Kathrine Frich
Trump often expressed his wish to improve US–Russia ties.
Trump often expressed his wish to improve US–Russia ties.
Six Putin–Trump Calls in 2025: Behind-the-Scenes Details
Current and former US officials told The Wall Street Journal that Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have spoken by phone six times this year, sometimes for hours, with the Russian president delivering lengthy monologues.
Trump Listens More Than He Talks
Unlike his reputation for impatience, Trump reportedly listened closely to Putin’s extended remarks without interrupting.
Aides said the conversations were generally cordial, with no sharp disputes.
Focus on Economic Cooperation
During the calls, Trump often expressed his wish to improve US–Russia ties through economic collaboration.
Putin, for his part, repeated key demands, including international recognition of Russia’s control over Crimea and the Donbas.
The July 3 Call: Shorter, Less Heated
The most recent conversation on July 3 lasted about an hour, far shorter than earlier calls.
One US source said it lacked the “heat” or “moments of tension” seen in previous talks, though Trump reportedly ended the call “perplexed.”
Putin’s Claim: He Wants to End the War
According to Trump, Putin said he wanted to end the war in Ukraine, even as Russian strikes continued.
WSJ sources said there were no confrontations in the call, but the message left Trump with questions.
Lindsey Graham: “Putin Was Trying to Play With Him”
US Senator Lindsey Graham said there had been “a series of moments” that convinced Trump Putin was attempting to manipulate him.
“Now we are witnessing a turning of the page, and Putin has no one to blame but himself,” Graham added.
A Face-to-Face Meeting Planned
The Kremlin has confirmed a face-to-face meeting between President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump.
This summit is scheduled to take place on August 15, 2025, in Alaska
