Trump Says Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal Close After Talks with Zelensky
Donald Trump, President of the United States, stated that following his meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart, peace negotiations to end the Ukraine war have entered a decisive phase, with both sides approaching an agreement.
Trump announced that talks with Volodymyr Zelensky were difficult but constructive, and according to him, progress in the negotiations has reached approximately 95 percent. However, he emphasized that one or two complex issues remain, particularly concerning territorial matters, which still need resolution.
The U.S. president said Russia demands the ceding of the Donbas region by Ukraine, but he believes this demand should be moderated. Trump added that it is time to end the war, although territorial issues remain among the most sensitive aspects of the negotiations.
Trump also mentioned that he discussed a nuclear power plant with Vladimir Putin and said the Russian president wants to reopen the facility. He added that Russia is cooperating with Ukraine on this matter.
According to Trump, the U.S. negotiating team includes his special envoy, senior officials, and relevant ministers, and if the current process continues, an agreement could be reached within the next few weeks. He did not rule out a potential meeting between Putin and Zelensky at an appropriate time.
The U.S. president also highlighted Europe’s crucial role in ensuring Ukraine’s security, stating that European countries will bear a significant part of the responsibilities, with Washington supporting them in this effort. He noted that the final results of the negotiations could be confirmed by a public referendum.
In response, Volodymyr Zelensky said that during the meeting with Trump, the issue of security guarantees was seriously discussed and that these guarantees would be key to lasting peace. He added that a significant step has been made but more time is needed to ensure the interests of the Ukrainian people are secured.
The Ukrainian president stressed that working teams from both sides will meet in the coming weeks to finalize the agreement and that Ukraine is ready for peace. Zelensky also said that any difficult decisions, including those regarding territory, must be determined through a referendum involving the Ukrainian people.
Reacting to Trump’s remarks about Russia’s willingness for Ukraine to succeed, Zelensky described the statement as unexpected but a sign of a positive negotiating atmosphere, saying such an environment could pave the way for cooperation in rebuilding and the future of the country.
