In a significant White House discussion, U.S. President Donald Trump urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to swiftly bring the war with Russia to a close. Trump conveyed his belief in his ability to negotiate peace, drawing on his success in mediating the complex Middle East situation. He indicated that resolving the conflict in Europe was a key objective.
Trump revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin also expressed a desire to end the war, which has led to significant loss of life. A subsequent summit between Trump and Putin is scheduled in Hungary. Trump later shared on Truth Social that his meeting with Zelenskyy was positive and that he advised the Ukrainian leader to cease fighting and reach an agreement with Putin. His proposal involved both sides declaring victory and halting further bloodshed and costly military aid.
Adding a notable point, Trump communicated his reservations about providing Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles, despite earlier suggestions. He cited the imperative of maintaining U.S. strategic reserves. “We would much rather have them not need Tomahawks,” Trump stated, underscoring his hope for an end to the conflict. This position followed Russia’s expressed ‘extreme concern’ over potential missile shipments. President Zelenskyy described his view of Putin as a consequence of direct aggression, not mere personal animosity. “They attacked us, so they are an enemy for us,” he explained.