Trump Discusses Ukraine Collaboration with Putin

During a recent press conference, former President Trump shared that he had a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin last week regarding a potential collaboration with Ukrainian President Voldymir Zelensky. Despite these “good conversations,” however, no meeting is currently scheduled with Kyiv, and tensions remain high as Russia continues its assaults on neighboring regions.

“Every conversation I have with him is a good conversation,” Trump, 79, remarked, referring to Putin, who is 72. He expressed frustration about the ongoing situation, noting, “And unfortunately, the bombs are loaded into Kiev or somewhere, and then I’m very angry about it. I think we’re going to get a war. That’s difficult.”

Trump is pushing for a face-to-face between Putin and Zelensky, the first since the Russian invasion began in February 2022. Although his meeting with Zelensky and other Western leaders at the White House on August 18 indicated presidential-level discussions were possible, the Kremlin appears to be sticking to its original stance.

Since that meeting, Russia has conducted raids, targeting a variety of facilities in Ukraine—this includes some US-owned electronic factories, which seemed to be avoided in the past.

On another front, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov remarked about the legality of any peace deal signed by Zelensky, labeling him as “illegal.” Critics argue this refusal to acknowledge Zelensky stems from a desire within the Kremlin to install pro-Russian figures in Ukraine’s leadership.

Trump reiterated the White House’s efforts to facilitate a meeting between Putin and Zelensky, warning that failure to do so “could have very large consequences.” He added, “We’ll see what happens, and this is something that has to be over. There may be very big consequences,” hinting at significant interventions if the situation doesn’t improve soon.

Previously, Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with Putin, particularly after a seemingly constructive dialogue was followed by violence against Ukrainian civilians. He recalled First Lady Melania Trump’s observation that Putin often backtracks on his commitments after their calls.

In light of ongoing threats from Russia, Trump acknowledged that while Ukraine was prepared for talks, there’s a “major conflict of character” between Putin and Zelensky that makes discussions difficult. “There is a personal, enormous dislike between the two men,” he lamented. “But I want to see them meet. They want me to be there. I might be there. I might not. But I want them to resolve their differences first. Ultimately, it’s up to them.”

In further discussions with Western leaders on August 18, Trump mentioned the potential for security guarantees for Ukraine, though he noted that details on what the US might offer are still vague.

“When we get a deal, you’re not going,” he stated, emphasizing his desire to stop the violence. Trump hasn’t ruled out previous ideas of supporting the US Air Force or providing troops as part of a multinational security effort for Ukraine.