Trump Promises Quick Peace Deal in Ukraine-Russia War if Elected
Former President Donald Trump stated on Friday that, if re-elected, he would quickly negotiate a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. While standing next to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in New York, Trump emphasized his positive relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding that this could help bring an end to the war.
Zelensky’s Urgent Appeal for US Support
Zelensky met with Trump to personally make his case for ongoing US support in Ukraine’s fight against Russia. With the 2024 US election approaching, Zelensky faces the challenge of convincing Trump, who has been openly skeptical of continued US aid to Ukraine. Tensions between the two leaders were apparent during their meeting with reporters, but both expressed hope for a productive discussion.
Trump assured reporters, “We have a good relationship, and I also have a good relationship with Putin. I believe we can resolve this quickly if we win.”
Zelensky, while urging better relations, responded, “I hope we have more good relations between us.”
Trump Suggests Peace Deal Before Taking Office
Trump suggested that if he wins the election, he could broker a peace deal even before officially returning to office. He emphasized that both sides want the war to end and that a fair deal is possible. Trump expressed confidence in a solution, stating, “We’re going to have a good meeting today, and the fact that we’re even together is a good sign.”
Zelensky Reaffirms Russia Must Be Stopped
Zelensky reiterated that his priority is stopping Russian aggression and ensuring Ukraine’s victory. He told Trump that Ukraine must win to prevent Russia from claiming more Ukrainian territory.
Trump acknowledged Zelensky’s stance, adding that both leaders share the goal of ending the conflict. He agreed that this war should never have started and suggested another meeting between them could happen in the future.
Trump’s Position on Rebuilding Ukraine
After their meeting, Trump appeared on Fox News with Zelensky, where both leaders agreed that a fair deal is needed to stop the war. However, Trump raised concerns about Ukraine’s ability to rebuild, stating that some cities have been destroyed beyond repair.
Zelensky invited Trump to visit Ukraine, to which Trump responded, “I will. It’s a beautiful country.”
Biden Administration’s Contrasting Stance
Earlier in the week, Zelensky met with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House. Harris contrasted the Biden administration’s unwavering support for Ukraine with Trump’s skepticism. She criticized those who believe Ukraine should concede territory to Russia, stressing that the US stands by Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty.
Zelensky’s Complicated Relationship with Trump
This recent meeting between Zelensky and Trump comes years after their first interaction, which was at the center of Trump’s impeachment in 2019. During that time, Trump withheld military aid from Ukraine while pressuring Zelensky to investigate then-presidential candidate Joe Biden. Though Zelensky defended Trump during the impeachment, their relationship has been strained due to differing views on how to handle the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
GOP Criticisms of Zelensky
Trump and some Republican allies have voiced increasing frustration with Zelensky. During a campaign rally, Trump criticized Zelensky for not making a deal with Russia earlier in the war, suggesting that such a deal could have prevented further destruction in Ukraine.
Some Republicans also took issue with Zelensky’s recent visits to US ammunition factories and his comments about GOP figures, accusing him of being politically motivated. House Speaker Mike Johnson even called for the dismissal of Ukraine’s US ambassador over these actions.
Despite these tensions, Trump left the door open for future negotiations, stating, “We’ll see what happens” when asked if Ukraine should give up territory to Russia as part of a peace settlement.
