As the Russia-Ukraine conflict enters its third year, diplomatic efforts are shifting toward trying to persuade U.S. President Donald Trump – known for his unconventional foreign policy approach – into negotiations that could bring peace. Both Kyiv and Moscow vie for his attention knowing his decisions could significantly alter the course of conflict.
On May 19, 2025, President Trump is set to hold separate phone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an effort to broker a ceasefire in their ongoing war. Trump has expressed a strong desire to end what his administration says has resulted in over 5,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldier deaths each week; further consulting NATO leaders as needed while emphasizing his role as mediator in such complex geopolitical matters (AP News/The Washington Post; Reuters +2)
Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Rome to discuss a ceasefire initiative. Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s openness to diplomacy but stressed the need to exert pressure on Russia until full and unconditional ceasefire can be achieved, according to The Times, The Washington Post and Reuters reports.
Although these efforts continue, European allies and former U.S. officials remain wary about Trump’s involvement. Former Ambassador Bridget Brink criticized Trump’s administration’s stance as being too accommodating of Russian interests – according to The Washington Post and AP News reports.
Recently, developments on the ground have further complicated matters. Russia launched its largest drone offensive against Ukraine since war broke out – employing 273 drones that caused significant damage and casualties. Ukrainian intelligence reported that Russia planned to test an intercontinental ballistic missile as an act of intimidation toward Westerners.
Reacting to these events, European leaders have intensified their calls for an immediate ceasefire. France, Germany, Poland, UK and Italy’s Weimar+ alliance has stressed the necessity of European participation in any negotiations concerning Ukraine’s future and has asserted that any peace agreement must protect both local as well as wider European security interests. Reuters
As President Donald Trump prepares for crucial meetings with Vladimir Putin and Sergei Zelenskyy, the international community closely watches. The outcomes of such discussions could significantly shape both Russia-Ukraine conflict dynamics as well as geopolitics more generally.
This article is based on information available as of May 19, 2025.