‘Think we are getting a lot closer’: Trump after meeting with Zelensky on Russia-Ukraine war
Speaking to reporters, Trump said that the end of the war is closer than never before, but acknowledged that since the negotiations are complex, the same may still break down, which would mean the war dragging on.
Florida: US President Donald Trump met his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida for talks to end Ukraine’s war with Russia at the earliest. Both leaders met for three hours, after which they met reporters on the outcome of the meeting.
‘End of war closer than never before’
Speaking to reporters, Trump said that the end of the war is closer than never before, but acknowledged that since the negotiations are complex, the same may still break down, which would mean the war dragging on. The war between Russia and Ukraine has been continuing since 2022 after Moscow’s invasion to its neighbouring country.
After the meeting, both leaders acknowledged that the thorny issues remain. Among the things to look out for include whether Russia would keep Ukrainian territory it controls, as also security related issues for Kyiv to ensure that Ukraine won’t be attacked again. Both leaders also dialled several telephonic talks.
Had a wonderful meeting: Trump
"We had a wonderful meeting. We discussed several things. As you know, I had an excellent phone call with President Putin... and I do think we're getting a lot closer," Trump told reporters. The US President, however, did not share the agreed-upon terms for security guarantees in percentages but added that it could be "close to 95%”.
Observing that the Donbas region remained a major sticking point, Trump added as per news agency AP,” Trump said the parties were inching closer to agreement. "That's a very tough issue but one that I think will get resolved.”
Zeleneskyy hails US president
Agreeing with him, Zeleneskyy added, "Our attitude is very clear. That's why President Trump said this is a very tough question and, of course, we have different positions on it."
"In a few weeks, we will know one way or the other, I think," Trump added. "We could have something where one item that you're not thinking about is big, breaks it up. Look, it's been a very difficult negotiation. Very detailed,” he said further.
Trump dials Russian President
Ahead of the meeting, Trump dialled his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The tone of talks between two leaders was described as friendly by the White House spokesperson. During thir talks Trump called for the war to end at the earliest.
During their talks. Both Putin and Trump agreed that a temporary ceasefire, under the pretext of holding a referendum on territorial concessions, would only prolong the conflict. Putin also agreed to continue peace efforts through two specially-created working groups.