WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — President-elect Donald Trump recently advised Russian President Vladimir Putin against escalating the war in Ukraine. A source familiar with the conversation confirmed the phone call. This discussion occurred as President Joe Biden plans to urge Trump not to reduce U.S. support for Ukraine after taking office in January.
Trump also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday. The president-elect has criticized the extent of U.S. military and financial aid to Ukraine. While promising to end the war quickly, Trump has not provided details on achieving this goal.
Ukraine’s foreign ministry said it was unaware of Trump’s call with Putin beforehand. Steven Cheung, Trump’s communications director, declined to comment on the matter, citing privacy in conversations between world leaders. The Russian embassy in Washington also did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Biden to Meet Trump on Transition and Key Issues
Trump, who defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 5 election, will take office on January 20. President Biden has invited Trump to the White House on Wednesday for a meeting, according to the White House.
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated on Sunday that Biden’s main goal is ensuring a peaceful transition of power. Biden also intends to address major international issues, including the situation in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Biden is expected to highlight the importance of U.S. support for Ukraine during the remaining weeks of his presidency. Sullivan emphasized that abandoning Ukraine would increase instability in Europe. Biden has consistently advocated for continued aid to Ukraine, though he has not outlined specific funding proposals.
U.S. Support for Ukraine Faces Republican Pushback
Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, the U.S. has provided Ukraine with tens of billions in military and economic aid. Trump has criticized this level of support, suggesting Putin would not have invaded if he were president. He has hinted at a strategy involving territorial concessions, a position rejected by Ukraine and unsupported by Biden.
Ukrainian President Zelensky said Thursday that Trump’s plan would likely demand significant compromises, which Kyiv opposes. Under Biden’s administration, over $174 billion in aid has been approved. Republican control of the Senate could slow aid delivery if Trump assumes office. House control remains uncertain, as Republicans near the 218 seats needed for a majority.
Republican Leaders Question Ukraine Funding
Republican Senator Bill Hagerty criticized U.S. spending on Ukraine, suggesting domestic sovereignty should take precedence. If Republicans secure control of Congress, Trump’s policies may face fewer challenges.
As the war in Ukraine progresses, Moscow has made recent territorial gains. Russia currently controls 20% of Ukraine and demands international recognition of its annexations. Ukraine, backed by its allies, insists on reclaiming all occupied territory. Peace talks remain unlikely as both sides hold firm positions.
