cooperation. This comes amid the ongoing global tensions fueled by tariffs imposed on New Delhi by US President Donald Trump over Russian oil. Sharing the greetings sent by Putin, the Russian Embassy in India wrote in a statement on Telegram, “India has achieved widely recognised success in socio-economic, scientific, technical, and other fields. Your country enjoys well-deserved respect on the global stage and actively contributes to addressing key issues on the international agenda.” “We highly value our special, privileged strategic partnership with India. I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we will continue to expand constructive bilateral cooperation across multiple areas. This aligns fully with the interests of our friendly peoples and supports the strengthening of security and stability both regionally and globally,” the statement added. As India marked its 79th Independence Day on August 15, PM Modi hoisted the Tricolour at the Red Fort in New Delhi. He also addressed the nation, covering various topics, including a big message to the US amid the ongoing trade tensions. The prime minister said that he will never compromise with the needs of farmers, livestock rearers and fishermen. In a clear message, he firmly said that he would oppose any policy that poses a threat to their livelihoods. “Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them,” he said. He also stressed the need for self-reliance in each sector amid the 50 per cent tariffs imposed by Trump on India. He stressed the need for India to strengthen itself by producing high-quality, affordable goods, guided by the principle of “Daam kam, dum zyaada” (lower cost, higher value). Without directly mentioning the United States, he advised that India should concentrate on enhancing its own abilities instead of attempting to undermine others. “We should not waste our energy trying to shorten someone else’s line. We must extend our own line with full energy. The world will respect our strength,” he said. Meanwhile, Trump and Putin are set to meet on Friday (Aug 15) for negotiations aimed at reaching a ceasefire in Ukraine to end the war that is currently in its fourth year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a congratulatory message to India, wishing on its 79th Independence Day on Friday (Aug 15). He praised the “privileged strategic partnership” between the two nations.

‘Highly value our special strategic partnership’: Russia’s Independence Day wish to India amid tariff war with US

Ahead of his crucial meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that there is a 25 per cent chance that the meeting will fail. "This meeting sets up the second meeting, but there is a 25 percent chance that this meeting will not be a successful meeting," Donald Trump told a US channel.&nbsp;Putin and Trump will meet at a military installation in the US state. This is the first time since Russia invaded Ukraine that a Western power has agreed to host the Russian President.&nbsp;Donald Trump further said that any deal on ending Russia's invasion of Ukraine would come at a second, three-way meeting involving Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.&nbsp;With this remark, Trump has assured stakeholders that any decision about Ukraine wouldn't be taken unless Zelensky is party to the talks.&nbsp;"The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because that's going to be a meeting where they make a deal. And I don't want to use the word 'divvy' things up. But you know, to a certain extent, it's not a bad term, okay?" Donald Trump added.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Trump said the second meeting with Putin, involving Zelensky, could take place. However, he said, it would depend on what transpires in his meeting with the Russian leader in Alaska.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said today that security guarantees for Ukraine needed to be part of peace talks.&nbsp;"To achieve peace, I think we all recognize that there'll have to be some conversation about security guarantees," he added.&nbsp;Putin today praised the Trump administration for making "energetic and sincere" efforts to end the war in Ukraine. He also said that a nuclear arms control agreement could emerge from broader peace talks.&nbsp;“The current American administration is making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities, stop the crisis, and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict,” Putin said, according to The Kremlin.

Ahead of his crucial meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that there is a 25 per cent chance that the meeting will fail.

Ahead of his crucial meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska, US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that there is a 25 per cent chance that the meeting will fail. "This meeting sets up the second meeting, but there is a 25 percent chance that this meeting will not be a successful meeting," Donald Trump told a US channel. Putin and Trump will meet at a military installation in the US state. This is the first time since Russia invaded Ukraine that a Western power has agreed to host the Russian President. Donald Trump further said that any deal on ending Russia's invasion of Ukraine would come at a second, three-way meeting involving Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky. With this remark, Trump has assured stakeholders that any decision about Ukraine wouldn't be taken unless Zelensky is party to the talks. "The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because that's going to be a meeting where they make a deal. And I don't want to use the word 'divvy' things up. But you know, to a certain extent, it's not a bad term, okay?" Donald Trump added. On Wednesday, Trump said the second meeting with Putin, involving Zelensky, could take place. However, he said, it would depend on what transpires in his meeting with the Russian leader in Alaska. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said today that security guarantees for Ukraine needed to be part of peace talks. "To achieve peace, I think we all recognize that there'll have to be some conversation about security guarantees," he added. Putin today praised the Trump administration for making "energetic and sincere" efforts to end the war in Ukraine. He also said that a nuclear arms control agreement could emerge from broader peace talks. “The current American administration is making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities, stop the crisis, and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict,” Putin said, according to The Kremlin.

Donald Trump said that any solution of the Russia-Ukraine war would come about in a possible second meeting, in the presence of Zelensky.

How sure is Trump that the Alaska meeting with Putin will fail? US president replies

In a phone call, on August 12, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed the North Korean Troops for their “bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit” in helping Russia liberate Krusk from Ukrainian forces. These phone calls come ahead of Putin's scheduled high-security meeting with US President Donald Trump on Friday at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. Russian mouthpiece Sputnik refers to these phone calls as prioritising the Global South leaders. Notably, after meeting with the US envoy led by Witkoff, Russian President Vladimir Putin had phone calls with India’s Modi, China’s Xi, South Africa’s Ramaphosa, Brazil’s Lula, and now North Korea's Kim Jong Un, briefing them on Ukraine talks.&nbsp;According to the Korean Central News Agency, Kim Jong Un thanked Putin for the recognition and pledged that the DPRK would “always remain faithful” and “fully support” all measures taken by Russia under the 2024 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. The pact has been a source of grave concern to Washington, Seoul, and NATO allies. The treaty binds the two nations in a military and strategic partnership.&nbsp;“There are a lot of ifs still in the air, but the call suggests there’s a role for Russia, similar to the role South Korea played in 2018, in helping create an opening for US-DPRK relations," said Jenny Town, the Director of the Korea programme at the Stimson Centre, Washington.The call is significant at the precursor of the Alaska Summit, according to Russian media, for the first time, “beyond NATO’s orbit, presidents are meeting multilaterally to talk war and peace”.&nbsp;This is the first time since his reelection as US President Donald Trump is going to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The image of Washington's two of the greatest adversaries aligning might not be something Trump was expecting. This does significantly give Putin leverage in diplomatic talks about the ceasefire.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin, ahead of the Alaska Summit, holds a crucial phone call with the DPRK leader Kim Jong Un to brief him on the latest Ukraine talks and lauded the effort of the North Korean troops in the Krusk Region.

In a phone call, on August 12, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed the North Korean Troops for their “bravery, heroism and self-sacrificing spirit” in helping Russia liberate Krusk from Ukrainian forces. These phone calls come ahead of Putin's scheduled high-security meeting with US President Donald Trump on Friday at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. Russian mouthpiece Sputnik refers to these phone calls as prioritising the Global South leaders. Notably, after meeting with the US envoy led by Witkoff, Russian President Vladimir Putin had phone calls with India’s Modi, China’s Xi, South Africa’s Ramaphosa, Brazil’s Lula, and now North Korea's Kim Jong Un, briefing them on Ukraine talks. According to the Korean Central News Agency, Kim Jong Un thanked Putin for the recognition and pledged that the DPRK would “always remain faithful” and “fully support” all measures taken by Russia under the 2024 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. The pact has been a source of grave concern to Washington, Seoul, and NATO allies. The treaty binds the two nations in a military and strategic partnership. “There are a lot of ifs still in the air, but the call suggests there’s a role for Russia, similar to the role South Korea played in 2018, in helping create an opening for US-DPRK relations," said Jenny Town, the Director of the Korea programme at the Stimson Centre, Washington. The call is significant at the precursor of the Alaska Summit, according to Russian media, for the first time, “beyond NATO’s orbit, presidents are meeting multilaterally to talk war and peace”. This is the first time since his reelection as US President Donald Trump is going to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The image of Washington's two of the greatest adversaries aligning might not be something Trump was expecting. This does significantly give Putin leverage in diplomatic talks about the ceasefire.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, ahead of the Alaska Summit, holds a crucial phone call with the DPRK leader Kim Jong Un to brief him on the latest Ukraine talks and lauded the effort of the North Korean troops in the Krusk Region.

Putin hails North Korean ‘Heroes’ in Kursk, Kim Jong Un vows unshakable alliance ahead of Russia-US summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised the decision to invite Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks with Donald Trump in the United States, calling it a “personal victory” for Moscow’s leader. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Zelensky ruled out withdrawing troops from the eastern Donbas region as part of any peace deal. His remarks came after Trump floated the idea of negotiating a land swap with Putin to end the conflict.Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-impossible-to-talk-about-ukraine-without-ukraine-zelensky-warns-unjust-peace-would-let-russia-grab-more-land-1755016291581">'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land</a>“We will not withdraw from the Donbas… if we withdraw from the Donbas today, our fortifications, our terrain, the heights we control, we will clearly open a bridgehead for the Russians to prepare an offensive,” Zelensky said. The Donbas covers the eastern Ukrainian regions of Lugansk and Donetsk, both claimed by Russia since its full-scale invasion began in 2022.<h2>Summit in Alaska raises concerns in Kyiv</h2>Friday’s meeting in Alaska will mark the first encounter between a sitting US and Russian president since 2021. Trump has pitched it as an effort to broker peace in a war that has lasted nearly three and a half years. Zelensky, who has not been invited to the talks, fears Russia will present hard-line demands and that Trump might agree to terms that would see Ukraine surrender large areas of territory.He also said the summit would delay new US sanctions on Moscow, measures Trump had previously pledged to impose if Putin refused to end the war. “First, he will meet on US territory, which I consider his personal victory. Second, he is coming out of isolation because he is meeting on US territory. Third, with this meeting, he has somehow postponed sanctions,” Zelensky said.<h2>Possible signal of a ceasefire</h2>Zelensky revealed he had received what he called a “signal” from US envoy Steve Witkoff suggesting Russia might be open to a ceasefire, though he did not give details. “This was the first signal from them,” he added.<h2>US and Russia prepare for talks</h2>Ahead of the summit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke by phone with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio told a US radio programme that Trump did not view the meeting as a “concession” to Russia. The White House confirmed that the talks were arranged after Putin requested them. Trump’s spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said the goal was “for the president to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war”.

President Zelensky criticised Putin’s US invite as a win for Moscow, rejected Trump’s land swap idea, and firmly ruled out withdrawing Ukrainian troops from Donbas, citing serious security risks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised the decision to invite Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks with Donald Trump in the United States, calling it a “personal victory” for Moscow’s leader. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Zelensky ruled out withdrawing troops from the eastern Donbas region as part of any peace deal. His remarks came after Trump floated the idea of negotiating a land swap with Putin to end the conflict. Read more: 'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land “We will not withdraw from the Donbas… if we withdraw from the Donbas today, our fortifications, our terrain, the heights we control, we will clearly open a bridgehead for the Russians to prepare an offensive,” Zelensky said. The Donbas covers the eastern Ukrainian regions of Lugansk and Donetsk, both claimed by Russia since its full-scale invasion began in 2022. Summit in Alaska raises concerns in Kyiv Friday’s meeting in Alaska will mark the first encounter between a sitting US and Russian president since 2021. Trump has pitched it as an effort to broker peace in a war that has lasted nearly three and a half years. Zelensky, who has not been invited to the talks, fears Russia will present hard-line demands and that Trump might agree to terms that would see Ukraine surrender large areas of territory. He also said the summit would delay new US sanctions on Moscow, measures Trump had previously pledged to impose if Putin refused to end the war. “First, he will meet on US territory, which I consider his personal victory. Second, he is coming out of isolation because he is meeting on US territory. Third, with this meeting, he has somehow postponed sanctions,” Zelensky said. Possible signal of a ceasefire Zelensky revealed he had received what he called a “signal” from US envoy Steve Witkoff suggesting Russia might be open to a ceasefire, though he did not give details. “This was the first signal from them,” he added. US and Russia prepare for talks Ahead of the summit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke by phone with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio told a US radio programme that Trump did not view the meeting as a “concession” to Russia. The White House confirmed that the talks were arranged after Putin requested them. Trump’s spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said the goal was “for the president to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war”.

President Zelensky criticised Putin’s US invite as a win for Moscow, rejected Trump’s land swap idea, and firmly ruled out withdrawing Ukrainian troops from Donbas, citing serious security risks.

