Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated he will respond to Ukraine’s recent major drone attack on Russian airbases, US President Donald Trump revealed following a lengthy phone conversation.
Speaking after the call, Trump said Putin “very strongly” expressed the need to react to the airfield strikes carried out on June 1, which targeted nuclear-capable Russian bombers. Although Russian officials have not confirmed specific retaliation plans, Moscow previously stated that military options remain “on the table.”
Trump cautioned on social media that the hour-long call would not lead to “immediate peace” between Russia and Ukraine. Russian state media reported Putin accused Kyiv of attempting to disrupt negotiations and described the Ukrainian government as having “essentially turned into a terrorist organisation.” The leaders also discussed potential cooperation between their countries.
This was their first conversation since Ukraine’s surprise drone strike. Trump informed Putin that the US was not forewarned of the attack.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Minister of Strategic Industries Yuriy Sak expressed hope that the US would respond to ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks with increased sanctions and pressure.
In recent weeks, Trump has issued warnings to Putin, threatening to alter the US response if progress on peace talks remains stalled. Trump previously criticized Putin’s aggressive actions and described him as “playing with fire.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky echoed concerns about the lack of effective peace talks, stressing that weak international reactions only embolden Russia.
A Ukrainian delegation was scheduled to meet US senators in Washington to discuss arms support, sanctions, and reconstruction funding, following a second round of peace talks in Istanbul that ended without significant breakthroughs. Ukraine demanded an unconditional ceasefire, which Russia rejected, instead proposing limited multi-day ceasefires in certain areas.
Additionally, Putin held talks with Pope Leo XIV focusing on peace efforts.
During the call with Trump, Iran was also discussed. Both leaders reportedly agreed that Iran should not possess nuclear weapons. The US proposed Iran halt uranium enrichment and rely on a regional consortium for nuclear fuel, but Iran’s Supreme Leader rejected this plan, and Tehran has yet to respond to US proposals.
Trump said Putin might assist in accelerating negotiations with Iran but emphasized the need for a swift decision.
