The call came just before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington, where he is expected to request additional U.S. military support, including Tomahawk missiles capable of striking deep into Russian territory.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Putin had congratulated him for “bringing peace to the Middle East,” referring to the recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, which the U.S. helped broker. Trump added that stability in the Middle East could help create “momentum” for ending the Russia–Ukraine war, now entering its fourth year.
Planned Meeting in Budapest
Trump announced plans to meet Putin in Budapest in the coming weeks to discuss a possible roadmap for peace in Ukraine. He described the decision as a follow-up to their “productive” conversation.
According to officials, both leaders agreed to have their senior representatives meet next week before the Trump–Putin summit. The U.S. delegation will include Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other top officials.
During their call, Putin reportedly praised First Lady Melania Trump for “doing great work for children,” and discussed prospects for U.S.–Russia trade after the war.
Zelensky Pushes for Tomahawk Missiles
Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy is preparing for his Oval Office meeting with Trump on Friday, where he will again urge Washington to approve the sale of Tomahawk cruise missiles.
The missiles would significantly expand Ukraine’s strike capabilities, allowing it to hit Russian air defense systems, logistics hubs, and military bases deep within Russian territory—far beyond the reach of the U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles currently in use.
However, the Tomahawk system requires specialized launch equipment and training. Reports suggest the U.S. could first sell the missiles to European NATO allies, who would then transfer them to Kyiv.
Russia Warns Against Provocation
The Kremlin has condemned the proposed missile transfer. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the move would be “highly provocative,” while questioning whether Washington or Kyiv would control targeting decisions.
Russian officials also downplayed the potential impact, saying such weapons would not fundamentally alter the situation on the battlefield.
According to reports, Trump had initially opposed sending long-range missiles to Ukraine, but his stance has hardened following Putin’s refusal to engage in direct peace talks. Aides say Trump now views the potential sale as leverage to push Moscow toward negotiations.
Renewed Russian Attacks on Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure
The diplomatic developments come amid a renewed Russian offensive on Ukraine’s energy sector. President Zelenskyy said that on Thursday night alone, Russia launched over 300 drones and 37 missiles, targeting gas and power facilities.
As winter approaches, Moscow has intensified strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, aiming to disrupt heating and electricity supplies for civilians.
Trump, who has repeatedly pledged to “end the war quickly”, is reportedly frustrated with Russia’s escalating attacks. The White House has so far declined to comment on the phone call or the upcoming meeting with Putin
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