Donald Trump Calls on Russia to Reach Immediate Settlement with Ukraine

By Evans Momodu
4 minute read


Donald Trump, the US president-elect, has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate an immediate settlement to the war in Ukraine, describing it as “his time to act.”

Trump’s remarks, shared on social media, urged an immediate ceasefire and the start of negotiations, suggesting that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is open to making a deal to "stop the madness."

Trump confirmed his active involvement in seeking an end to the nearly three-year conflict, stating, “I am.”

He reiterated his openness to reducing US military aid to Ukraine, adding that while reductions are possible, he would also consider withdrawing the US from NATO if other member states failed to increase their financial contributions.

However, he clarified that he would remain committed to the alliance if other nations "pay their bills" and "treat us fairly."

Trump’s comments mark a departure from the approach of the Biden administration, which has refrained from publicly urging Kyiv toward an immediate truce. His statements come amid rising military support for Ukraine, with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin recently announcing nearly $1 billion in additional weaponry.

Over the weekend, Trump held discussions with Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris during the reopening of the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Zelenskyy described the talks as “constructive” but underscored the need for a "just and robust peace" backed by "effective peace guarantees" to prevent future conflict.

He reaffirmed that Ukrainians “want peace more than anyone else,” emphasizing that Russia was responsible for bringing war to their land.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated that Moscow remains open to negotiations with Ukraine, consistent with its longstanding position. However, on the ground, the war continues to exact a devastating toll.

Zelenskyy reported that Ukraine has lost 43,000 soldiers since the conflict began, with an additional 370,000 injured. Western officials have noted that the ongoing grinding warfare in eastern Ukraine has resulted in record losses on both sides, with tens of thousands killed or injured each month.

Trump’s latest intervention reflects his intention to position himself as a mediator capable of resolving one of the world’s most pressing crises before his inauguration on January 20.

His overtures toward peace, combined with his controversial stance on military aid and NATO, have drawn sharp contrasts with the Biden administration’s policies.
Source: Sky news