Mon Nov 11 04:53:41 UTC 2024: ## Trump Urges Putin to De-escalate Ukraine War in First Call Since Election
**WASHINGTON, D.C.** – Newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging him to de-escalate the ongoing war in Ukraine. The call, which took place on Thursday, came just days after Trump’s stunning victory over Democratic challenger Kamala Harris.
The Washington Post, citing anonymous sources familiar with the conversation, reported that Trump reminded Putin of America’s significant military presence in Europe and expressed his interest in further discussions to bring a swift end to the conflict.
Trump’s election is seen as a potential turning point in the nearly three-year-old war. He has repeatedly promised a quick resolution to the conflict, casting doubt on Washington’s continued multi-billion dollar support for Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who spoke with Trump prior to the call with Putin, expressed optimism about the conversation, stating that they agreed to “maintain close dialogue and advance our cooperation.”
Meanwhile, the outgoing Biden administration has pledged to continue sending aid to Ukraine before Trump’s inauguration in January. Biden’s National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that the White House aims to “put Ukraine in the strongest possible position on the battlefield” to maximize its negotiating leverage.
The Russian government, while cautious, has given a positive response to Trump’s return, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noting that “at least he’s talking about peace, and not about confrontation.”
However, Trump’s stance on Ukraine has drawn criticism, with many fearing his desire for a quick peace deal could lead to concessions that benefit Russia at Ukraine’s expense.
The Kremlin has made it clear that any deal would likely require Kyiv to cede territory lost to Russian forces, a proposal fiercely opposed by Ukrainian leadership and many European allies.
With both sides ramping up military activity, including drone strikes, the next few months promise to be crucial for the future of Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape.
First Piper 