US-Russia 'Who Calls First?' Dispute on Moscow-Washington Line

moscow, washington - As expectations rise for talks to end the Ukraine war after Trump's presidency, a dispute arises between the White House and the Kremlin over who should make the first call.

US-Russia 'Who Calls First?' Dispute

As talks to end the Ukraine war gain momentum, a new debate emerges between the White House and the Kremlin over the 'first call' for a summit. President Trump and President Putin express determination to end the bloody conflict in Ukraine, but are hesitant to make the initial move. Trump's reluctance to call first stems from Putin being seen as the initiator of the war back in February 24, 2022. On the other hand, Putin's camp argues that the West, particularly the US, is to blame for the crisis. If either leader makes the first call, they risk accepting responsibility for the conflict, which has resulted in significant loss of life and economic devastation. Should the deadlock persist, a mediator such as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres or President Erdogan of Turkey may step in to facilitate a summit between Trump and Putin.