May 20, 2025 — Following a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of withdrawing from peace negotiations regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump stated that he believes Putin is willing to end the conflict but warned that if progress is not made, the United States will step back from mediation efforts.
During the conversation, Trump reportedly urged Putin to seek a resolution, emphasizing that the war must come to an end. However, he later told reporters, “This is not my war,” suggesting that the U.S. may no longer play a central role in brokering peace between Russia and Ukraine.
The call comes amid stalled negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv, with previous peace talks failing to yield a ceasefire agreement. While Trump initially promised to end the war within 24 hours, his latest remarks indicate a shift in approach, with the U.S. potentially reducing its involvement in diplomatic efforts.
European leaders have expressed concern over Trump’s stance, fearing that a U.S. withdrawal could weaken Ukraine’s position in negotiations. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius criticized Trump’s handling of the situation, stating that he had misjudged his influence on Putin.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials remain skeptical about the effectiveness of Trump’s mediation, with many expressing doubts that the call brought them any closer to peace. Some analysts believe that Russia is using the talks as a strategic delay tactic, rather than making genuine efforts to end hostilities.
As the situation unfolds, the future of U.S. involvement in Ukraine peace efforts remains uncertain, with Trump’s latest remarks raising questions about Washington’s commitment to resolving the conflict.