'His personal victory': Zelensky says Trump-Putin meet is a win for Russia - Here's why

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that a peace deal with Russia that does not address the real issues would not last and would only embolden Moscow to seize more territory. Speaking after a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Zelensky said the two discussed “the current diplomatic situation and the opportunities it opens up now.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-takes-two-to-tango-trump-says-he-ll-know-in-two-minutes-if-ukraine-ceasefire-deal-with-putin-is-possible-1754930345060">‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible</a><h2>Peace without Ukraine’s input ‘impossible’</h2>Zelensky also addressed recent talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He stressed that while such discussions may be important for their bilateral relations, they could not make decisions about Ukraine without Ukrainian involvement. “As for the talks, in any case they are important at the level of leaders. But it is impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine, and no one will accept it,” Zelensky told the Youth Here forum in Kyiv. He added, “The conversation between the president of the United States … and Putin may certainly be important for their bilateral track, but they cannot accept anything about Ukraine without us.”<h2>Erdoğan backs Ukraine’s stance on negotiations</h2>According to Zelensky, Erdoğan made it clear that “any negotiations without Ukraine will not bring lasting peace.” “We understand all risks and threats equally. An imitated rather than genuine peace will not hold for long and will only encourage Russia to seize even more territory,” Zelensky said.Erdoğan’s office confirmed that he welcomed progress in earlier peace talks held in Istanbul but hoped for meaningful steps towards a ceasefire in future rounds. The Turkish leader also expressed readiness to host a summit involving the leaders of Ukraine, the United States and Russia.<h2>Close ties with Türkiye</h2>In a post on X, Zelensky described his talks with Erdoğan as “friendly and substantive,” expressing appreciation for Türkiye’s “sincere and warm attitude” toward Ukraine and its role as a mediator. He said Ukraine was prepared for “any format of meeting aimed at stopping the killings and ending the war” and noted that preparations were underway for high-level events during the upcoming UN General Assembly, with Turkish participation under discussion.

Ukrainian President Zelensky insists peace must address core issues and include Ukraine's input, warning that sidelining Ukraine in talks with Russia risks emboldening Moscow and undermining lasting resolution.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that a peace deal with Russia that does not address the real issues would not last and would only embolden Moscow to seize more territory. Speaking after a phone call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Zelensky said the two discussed “the current diplomatic situation and the opportunities it opens up now.” Also read: ‘It takes two to tango’: Trump says he’ll know in TWO minutes if Ukraine ceasefire deal with Putin is possible Peace without Ukraine’s input ‘impossible’ Zelensky also addressed recent talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He stressed that while such discussions may be important for their bilateral relations, they could not make decisions about Ukraine without Ukrainian involvement. “As for the talks, in any case they are important at the level of leaders. But it is impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine, and no one will accept it,” Zelensky told the Youth Here forum in Kyiv. He added, “The conversation between the president of the United States … and Putin may certainly be important for their bilateral track, but they cannot accept anything about Ukraine without us.” Erdoğan backs Ukraine’s stance on negotiations According to Zelensky, Erdoğan made it clear that “any negotiations without Ukraine will not bring lasting peace.” “We understand all risks and threats equally. An imitated rather than genuine peace will not hold for long and will only encourage Russia to seize even more territory,” Zelensky said. Erdoğan’s office confirmed that he welcomed progress in earlier peace talks held in Istanbul but hoped for meaningful steps towards a ceasefire in future rounds. The Turkish leader also expressed readiness to host a summit involving the leaders of Ukraine, the United States and Russia. Close ties with Türkiye In a post on X, Zelensky described his talks with Erdoğan as “friendly and substantive,” expressing appreciation for Türkiye’s “sincere and warm attitude” toward Ukraine and its role as a mediator. He said Ukraine was prepared for “any format of meeting aimed at stopping the killings and ending the war” and noted that preparations were underway for high-level events during the upcoming UN General Assembly, with Turkish participation under discussion.

Ukrainian President Zelensky insists peace must address core issues and include Ukraine's input, warning that sidelining Ukraine in talks with Russia risks emboldening Moscow and undermining lasting resolution.

'Impossible to talk about Ukraine without Ukraine': Zelensky warns 'unjust peace' would let Russia grab more land

US President Donald Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (August 15), and they chose Alaska as their place of choice for their business, and it is anything but random. From 1737 until 1867, Alaska was part of the Russian Empire, separated from the rest of Russia yet sharing a border with another country. Tsar Alexander II sold the territory to the United States for $7.2 million, a move designed to keep it out of British hands and strengthen ties with Washington.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-hopes-zelensky-is-at-the-table-during-trump-putin-meet-in-alaska-1754843008498">'There will finally be a ceasefire': Germany 'hopes' Zelensky is at the table during Trump-Putin meet in Alaska</a><h2>From wartime ally to cultural legacy</h2>During the Second World War, Fairbanks played a vital role in the Lend-Lease programme, which saw US aircraft and supplies sent to the Soviet Union. Today, Alaska remains the “most Russian” of US states, home to Orthodox churches, Russian place names, and descendants of settlers known as Old Believers.<h2>Keeping intermediaries away</h2>For Trump, Alaska is not only about history. By picking the most remote US state, far from any Euro-Atlantic capital, he avoids the presence of intermediaries such as Türkiye’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan or the UAE’s Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose involvement could alter the tone of the summit. The isolation also underscores Trump’s distance from NATO allies and Democratic critics, many of whom are sceptical of any breakthrough with Moscow.<h2>Security and legal considerations</h2>Alaska’s sparse population makes it easier for security teams to guard against terrorist threats or provocations. It also sidesteps any complications linked to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for Putin, as the US does not recognise the ICC’s jurisdiction.<h2>The Arctic factor</h2>As America’s only Arctic state, Alaska plays into the strategic interests of both Washington and Moscow. The two powers have overlapping concerns in the high north, from shipping routes like the Northern Sea Route to offshore oil and gas reserves. Projects in the Arctic could foster cooperation, though the region could just as easily become another front for military rivalry.<h2>Ukraine’s war in the background</h2>The conflict in Ukraine will overshadow the talks. Western reports have suggested potential territorial swaps, with Russia potentially offering concessions in some regions in return for Ukraine’s withdrawal from others. Alaska, with its own history of a major territorial transfer, serves as a symbolic place to discuss such possibilities.<h2>A test for direct diplomacy</h2>This summit is more than a meeting. It is a return to direct talks without mediators, a nod to shared history, and a chance to explore whether Washington and Moscow can work together where their interests align. Alaska’s story began as Russian, became American, and now could serve as the stage for a new chapter in US–Russia relations.

Presidents Trump and Putin will meet in Alaska, a symbolic choice due to its Russian imperial history and cultural legacy. Alaska once linked both nations and still reflects strong Russian influence today.

US President Donald Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (August 15), and they chose Alaska as their place of choice for their business, and it is anything but random. From 1737 until 1867, Alaska was part of the Russian Empire, separated from the rest of Russia yet sharing a border with another country. Tsar Alexander II sold the territory to the United States for $7.2 million, a move designed to keep it out of British hands and strengthen ties with Washington. Also read: 'There will finally be a ceasefire': Germany 'hopes' Zelensky is at the table during Trump-Putin meet in Alaska From wartime ally to cultural legacy During the Second World War, Fairbanks played a vital role in the Lend-Lease programme, which saw US aircraft and supplies sent to the Soviet Union. Today, Alaska remains the “most Russian” of US states, home to Orthodox churches, Russian place names, and descendants of settlers known as Old Believers. Keeping intermediaries away For Trump, Alaska is not only about history. By picking the most remote US state, far from any Euro-Atlantic capital, he avoids the presence of intermediaries such as Türkiye’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan or the UAE’s Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose involvement could alter the tone of the summit. The isolation also underscores Trump’s distance from NATO allies and Democratic critics, many of whom are sceptical of any breakthrough with Moscow. Security and legal considerations Alaska’s sparse population makes it easier for security teams to guard against terrorist threats or provocations. It also sidesteps any complications linked to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for Putin, as the US does not recognise the ICC’s jurisdiction. The Arctic factor As America’s only Arctic state, Alaska plays into the strategic interests of both Washington and Moscow. The two powers have overlapping concerns in the high north, from shipping routes like the Northern Sea Route to offshore oil and gas reserves. Projects in the Arctic could foster cooperation, though the region could just as easily become another front for military rivalry. Ukraine’s war in the background The conflict in Ukraine will overshadow the talks. Western reports have suggested potential territorial swaps, with Russia potentially offering concessions in some regions in return for Ukraine’s withdrawal from others. Alaska, with its own history of a major territorial transfer, serves as a symbolic place to discuss such possibilities. A test for direct diplomacy This summit is more than a meeting. It is a return to direct talks without mediators, a nod to shared history, and a chance to explore whether Washington and Moscow can work together where their interests align. Alaska’s story began as Russian, became American, and now could serve as the stage for a new chapter in US–Russia relations.

Presidents Trump and Putin will meet in Alaska, a symbolic choice due to its Russian imperial history and cultural legacy. Alaska once linked both nations and still reflects strong Russian influence today.

'The history, politics and strategy': Why Trump picked Alaska for Putin talks, and not Washington or New York

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a phone call on Friday, and both the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepen India-Russia ties, days after US President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods over Russian oil purchases by New Delhi.President Putin briefed the Prime Minister on the latest developments concerning Ukraine. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin for his detailed assessment and once again reiterated India’s consistent position for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;PM Modi said in a post on X, “Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year.”&nbsp;The two leaders also reviewed progress in the bilateral agenda and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1953804374158840158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On Thursday, President Putin had received India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval at the Kremlin, marking a significant moment in the evolving strategic partnership between New Delhi and Moscow, and held a meeting in the presence of senior Russian officials, including Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu and Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov.Ambassador Vinay Kumar also joined the high-level discussions, which focused on regional security, defence cooperation, and preparations for the forthcoming leadership-level engagement.&nbsp;The meeting was deemed highly significant, as it was held a day after US President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on India, citing continued purchase of Russian oil by Indian entities.&nbsp;The Kremlin released footage showing Doval shaking hands with Putin. Doval is visiting Moscow at a time when India is facing pressure from the West, particularly US, over its energy ties with Russia.

At a bilateral conference earlier this year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that India and Russia share “close or even coinciding views” on the emerging multipolar world order. He also emphasised that the relationship has “stood the test of time” and continues to evolve on the basis of mutual respect, strategic alignment, and shared global interests.&nbsp;Earlier on Thursday, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called PM Modi and the two leaders agreed on a framework to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health and people-to-people ties.They also reiterated their commitment to take India-Brazil Strategic Partnership to new heights. The two leaders exchanged views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had also called PM Narendra Modi on Thursday, and the two leaders agreed on a framework to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health, and people-to-people ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a phone call on Friday, and both the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepen India-Russia ties, days after US President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods over Russian oil purchases by New Delhi. President Putin briefed the Prime Minister on the latest developments concerning Ukraine. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin for his detailed assessment and once again reiterated India’s consistent position for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict. PM Modi said in a post on X, “Had a very good and detailed conversation with my friend President Putin. I thanked him for sharing the latest developments on Ukraine. We also reviewed the progress in our bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. I look forward to hosting President Putin in India later this year.” The two leaders also reviewed progress in the bilateral agenda and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had also called PM Narendra Modi on Thursday, and the two leaders agreed on a framework to strengthen cooperation in trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health, and people-to-people ties.

PM Modi speaks with Putin, reiterates resolve to deepen India-Russia ties amid Trump tariff row

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has said he and US president Donald Trump agree that the war in Ukraine “must end,” following a high-level meeting in Moscow between Russian president Vladimir Putin and Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.“Right on my way from our brigades here in Sumy region, I spoke with President Trump. This conversation happened after President Trump’s representative, Steve Witkoff, visited Moscow. Our joint position with our partners is absolutely clear, the war must end. And it must be done honestly,” Zelensky wrote on X.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-everyone-agrees-war-must-come-to-close-trump-says-great-progress-made-in-witkoff-s-three-hour-talks-with-putin-1754501191138">'Everyone agrees war must come to close': Trump says ‘great progress’ made in Witkoff’s three-hour talks with Putin</a>He said European leaders were also on the call and thanked them for their support, stressing that Ukraine would “definitely defend its independence” while seeking a “lasting and reliable peace.”<h2>Trump hails ‘highly productive’ talks with Putin</h2>Trump earlier described Witkoff’s three-hour meeting with Putin as “highly productive,” adding, “Great progress was made! Afterwards, I updated some of our European Allies. Everyone agrees this war must come to a close, and we will work towards that in the days and weeks to come.”The meeting, held just two days before a US-imposed Friday deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire or face new economic penalties, is part of a last-ditch effort by Washington to push for an end to the conflict.<h2>Kremlin calls meeting ‘constructive’</h2>The Kremlin released footage showing Putin warmly greeting Witkoff, noting it was the fifth meeting between the two this year. Putin aide Yuri Ushakov described the discussions as “useful” and “constructive,” saying they covered both the “Ukraine issue” and “perspectives for possible strategic cooperation” between Moscow and Washington.<h2>Trump’s frustration grows over continued strikes</h2>The talks come amid growing signs of Trump’s impatience with Putin over ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities. The US president has long claimed he could end the conflict within “24 hours” through personal diplomacy, but has admitted that repeated civilian casualties have tested his patience.“I go home, I tell the first lady, ‘You know, I spoke to Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation.’ And she said, ‘Oh really? Another city was just hit,’” Trump told NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte last month.

