Trump addresses Ukraine-Russia peace talks, says Zelenskyy will be involved
President Donald Trump spoke about his plans to end the Russo-Ukrainian War during a press gaggle on Sunday, stating that he believes the leaders of both countries "want to stop fighting."
During an informal press briefing on Sunday, President Donald Trump outlined his approach to ending the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, expressing confidence that both nations’ leaders are eager to bring the war to a close.
Speaking on the tarmac at Palm Beach International Airport in Florida, Trump emphasized his active role in peace negotiations. “We’re working very hard to secure peace between Russia and Ukraine,” he said. “It’s a war that never should have started.”
When asked if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would be included in the discussions, Trump confirmed his involvement. “He will be part of it, yes,” he stated. Trump also affirmed that European nations would be allowed to purchase American-made weapons that had been initially allocated to Ukraine.
The Republican president asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin, who initiated hostilities by annexing Crimea in 2014 and expanded the conflict with a full-scale invasion in 2022, is also seeking a resolution.
“I believe he wants to stop the fighting,” Trump said. “Russia has a massive military machine—one that defeated Hitler and Napoleon. He’s been engaged in this war for a long time, and I think he’d like to see it end.”
He added that Zelenskyy shares the same goal: “Zelenskyy wants to end it, too.”
Diplomatic Efforts Underway
Talks between the United States and Russia are set to take place in Saudi Arabia this week. However, reports indicate that Ukraine may not have direct participation in these discussions. Trump’s national security advisor, Michael Waltz, stated on Fox News Sunday that negotiations will focus on key principles aimed at ensuring a lasting resolution to the conflict.
“The U.S. and Europe have backed Ukraine’s efforts, but it’s undeniable that the United States has shouldered the majority of that burden,” Waltz said. “President Trump has made it clear that this war needs to end.”
Zelenskyy’s Take on Trump and Putin
Trump’s remarks followed an interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that aired on Meet the Press on NBC. In the interview, Zelenskyy reiterated his distrust of Putin, stating that the Russian leader had no real intention of negotiating peace.
“I told [Trump] that Putin is a liar,” Zelenskyy said, referencing a recent conversation with the former president. “Trump told me, ‘I think he’s ready for talks.’ And I responded, ‘No, he’s lying. He doesn’t want peace.’”
Despite his skepticism, Zelenskyy acknowledged that Trump has the potential to pressure Putin into negotiations. “I think Putin is somewhat afraid of President Trump,” he remarked. “Trump is strong, and he has a real chance to push Putin toward peace talks. But I warned him: don’t trust Putin, don’t trust empty promises about a ceasefire.”
With diplomatic efforts underway, the question remains whether Trump’s approach will succeed in bringing an end to the years-long conflict.
This article was reported by journalist Angelia.