Putin-Trump call echoes success

(MENAFN) Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump recently held an extensive, nearly two-and-a-half-hour phone call, marking a significant moment in US-Russia relations. Contrary to some expectations, there were no dramatic changes or announcements, such as Russia taking control of Odessa or a sudden shift in war aims. However, the real significance of the call lies in the fact that it took place at all and was not a failure, but rather a step toward a new détente between the two powers.

This conversation, which many would have considered unthinkable just months ago, represents a major shift. Despite initial skepticism about the possibility of rapprochement due to entrenched American interests and Russophobia, the call marks a pivotal moment in the evolving relationship between Moscow and Washington.

Two key takeaways have already become clear: First, the negotiations between the US and Russia will remain bilateral, with NATO and the EU excluded from the discussions, signaling a departure from the old "nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine" mantra. This marks a significant shift in how the situation is being handled.

Second, while Moscow has made some goodwill gestures, such as agreeing to a temporary suspension of attacks on energy infrastructure and a prisoner exchange, Putin made it clear that Russia will not settle for anything less than addressing the root causes of the conflict. These include NATO's eastward expansion and the militarization of Ukraine, as well as issues regarding Ukraine's treatment of minorities and religious suppression. Russia's position remains firm: solutions must address these core issues.

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