Ukrainian President Zelensky said he and US President Trump agree the Ukraine war “must end,” following Steve Witkoff’s Moscow meeting with Putin, emphasising Ukraine’s defense and pursuit of lasting peace.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has said he and US president Donald Trump agree that the war in Ukraine “must end,” following a high-level meeting in Moscow between Russian president Vladimir Putin and Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. “Right on my way from our brigades here in Sumy region, I spoke with President Trump. This conversation happened after President Trump’s representative, Steve Witkoff, visited Moscow. Our joint position with our partners is absolutely clear, the war must end. And it must be done honestly,” Zelensky wrote on X. Also read: 'Everyone agrees war must come to close': Trump says ‘great progress’ made in Witkoff’s three-hour talks with Putin He said European leaders were also on the call and thanked them for their support, stressing that Ukraine would “definitely defend its independence” while seeking a “lasting and reliable peace.” Trump hails ‘highly productive’ talks with Putin Trump earlier described Witkoff’s three-hour meeting with Putin as “highly productive,” adding, “Great progress was made! Afterwards, I updated some of our European Allies. Everyone agrees this war must come to a close, and we will work towards that in the days and weeks to come.” The meeting, held just two days before a US-imposed Friday deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire or face new economic penalties, is part of a last-ditch effort by Washington to push for an end to the conflict. Kremlin calls meeting ‘constructive’ The Kremlin released footage showing Putin warmly greeting Witkoff, noting it was the fifth meeting between the two this year. Putin aide Yuri Ushakov described the discussions as “useful” and “constructive,” saying they covered both the “Ukraine issue” and “perspectives for possible strategic cooperation” between Moscow and Washington. Trump’s frustration grows over continued strikes The talks come amid growing signs of Trump’s impatience with Putin over ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities. The US president has long claimed he could end the conflict within “24 hours” through personal diplomacy, but has admitted that repeated civilian casualties have tested his patience. “I go home, I tell the first lady, ‘You know, I spoke to Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation.’ And she said, ‘Oh really? Another city was just hit,’” Trump told NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte last month.

Ukrainian President Zelensky said he and US President Trump agree that the Ukraine war “must end,” following Steve Witkoff’s meeting with Putin in Moscow, emphasising Ukraine’s defence and pursuit of lasting peace.

'War must end': Ukraine’s Zelensky calls for ‘lasting peace’ after call with Trump

Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but only once the groundwork has been laid, the Kremlin said on Monday (August 5). “I want to remind you that the president himself does not rule out holding such a meeting after the necessary work is done at the expert level and the necessary distance has been covered,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He stressed, however, that such preparations “have not yet been done.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-unjustified-unreasonable-india-slams-trump-s-tariffs-calls-west-hypocritical-over-russian-oil-trade-1754329470398">‘Unjustified, unreasonable’: India slams Trump’s tariffs, calls West ‘hypocritical’ over&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;oil trade</a><h2>Zelensky calls for direct talks</h2>The remarks came days after Zelensky urged a direct meeting with Putin, following the Russian leader’s claim that his forces were “advancing on the entire front line” and his expression of hope for further peace talks.“We understand who calls the shots in Russia, and thus Ukraine is once again offering to move beyond technical talks, not to exchange statements, but to actually meet at the level of leaders,” Zelensky wrote on X on 1 August.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-full-occupation-of-gaza-strip-netanyahu-wants-total-gaza-takeover-despite-idf-resistance-are-there-cracks-in-tel-aviv-1754337773599">'Full occupation of Gaza Strip': Netanyahu wants total Gaza takeover despite IDF resistance – Are there cracks in Tel Aviv?</a><h2>Trump’s ceasefire deadline looms</h2>Peskov’s comments also come ahead of a US deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine. President Donald Trump has warned that if Moscow does not agree by Friday, new tariffs will be imposed. Trump had initially given Russia 50 days to accept a truce but cut the period to 10 days last week, saying he was “disappointed” with Putin.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-russia-s-war-in-ukraine-says-sanctions-are-coming-but-doubts-they-ll-affect-putin-1754002826994">'I think it’s disgusting': Trump slams Russia’s war in Ukraine, says sanctions are coming but doubts they’ll affect Putin</a>The US president also announced that his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, would soon travel to Russia. Responding to the news, Peskov said, “We are always happy to see Mr. Witkoff in Russia.”

The Kremlin says Putin is open to meeting Zelensky, but only after expert-level groundwork. Zelensky recently called for direct talks, urging real negotiations amid ongoing Russian military advances.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but only once the groundwork has been laid, the Kremlin said on Monday (August 5). “I want to remind you that the president himself does not rule out holding such a meeting after the necessary work is done at the expert level and the necessary distance has been covered,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He stressed, however, that such preparations “have not yet been done.” Also read: ‘Unjustified, unreasonable’: India slams Trump’s tariffs, calls West ‘hypocritical’ over Russian oil trade Zelensky calls for direct talks The remarks came days after Zelensky urged a direct meeting with Putin, following the Russian leader’s claim that his forces were “advancing on the entire front line” and his expression of hope for further peace talks. “We understand who calls the shots in Russia, and thus Ukraine is once again offering to move beyond technical talks, not to exchange statements, but to actually meet at the level of leaders,” Zelensky wrote on X on 1 August. Also read: 'Full occupation of Gaza Strip': Netanyahu wants total Gaza takeover despite IDF resistance – Are there cracks in Tel Aviv? Trump’s ceasefire deadline looms Peskov’s comments also come ahead of a US deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine. President Donald Trump has warned that if Moscow does not agree by Friday, new tariffs will be imposed. Trump had initially given Russia 50 days to accept a truce but cut the period to 10 days last week, saying he was “disappointed” with Putin. Also read: 'I think it’s disgusting': Trump slams Russia’s war in Ukraine, says sanctions are coming but doubts they’ll affect Putin The US president also announced that his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, would soon travel to Russia. Responding to the news, Peskov said, “We are always happy to see Mr. Witkoff in Russia.”

The Kremlin says Putin is open to meeting Zelensky, but only after expert-level groundwork. Zelensky recently called for direct talks, urging real negotiations amid ongoing Russian military advances.

'Not ruled out': Putin says he’s open to meeting Zelensky, but only THIS condition is met

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (July 31) strongly criticised Russia’s actions in Ukraine, calling them “disgusting” and hinting that more sanctions against Moscow are on the way. “Russia, I think it’s disgusting what they’re doing. I think it’s disgusting,” Trump told reporters on Thursday. “We’re going to put sanctions. I don’t know that sanctions bother him,” he added, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.Trump made the remarks during an event at the White House where he signed an executive order to bring back the Presidential fitness test for school children. He also mentioned that special envoy Steve Witkoff would head to Russia after his current visit to Israel.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-didn-t-like-that-but-not-a-deal-breaker-trump-criticises-canada-s-plan-to-recognise-palestinian-state-but-says-it-won-t-derail-trade-talks-1754000744188">‘Didn’t like that, but not a deal-breaker’: Trump criticises Canada’s plan to recognise Palestinian state, but says it won’t derail trade talks</a><h2>Zelensky urges allies to push for regime change in Russia</h2>Meanwhile, in a related development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking at a conference marking 50 years of the Helsinki Final Act, urged Western leaders to aim for regime change in Russia. “I believe Russia can be pushed to stop this war. It started it, and it can be made to end it. But if the world doesn’t aim to change the regime in Russia, that means even after the war ends, Moscow will still try to destabilise neighbouring countries,” Zelensky said during his virtual address.His comments followed another large-scale missile attack on Kyiv by Russian forces. He also called on allies to increase economic pressure on Moscow, criticising President Putin for continuing to reject a ceasefire. “We need to fully block Russia’s war machine… put every frozen Russian asset, including the stolen wealth of corruption, to work defending against Russian aggression. It’s time to confiscate Russian assets, not just freeze them,” Zelensky added.<h2>Trump wants Ukraine war deal by August 8, warns of new tariffs</h2>According to senior US diplomat John Kelley, President Trump wants to reach a deal to end the war in Ukraine by 8 August. Speaking at the UN Security Council, Kelley said the administration is losing patience with Russia’s refusal to stand down. Trump had earlier warned that tariffs on Russia would take effect within 10 days unless Moscow halted its full-scale invasion. The proposed measures include sweeping secondary sanctions that would hit countries still trading with Russia, including China and India, by targeting oil, gas and other key exports.<h2>Peace talks stalling as Russia steps up attacks</h2>Despite growing international pressure, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said peace talks with Moscow remain at a standstill. “No progress” has been made, he said on 31 July, as Russia continues to ramp up attacks on Ukrainian cities. Meanwhile, the European Union is increasingly alarmed by Russian sabotage operations across the continent. Officials fear that the Kremlin could be preparing to destabilise other European countries, even if the war in Ukraine eventually winds down.

Trump condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine as “disgusting” and signalled upcoming sanctions. Speaking at a White House event, he also announced envoy Steve Witkoff would visit Russia after his Israel trip.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (July 31) strongly criticised Russia’s actions in Ukraine, calling them “disgusting” and hinting that more sanctions against Moscow are on the way. “Russia, I think it’s disgusting what they’re doing. I think it’s disgusting,” Trump told reporters on Thursday. “We’re going to put sanctions. I don’t know that sanctions bother him,” he added, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump made the remarks during an event at the White House where he signed an executive order to bring back the Presidential fitness test for school children. He also mentioned that special envoy Steve Witkoff would head to Russia after his current visit to Israel. Also read: ‘Didn’t like that, but not a deal-breaker’: Trump criticises Canada’s plan to recognise Palestinian state, but says it won’t derail trade talks Zelensky urges allies to push for regime change in Russia Meanwhile, in a related development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking at a conference marking 50 years of the Helsinki Final Act, urged Western leaders to aim for regime change in Russia. “I believe Russia can be pushed to stop this war. It started it, and it can be made to end it. But if the world doesn’t aim to change the regime in Russia, that means even after the war ends, Moscow will still try to destabilise neighbouring countries,” Zelensky said during his virtual address. His comments followed another large-scale missile attack on Kyiv by Russian forces. He also called on allies to increase economic pressure on Moscow, criticising President Putin for continuing to reject a ceasefire. “We need to fully block Russia’s war machine… put every frozen Russian asset, including the stolen wealth of corruption, to work defending against Russian aggression. It’s time to confiscate Russian assets, not just freeze them,” Zelensky added. Trump wants Ukraine war deal by August 8, warns of new tariffs According to senior US diplomat John Kelley, President Trump wants to reach a deal to end the war in Ukraine by 8 August. Speaking at the UN Security Council, Kelley said the administration is losing patience with Russia’s refusal to stand down. Trump had earlier warned that tariffs on Russia would take effect within 10 days unless Moscow halted its full-scale invasion. The proposed measures include sweeping secondary sanctions that would hit countries still trading with Russia, including China and India, by targeting oil, gas and other key exports. Peace talks stalling as Russia steps up attacks Despite growing international pressure, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said peace talks with Moscow remain at a standstill. “No progress” has been made, he said on 31 July, as Russia continues to ramp up attacks on Ukrainian cities. Meanwhile, the European Union is increasingly alarmed by Russian sabotage operations across the continent. Officials fear that the Kremlin could be preparing to destabilise other European countries, even if the war in Ukraine eventually winds down.

Trump condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine as “disgusting” and signalled upcoming sanctions. Speaking at a White House event, he also announced envoy Steve Witkoff would visit Russia after his Israel trip.

