Kremlin: 'Putin has spoken to Trump about the conflict in Ukraine'

The Russian government confirmed today that President Vladimir Putin spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump by telephone about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The call, which lasted approximately one hour, focused on the progress made during recent visits by American envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to both Moscow and Kyiv. According to a statement from the Kremlin, the discussion included evaluations of the results of these diplomatic missions and the potential for further dialogue. During the conversation, Putin reiterated that Russia has "absolutely no aggressive plans against Europe," as stated by presidential advisor Yuri Ushakov. He added that claims of Russian aggression serve only to justify increased military spending and support for Ukraine among European nations. Ushakov noted that Trump expressed interest in achieving a breakthrough in resolving the conflict during his presidency, while Putin emphasized the need to end hostilities to open prospects for broader relations between Russia and the United States. Both leaders agreed to continue working on the exchange of detained citizens from both countries. Ushakov highlighted that humanitarian issues, including the exchange of prisoners, remain a priority. The call followed the separate meetings between the U.S. envoys and Russian and Ukrainian officials over the weekend. Meanwhile, the British government announced it will allocate £100 million (approximately €116.5 million) to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities ahead of winter. This funding includes Patriot missiles, interceptors, and other defensive equipment, aimed at helping Ukraine counter Russian aerial attacks. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Defense, which stated the measures would assist Ukraine in defending itself against Russian assaults this winter. President Zelenskyy of Ukraine expressed hope for a trilateral meeting between Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine before the end of September. Speaking to journalists, he said such talks could take place as early as this month, adding that if all parties agree, the meeting could even occur in the fall. Zelenskyy also mentioned his intention to meet with Trump around September 20, coinciding with the UN General Assembly in New York. During this meeting, he expects to discuss the procurement of additional Patriot missile systems and other defensive technologies to counter Russian strikes. Ukraine is currently implementing an emergency plan to safeguard its power grid and infrastructure amid frequent attacks. The strategy involves decentralizing heating systems, protecting critical facilities, and stockpiling gas reserves to ensure civilian survival through the colder months. The country is also seeking financial assistance from international partners to reinforce its defenses. In response to the renewed Russian airstrikes targeting Kyiv, authorities reported at least two deaths and seven injuries overnight. The attacks resumed following a three-day ceasefire that had been negotiated during the U.S. envoy mission. Military officials warned that casualties might increase as the conflict continues. In the Russian city of Saratov, a drone attack caused damage to civilian infrastructure and resulted in preliminary reports of casualties. The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed that it had shot down 384 drones overnight, with 10 injured reported in the region of Saratov. Meanwhile, Polish and Baltic security forces heightened their readiness in response to the increased Russian activity near the border. The Polish military deployed fighter jets and activated ground-based defense systems. The Kremlin criticized German politician Friedrich Merz for what it called a "Russophobia that turns into obsession." A spokesperson for the Russian government, Dmitry Peskov, accused Merz of promoting an "obsession with persecution." On the diplomatic front, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov praised the role of U.S. diplomats in facilitating dialogue, stating that Washington recognizes "realities on the ground" and excludes the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO. This stance aligns with Moscow’s preference for peaceful resolution, though it maintains its conditions for any agreement. Meanwhile, Kyiv and Berlin continue to accuse Russia of ongoing aggression and interference in European affairs.