Zelensky and Trump Talk Tough on Russia Ahead of Ceasefire Deadline

Tue Oct 21 2025 04:13:49 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a recent call, Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed gratitude to Trump for discussing sanctions and military aid amid escalating Russian attacks.

As tensions rise, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reached out to former President Donald Trump for a “productive” discussion, focusing on sanctions against Russia and increasing military support for Ukraine. This conversation comes just before U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff travels to Moscow, where he is expected to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump reiterated that hefty sanctions could follow if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire by Friday. Zelensky emphasized that attacks on Ukrainian cities continue to intensify, while efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities are also underway with support from various NATO countries.

Zelensky and Trump Stress Sanctions and Military Aid Amid Russian Violence

Witkoff's visit prompts conversations about strategy in response to escalating Russian aggression, aligning international efforts for Ukraine.

As tens of thousands of civilians face the horrors of bombardments in Ukraine, the dialogue highlights the urgency and complexity of the ongoing conflict, with global leaders working to adapt to this challenging geopolitical landscape.