'I think it’s disgusting': Trump slams Russia’s war in Ukraine, says sanctions are coming but doubts they’ll affect Putin

US President Donald Trump on Monday (July 28) threatened to reduce the 50-day deadline given to Russian President Vladimir Putin to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine. "I've spoken to President Putin a lot, I've gotten along with him very well," Trump said while adding that Putin "goes out and starts launching rockets into some city, like Kyiv, and kills a lot of people in a nursing home or whatever, you have bodies lying all over the street".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;I&#39;m disappointed in President Putin ... I&#39;m going to reduce that 50 days that I gave him to a lesser number because I think I already know the answer what&#39;s going to happen.&quot; Donald Trump on Russia-Ukraine War and Putin . . . . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RussiaUkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RussiaUkraineWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#putin</a> <a href="https://t.co/bpGkZfzNeI">pic.twitter.com/bpGkZfzNeI</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1949815151731036298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The American president said he was "very disappointed" by his Russian counterpart. "I'm going to reduce that 50 days that I gave him to a lesser number, because I think I already know the answer to what's going to happen," Trump said. He added that the new deadline for Putin is 10-12 days from July 28. This came after Russia and Ukraine met on July 23 in Istanbul for a third round of peace talks. The previous two rounds did not yield the desired results.&nbsp;Reacting to Trump's statement, Ukraine praised him as the Ukrainian presidential aide Andriy Yermak said on social media, "Thanks to President Trump for standing firm and delivering a clear message of peace through strength." "When America leads with strength, others think twice," the statement added.<h2>A ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war?</h2>The American president also talked about the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and said that the Palestinian militant group was unlikely to release the remaining 20 Israeli hostages. "That's like their shield," Trump said.He further said that a ceasefire might be possible in the war. He said he has told the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to approach the ongoing conflict in a "different way."&nbsp;Moreover, the US president continued crediting himself for the ceasefire negotiation in previous wars - like the India-Pakistan conflict, as he said if he was not around, there would be "six major wars going on."<h2>‘Those children look very hungry’</h2>Trump, who was in Scotland for a trade deal with the EU, met the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on July 28. When he was asked if he agreed with Netanyahu's claim that there was no starvation in Gaza, Trump said, “I mean, based on television, I would say not particularly because those children look very hungry.”&nbsp;Starmer intervened and added, "It's a humanitarian crisis. It's an absolute catastrophe. I think people in Britain are revolted in seeing what they're seeing on their screens."&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said that he may reduce the 50-day ultimatum given to his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, to reach a ceasefire deal in the ongoing war with Ukraine. He said that he was very disappointed in Putin.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (July 28) threatened to reduce the 50-day deadline given to Russian President Vladimir Putin to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine. "I've spoken to President Putin a lot, I've gotten along with him very well," Trump said while adding that Putin "goes out and starts launching rockets into some city, like Kyiv, and kills a lot of people in a nursing home or whatever, you have bodies lying all over the street".

US President Donald Trump said that he may reduce the 50-day ultimatum given to his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, to reach a ceasefire deal in the ongoing war with Ukraine. He said that he was “very disappointed in Putin.” &nbsp;

Trump is 'very disappointed in Putin', reduces 50-day ultimatum for ceasefire with Ukraine to 10-12 days

Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed his government to come up with new rules limiting the use of foreign messaging apps and software. The order targets platforms from what Moscow calls “unfriendly countries”, according to a report by Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service on 20 July. The Kremlin published the directive earlier this week as part of its wider effort to reduce Russia’s reliance on technology developed in the West.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-ready-for-direct-talks-with-putin-ukraine-proposes-fresh-peace-talks-amid-massive-russian-strikes-1752950823145">Zelensky ready for direct talks with Putin? Ukraine proposes fresh peace talks amid massive Russian strikes</a><h2>Could WhatsApp be the next to go?</h2>Ukraine’s intelligence service believes WhatsApp is a likely candidate for a ban. The messaging app, owned by Meta, is one of the few services from the company still working in Russia. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram, Threads and WhatsApp, was declared an “extremist organisation” by Russian authorities back in 2022. While the other platforms have already been blocked, WhatsApp has so far escaped the crackdown. Last year, Russian Senator Artem Sheikin said WhatsApp could face a ban in 2025 if it doesn’t follow Russian laws.<h2>What about Telegram?</h2>The status of Telegram, a messaging app created by Russian-born entrepreneur Pavel Durov, is less clear. Ukrainian intelligence says it’s unsure what will happen to the app, even though it has close ties to Russian users. Telegram insists it is independent from the Russian government or any security services. But several investigative reports have raised concerns about possible links.<h2>What is Max, Russia’s replacement for WhatsApp?</h2>Russian authorities have introduced a new messaging app called Max, developed by VK, the tech company behind the Russian social media site Vkontakte. According to Ukrainian intelligence, all Russian officials have now been ordered to switch to Max. The app reportedly has full access to the user’s microphone, camera, contacts, files, and location. The collected data is said to be sent to servers connected to VK, which is now largely controlled by the Russian government. VK itself was originally launched by Durov in 2006, before he left Russia and lost control of the company.

Ukraine’s intelligence service believes WhatsApp is a likely candidate for a ban. The messaging app, owned by Meta, is one of the few services from the company still working in Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed his government to come up with new rules limiting the use of foreign messaging apps and software. The order targets platforms from what Moscow calls “unfriendly countries”, according to a report by Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service on 20 July. The Kremlin published the directive earlier this week as part of its wider effort to reduce Russia’s reliance on technology developed in the West. Also read: Zelensky ready for direct talks with Putin? Ukraine proposes fresh peace talks amid massive Russian strikes Could WhatsApp be the next to go? Ukraine’s intelligence service believes WhatsApp is a likely candidate for a ban. The messaging app, owned by Meta, is one of the few services from the company still working in Russia. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram, Threads and WhatsApp, was declared an “extremist organisation” by Russian authorities back in 2022. While the other platforms have already been blocked, WhatsApp has so far escaped the crackdown. Last year, Russian Senator Artem Sheikin said WhatsApp could face a ban in 2025 if it doesn’t follow Russian laws. What about Telegram? The status of Telegram, a messaging app created by Russian-born entrepreneur Pavel Durov, is less clear. Ukrainian intelligence says it’s unsure what will happen to the app, even though it has close ties to Russian users. Telegram insists it is independent from the Russian government or any security services. But several investigative reports have raised concerns about possible links. What is Max, Russia’s replacement for WhatsApp? Russian authorities have introduced a new messaging app called Max, developed by VK, the tech company behind the Russian social media site Vkontakte. According to Ukrainian intelligence, all Russian officials have now been ordered to switch to Max. The app reportedly has full access to the user’s microphone, camera, contacts, files, and location. The collected data is said to be sent to servers connected to VK, which is now largely controlled by the Russian government. VK itself was originally launched by Durov in 2006, before he left Russia and lost control of the company.

Ukraine’s intelligence service believes WhatsApp is a likely candidate for a ban. The messaging app, owned by Meta, is one of the few services from the company still working in Russia.

Is Russia about to ban WhatsApp? Putin orders crackdown on social media apps from 'unfriendly countries'

As the war between Russia and Ukraine intensified over three years, US President Donald Trump has been fluctuating his stance on whom to support. From calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a "genius" and an " attack on Ukraine "savvy in 2022, to calling him "crazy" in 2025, the bond between the two leaders has come a long way. The change in the Trump administration's stance not only impacted the Russia-Ukraine war, but also brought Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky closer after the White House spat.&nbsp;After Russia began the attacks in 2022, Trump for a very long time supported Russia in its war in Ukraine, while also pledging to end the war within 24 hours of becoming president.&nbsp;He used to bring this up in his presidential campaign, claiming that if he had been president, he would have ended the war in a day. Trump even praised Putin's moves as "genius" and "savvy", however, it did not last long.&nbsp;This changed when Trump, during his meeting with Zelensky in the Oval Office in February, heated up, as the two leaders engaged in a war of words. He even blamed Zelensky for the war during the meeting.&nbsp;But his stance kept changing, first against any war between Russia and Ukraine, then slamming Zelensky for the war, and now "frustrated" with Putin for continuing the attacks in Ukraine.<h2>Let's see how things changed in 3 years - Timeline</h2><h3>2023-2024</h3> While campaigning for the presidency, Trump blamed the Ukrainian president for the Russia-Ukraine war. He even refused to say whether he wanted Ukraine to win or not.&nbsp;According to a Washington Post report, privately, he even said that he could end the war by pressuring Ukraine to give up its territory. However, publicly, he vowed to end the war within 24 hours of becoming the president.<h3>Feb 18, 2025</h3> Trump lashed out at Zelensky, calling him a "dictator without elections", further triggering Ukrainians. The US president further claimed that Zelensky was responsible for Russia's war in Ukraine.&nbsp;This came after US and Russian officials held talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, without involving Ukrainian officials. Trump defended the absence of Ukraine in the meeting, saying, “Today I heard, ‘Oh, we weren’t invited. Well, you’ve been there for three years. You should have ended it. You should never have started it. You could have made a deal.”<h3>Feb 28, 2025</h3> Zelensky visited the US to meet Trump on February 28. During their meeting at the White House, the conversation between the two leaders quickly turned into a war of words. Not just Trump, US Vice President JD Vance also joined in and blamed Zelensky for the war.&nbsp;Trump told Zelensky, "You’re right now not in a very good position. You’ve allowed yourself to be in a very bad position. You don’t have the cards right now. With us, you start having cards.”&nbsp;Moreover, Zelensky was about to close a rare earth minerals deal, which eventually got postponed due to the clash.<h3>March 30, 2025</h3> Things changed, and Trump's stance on the Russia-Ukraine war fluctuated. The US president said he was "angry" at Putin for questioning Zelenskyy’s legitimacy.&nbsp;Trump even threatened that he would consider more tariffs on Russian oil if he and the Russian president could not end “the bloodshed in Ukraine”. However, he also said that while he was “disappointed” with Putin, he also trusted him, adding, “I don’t think he’s going to go back on his word.”<h3>April 24, 2025</h3> The US president lashed out at Putin in a post on Truth Social, asking him to "STOP" the war in Ukraine, while criticising him for continuing the attacks.&nbsp;“I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV,” Trump wrote. “Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP!”<h3>April 26, 2025</h3> Trump held a meeting with Zelensky at the Vatican on April 26, as the two leaders attended Pope Francis' funeral. It marked their first meeting after the Oval Office spat.&nbsp;Zelensky described the meeting as a "very symbolic meeting that has the potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results.” While Trump again slammed Putin for attacks in Ukraine, saying that the attacks made him “think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war, he’s just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through ‘Banking’ or ‘Secondary Sanctions?”<h3>April 30, 2025</h3> As Putin-Trump's bond took a turn, the US and Ukraine signed a mineral agreement, affirming a "long-term strategic alignment”. Through the deal, the US guaranteed "support for Ukraine’s security, prosperity, reconstruction and integration into global economic frameworks.”&nbsp;“This agreement signals clearly to Russia that the Trump Administration is committed to a peace process centered on a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine over the long term,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said after the deal was signed.<h3>May 19, 2025</h3> Trump held a phone call with Putin in May, as he appeared to agree to Russia's demand to postpone a ceasefire, which led to the continued war in Russia and Ukraine.<h3>May 25, 2025</h3> As Russia did not stop the war even after Trump made Putin understand, the US president threatened new sanctions after the Kremlin's large-scale attack on Ukraine. He further said that Putin has gone "absolutely crazy".&nbsp;“I’m not happy with what Putin is doing. He’s killing a lot of people,” Trump told reporters. “I don’t know what the hell happened to Putin,” he continued. “I’ve known him a long time.”&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social, Trump continued to bash the Russian president, writing, "Putin has gone absolutely CRAZY!” “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!”<h3>June 25, 2025</h3> In June, Trump and Zelensky met during the NATO Summit in The Hague. The US president described the meeting as "very nice". “Couldn’t have been nicer. I think he’d like to see an end to this," Trump said about Zelensky.He further added that he would “speak to Vladimir Putin and see if we can get it ended.”<h3>July 8, 2025</h3>Trump expressed disappointment with Putin, saying that he is killing a lot of people. He further said that Putin is nice all the time, but turns out to be meaningless.&nbsp;“I’m not happy with Putin. I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people,” Trump said. “You want to know the truth? He is very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.”&nbsp;<h3>July 13, 2025</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>As the relations between Trump and Zelensky got better, the US president said that he would provide Ukraine with advanced weapons, including Patriot missiles, funded by the European Union.&nbsp;He even said that he was “disappointed” with Putin, telling reporters: “I thought he was somebody that meant what he said.”&nbsp;Trump even gave an ultimatum to Putin to end the war in 50 days or face high tariffs.&nbsp;

In the three years of Russia-Ukraine war, Trump has changed his stance on which side to support, multiple times. From claiming to end the war in 24 hours, to supporting Russia and then helping Kyiv with weapons to fight Russian attacks, Trump's relations with Putin changed drastically. 

