In Ukraine, the recent phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin has been met with skepticism. While the call reportedly involved discussions on reducing strikes on energy infrastructure, the ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks have continued unabated, casting doubt on the effectiveness of the agreement, reports DW.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concerns about the lack of results following the call. Despite Russia’s promise to halt attacks on energy sectors, air raid warnings were issued again as Russian forces launched new strikes, confirming that Putin’s commitment to peace remains in question.
Ukrainian journalist Serhiy Rudenko described the situation as a clear indication that Russia is not interested in peace, with Putin’s ultimate goal being Ukraine’s submission. Furthermore, there is skepticism about whether a reduction in attacks on energy infrastructure would benefit Ukraine, as some believe that Russia’s motivation lies in limiting damage to its own economy.
While some Ukrainian officials like Mikola Kniazhytsky are open to a temporary halt in energy infrastructure attacks, they emphasize that true peace negotiations can only occur when Ukraine is sufficiently armed and secured. Military experts also predict that Russia is more likely to resume targeting Ukraine’s energy supply by the winter, once it has replenished its missile stocks.
The phone call itself, which both the White House and Kremlin hailed as a step toward peace, is seen by many experts as insufficient. Ukrainian political analyst Oleh Sakyan noted that the call was more about posturing than substantive negotiation, with Putin’s strategy aimed at stalling for time rather than making real concessions.
The only tangible outcome thus far has been the announced prisoner exchange, where both Russia and Ukraine agreed to free 175 prisoners each. While this gesture is considered positive, it doesn’t significantly alter the course of the war.
For Ukraine, this lack of concrete progress might be seen as a small victory. The country needs to gain time, as Russia’s economy continues to struggle, and internal protests may arise. Former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko suggested that Trump might need to prepare a “Plan B,” which could involve increased military support for Ukraine, tighter sanctions on Russia, and a stronger push for NATO membership.
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