Trump Proposes European Peacekeepers for Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict
US President Donald Trump discusses potential peace initiatives with French President Emmanuel Macron as tensions escalate over Ukraine.
In a recent statement, US President Donald Trump suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin would be amenable to the deployment of European peacekeepers in Ukraine as part of negotiations to resolve the ongoing conflict, which has persisted for nearly three years.
This announcement occurred during a joint appearance with French President Emmanuel Macron at the White House on Monday.
The meeting aimed to address increasing transatlantic tensions, as both leaders emphasized the importance of finding a peaceful resolution.
Macron articulated that Europe is ready to offer security guarantees to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, although he clarified that European peacekeepers would not be stationed at the frontlines.
Trump underscored his belief that Putin is open to the idea of European troops serving as peacekeepers in Ukraine, claiming he had discussed the concept with the Russian leader directly.
"If we do this deal, he’s not looking for more war.
He doesn’t mind...
He has no problem with it," Trump stated, emphasizing the urgency for a ceasefire to end what he termed 'bloodletting' in the region.
The discussions come at a particularly sensitive time, as the United States recently voted against a United Nations resolution that condemned Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.
This vote, which sided with nations such as North Korea and Belarus, drew criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who expressed concern over America's alignment in the international response to the conflict.
During the press conference in the East Room, Trump claimed significant diplomatic progress had been made in a short time frame, indicating that Europe should play a central role in the long-term security of Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Macron expressed optimism about their talks but stressed the necessity of ensuring that peace efforts would not result in Ukraine's surrender or a ceasefire without substantial guarantees.
In a related development, Putin indicated that he would not be opposed to European nations participating in peace negotiations.
He remarked that various countries have the right to engage in discussions regarding the situation.
Trump and his administration are reportedly pursuing a minerals revenue-sharing agreement with Ukraine, intended to help reimburse the United States for previous military and financial aid.
The US president characterized this agreement as being in its final stages, suggesting a possible meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to finalize the deal.
Contrary to Trump’s assertions regarding the financial contributions to Ukraine, Macron corrected him, stating that Europe has contributed significantly to aid efforts.
He highlighted that European nations had shouldered approximately 60% of the total financial support, while also noting the substantial frozen assets of Russia held in Europe.
As Trump and Macron navigated their diplomatic exchange, tensions were palpable, particularly regarding financial responsibilities and military involvement in Ukraine.
The British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, is scheduled to visit Trump later this week, amid growing unease in Europe regarding Trump’s stance toward Russia and the ongoing conflict.
The ongoing discussions and negotiations reflect not only the complexity of the Ukraine conflict but also the delicate interplay of international relations and regional security amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.