As the war between Russia and Ukraine intensified over three years, US President Donald Trump has been fluctuating his stance on whom to support. From calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a "genius" and an " attack on Ukraine "savvy in 2022, to calling him "crazy" in 2025, the bond between the two leaders has come a long way. The change in the Trump administration's stance not only impacted the Russia-Ukraine war, but also brought Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky closer after the White House spat. After Russia began the attacks in 2022, Trump for a very long time supported Russia in its war in Ukraine, while also pledging to end the war within 24 hours of becoming president. He used to bring this up in his presidential campaign, claiming that if he had been president, he would have ended the war in a day. Trump even praised Putin's moves as "genius" and "savvy", however, it did not last long. This changed when Trump, during his meeting with Zelensky in the Oval Office in February, heated up, as the two leaders engaged in a war of words. He even blamed Zelensky for the war during the meeting. But his stance kept changing, first against any war between Russia and Ukraine, then slamming Zelensky for the war, and now "frustrated" with Putin for continuing the attacks in Ukraine. Let's see how things changed in 3 years - Timeline 2023-2024 While campaigning for the presidency, Trump blamed the Ukrainian president for the Russia-Ukraine war. He even refused to say whether he wanted Ukraine to win or not. According to a Washington Post report, privately, he even said that he could end the war by pressuring Ukraine to give up its territory. However, publicly, he vowed to end the war within 24 hours of becoming the president. Feb 18, 2025 Trump lashed out at Zelensky, calling him a "dictator without elections", further triggering Ukrainians. The US president further claimed that Zelensky was responsible for Russia's war in Ukraine. This came after US and Russian officials held talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, without involving Ukrainian officials. Trump defended the absence of Ukraine in the meeting, saying, “Today I heard, ‘Oh, we weren’t invited. Well, you’ve been there for three years. You should have ended it. You should never have started it. You could have made a deal.” Feb 28, 2025 Zelensky visited the US to meet Trump on February 28. During their meeting at the White House, the conversation between the two leaders quickly turned into a war of words. Not just Trump, US Vice President JD Vance also joined in and blamed Zelensky for the war. Trump told Zelensky, "You’re right now not in a very good position. You’ve allowed yourself to be in a very bad position. You don’t have the cards right now. With us, you start having cards.” Moreover, Zelensky was about to close a rare earth minerals deal, which eventually got postponed due to the clash. March 30, 2025 Things changed, and Trump's stance on the Russia-Ukraine war fluctuated. The US president said he was "angry" at Putin for questioning Zelenskyy’s legitimacy. Trump even threatened that he would consider more tariffs on Russian oil if he and the Russian president could not end “the bloodshed in Ukraine”. However, he also said that while he was “disappointed” with Putin, he also trusted him, adding, “I don’t think he’s going to go back on his word.” April 24, 2025 The US president lashed out at Putin in a post on Truth Social, asking him to "STOP" the war in Ukraine, while criticising him for continuing the attacks. “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV,” Trump wrote. “Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP!” April 26, 2025 Trump held a meeting with Zelensky at the Vatican on April 26, as the two leaders attended Pope Francis' funeral. It marked their first meeting after the Oval Office spat. Zelensky described the meeting as a "very symbolic meeting that has the potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results.” While Trump again slammed Putin for attacks in Ukraine, saying that the attacks made him “think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war, he’s just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through ‘Banking’ or ‘Secondary Sanctions?” April 30, 2025 As Putin-Trump's bond took a turn, the US and Ukraine signed a mineral agreement, affirming a "long-term strategic alignment”. Through the deal, the US guaranteed "support for Ukraine’s security, prosperity, reconstruction and integration into global economic frameworks.” “This agreement signals clearly to Russia that the Trump Administration is committed to a peace process centered on a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine over the long term,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said after the deal was signed. May 19, 2025 Trump held a phone call with Putin in May, as he appeared to agree to Russia's demand to postpone a ceasefire, which led to the continued war in Russia and Ukraine. May 25, 2025 As Russia did not stop the war even after Trump made Putin understand, the US president threatened new sanctions after the Kremlin's large-scale attack on Ukraine. He further said that Putin has gone "absolutely crazy". “I’m not happy with what Putin is doing. He’s killing a lot of people,” Trump told reporters. “I don’t know what the hell happened to Putin,” he continued. “I’ve known him a long time.” In a post on Truth Social, Trump continued to bash the Russian president, writing, "Putin has gone absolutely CRAZY!” “Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!” June 25, 2025 In June, Trump and Zelensky met during the NATO Summit in The Hague. The US president described the meeting as "very nice". “Couldn’t have been nicer. I think he’d like to see an end to this," Trump said about Zelensky. He further added that he would “speak to Vladimir Putin and see if we can get it ended.” July 8, 2025 Trump expressed disappointment with Putin, saying that he is killing a lot of people. He further said that Putin is nice all the time, but turns out to be meaningless. “I’m not happy with Putin. I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people,” Trump said. “You want to know the truth? He is very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” July 13, 2025 As the relations between Trump and Zelensky got better, the US president said that he would provide Ukraine with advanced weapons, including Patriot missiles, funded by the European Union. He even said that he was “disappointed” with Putin, telling reporters: “I thought he was somebody that meant what he said.” Trump even gave an ultimatum to Putin to end the war in 50 days or face high tariffs.

In the three years of Russia-Ukraine war, Trump has changed his stance on which side to support, multiple times. From claiming to end the war in 24 hours, to supporting Russia and then helping Kyiv with weapons to fight Russian attacks, Trump's relations with Putin changed drastically.&nbsp;

From calling Putin a 'genius' to 'crazy': How Trump's stance on Russia-Ukraine war turned in 3 years of intense fighting - TIMELINE

US President Donald Trump reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether his forces could strike Moscow and St. Petersburg if the United States provided them with long-range weapons, according to reports by The Financial Times and The Washington Post.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-agent-trumpenko-did-melania-turn-trump-against-putin-ukrainians-praise-first-lady-as-secret-weapon-against-russia-1752593843191">'Agent Trumpenko': Did Melania turn Trump against Putin? Ukrainians praise First Lady as secret weapon against Russia</a><h2>White House says Trump’s comments were misrepresented</h2>Responding to the reports, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied that Trump was encouraging escalation. “The Financial Times is notorious for taking words wildly out of context to get clicks because their paper is dying,” she said in a statement to Newsweek. “President Trump was merely asking a question, not encouraging further killing. He’s working tirelessly to stop the killing and end this war,” she added.<h2>What did Trump ask Zelensky?</h2>During a phone call on 4 July, Trump is said to have asked: “Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow? Can you hit St Petersburg too?” Zelensky reportedly replied, “Absolutely. We can if you give us the weapons.” According to the FT report, Trump supported the idea, describing it as a strategy to “make them [Russians] feel the pain” and force President Vladimir Putin to negotiate. The call took place just a day after Trump had what he described as a “bad” conversation with Putin.Watch: Trump's 'such good English' praise prompts eye rolls in Liberiahttps://www.wionews.com/videos/-trump-s-such-good-english-praise-prompts-eye-rolls-in-liberia-1752593375881/embed<h2>US quietly offers Ukraine list of long-range strike options</h2>Following the call, US officials reportedly shared with Zelensky a list of long-range weapons that could be supplied through third-party transfers. This would allow NATO countries to send the systems on behalf of the US, avoiding a congressional freeze on direct military aid to Ukraine.Among the systems discussed were Tomahawk missiles with a 1,600km range and ATACMS, which have already been used by Ukraine but cannot reach targets as far as Moscow.<h2>Trump expresses frustration with Putin</h2>Speaking in the Oval Office on Monday (July 14), alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump criticised Russia’s failure to commit to a peace deal. “I’m disappointed in President Putin because I thought we would have had a deal two months ago,” he said. Trump also announced a new plan to send Patriot air defence systems and interceptor missiles to Ukraine, but did not mention any new long-range weapons.

The White House has responded to media reports claiming that US President Donald Trump asked Ukrainian President Zelensky whether he could strike Moscow if US provided him with long range weapons. 

US President Donald Trump reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether his forces could strike Moscow and St. Petersburg if the United States provided them with long-range weapons, according to reports by The Financial Times and The Washington Post. Also read: 'Agent Trumpenko': Did Melania turn Trump against Putin? Ukrainians praise First Lady as secret weapon against Russia White House says Trump’s comments were misrepresented Responding to the reports, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied that Trump was encouraging escalation. “The Financial Times is notorious for taking words wildly out of context to get clicks because their paper is dying,” she said in a statement to Newsweek. “President Trump was merely asking a question, not encouraging further killing. He’s working tirelessly to stop the killing and end this war,” she added. What did Trump ask Zelensky? During a phone call on 4 July, Trump is said to have asked: “Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow? Can you hit St Petersburg too?” Zelensky reportedly replied, “Absolutely. We can if you give us the weapons.” According to the FT report, Trump supported the idea, describing it as a strategy to “make them [Russians] feel the pain” and force President Vladimir Putin to negotiate. The call took place just a day after Trump had what he described as a “bad” conversation with Putin. Watch: Trump's 'such good English' praise prompts eye rolls in Liberia https://www.wionews.com/videos/-trump-s-such-good-english-praise-prompts-eye-rolls-in-liberia-1752593375881/embed US quietly offers Ukraine list of long-range strike options Following the call, US officials reportedly shared with Zelensky a list of long-range weapons that could be supplied through third-party transfers. This would allow NATO countries to send the systems on behalf of the US, avoiding a congressional freeze on direct military aid to Ukraine. Among the systems discussed were Tomahawk missiles with a 1,600km range and ATACMS, which have already been used by Ukraine but cannot reach targets as far as Moscow. Trump expresses frustration with Putin Speaking in the Oval Office on Monday (July 14), alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump criticised Russia’s failure to commit to a peace deal. “I’m disappointed in President Putin because I thought we would have had a deal two months ago,” he said. Trump also announced a new plan to send Patriot air defence systems and interceptor missiles to Ukraine, but did not mention any new long-range weapons.

The White House has responded to media reports claiming that US President Donald Trump asked Ukrainian President Zelensky whether he could strike Moscow if US provided him with long range weapons.&nbsp;

'Wildly out of context': White House says Trump 'was not encouraging further killing' after reports claim he wanted Zelensky to 'strike Moscow'

Ukrainians have praised Melania Trump for reportedly playing a key role in changing Donald Trump’s position on Russia, calling her an “undercover agent” for Ukraine after his recent comments about Vladimir Putin. Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump admitted it was his wife who pointed out the contradiction between his conversations with Putin and Russia’s continued strikes on Ukraine.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-volodymyr-can-you-hit-moscow-trump-asked-zelensky-about-deep-strikes-inside-russia-to-make-them-feel-pain-here-s-how-zelensky-responded-1752578230631">‘Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow?’: Trump asked Zelensky about deep strikes inside Russia to ‘make them feel pain’ — Here’s how Zelensky&nbsp;responded</a>“I go home, I tell the First Lady: I spoke with Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation,” Trump told reporters. “She said: Really? Another city was just hit.” He added, “We thought we had a deal numerous times. I get home, I’d say, ‘First Lady, I had the most wonderful talk with Vladimir. I think we’re finished.’ And then I’d turn on the television, or she’ll say to me one time, ‘Well, that’s strange because they just bombed a nursing home.’"Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump threatens 'severe tariffs' on Russia allieshttps://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-threatens-severe-tariffs-on-russia-allies-1752560035091/embedTrump’s comments quickly spread across pro-Ukrainian social media, where Melania was dubbed “Agent Melania Trumpenko”. Memes showed her in Ukrainian military gear, with one image placing her in a wide-brimmed hat and a jacket featuring the logo of Ukraine’s armed forces.“Lots of love for Melania Trump on Ukrainian social media tonight,” posted Business Ukraine Magazine, sharing a cartoon of characters presenting her with a traditional Ukrainian hat. Another user joked, “Melania singlehandedly doing more for Ukraine than the entire GOP.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lots of love for Melania Trump on Ukrainian social media tonight <a href="https://t.co/rj9CJ4VIzz">pic.twitter.com/rj9CJ4VIzz</a>&mdash; Business Ukraine mag (@Biz_Ukraine_Mag) <a href="https://twitter.com/Biz_Ukraine_Mag/status/1944814199860789596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Agent Melania Trumpenko <a href="https://t.co/rVzf6tJfvJ">pic.twitter.com/rVzf6tJfvJ</a>&mdash; Kate from Kharkiv (@BohuslavskaKate) <a href="https://twitter.com/BohuslavskaKate/status/1944828918625689981?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Melania’s past support for Ukraine resurfaces</h2>Although Melania Trump typically stays out of political debates, this isn’t the first time she has spoken up for Ukraine. At the beginning of Russia’s invasion in 2022, she called on the public to donate to the Red Cross, calling the suffering of civilians “heartbreaking and horrific” and offering her “thoughts and prayers” to the Ukrainian people.<h2>Trump asks Zelensky about missile strikes on Russian cities</h2>Following another failed round of diplomacy with the Kremlin, Trump revealed he had asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether Kyiv could strike Moscow and St. Petersburg. He reportedly said such action could “make them [Russia] feel the pain” and force Putin to the negotiating table. Trump has also threatened Russia with “very severe tariffs” unless a ceasefire agreement is reached within 50 days.

