Trump Advocates for U.S.-Led Peace Talks Between Ukraine and Russia
U.S. President expresses willingness to negotiate as Ukraine's President offers terms for potential ceasefire.
In a recent address to Congress, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated a shift in tone regarding negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
The announcement followed a fraught meeting last week, which had heightened tensions between Washington and Kyiv.
During his speech, Trump relayed a message from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating, "Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer."
Trump emphasized that he had engaged in "serious discussions" with Moscow, claiming to have received encouraging signals from Russian President Vladimir Putin about potential negotiations.
He stated, "It’s time to stop this madness.
It’s time to halt the killing.
It’s time to end the senseless war," advocating for dialogue with both parties involved.
According to reports, previous high-level meetings between U.S. and Russian officials took place in Riyadh and Istanbul, highlighting ongoing diplomatic engagements.
Zelensky expressed readiness to operate "under the strong leadership of President Trump," reinforcing mutual appreciation for the support Ukraine has received from the U.S. throughout the conflict.
He acknowledged the pivotal moment in U.S. support initiated by the delivery of Javelin anti-tank missiles in 2019, which played a significant role in Ukraine's resistance against Russian aggression.
In his remarks, Zelensky outlined potential initial steps towards a ceasefire, which could include prisoner releases and a halt to aerial attacks, as well as maritime agreements.
This approach mirrors proposals apparently under consideration by France and the United Kingdom.
Trump’s recent announcement of a suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine was perceived by analysts as an effort to exert pressure on the Ukrainian government to negotiate more favorable terms with Washington.
The Ukrainian Critical Commodities Agreement, which had faced significant challenges during a recent Oval Office meeting, has reportedly been revisited as both parties seek to secure a mutual framework for future collaboration.
Trump reiterated that this agreement could pave the way for ending hostilities in Ukraine while allowing U.S. taxpayers to recoup a portion of past financial support.
The proposed pact aims to establish a joint investment fund for Ukraine's reconstruction, co-managed by U.S. and Ukrainian entities, without military obligations from the U.S. side.
Diplomatic efforts between American and Ukrainian officials are reportedly ongoing, with suggestions for Zelensky to publicly address the contentious meeting's fallout.
The Ukrainian President acknowledged that recent talks "did not go as they should," emphasizing the need for constructive future engagements.
Discussion also emerged during Trump’s address regarding U.S. territorial interests, including the administration's ongoing interest in Greenland and plans related to the Panama Canal, which he views as strategic to U.S. interests.
President Trump affirmed new customs proposals aimed at Canada and Mexico, further underscoring a broader approach to U.S. foreign policy as his administration seeks to recalibrate its international engagements.