Donald Trump holds phone talks with Putin and Zelensky ahead of NATO summit

US President Donald Trump held separate phone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over the weekend. The calls, which took place around the US 250th anniversary, focused on the conflict in Ukraine ahead of the NATO summit scheduled for July 7-8 in Ankara. According to the Kremlin, the call between Trump and Putin lasted approximately 85 to 90 minutes and was described as professional and constructive. Trump stated that both leaders are eager to reach a settlement, while Zelensky expressed that there is a real prospect for ending the war and emphasized the importance of US determination. Sources indicate that US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner remain involved in mediation efforts. Meanwhile, the Kremlin reiterated its goal for a political-diplomatic solution while accusing Kyiv and its allies of escalating the conflict through attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. Trump is expected to hold further meetings with Zelensky during the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, which will be attended by leaders from 32 nations.