Trump on Monday admitted that First Lady Melania was the one who pointed out the contradiction between his conversations with Putin and Russia’s continued strikes on Ukraine.

Ukrainians have praised Melania Trump for reportedly playing a key role in changing Donald Trump’s position on Russia, calling her an “undercover agent” for Ukraine after his recent comments about Vladimir Putin. Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump admitted it was his wife who pointed out the contradiction between his conversations with Putin and Russia’s continued strikes on Ukraine. Also read: ‘Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow?’: Trump asked Zelensky about deep strikes inside Russia to ‘make them feel pain’ — Here’s how Zelensky responded “I go home, I tell the First Lady: I spoke with Vladimir today. We had a wonderful conversation,” Trump told reporters. “She said: Really? Another city was just hit.” He added, “We thought we had a deal numerous times. I get home, I’d say, ‘First Lady, I had the most wonderful talk with Vladimir. I think we’re finished.’ And then I’d turn on the television, or she’ll say to me one time, ‘Well, that’s strange because they just bombed a nursing home.’" Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Trump threatens 'severe tariffs' on Russia allies https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-trump-threatens-severe-tariffs-on-russia-allies-1752560035091/embed Trump’s comments quickly spread across pro-Ukrainian social media, where Melania was dubbed “Agent Melania Trumpenko”. Memes showed her in Ukrainian military gear, with one image placing her in a wide-brimmed hat and a jacket featuring the logo of Ukraine’s armed forces. “Lots of love for Melania Trump on Ukrainian social media tonight,” posted Business Ukraine Magazine, sharing a cartoon of characters presenting her with a traditional Ukrainian hat. Another user joked, “Melania singlehandedly doing more for Ukraine than the entire GOP.”

Trump on Monday admitted that First Lady Melania was the one who pointed out the contradiction between his conversations with Putin and Russia’s continued strikes on Ukraine.

'Agent Trumpenko': Did Melania turn Trump against Putin? Ukrainians praise First Lady as secret weapon against Russia

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Jul 15) said that it needs time to respond to US President Donald Trump following his 50-day ultimatum given to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the Ukraine war. It added that it was ready for fresh talks with Kyiv. This comes a day after Trump expressed frustration with Russia and gave them a 50-day deadline to strike a peace deal or risk facing sanctions. The US president also laid out an arrangement with NATO to supply new military aid to Kyiv, sponsored by the allied nations.&nbsp;“President Trump’s statement is very serious. We certainly need time to analyse what was said in Washington,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow’s first reaction to the comments.&nbsp;Trump warned that if a deal was not concluded within the deadline, he would announce “very severe tariffs” on Russia’s trade partners to obstruct Moscow’s ability to finance the war.&nbsp;Peskov added that Russia was still ready to negotiate and was “waiting for proposals from the Ukrainian side on the timing of the third round of direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations.”&nbsp;<h2>Russia-Ukraine talks fail to reach breakthrough</h2>&nbsp;In recent months, two rounds of peace talks have been held between Russia and Ukraine in Turkey. However, the negotiations failed to reach a breakthrough to end the conflict, which is now in its fourth year.&nbsp;Putin has consistently rejected calls for a ceasefire in Ukraine as Russian troops have continued the military operation. Several drone and missile strikes in Ukraine have resulted in the killing of civilians in recent weeks.&nbsp;<h2>Russia maintains ‘readiness’</h2>&nbsp;“We maintain our readiness,” Peskov said, suggesting that Trump’s statement could embolden Kyiv and hamper peace efforts.&nbsp;“It seems that such a decision made in Washington and in NATO countries and directly in Brussels will be perceived by Kyiv not as a signal for peace but for the continuation of the war,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>Ukraine says talks ‘pointless’</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ukraine has said that holding talks with the current Russian delegation is “pointless”, saying it lacks any mandate to make a compromise and has failed to accept demands in the two rounds of talks that happened recently.

Trump warned that if a deal was not concluded within the deadline, he would announce “very severe tariffs” on Russia’s trade partners to obstruct Moscow’s ability to finance the war.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Jul 15) said that it needs time to respond to US President Donald Trump following his 50-day ultimatum given to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the Ukraine war. It added that it was ready for fresh talks with Kyiv. This comes a day after Trump expressed frustration with Russia and gave them a 50-day deadline to strike a peace deal or risk facing sanctions. The US president also laid out an arrangement with NATO to supply new military aid to Kyiv, sponsored by the allied nations. “President Trump’s statement is very serious. We certainly need time to analyse what was said in Washington,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow’s first reaction to the comments. Trump warned that if a deal was not concluded within the deadline, he would announce “very severe tariffs” on Russia’s trade partners to obstruct Moscow’s ability to finance the war. Peskov added that Russia was still ready to negotiate and was “waiting for proposals from the Ukrainian side on the timing of the third round of direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations.” Russia-Ukraine talks fail to reach breakthrough In recent months, two rounds of peace talks have been held between Russia and Ukraine in Turkey. However, the negotiations failed to reach a breakthrough to end the conflict, which is now in its fourth year. Putin has consistently rejected calls for a ceasefire in Ukraine as Russian troops have continued the military operation. Several drone and missile strikes in Ukraine have resulted in the killing of civilians in recent weeks. Russia maintains ‘readiness’ “We maintain our readiness,” Peskov said, suggesting that Trump’s statement could embolden Kyiv and hamper peace efforts. “It seems that such a decision made in Washington and in NATO countries and directly in Brussels will be perceived by Kyiv not as a signal for peace but for the continuation of the war,” he added. Ukraine says talks ‘pointless’ Meanwhile, Ukraine has said that holding talks with the current Russian delegation is “pointless”, saying it lacks any mandate to make a compromise and has failed to accept demands in the two rounds of talks that happened recently.

Trump warned that if a deal was not concluded within the deadline, he would announce “very severe tariffs” on Russia’s trade partners to obstruct Moscow’s ability to finance the war.

Russia says ‘ready’ for talks with Ukraine, but needs time to ‘analyse’ Trump’s 50-day ultimatum

US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-germany-s-taurus-missiles-here-s-why-ukraine-keeps-asking-for-them-1752489150206">'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them</a><h2>Trump calls it Biden’s war, not his</h2>At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. He added, “We’re gonna be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days. Tariffs that are about 100%, we call them secondary tariffs.”Trump said he was “disappointed in President Putin” for not agreeing to a deal earlier, claiming, “I thought we would have had a deal two months ago, but it doesn’t seem to get there.”Trump added that US tariffs would be “biting” and hit the Russian economy. He said, “I hope we don’t get to the point where we do, but I’ve been hearing so much talk. It’s all talk. It’s all talk, and then missiles go into Kyiv and kill 60 people. It’s got to stop. That’s got to stop.”<h2>Trump's growing frustration with Putin</h2>This isn’t the first time Trump has publicly criticised the Russian president. While Trump had earlier promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, more than four months into his presidency, there has been no breakthrough.Last week, Trump said, “We get a lot of b**t thrown at us by Putin. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.”<h2>Failed talks and Russian rejection</h2>The Trump administration has held talks with both Ukraine and Russia in recent months and even brought them together for a round of discussions in Istanbul in May. While Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, Russia rejected the offer, accusing Kyiv of planning to regroup and rearm during the break. Asked about whether he planned to retaliate, Trump said, “I wouldn’t be telling you. Don’t we want to have a little surprise?”<h2>Tariff bill targets Russian exports</h2>Senator Lindsey Graham has introduced a bill that would allow the US to impose tariffs on countries that continue buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium. Russia remains a major energy exporter, with countries like China, India and Türkiye still purchasing its fossil fuels. Even some European nations continue buying Russian&nbsp;uranium.

At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. 

US President Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, 14 July, and used the occasion to issue a strong warning to Russia. Speaking alongside Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump said the US would impose “very severe” tariffs on Russia unless a peace deal to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days. Also read: 'Game-changer on battlefield': What are Germany’s Taurus missiles? Here's why Ukraine keeps asking for them Trump calls it Biden’s war, not his At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said. He added, “We’re gonna be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days. Tariffs that are about 100%, we call them secondary tariffs.” Trump said he was “disappointed in President Putin” for not agreeing to a deal earlier, claiming, “I thought we would have had a deal two months ago, but it doesn’t seem to get there.” Trump added that US tariffs would be “biting” and hit the Russian economy. He said, “I hope we don’t get to the point where we do, but I’ve been hearing so much talk. It’s all talk. It’s all talk, and then missiles go into Kyiv and kill 60 people. It’s got to stop. That’s got to stop.” Trump's growing frustration with Putin This isn’t the first time Trump has publicly criticised the Russian president. While Trump had earlier promised to end the war within 24 hours of taking office, more than four months into his presidency, there has been no breakthrough. Last week, Trump said, “We get a lot of b**t thrown at us by Putin. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” Failed talks and Russian rejection The Trump administration has held talks with both Ukraine and Russia in recent months and even brought them together for a round of discussions in Istanbul in May. While Ukraine has agreed to a proposed 30-day ceasefire, Russia rejected the offer, accusing Kyiv of planning to regroup and rearm during the break. Asked about whether he planned to retaliate, Trump said, “I wouldn’t be telling you. Don’t we want to have a little surprise?” Tariff bill targets Russian exports Senator Lindsey Graham has introduced a bill that would allow the US to impose tariffs on countries that continue buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium. Russia remains a major energy exporter, with countries like China, India and Türkiye still purchasing its fossil fuels. Even some European nations continue buying Russian uranium.

At the press conference, Trump distanced himself from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “It wasn’t my war. It was Biden’s war. It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it,” he said.&nbsp;

'If we don’t have a deal in 50 days': Trump gives ULTIMATUM to Putin over Ukraine war: Here's what US president said

United States senators are preparing to hand Trump what they're describing as a "sledgehammer" that would break Russian President Vladimir Putin's war economy. This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.<h2>Trump's new 'sledgehammer' against Russia</h2>In the US, bipartisan momentum is building in the US Senate for sweeping new sanctions, with reports suggesting that senators were on the path to arming Trump with a "sledgehammer" bill to use against Moscow. The bill would arm the President of the United States, Donald Trump, with sweeping authority to hit Russia.&nbsp;This bill has bipartisan support, which means it has backing from both Trump's Republican Party and the opposition Democratic Party. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who introduced the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal, said it would serve as a "sledgehammer" to break Putin's war economy. It would allow Trump "to go after Putin's economy and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine," Graham told CBS News.<h2>How will a bill against Russia affect India?</h2>The bill, as mentioned earlier, would give the POTUS sweeping powers to hit Putin's Russia with harsh economic penalties. However, it could also lead to the US imposing up to a 500 per cent tariff on India. How?In addition to sanctioning power against Moscow, it would allow Trump to impose equally harsh financial penalties and sanctions on any nation the US deems to be helping Russia's "war machine". This includes nations that purchase from Russia. Speaking to CBS News, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said that "this congressional package... would give President Trump the ability to impose 500% tariffs on any country that helps Russia". This includes economies that purchase Russian goods, like India, and nations like China or Brazil. India imports precious stones and metals, discounted crude oil, coal, and fertilisers from Russia.Watch | Asian stocks dip as Trump steps up tariff threats<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed</a><h2>Will Trump use the bill to sanction India?</h2>While Trump has not specifically mentioned whether he would penalise India for trading with Russia, he appeared to back the bill. In a conversation with NBC, Trump said, "It's a bill that the Senate is passing that very respectfully lets the president do whatever he wants, as you know," he said, adding, "In other words, it's at my option if I want to use it. They're going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it."&nbsp;&nbsp;

This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.

