Trump Says Zelenskiy, Not Putin, Slows Ukraine Peace Deal

Post by : Saif Nasser

U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Ukraine, not Russia, is holding up a potential peace agreement in the ongoing war. In an exclusive interview with Reuters, Trump said that Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to make a deal, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is more hesitant.

Trump’s remarks sharply differ from those of European allies, who have consistently argued that Moscow shows little genuine interest in ending the nearly four-year conflict.

“I think he’s ready to make a deal,” Trump said about Putin. “I think Ukraine is less ready to make a deal.” When asked why negotiations led by the United States had not resolved the conflict, Trump simply responded: “Zelenskiy.”

The two leaders, Trump and Zelenskiy, have had a long and often tense relationship. Though relations appeared to improve during Trump’s first year back in office, his comments suggest renewed frustration with the Ukrainian president.

U.S.-led negotiations have focused on security guarantees for a post-war Ukraine, aiming to prevent future Russian invasions. Some discussions have included the possibility of Ukraine giving up parts of the eastern Donbas region, though Ukrainian officials have rejected any territorial concessions.

Recent talks have been conducted by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. While the U.S. continues to negotiate, European officials have expressed doubts that Putin would agree to some of the terms being proposed.

Trump also mentioned that he might meet Zelenskiy at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, next week. “I would—if he’s there,” Trump said. “I’m going to be there.”

When asked why Zelenskiy was holding back in the negotiations, Trump did not provide details, only stating: “I just think he’s, you know, having a hard time getting there.” Zelenskiy, meanwhile, has publicly refused any talks involving territorial concessions, citing Ukraine’s constitution.

The war in Ukraine, which began nearly four years ago, remains Europe’s largest land conflict since World War Two. Trump’s comments highlight a significant difference between his administration’s approach and that of many European allies, adding another layer of complexity to the already fragile peace negotiations.

Experts say that any path to peace will require compromise from all sides, but the positions of both Moscow and Kyiv remain firm. The world continues to watch closely, hoping for a resolution that can end the years of bloodshed and destruction.