Trump Seeks Ukraine Ceasefire in Putin Call; Middle East Strategy Focuses on Iran

President Trump held phone talks with Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, aiming to secure a ceasefire in the Ukraine war. The White House reported the call was progressing well. Ukraine has agreed to a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire. Trump hopes to persuade Putin to accept the truce and move toward a longer-term peace plan. Trump stated that "Many elements of a Final Agreement have been agreed to, but much remains." The Kremlin confirmed the leaders discussed settling the conflict and normalizing relations. Trump's administration is also shifting its Middle East strategy, focusing on countering Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional influence. Trump aims to reinforce U.S. interests and weaken adversaries, potentially through military planning and coordination with Israel. He remains open to a negotiated solution with Iran but insists on verifiable steps to halt its nuclear program. Trump also seeks to strengthen alliances with Arab states, potentially through defense agreements, while addressing the Palestinian issue and reforming the Palestinian Authority.