Trump and Ukraine’s Zelenskyy talk on the phone

Former President Donald Trump had a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marking a significant event nearly five years after their first conversation triggered Trump’s initial impeachment. Both leaders took to social media to share details of their call, with Zelenskyy congratulating Trump on his GOP nominee status and condemning the recent attempted assassination.

Trump, who has maintained that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine would not have occurred under his leadership, described the call as “very good.” He expressed his gratitude towards Zelenskyy for reaching out and pledged to bring peace to the world, emphasizing the need to end the devastating war that has claimed numerous lives and torn apart countless families. While he did not provide specifics on how this peace would be achieved, Trump emphasized the importance of both sides coming together to negotiate a deal that would halt the violence and pave the way for prosperity.

Zelenskyy, on the other hand, expressed Ukraine’s appreciation for the aid received from the U.S. and mentioned that both leaders had agreed to discuss steps towards achieving a truly lasting and fair peace during a personal meeting.

However, Trump has been critical of the Biden administration’s decision to provide substantial aid to Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion that began in February 2022. He has even gone as far as praising Zelenskyy as “the greatest salesman of any politician” due to the significant aid Ukraine receives whenever he visits the U.S.

Despite his criticism of the aid, it remains uncertain whether Trump would continue military assistance to Ukraine if he were to win the upcoming election. His running mate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, has also expressed skepticism towards supporting Ukraine financially.

The phone call between Trump and Zelenskyy on July 25, 2019, is still remembered for the former president’s push for Ukraine to investigate his political rival, Joe Biden, and his son Hunter. This incident led to Trump’s impeachment by the Democratic-controlled House in December 2019. However, he was later acquitted by the Republican-led Senate of charges related to abusing his power and obstructing Congress.

As the conversation between Trump and Zelenskyy resurfaces in the media, it sheds light on the complex relationship between the two leaders and the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine.