Former U.S. President Donald Trump has revealed that a recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin did not lead to any progress in efforts to end the war in Ukraine. The two leaders spoke for nearly an hour, but Trump said the conversation was ultimately disappointing, especially regarding a possible ceasefire.
Speaking to the press, Trump shared that the call covered various topics, including Iran and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “We had a conversation. It was quite a long conversation. We talked about many things, including Iran, and also, as you know, the war with Ukraine. I am not satisfied with this,” he said.
When asked directly whether there had been any progress toward a ceasefire deal, Trump responded clearly: “No. I made no progress with him at all today.”
The timing of the call coincided with renewed Russian attacks on Ukraine. On July 3, as the call between Trump and Putin was being reported, Ukraine issued air raid warnings in several regions due to a heightened threat of missile strikes. The overnight assault was one of the most intense in recent weeks.
According to Ukrainian officials, Russia launched a total of 539 drones and 11 missiles during the night, including ballistic missiles. Ukrainian defense systems managed to intercept and destroy 476 of the drones and two cruise missiles. Despite their efforts, Russian attacks hit several targets across the country.
Kyiv, the capital, was one of the hardest-hit areas. The attacks left 23 people injured and caused significant damage in at least eight different locations. The scale and coordination of the strikes suggest Russia remains committed to military pressure, even as diplomatic talks stall.
During the call, Putin reportedly told Trump that Russia had no intention of stepping back from its military campaign. He said the country remained focused on “eliminating the root causes” of the conflict, a phrase that has often been used by Russian officials to justify continued aggression in Ukraine.
Trump also addressed questions about U.S. military support for Ukraine. He denied claims that aid had been cut off and said the United States continues to provide assistance. However, he did not go into specifics about the nature or amount of support being offered.
The lack of progress in the phone conversation is seen as a troubling sign for any near-term resolution to the war. As Russian attacks continue and diplomatic talks remain at a standstill, the suffering in Ukraine grows. Civilians are bearing the brunt of the violence, and despite international efforts, there seems to be little hope of an immediate ceasefire.
This phone call marks another failed attempt at diplomacy amid a brutal and ongoing war. While leaders may continue to speak behind the scenes, the reality on the ground in Ukraine tells a different story—one of continued violence, uncertainty, and a desperate need for peace.