United States senators are preparing to hand Trump what they're describing as a "sledgehammer" that would break Russian President Vladimir Putin's war economy. This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know. Trump's new 'sledgehammer' against Russia In the US, bipartisan momentum is building in the US Senate for sweeping new sanctions, with reports suggesting that senators were on the path to arming Trump with a "sledgehammer" bill to use against Moscow. The bill would arm the President of the United States, Donald Trump, with sweeping authority to hit Russia. This bill has bipartisan support, which means it has backing from both Trump's Republican Party and the opposition Democratic Party. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who introduced the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal, said it would serve as a "sledgehammer" to break Putin's war economy. It would allow Trump "to go after Putin's economy and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine," Graham told CBS News. How will a bill against Russia affect India? The bill, as mentioned earlier, would give the POTUS sweeping powers to hit Putin's Russia with harsh economic penalties. However, it could also lead to the US imposing up to a 500 per cent tariff on India. How? In addition to sanctioning power against Moscow, it would allow Trump to impose equally harsh financial penalties and sanctions on any nation the US deems to be helping Russia's "war machine". This includes nations that purchase from Russia. Speaking to CBS News, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said that "this congressional package... would give President Trump the ability to impose 500% tariffs on any country that helps Russia". This includes economies that purchase Russian goods, like India, and nations like China or Brazil. India imports precious stones and metals, discounted crude oil, coal, and fertilisers from Russia. Watch | Asian stocks dip as Trump steps up tariff threats https://www.wionews.com/videos/asian-stocks-dip-as-trump-steps-up-tariff-threats-1752471036975/embed Will Trump use the bill to sanction India? While Trump has not specifically mentioned whether he would penalise India for trading with Russia, he appeared to back the bill. In a conversation with NBC, Trump said, "It's a bill that the Senate is passing that very respectfully lets the president do whatever he wants, as you know," he said, adding, "In other words, it's at my option if I want to use it. They're going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it."

This so-called sledgehammer bill, as per reports, can have potentially devastating economic ramifications on India and other nations. What is this 'sledgehammer', and why would it affect India? Here's all you need to know.

India in crosshairs? Trump's 'SLEDGEHAMMER' Russia sanctions bill could slam New Delhi with 500% tariffs. Here's how

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jul 13) said Washington would send Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine to help the war-torn nation fight off Russian invasion. The announcement comes after days of uncertainty and as Trump's relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin soured. Just two weeks ago, the US publicly stated that it would pause some arms deliveries to Kyiv. This comes as bipartisan momentum builds in the US Senate for sweeping new sanctions, with reports suggesting that senators were on the path to arming Trump with a "sledgehammer" bill to use against Moscow.<h2>Patriot missiles for Ukraine; Trump's disappointment for Putin</h2>Talking to reporters, Trump said the US "will send them Patriots, which they desperately need," adding that Ukraine would "pay 100 per cent" for the weapons under a new NATO-coordinated arrangement. However, the POTUS did not specify how many missiles would be sent to Ukraine. "I haven't agreed on the number yet, but they're going to have some because they do need protection," he told reporters as he once again repeated that he was "disappointed" with the Russian leader. "Putin really surprised a lot of people. He talks nice and then he bombs everybody in the evening," said the disgruntled US president.<h2>NATO to foot the bill?</h2>Trump said the weapons shipment would be part of a new deal where NATO would pay Washington for some of the advanced military aid it sends to Ukraine. "We basically are going to send them various pieces of very sophisticated military, and they're going to pay us 100 per cent for them," Trump said.&nbsp;The announcement came ahead of a scheduled Monday meeting between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, where the US president said he would make a "major statement... on Russia."<h2>US Congress's "sledgehammer" gift to Trump could affect India. Here's how</h2>Meanwhile, US lawmakers have unveiled a bipartisan sanctions bill that would arm Trump with sweeping authority to hit Russia and its trade partners with harsh economic penalties. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who introduced the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal, said it would serve as a "sledgehammer" to break Putin's war economy. It would allow Trump "to go after Putin's economy, and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine," Graham told CBS News. He revealed that "This congressional package... would give President Trump the ability to impose 500% tariffs on any country that helps Russia". This includes economies that purchase Russian goods, like India, China or Brazil.Appearing to back the bill, Trump, in a conversation with NBC, said, "It's a bill that the Senate is passing that very respectfully lets the president do whatever he wants, as you know," he said, adding "In other words, it's at my option if I want to use it. They're going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it."

Talking to reporters, Trump said the US "will send them Patriots, which they desperately need," adding that Ukraine would "pay 100 per cent" for the weapons under a new NATO-coordinated arrangement.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Jul 13) said Washington would send Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine to help the war-torn nation fight off Russian invasion. The announcement comes after days of uncertainty and as Trump's relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin soured. Just two weeks ago, the US publicly stated that it would pause some arms deliveries to Kyiv. This comes as bipartisan momentum builds in the US Senate for sweeping new sanctions, with reports suggesting that senators were on the path to arming Trump with a "sledgehammer" bill to use against Moscow. Patriot missiles for Ukraine; Trump's disappointment for Putin Talking to reporters, Trump said the US "will send them Patriots, which they desperately need," adding that Ukraine would "pay 100 per cent" for the weapons under a new NATO-coordinated arrangement. However, the POTUS did not specify how many missiles would be sent to Ukraine. "I haven't agreed on the number yet, but they're going to have some because they do need protection," he told reporters as he once again repeated that he was "disappointed" with the Russian leader. "Putin really surprised a lot of people. He talks nice and then he bombs everybody in the evening," said the disgruntled US president. NATO to foot the bill? Trump said the weapons shipment would be part of a new deal where NATO would pay Washington for some of the advanced military aid it sends to Ukraine. "We basically are going to send them various pieces of very sophisticated military, and they're going to pay us 100 per cent for them," Trump said. The announcement came ahead of a scheduled Monday meeting between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, where the US president said he would make a "major statement... on Russia." US Congress's "sledgehammer" gift to Trump could affect India. Here's how Meanwhile, US lawmakers have unveiled a bipartisan sanctions bill that would arm Trump with sweeping authority to hit Russia and its trade partners with harsh economic penalties. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who introduced the bill alongside Democrat Richard Blumenthal, said it would serve as a "sledgehammer" to break Putin's war economy. It would allow Trump "to go after Putin's economy, and all those countries who prop up the Putin war machine," Graham told CBS News. He revealed that "This congressional package... would give President Trump the ability to impose 500% tariffs on any country that helps Russia". This includes economies that purchase Russian goods, like India, China or Brazil. Appearing to back the bill, Trump, in a conversation with NBC, said, "It's a bill that the Senate is passing that very respectfully lets the president do whatever he wants, as you know," he said, adding "In other words, it's at my option if I want to use it. They're going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it."

Talking to reporters, Trump said the US "will send them Patriots, which they desperately need," adding that Ukraine would "pay 100 per cent" for the weapons under a new NATO-coordinated arrangement.

Trump says US will send Patriot missiles to Ukraine, as senators ready to hand him 'SLEDGEHAMMER' against Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (July 9) met Pope Leo XIV at the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo near Rome. As the two met amid ongoing Russian attacks, Pope offered to hold negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Vatican. The two discussed the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for a just and lasting peace.“During the cordial conversation, the importance of dialogue as the preferred means of ending hostilities was reaffirmed," the Vatican said in a statement."The Holy Father expressed his sorrow for the victims and renewed his prayers and closeness to the Ukrainian people, encouraging every effort aimed at the release of prisoners and the search for shared solutions," the statement added.It added that the Pope reiterated his willingness to welcome representatives of Russia and Ukraine to the Vatican for negotiations.<h2>Russia rejected the offer</h2>Earlier, Russia had rejected the offer from the Pope. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that it would not be appropriate for two Orthodox Christian countries to hold talks there.The Ukrainian president is currently on a visit to Rome, to attend the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference, which will be held on Thursday and Friday.Zelensky, while speaking to reporters after meeting Pope, said that he thanked him for his efforts to help reunite children taken by Russia after the war began in 2022.Leo has been criticising Russia's war on Ukraine, calling it a "senseless war". “It is not easy to find words of consolation for the families who have lost loved ones in this senseless war,” he told the bishops who visited last week.<h2>Major attack on Ukraine</h2>Earlier this morning, Zelensky said that Russia attempted to strike 741 targets with 728 drones and 13 missiles. Zelensky said that the attack comes precisely at a time when efforts are being made to achieve peace in the region and establish a ceasefire, adding that Russia continues "to rebuff them all."He added that Russia’s continuing aggression is “yet another proof of the need for sanctions–biting sanctions against oil, which has been fueling Moscow’s war machine with money for over three years of the war.

Pope expressed his sorrow for the victims and renewed his prayers and closeness to the Ukrainian people, encouraging every effort aimed at the release of prisoners and the search for shared solutions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (July 9) met Pope Leo XIV at the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo near Rome. As the two met amid ongoing Russian attacks, Pope offered to hold negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in Vatican. The two discussed the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for a just and lasting peace. “During the cordial conversation, the importance of dialogue as the preferred means of ending hostilities was reaffirmed," the Vatican said in a statement. "The Holy Father expressed his sorrow for the victims and renewed his prayers and closeness to the Ukrainian people, encouraging every effort aimed at the release of prisoners and the search for shared solutions," the statement added. It added that the Pope reiterated his willingness to welcome representatives of Russia and Ukraine to the Vatican for negotiations. Russia rejected the offer Earlier, Russia had rejected the offer from the Pope. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that it would not be appropriate for two Orthodox Christian countries to hold talks there. The Ukrainian president is currently on a visit to Rome, to attend the fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference, which will be held on Thursday and Friday. Zelensky, while speaking to reporters after meeting Pope, said that he thanked him for his efforts to help reunite children taken by Russia after the war began in 2022. Leo has been criticising Russia's war on Ukraine, calling it a "senseless war". “It is not easy to find words of consolation for the families who have lost loved ones in this senseless war,” he told the bishops who visited last week. Major attack on Ukraine Earlier this morning, Zelensky said that Russia attempted to strike 741 targets with 728 drones and 13 missiles. Zelensky said that the attack comes precisely at a time when efforts are being made to achieve peace in the region and establish a ceasefire, adding that Russia continues "to rebuff them all." He added that Russia’s continuing aggression is “yet another proof of the need for sanctions–biting sanctions against oil, which has been fueling Moscow’s war machine with money for over three years of the war.

Pope expressed his sorrow for the victims and renewed his prayers and closeness to the Ukrainian people, encouraging every effort aimed at the release of prisoners and the search for shared solutions.

Pope to hold Russia-Ukraine peace talks? Vatican announces as Zelensky meets him amid Russia's biggest attack

Day after US President Donald Trump claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke "bullshit" about Ukraine in their phone calls, Kremlin on Wednesday (July 9) said that it is calm about it, adding that Trump has a harsh way of using phrases.When asked about Trump's comments about Russia and Putin, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "We are fairly calm about it.""First of all, let's just say that Trump in general has quite a harsh rhetorical style in terms of the phrases he uses," Peskov told reporters.Despite Trump's sharp comments about Putin and on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine overnight, with the largest drone attack in three years.<h2>Another major attack on Ukraine</h2>&nbsp;Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia attempted to strike 741 targets with 728 drones and 13 missiles.Zelensky said that the attack comes precisely at a time when efforts are being made to achieve peace in the region and establish a ceasefire, adding that Russia continues "to rebuff them all."He added that Russia’s continuing aggression is “yet another proof of the need for sanctions–biting sanctions against oil, which has been fueling Moscow’s war machine with money for over three years of the war.“Our partners know how to apply pressure in a way that will force Russia to think about ending the war, not launching new strikes," the Ukrainian president said today.This comes after Trump on Tuesday criticised Russian leadership while discussing the Ukraine War with reporters during his Cabinet meeting at the White House.<h2>What did Trump say?</h2>The US president stressed that a lot of people are dying and the war between the two nations should end.“We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin… you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless," Trump said.While hinting at imposing additional sanctions on Russia, Trump added, "Trump said, “I’m not happy with Putin, I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people."He also said that Putin is not treating human beings right, adding that the US will be sending some defensive weapons to Ukraine, so that they will be able to defend themselves.&nbsp;

Despite Trump's sharp comments about Putin and on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine overnight, with the largest drone attack in three years.

Day after US President Donald Trump claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke "bullshit" about Ukraine in their phone calls, Kremlin on Wednesday (July 9) said that it is calm about it, adding that Trump has a harsh way of using phrases. When asked about Trump's comments about Russia and Putin, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "We are fairly calm about it." "First of all, let's just say that Trump in general has quite a harsh rhetorical style in terms of the phrases he uses," Peskov told reporters. Despite Trump's sharp comments about Putin and on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine overnight, with the largest drone attack in three years. Another major attack on Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia attempted to strike 741 targets with 728 drones and 13 missiles. Zelensky said that the attack comes precisely at a time when efforts are being made to achieve peace in the region and establish a ceasefire, adding that Russia continues "to rebuff them all." He added that Russia’s continuing aggression is “yet another proof of the need for sanctions–biting sanctions against oil, which has been fueling Moscow’s war machine with money for over three years of the war. “Our partners know how to apply pressure in a way that will force Russia to think about ending the war, not launching new strikes," the Ukrainian president said today. This comes after Trump on Tuesday criticised Russian leadership while discussing the Ukraine War with reporters during his Cabinet meeting at the White House. What did Trump say? The US president stressed that a lot of people are dying and the war between the two nations should end. “We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin… you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless," Trump said. While hinting at imposing additional sanctions on Russia, Trump added, "Trump said, “I’m not happy with Putin, I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people." He also said that Putin is not treating human beings right, adding that the US will be sending some defensive weapons to Ukraine, so that they will be able to defend themselves.

