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Trump misjudged influence on Putin, German defence minister says

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on May 21, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 23, 2026

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Trump misjudged influence on Putin, German defence minister says
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BERLIN (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump misjudged his influence on Russian President Vladimir Putin, Germany's defence minister said on Tuesday, after a phone call between the two leaders

Germany's Defence Minister: Trump Overestimated Influence on Putin

BERLIN (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump misjudged his influence on Russian President Vladimir Putin, Germany's defence minister said on Tuesday, after a phone call between the two leaders yielded no progress in Ukraine peace talks, prompting Europe to announce new Russia sanctions.

"I suspect he assessed his negotiating position incorrectly," Boris Pistorius told the Deutschlandfunk radio broadcaster, following Trump's now-abandoned efforts to pressure Putin into accepting an unconditional 30-day ceasefire.

The European Union is currently working on its next package of sanctions against Russia over the war in Ukraine. Pistorius said it remained to be seen whether Washington would join those measures as talks continue via the usual diplomatic channels.

(Reporting by Rachel More; Editing by Jamie Freed)

Key Takeaways

  • Trump overestimated his influence on Putin.
  • No progress in Ukraine peace talks after Trump-Putin call.
  • EU plans new sanctions against Russia.
  • Germany's defense minister criticizes Trump's strategy.
  • Uncertainty over US joining EU sanctions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Germany's defence minister say about Trump's influence on Putin?
Germany's defence minister, Boris Pistorius, stated that Trump misjudged his influence on Putin, suggesting that he assessed his negotiating position incorrectly.
What is the current situation regarding sanctions against Russia?
The European Union is working on its next package of sanctions against Russia due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, with uncertainty about whether Washington will join these measures.
What did Pistorius say about Trump's efforts with Putin?
Pistorius mentioned that Trump's efforts to pressure Putin into accepting an unspecified deal were now abandoned, indicating a miscalculation in Trump's approach.

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