A surprise Putin-Trump call has thrown a curveball into Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s long-awaited White House visit, just as he hoped to secure new U.S. military support. The conversation between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, in which they agreed to meet to discuss the Ukraine war, came as an unexpected blow to Kyiv’s confidence.
Putin Trump call stirs diplomatic shock
The timing could not have been worse for Zelensky. While he was en route to Washington, Trump spent over two hours speaking with Putin. The Kremlin later described the exchange as “productive,” claiming both leaders discussed peace prospects and potential trade if hostilities ceased. Trump confirmed plans to meet Putin in Hungary within two weeks, calling the call “very constructive.”
For Kyiv, the optics are grim. The Putin-Trump call unfolded amid a fresh wave of Russian missile and drone attacks — more than 300 drones and dozens of missiles hitting Ukrainian cities, crippling power grids and gas networks as the country braces for a harsh winter.
Zelensky had hoped his meeting with Trump would mark a turning point, with Ukraine pressing for approval to purchase long-range Tomahawk missiles. Analysts saw this as a crucial step to counter Russia’s deep strikes. But the renewed U.S.-Russia dialogue now raises doubts about whether Trump will authorize the deal.
Mixed signals from Washington
Trump has oscillated between frustration with Putin and admiration for his negotiation style. After condemning Moscow’s latest offensive, he told reporters: “Do they really want Tomahawks coming their way? I don’t think so.” Yet history suggests the U.S. president often softens after direct talks with Putin, shelving tougher sanctions and scaling back weapons pledges.
Zelensky, putting on a brave face, suggested Russia’s outreach was a “sign of panic” triggered by Ukraine’s progress and Washington’s potential backing. Still, the Putin-Trump call has clouded the optimism surrounding his visit.
As Russia intensifies attacks and Ukraine struggles with blackouts, Zelensky’s Washington mission now hinges on persuading Trump that stronger deterrence — not diplomacy — is the only path to peace.