Despite Trump's sharp comments about Putin and on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Russia continued its strikes on Ukraine overnight, with the largest drone attack in three years.

'Trump uses harsh rhetorical style...': Kremlin reacts to US president's 'bull****' remark on Putin

After years of boasting about his good relations with Vladimir Putin, President Donald Trump is admitting he misjudged the Russian leader and has no influence on making an end to the war in Ukraine. The belated end of an illusion?&nbsp;This conclusion is drawn from a bewildering and swift American U-turn on US weapons supplies to Ukraine, which has been under fierce drone and bombing attacks on civilian targets, including the capital, Kyiv. One of the worst since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, it came a day after the latest in a series of telephone calls between Putin and Trump, who has frequently mentioned that he is on a first-name basis with his Russian counterpart. The topic: a ceasefire and an end to the war.The unspoken response: a seven-hour Russian onslaught hammered the capital with 539 drones and 11 missiles. That explains why Trump described as “disappointing” his conversation – the sixth since taking office. At a televised cabinet meeting on July 8, Trump vented his frustration with the Russian leader in unusually blunt terms. Vladimir Putin is “talking a lot of bullshit” when it comes to Ukraine, he said.Telephone calls over the months have been supplemented by postings on Trump’s social network, Truth Social. Such as this one, on April 24, after another air assault: “I’m not happy with the Russian strikes on Kyiv. Not necessary and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5,000 soldiers a week are dying; Let’s get the Peace Deal DONE!” Vladimir, whose troops are preparing for another offensive, was clearly unimpressed – possibly because Trump never followed up on suggestions that he would tighten sanctions on Russia unless it changed course.With strains in the relationship between the two leaders increasingly public, leaked reports from the Pentagon said that the administration had decided to halt supplying Ukraine with much-needed weapons, including Patriot air defence missiles and thousands of Howitzer rounds. A sharply worded editorial in the frequently Trump-friendly Wall Street Journal on July 3 described the decision to withhold weapons before Russia’s expected summer assault as “a hostile act that favours Vladimir Putin.” Alarmed reactions also came from Europe as well as from some of his most devoted followers in the Republican Party, the so-called MAGA (Make America Great Again) crowd, who voted him into office largely because he pledged to keep the United States out of foreign wars.Just three days after the suspension of aid became known, Trump reversed course. On the sidelines of a meeting with the visiting Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump announced that US arms supplies to Ukraine would resume. “We have to, they have to be able to defend themselves,” he told reporters. &nbsp;“They are getting hit very hard. Now they are getting hit very hard. We’re gonna have to send more weapons.”In the early stages of the conflict, Trump suggested that it was Ukraine that had provoked the Russian invasion because of its desire to join the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Alliance (NATO). Trump’s aides frequently echoed Kremlin talking points.A visit to Washington in February by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky descended into a shouting match between him, Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Lunch was cancelled, as was a planned joint press conference after the Ukrainian was asked to leave the Oval Office. US-Ukrainian relations have since warmed up, partly because of a trade deal on rare minerals, and Trump clearly no longer views Putin through rose-tinted glasses. At a NATO meeting in June, he told reporters that Putin was proving “the more difficult partner” in reaching a peace deal.That is a very long way from the days when Trump assured the world he could end the conflict in a day because of his good relations with, and influence on, Putin. The one-day solution to the conflict became part of his speeches in the campaign for the 2024 elections he won. “Befeore I even arrive at the Oval Office, I will have the war settled. It will take no longer than a day,“ he told a cheering crowd on March 5, 2023. That was 856 days ago. How many more days it will take before that conflict finally ends is anyone’s guess &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

This conclusion is drawn from a bewildering and swift American U-turn on US weapons supplies to Ukraine, which has been under fierce drone and bombing attacks on civilian targets, including the capital, Kyiv.



After years of boasting about his good relations with Vladimir Putin, President Donald Trump is admitting he misjudged the Russian leader and has no influence on making an end to the war in Ukraine. The belated end of an illusion? This conclusion is drawn from a bewildering and swift American U-turn on US weapons supplies to Ukraine, which has been under fierce drone and bombing attacks on civilian targets, including the capital, Kyiv. One of the worst since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, it came a day after the latest in a series of telephone calls between Putin and Trump, who has frequently mentioned that he is on a first-name basis with his Russian counterpart. The topic: a ceasefire and an end to the war. The unspoken response: a seven-hour Russian onslaught hammered the capital with 539 drones and 11 missiles. That explains why Trump described as “disappointing” his conversation – the sixth since taking office. At a televised cabinet meeting on July 8, Trump vented his frustration with the Russian leader in unusually blunt terms. Vladimir Putin is “talking a lot of bullshit” when it comes to Ukraine, he said. Telephone calls over the months have been supplemented by postings on Trump’s social network, Truth Social. Such as this one, on April 24, after another air assault: “I’m not happy with the Russian strikes on Kyiv. Not necessary and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5,000 soldiers a week are dying; Let’s get the Peace Deal DONE!” Vladimir, whose troops are preparing for another offensive, was clearly unimpressed – possibly because Trump never followed up on suggestions that he would tighten sanctions on Russia unless it changed course. With strains in the relationship between the two leaders increasingly public, leaked reports from the Pentagon said that the administration had decided to halt supplying Ukraine with much-needed weapons, including Patriot air defence missiles and thousands of Howitzer rounds. A sharply worded editorial in the frequently Trump-friendly Wall Street Journal on July 3 described the decision to withhold weapons before Russia’s expected summer assault as “a hostile act that favours Vladimir Putin.” Alarmed reactions also came from Europe as well as from some of his most devoted followers in the Republican Party, the so-called MAGA (Make America Great Again) crowd, who voted him into office largely because he pledged to keep the United States out of foreign wars. Just three days after the suspension of aid became known, Trump reversed course. On the sidelines of a meeting with the visiting Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump announced that US arms supplies to Ukraine would resume. “We have to, they have to be able to defend themselves,” he told reporters. “They are getting hit very hard. Now they are getting hit very hard. We’re gonna have to send more weapons.” In the early stages of the conflict, Trump suggested that it was Ukraine that had provoked the Russian invasion because of its desire to join the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Alliance (NATO). Trump’s aides frequently echoed Kremlin talking points. A visit to Washington in February by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky descended into a shouting match between him, Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Lunch was cancelled, as was a planned joint press conference after the Ukrainian was asked to leave the Oval Office. US-Ukrainian relations have since warmed up, partly because of a trade deal on rare minerals, and Trump clearly no longer views Putin through rose-tinted glasses. At a NATO meeting in June, he told reporters that Putin was proving “the more difficult partner” in reaching a peace deal. That is a very long way from the days when Trump assured the world he could end the conflict in a day because of his good relations with, and influence on, Putin. The one-day solution to the conflict became part of his speeches in the campaign for the 2024 elections he won. “Befeore I even arrive at the Oval Office, I will have the war settled. It will take no longer than a day,“ he told a cheering crowd on March 5, 2023. That was 856 days ago. How many more days it will take before that conflict finally ends is anyone’s guess

This conclusion is drawn from a bewildering and swift American U-turn on US weapons supplies to Ukraine, which has been under fierce drone and bombing attacks on civilian targets, including the capital, Kyiv.

Trump-Putin relations: Finally, the end of an illusion?

President Donald Trump criticised Russian leadership while discussing the Ukraine War with reporters during his Cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday and expressed his displeasure with Russian President Vladimir Putin saying, “We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin… you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” Trump frequently said on the campaign trail that he could end the war in Ukraine in one day—a claim that did not bear out. Trump said, “A lot of people are dying and it should end. We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin—you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” Trump said, “I’m not happy with Putin, I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people,” while adding that he is also open to additional sanctions on Russia.&nbsp;Talking about US support to Ukraine, Trump said, “They had the benefit of unbelievable equipment... We gave them far more because Biden shouldn’t have done that... We should’ve given less than Europe... The Ukrainians, whether you think it’s unfair we gave all that money or not, they were very brave.”&nbsp;<h2>US bombing of Iran ‘reestablished deterrence’</h2>&nbsp;Referring to the strikes on Iran, the president praised the US military and the B2 bombers that took out Iran’s nuclear facilities. He said, “Those machines flew for 37 straight hours. They didn’t stop. They went skedaddle... They dropped the bombs and somebody said skedaddle... And every bomb hit its mark and hit it incredibly.”&nbsp;Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said during the meeting that the recent US bombing of Iran “reestablished deterrence."“It reversed what happened in Afghanistan,” Hegseth said, referring to the chaotic US withdrawal from the country under former president Joe Biden. “What was demonstrated on the world stage was American military might and capability,” added Hegseth.Trump echoed Hegseth, saying the United States’ “so-called enemies” paid close attention to the Iran strikes.“They watched every minute of it,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>Slams media for ‘phony reporting’ on Operation Midnight Hammer</h2>&nbsp;Trump then slammed the media for their ‘phony reporting’ on Operation Midnight Hammer, and said, “I always like confronting because otherwise the public doesn’t know that you’re a bunch of crooked people ... the media has to straighten out their act. The media’s down to 17% approval.”&nbsp;In his remarks on the fatal flooding in Texas, Trump said that he would travel to Texas on Friday with first lady Melania Trump.&nbsp;Trump spent a chunk of the Cabinet meeting praising the US military’s strikes on Iran while criticizing media coverage of the strikes.Several minutes at the start of the meeting were dedicated to the Texas response, during which Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was the main speaker.&nbsp;“Texas is strong and the people of Texas are incredibly strong... We still are looking for people... They will continue until they find every single person and we will continue to help them,” she said.&nbsp;“These parents were picking up these kids’ belongings out of the mud... the strength of people is incredible,” the Homeland Security Secretary said.

In his remarks on the fatal flooding in Texas, Trump said that he would travel to Texas on Friday with first lady Melania Trump. Trump spent a chunk of the Cabinet meeting praising the US military’s strikes on Iran while criticizing media coverage of the strikes.

President Donald Trump criticised Russian leadership while discussing the Ukraine War with reporters during his Cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday and expressed his displeasure with Russian President Vladimir Putin saying, “We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin… you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” Trump frequently said on the campaign trail that he could end the war in Ukraine in one day—a claim that did not bear out. Trump said, “A lot of people are dying and it should end. We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin—you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.” Trump said, “I’m not happy with Putin, I can tell you that much right now, because he’s killing a lot of people,” while adding that he is also open to additional sanctions on Russia. Talking about US support to Ukraine, Trump said, “They had the benefit of unbelievable equipment... We gave them far more because Biden shouldn’t have done that... We should’ve given less than Europe... The Ukrainians, whether you think it’s unfair we gave all that money or not, they were very brave.” US bombing of Iran ‘reestablished deterrence’ Referring to the strikes on Iran, the president praised the US military and the B2 bombers that took out Iran’s nuclear facilities. He said, “Those machines flew for 37 straight hours. They didn’t stop. They went skedaddle... They dropped the bombs and somebody said skedaddle... And every bomb hit its mark and hit it incredibly.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said during the meeting that the recent US bombing of Iran “reestablished deterrence." “It reversed what happened in Afghanistan,” Hegseth said, referring to the chaotic US withdrawal from the country under former president Joe Biden. “What was demonstrated on the world stage was American military might and capability,” added Hegseth. Trump echoed Hegseth, saying the United States’ “so-called enemies” paid close attention to the Iran strikes. “They watched every minute of it,” he added. Slams media for ‘phony reporting’ on Operation Midnight Hammer Trump then slammed the media for their ‘phony reporting’ on Operation Midnight Hammer, and said, “I always like confronting because otherwise the public doesn’t know that you’re a bunch of crooked people ... the media has to straighten out their act. The media’s down to 17% approval.” In his remarks on the fatal flooding in Texas, Trump said that he would travel to Texas on Friday with first lady Melania Trump. Trump spent a chunk of the Cabinet meeting praising the US military’s strikes on Iran while criticizing media coverage of the strikes. Several minutes at the start of the meeting were dedicated to the Texas response, during which Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was the main speaker. “Texas is strong and the people of Texas are incredibly strong... We still are looking for people... They will continue until they find every single person and we will continue to help them,” she said. “These parents were picking up these kids’ belongings out of the mud... the strength of people is incredible,” the Homeland Security Secretary said.

In his remarks on the fatal flooding in Texas, Trump said that he would travel to Texas on Friday with first lady Melania Trump. Trump spent a chunk of the Cabinet meeting praising the US military’s strikes on Iran while criticizing media coverage of the strikes.

‘We get a lot of bull…. thrown at us by Putin,’ says Trump, slams Russian leadership

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