Opportunity for Peace Discussed by Trump and Zelensky
President Donald Trump mentioned that if talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders go well today, there might be a “rational opportunity to end the war.”
Zelensky arrived at the White House on Monday afternoon for crucial discussions with Trump, while European leaders utilized the occasion to engage in debates following a significant meeting in Alaska between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This meeting began with a markedly improved atmosphere compared to Ukraine’s previous visit to Washington. Sitting beside Zelensky in the Oval Office, Trump remarked, “the war will be over.”
Trump highlighted the ongoing discussions, saying, “I think there’s a reasonable chance of ending the war.”
The anticipated trilateral meeting is viewed as crucial in resolving the conflict, with President Zelensky collaborating alongside both Trump and Putin. Without these key players convening on a final resolution, it seems like the cycle of negotiations will persist indefinitely.
Trump acknowledged these concerns, stating, “If we don’t have three people, the fight is likely to continue.”
Zelensky responded to Trump’s comments by expressing his eagerness to participate in the trilateral discussions. He stated, “By fighting, Ukraine has shown we are strong people and supported Trump’s idea of stopping this war in a diplomatic way. We are ready for trilateral discussions. That’s a good signal.”
Meanwhile, the focus now shifts to Russia, which has shown reluctance to engage seriously in the proposed three-way meeting. Trump appeared optimistic after Friday’s discussions, but the situation was complicated when Russia didn’t commit to further talks as anticipated.
Trump indicated he would reach out to Putin today to organize the trilateral meeting.
Nevertheless, Trump expressed his determination to persist in these efforts. In the Oval Office, he asserted, “I will never say that. It’s not the end of the road. People are being killed, and we want to finish it. There’s a good chance to do it… the war is over.”
