Donald Trump’s recent phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have left him disappointed as both wars in Ukraine and Gaza continue without resolution. These ongoing conflicts are hurting Trump’s chances of winning a Nobel Peace Prize, which he had hoped to achieve through his personal relationships with both leaders.
Trump’s unique approach to foreign affairs, which includes giving his cell phone number to world leaders and encouraging direct communication outside normal diplomatic channels, has shown its limitations. While this method has worked in some cases, such as increasing NATO members’ defense spending, it hasn’t been enough to end the current conflicts.
According to CNN, Trump’s frustration with Putin has grown as the Russian leader’s actions contradict their conversations. According to Trump, Putin has gone “absolutely crazy” with continuous missile and drone attacks in Ukraine. Trump had believed their positive relationship would help negotiate peace, but now admits he’s disappointed with the lack of progress.
Personal relationships failing to deliver expected results
The situation with Netanyahu has become equally challenging. After nominating Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize during a White House dinner in early July, Netanyahu’s actions in Gaza and Syria have tested Trump’s patience. The bombing of a Catholic Church and government buildings, along with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, has created tension between the two leaders.
PUTIN TO HOLD PHONE CALL WITH TRUMP – IFAX REPORT
— Naeem Aslam (@NaeemAslam23) July 3, 2025
IFAX reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin plans a phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Recent calls—like the June 15, 50-minute discussion—touched on Ukraine peace prospects and Middle East tensions, with… pic.twitter.com/rFrLgk7Mqg
Trump has become particularly concerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza after seeing television footage of starving children. Despite Netanyahu’s claims that there is no starvation in Gaza, Trump has openly disagreed about the Gaza humanitarian crisis, saying that anyone who isn’t “cold-hearted” or “nuts” would acknowledge the terrible situation.
First Lady Melania Trump has influenced her husband’s views on both conflicts. Trump has mentioned how she points out Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities after his supposedly positive phone calls with Putin. She was also particularly affected by the images of suffering in Gaza, which helped shape Trump’s changing position on the crisis.
The president has tried to use pressure tactics to resolve both situations. He shortened his deadline for Putin to negotiate a ceasefire from 50 days to 10 days, while also pushing Netanyahu to approach the Gaza war “in a different way.” Despite these efforts, White House officials maintain that Trump remains committed to supporting Israel in its war against Hamas, even as he acknowledges the humanitarian crisis.
