In a confidential call with top European leaders, U.S. President Donald Trump admitted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has no intention of ending the war in Ukraine, reportedly telling them that Putin "believes he is winning." This private acknowledgment contrasts sharply with Trump's earlier public claims that Putin wanted peace and could be reasoned with.

Despite this shift in rhetoric, Trump has resisted European pressure to take a firmer stance on Moscow. Leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Commission have been urging the U.S. to support stronger sanctions against Russia and more aggressive diplomatic efforts. Trump, however, has instead proposed holding lower-level peace talks at the Vatican, a move seen as symbolic rather than substantive.

Trump has reportedly objected to using terms such as “unconditional ceasefire” in the context of Ukraine-Russia peace negotiations, even though he previously promoted immediate ceasefire efforts if re-elected. This inconsistency has widened the policy gap between the U.S. and its European allies.

While the Biden-era intelligence and military support for Ukraine continues, Trump’s current stance has prompted concern among NATO members and EU officials. In response, the European Union and the United Kingdom have independently imposed a new wave of sanctions targeting Russia’s shadow oil fleet and military-industrial sector.

The discussions reveal a complicated dynamic between the U.S. and Europe, as both seek to navigate an increasingly entrenched and devastating war.

Sources:

• NDTV. (2025, May 21). Trump Privately Told European Leaders That Putin Won’t End Ukraine War: Report. https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/trump-privately-told-european-leaders-that-putin-wont-ukraine-war-report-8478285
• The Wall Street Journal. (2025, May 21). Trump Says Putin Believes He's Winning Ukraine War.
• The Guardian. (2025, May 21). EU, UK Sanction Russian Military Sector Amid Stalemate in Ukraine Peace Talks.