Putin-Trump call a curveball for Zelensky ahead of White House meeting

The recent phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump has created an unexpected challenge for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of his upcoming White House meeting. The call, which took place while Zelensky was en route to Washington, overshadowed the Ukrainian leader's highly anticipated visit. The content of the Putin-Trump conversation remains unclear, but the timing of the call has raised concerns about its potential impact on Zelensky's agenda and negotiations with the current U.S. administration. Zelensky's team has expressed frustration, as the call has diverted attention from the Ukrainian leader's primary objectives during his visit, which include securing further military and financial aid, as well as gaining diplomatic support in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, and the delicate balance Zelensky must navigate as he seeks to maintain Ukraine's position in the international arena while managing the shifting power dynamics between the U.S. and Russia.