Trump and Zelenskyy engage in phone call — Ukraine praises the conversation
A Ukrainian official has reported that Trump has committed to "achieve a just peace in Ukraine" if he secures a second term.
Trump described the call as "very good" and expressed his intention to facilitate a peace agreement between Moscow and Kyiv. A source close to Zelenskyy, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, mentioned that the call went "exceedingly well," with Trump committing to "achieve a just the peace in Ukraine" should he be reelected.
In a message on X, Zelenskyy mentioned that he and Trump have planned a "personal meeting" to explore "what steps can make peace fair and truly lasting."
Trump has made promises to expediently resolve the Ukrainian conflict if he returns to power, claiming he would initiate peace talks before his potential inauguration in January. He has also criticized Zelenskyy's ability to procure substantial aid from the U.S., dubbing him "the greatest salesman of all time."
At the recent Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, the situation in Ukraine was not heavily emphasized. However, during his acceptance speech for the Republican nomination, Trump declared his intent to resolve "every single international crisis" created by the current administration, including the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which he believes would not have occurred under his presidency.
This dialogue occurred shortly before the anniversary of their phone call that contributed to Trump's first impeachment, after Trump requested investigations into Joe Biden based on unfounded accusations.
According to accounts from both camps, their latest conversation adhered more to diplomatic norms, with Trump receiving congratulations from Zelenskyy for securing the Republican nomination.
The call was initiated by Zelenskyy shortly after an assassination attempt on Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. Early in the Russian invasion, Zelenskyy also survived an assassination attempt.
The possibility of Trump's return to office has stirred concern among European and Ukrainian officials regarding potential cuts in U.S. support for Ukraine.
These concerns intensified following Trump's meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at the NATO summit's conclusion in Washington, and his selection of Sen. JD Vance, who has been critical of efforts to revert Ukraine to its 1991 borders and expressed indifference towards the region.
A Trump spokesperson was unavailable for comment.
Despite concerns over Trump's recent statements on foreign policy, Zelenskyy's team was reportedly pleased with the outcome of the conversation.
After the call, Trump stated on Truth Social, "I, as your next President of the United States, will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives and devastated countless innocent families."
He further added, "Both sides will be able to come together and negotiate a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity."
Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News