Kathrine Frich
Diplomatic efforts involving Washington may reopen a channel that has been closed for years.
New talks could reshape communication between two leaders locked in conflict.
According to U.S. media, behind-the-scenes negotiations are raising expectations of a rare direct exchange.
Mediation efforts build
Talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could pave the way for a phone call between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Fox News reported on December 29.
If it happens, it would be their first direct conversation in more than five years.
A source described by Fox News as well-informed said arranging such a call would be a “diplomatic victory” for Trump.
The source added that “Trump seems to be the most successful mediator, because both of them – Putin and Zelensky – perceive each other emotionally, and this is a challenge.”
The Russian and Ukrainian leaders last spoke in July 2020. Fox News noted that communication stopped after Kyiv carried out an operation involving Wagner PMC mercenaries who were lured to Belarus.
Missed chances
Since then, Zelensky has repeatedly sought direct talks with Putin, but those efforts were rebuffed, according to the same source.
“In August and September 2024, there were opportunities for dialogue, but they disappeared again when Ukraine invaded the Kursk region,” the source said.
Even before contacts broke down entirely, relations were strained.
“During the negotiations, Putin was always silent, and Zelensky tried to establish contact,” the Fox News interlocutor added.
These dynamics have made any renewed communication politically sensitive for both sides.
Trump’s role grows
On December 28, Zelensky met Trump in person for the third time. Earlier, Trump had held a lengthy phone call with Putin that lasted two hours and 15 minutes.
Sources cited by the Financial Times said the call worried Ukrainian officials. The Fox News source suggested Zelensky was likely anxious ahead of his own meeting with Trump.
Despite this, Trump later described his discussion with Zelensky as extraordinary.
Peace plan hurdles
Trump said that agreement had been reached on 95% of a proposed peace plan, with Donbass remaining the key unresolved issue. Putin has demanded the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the region.
Trump also claimed Russia would support Ukraine’s reconstruction.
“Russia wants Ukraine to succeed. <…> It sounds a little strange, Putin is very generous in terms of rebuilding Ukraine, he is ready to provide cheap electricity,” he said.
He added that he “understands” Putin’s opposition to a ceasefire, saying the Russian leader fears stopping fighting only to restart it later.
Sources: Fox News, Financial Times, Digi24
