U.S. President-elect Donald Trump reportedly held his first post-election phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin last week, where he cautioned Putin against escalating the conflict in Ukraine.
According to sources cited by The Washington Post, Trump highlighted the strength of U.S. military power in Europe during the conversation, aiming to dissuade the Kremlin from intensifying its war efforts in Ukraine. Trump also expressed interest in a follow-up discussion with Putin.
The previous day, Trump, 78, had a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, assuring him of his support, though details of their discussion remain largely undisclosed.
Tech billionaire Elon Musk was also present during that call. Both Putin and Zelensky publicly praised Trump following his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the recent election.
Putin described Trump as “courageous” and congratulated him, saying, “He behaved, in my opinion, in a very correct way, like a real man.” He also noted Trump’s interest in improving U.S.-Russia relations and resolving the Ukrainian crisis, calling it a commendable goal.
Similarly, Zelensky expressed optimism, stating, “We look forward to a strong United States under President Trump’s decisive leadership and rely on continued bipartisan support for Ukraine.”
When asked about the reported conversation between Trump and Putin, Trump-Vance Campaign Communications Director Steven Cheung declined to comment on private calls with world leaders.
Cheung added, “President Trump’s decisive election victory has signaled to global leaders that America is poised to reclaim its prominent role on the world stage. That’s why many have already begun to strengthen their relationships with the 45th and now 47th President.”
