
Questions swirl as Putin and Trump prepare to speak
Preparations are underway for a highly anticipated phone call today between President Trump and President Vladimir Putin. The call would be the first known conversation between the two leaders since Ukraine agreed to support a U.S.-backed monthlong cease-fire.
On Sunday, Trump suggested that a cease-fire and the fate of Ukrainian power plants would be on the agenda, and he noted that “dividing up certain assets” had been discussed. The Kremlin would not confirm any specific agenda.
While Trump has stated his desire to broker some sort of truce between Russia and Ukraine as quickly as possible, Putin seems to be seeking to exploit the moment to win more concessions. Putin has not yet agreed to the cease-fire and has laid out conditions that could delay or derail a truce.
Crimes against Ukraine: The U.S. is withdrawing from a multinational group created to investigate leaders responsible for the invasion of Ukraine, including Putin, a letter shows. It is the latest indication that the White House is moving away from a commitment to hold Putin accountable.
Comfort food: Sushi has long been popular in Ukraine, and for people in the frontline town of Sloviansk, the treat provides a sense of normalcy.