Trump Declares Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Closer to Resolution Than Ever Before
US President Donald Trump stated that efforts to negotiate an end to the Russia-Ukraine war are advancing more than at any previous point, following a productive discussion with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
Describing the encounter as a “terrific meeting,” Trump, who campaigned on securing a rapid ceasefire in his second term, cautioned that the talks remain intricate and could falter, potentially prolonging the conflict for years. He indicated that the feasibility of concluding the nearly three-year war, which began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022 and has claimed tens of thousands of lives, might become evident in coming weeks.
“We’ve done very well. We’ve had discussions on just about every subject,” Trump informed reporters afterward, emphasizing that substantial headway had been achieved toward halting the hostilities.
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Similar to Zelensky’s prior encounter with Trump in October, the Ukrainian leader’s visit was preceded by a phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump maintained that Moscow is genuinely committed to peace notwithstanding its ongoing military operations.
“I really believe we’re, Mr President, probably closer than — far closer than — ever before with both parties,” Trump remarked, noting that “everybody wants it ended.”
A key obstacle highlighted by both leaders is the future status of the Donbas region. Trump acknowledged it as “a very tough issue but one that I think will get resolved.”
Following the bilateral talks, Trump and Zelensky held a joint conference call with prominent European leaders, who have expressed concerns over any agreement that might encourage further Russian aggression.
Zelensky proposed that he and the European officials could travel together to Washington in January for additional discussions with Trump.
Throughout the visit, the Ukrainian president maintained a courteous demeanor, apparently mindful of a contentious White House meeting on February 28, during which Trump and Vice President JD Vance sharply criticized him for perceived ingratitude.