Washington/Moscow: Former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed a strong response to Ukraine’s recent drone attacks on Russian territory. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated that he spoke to Putin for approximately 75 minutes, during which the Russian leader expressed his anger over the destruction of 41 Russian warplanes by Ukrainian drones.
The conversation, according to Trump, also covered other key global concerns including Iran’s nuclear weapons program. Trump said Tehran has yet to make a final decision on its nuclear course, despite a looming deadline, and added that Putin expressed willingness to participate in upcoming negotiations with Iran.
Although Trump described the call as “cordial,” he admitted the discussion failed to yield a breakthrough in restoring peace, especially as the Russia–Ukraine conflict enters a more intense phase.
UK Pledges Major Drone Support; Russia–North Korea Discuss Strategic Pact
In a separate development, the United Kingdom has pledged to supply 100,000 drones worth £350 million to Ukraine by April 2026. This support forms part of a broader £4.5 billion military aid package aimed at boosting Ukraine’s defenses against sustained Russian offensives.
On the diplomatic front, a high-ranking Russian defense official visited Pyongyang on Wednesday for discussions aimed at extending the strategic agreement between Russia and North Korea. The visit signals deepening military ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Ukraine’s drone attacks recently struck deep into Russian territory—up to 4,000 kilometers—targeting multiple airbases. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that 41 Russian aircraft were destroyed in the operation. In retaliation, Russia launched more than 400 drone strikes on Kyiv, escalating fears of a prolonged and intensified conflict.
Putin’s warning during the call with Trump adds a new layer of urgency to international efforts for de-escalation.