President Donald Trump has personally briefed Russian President Vladimir Putin on the substance of his administration’s talks with Ukrainian and European leaders. The briefing occurred during a phone call between the two leaders.
This diplomatic outreach to Moscow came after Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European officials in Washington on August 18. The meetings were aimed at solidifying a strategy for Ukraine’s long-term security.
In his public comments, Trump has been promoting a specific model for these security guarantees. He envisions a European-led effort, with the United States providing assistance in a “backup” capacity.
The President also took the opportunity to reveal another significant interaction with Putin. He stated that during an August 15 meeting in Alaska, they held preliminary discussions about reducing their nuclear arsenals once the war in Ukraine concludes.