Contacts Between Putin and Trump: More Than Two Calls Unlikely
Introduction
Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump may have had more contacts than the two publicly announced telephone calls over recent months, the Kremlin said in video footage published by state television on Sunday.
Trump’s Desire for Peace
Trump, who says he wants to be remembered as a peacemaker, has repeatedly said that he wants the three-year conflict in Ukraine to end and has warned of the risks of it escalating into a world war between the United States and Russia.
Speculation About More Calls
There have so far been two announced phone calls between Putin and Trump this year – on Feb. 12 and on March 18 – though there has been speculation about much more frequent contact, and also reports that they spoke before Trump was elected last year.
Kremlin Statement
When asked by the most prominent Kremlin correspondent for state television about remarks by Trump that indicated there may have been more than two calls, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said information had been released about those calls he knew of.
"Listen, we inform you about the conversations that we are aware of. But we can’t rule out everything else," Peskov said.
Potential for Another Call
Putin and Trump may have another phone call if Ukraine continues strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, Peskov said.
Putin agreed to the suspension of such attacks in a phone call with Trump last week. Kyiv, which has said it would be willing to take part in such a partial ceasefire if a document setting out its terms is agreed, has accused Russia of not abiding by Putin’s order, something Moscow denies.
European Leaders’ Concerns
The contacts between Trump and Putin have spooked European leaders who fear the United States could be turning its back on Europe in the hope of striking a peace deal with Russia as part of some broader grand bargain encompassing oil prices, the Middle East and competition with China.
Previous Contacts
Before the contacts with Trump, Putin last spoke to a sitting U.S. president in February 2022, when he and Joe Biden spoke shortly before the Russian leader ordered tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine.
Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward in his 2024 book "War" reported that Trump had direct conversations as many as seven times with Putin after he left the White House in 2021.
Conclusion
It appears that the relationship between Putin and Trump may be more complex than initially thought, with potential for further communication and cooperation. As the situation in Ukraine continues to unfold, it will be important to pay close attention to any future developments and statements from both leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many phone calls have been announced between Putin and Trump?
A: Two, on Feb. 12 and on March 18.
Q: Is it possible that there have been more calls than announced?
A: The Kremlin has not ruled out the possibility of additional calls.
Q: What is the purpose of the recent phone calls between Putin and Trump?
A: To discuss the situation in Ukraine and potential ceasefire agreements.
Q: How do European leaders feel about the contacts between Putin and Trump?
A: They are concerned that the United States may be turning its back on Europe in favor of a peace deal with Russia.