Kremlin Denies Trump-Putin Phone Call Amid Ukraine Conflict
In the wake of Donald Trump's recent victory in the US presidential election, the Kremlin has reiterated its openness to dialogue regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has firmly denied reports of a phone call between President Vladimir Putin and Trump, labeling such claims as "pure fiction." The Washington Post had previously reported that Trump advised Putin during a supposed conversation last Thursday not to escalate military actions in Ukraine, but Peskov dismissed this as false information.
Despite the lack of direct communication, Peskov confirmed that Putin remains open to discussions with Western leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. However, he emphasized that no signals or preparations for such talks have been communicated from Berlin. Scholz, who last spoke with Putin in December 2022, stated he would not engage in a conversation without prior consultations involving Ukraine.
Ongoing Military Operations and Escalating Violence
While diplomatic channels appear stagnant, military operations in Ukraine continue unabated. Peskov reiterated that Russia's military campaign, referred to as a "special military operation," will persist until all objectives are met. Recent reports indicate that Russian forces have launched missile attacks across Ukraine, resulting in fatalities in cities such as Kryvyi Rih, Mykolaiv, and Zaporizhzhia. The Ukrainian military has reported extensive air defenses, successfully intercepting numerous drones and missiles during these assaults.
Moreover, the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has alleged that the US State Department is exploring options to replace Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky amid ongoing hostilities. This claim, alongside reports of military buildup, suggests a potential escalation in both diplomatic tensions and military actions in Ukraine.
Implications for Future US-Russia Relations
As Trump prepares for his second term in office, the Kremlin has noted a sense of nervousness among Western leaders regarding his victory. Peskov remarked that while it is too early to predict shifts in European positions, there are indications of continued support for Ukraine from Western nations. The evolving dynamics of US-Russia relations, particularly under a Trump administration, could significantly impact the future of the conflict in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape.
As the situation develops, the international community remains watchful of potential changes in diplomatic engagements and the implications for stability in the region.
